Top of my list is ~ AESTHETICS: Which is how I initially perceive the overall appearance of a garment's style and it's appeal.
Then ~ SUITABLILITY: I ask myself "Will this be the right garment for my dolls character, the right colour, length etc."
Followed by the fussy part ~ QUALITY, which encompasses:
(A) what type of fabric has been used, is it of good quality or just a cheap remnant
(B) is it sewn neatly with matching thread or does the top stitching stand out where it shouldn't
(C) are the seams finished properly or just fray checked
(D) how is the back closed, with metal press studs, zipper or just with Velcro
(E) if it has a hem, is it neatly hand finished or machine sewn
You may gather from this, I particularly like fine fabrics, dislike seeing top stitching unless it's meant to be part of the design and find fray check stiff and scratchy. I'm also not a fan of Velcro, as it tends to grab at the hair when dressing my dolls, especially those with long hair wigs. You may even think I am being silly and pedantic, but that's me, I simply don't like sloppy workmanship. The odd time I have been caught, the garment has been quickly moved on . . . either to a friend in need or the garbage bin!
I will always pay more for a garment where I can see the seamstress has taken the time to change the colour thread she was using to match the fabric, lace or trim and where she has had enough pride in her work to carefully hand sew each hem so as no stitches show through on the right side of her work and where each seam was finished by machine.
I am always interested in other people's point of view and would love to read your comments on this matter. Also please click on the photos if you wish to see the detail better.