To understand how consumers evaluate quality in ready-to-wear apparel, 681 male and female subjects evaluated four different categories of apparel taken from the sales floor of five major U.S. retailers. Garments remained in the condition found on the sales floor with all tags attached. Participants compared two garments located at four separate stations, rated the relative quality of each, and wrote a description of quality cues used in their evaluation. Results indicated that perceived quality was often based on a misunderstanding of fiber properties. Additionally, fabrication, finishing, and construction flaws were often minimized if a preference for the garment’s aesthetics existed. Brand indicated quality in only one apparel category. Implications for industry include the need to educate consumers about fibers, fabrication, finishing, and apparel construction.