People didn't used to own so many clothes. Respective to income, clothing used to cost a lot more. As prices fell off a cliff, people's closets started overflowing.

It's been a long time since we've had a sense for how expensive clothing used to cost, and a "good" pair of boots (just as example) would be an enormous sticker shock to most people.

This might be more tolerable if you only owned a single hoodie (why would you need more than one?) and crucially if it lasted for many years.

> It's been a long time since we've had a sense for how expensive clothing used to cost, and a "good" pair of boots (just as example) would be an enormous sticker shock to most people.

Esp that example it's kinda triggering me a little, because someone I know can't shut up about it.

From my perspective, what they consider "a good pair of shoes" is what I'd consider a "durable pair of shoes", which is - to them - criteria which makes them good

While that's an acceptable view, it's subjective - not objective. And I wouldn't trade my running shoes for them, even if I have to buy them new every 2-3 years... And consider the running shoes better, because they do provide a more comfortable wearing experience - at the cost of longevity.

I totally agree with the premise. I do agree with the parent that this wouldn't be a "mainstream" price. The mainstream is a $15 hoodie. I also try to own fewer, nicer things while keeping the overall cost comparable (if not lower) than someone with a more shitty things.