Guild Wars 2

So just hit 80, and this post is not another “why is there no moar content” thread but I do need some assistance in what to do next.

I am a tailor, level 400, and I want to start making exotics. Ectoplasm and types of lodestones are needed for some of these recipes. What do I need to do in order to get these?

Also, what trend has been noted mostly in the quality of armor sets, stat wise? Is craft armor the best? Dungeon? Drops? Something else entirely? Looks wise I have found that the Orrian dungeon set is one of the best looking. I know I am not meant to grind out better and better gear but I do want the best gear I can get so I can dominate in WvW and Dungeons(Probably 2-3 different sets).

Thanks

Ectoplasms are from salvaging high lvl rares and exotics with the master salvage kits (not 100% chance), lodestones are from various mobs

the armor quality is on par with the armor that comes from drops or other non karma/pvp methods, and stat wise is generally better than the pvp/karma stuff at least for pve. Depends on the class for pvp. As for WvW you can’t switch sets while in combat so I don’t see a huge advantage in having more than maybe 2 sets, but its your money. Also, runes you put in your armor have a huge impact on the effectiveness of the armor, look in to the superior rune sets.

Do you know which ones drop like the crystal lodestones?