Urban Outfitters Jewelry: 5 Pieces to Avoid this Fall

Ok, I'm going to say it. Costume jewelry is real jewelry. Dior wouldn't turn around and say their plated jewelry is fake, they would say its costume. Why bring this up? I don't want you to think I picked these pieces by comparing them to some that cost 10x as much. They're just not really worth it.

Let's Avoid...

1. 18k Gold + Sterling Silver Plated Large Hoop Earring - $14

This is what happens when you cut corners in order to use "high quality materials." Yes I'm sure everyone enjoyed their one week use. These used to cost $20 but I know why they earned their low rating and discount pretty quickly. TOO THIN. The red flag is in the description. "Earrings are extremely delicate." How is that supposed to work for any consumer? When I saw them I knew you would have to stretch them a bit to pop the pin out. Most of the reviews mention how they break after a few uses and I'm not surprised.

Pro: There are none. Buy some thicker plated ones which cost a little less and will last longer. Or spend a couple more bucks if you are able to. You deserve nice things.

2. As If Beaded Bracelet - 8

I'm not here to hate on friendship bracelets. Monetizing a bond seems...like something a business would do yes, I can accept that. But a big part of these is making them with your friends. Personally I wouldn't pay a company to make the memory for me.

Pro: They're actually pretty cute. The concept is fun and probably made with good intentions.

3. Penny Chain Ring Set - 18

Here's the thing. These rings are are most likely made from molds for production. Once they're done and plated there isn't a huge quality check. If you look at their product shot you can see how bumpy, uneven and off color these are.

"Oh but they're meant to be a cheap option." If that's your only worry then brands like Shein or Boohoo will give you about five or six of these rings for $2-$3. You can find these on ebay shipping from different parts of Asia. UO isn't even selling you a stamped version of their items. Something that makes you feel this is a trend the brand participated in. I'm willing to spend $18 and more for one well made plated ring, not this.

Pro: I did like that there was a variation in design rather than just getting three of the same.

4. Modern Delicate Chain Bracelet - 8

Why do I feel like a company putting the word delicate on something means they're not

responsible for the quality? It's strange to me that UO is reaching out and promoting these higher end brands like Cult Gaia and Seiko but they also want to sell people these poorly made items that not everyone will have experience taking care of.

Treating these items as easily replaceable doesn't encourage anyone to take care of them. I didn't say increase the price. Instead, choose the quality you want consumers to look for in your brand.

Pro: If this snaps don't throw it out! Check the links for a line. If it's there, grab some tweezers or small pliers and carefully open the link to reconnect the bracelet. Done, easy fix. Didn't have to pay anyone and you didn't have to buy a new one.

5. Jenny Bird Maris Pearl Pendant Collar Necklace - 195

First, I want to say I respect a self-taught designer. The necklace is beautiful and fun. So where is my conflict with this? I'm always looking out for people's money when it comes to spending it well. If you're not worried about that then that's great. However...I don't really recommend spending more on plated items going around your neck unless you've had them before. If you don't take care of them properly or are allergic to what's underneath you could end up with a bad experience leading you to ask if something is "real" for the rest of your life.

If gold or sterling silver is out of your budget then look out for gold-filled, vermeil gold or yellow stainless steel pieces. I have seen the different parts of this necklace in those materials (through Etsy, Mejuri, etc.) where the total cost is about the same or just a bit more.

Pro: Remember that part of jewelry is appreciating and falling in love with someone's design. While I found parts of this necklace, I didn't find the same necklace. I am personally avoiding this piece because I prefer different materials not because I don't think it's my style.

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Comment's are welcome drop em' below if you've had any interesting experiences shopping for jewelry from UO. Choose your own priorities when buying a piece I'm just here to hopefully make it a little easier for ya.

Take care!

Next Post: How to Care for Your Plated Jewelry All Year