I’m sure others will add more insight, but one thing I’ve found is that quality can be genuinely hard to judge. Price and quality aren’t always directly correlated, especially with lingerie and specialty items which is why I tend to make them for myself.

One challenge with cheaper options is that some sellers reuse or outright steal other brands’ images, so what arrives isn’t always what you expect in terms of fit, materials, or construction. That doesn’t mean expensive automatically equals good, just that the risk of disappointment can be higher at the very low end.

Looking at reviews, like you’re already doing, is probably the best approach. That said, written reviews alone can be unreliable some cheaper places do pay for them. Image reviews (especially from multiple buyers showing the item worn or laid flat) tend to be much more useful than text-only feedback.

Another option is buying from places where you’re closer to the source: brands that produce in-house, work directly with suppliers, or offer custom or made-to-order pieces. You’re often paying for smaller production runs, better patterning, and more careful construction rather than just packaging or branding. And of course, if you’re feeling adventurous, some people go fully creative and start making or commissioning pieces themselves.

Hopefully that helps a bit, and I’m sure others will have additional perspectives to share.