Design
Every decision made to amp up a garment is costly. A bust dart? Add a charge to the wholesale price. An embroidered panel? Bump up the fabric costs. Each of these choices is multiplied as the piece passes from production, to wholesale, and finally into your closet at retail value. This Alexander McQueen gown on Rosamund Pike would obviously demand a high price tag. Look at that embroidery!
[Photo via @thecatwalkitalia]