9 Affordable Clothing Stores to Shop (That Aren't H&M and Forever 21)
You may love Kendall Jenner’s take on athleisure and study Olivia Palermo’s street style on the daily, but an outfit comprised of Balmain and Balenciaga just isn’t a reality for most of us - let alone broke college students.
That’s where fast fashion favorites like H&M and Forever 21 come in. By keeping production up and expenses as low as they can go, stores like these (along with Zara, Gap, and Uniqlo, among others) are able to give shoppers high-fashion trends at the drop of a hat, and at much more affordable price points than the couture pieces that inspire them.
Though I typically try to mix higher-end pieces with fast fashion options, sometimes nothing can beat a $4 pair of leggings or a going-out top for under $20. In times like these, it’s easy to get stuck in a shopping rut. If you’re tired of the same old, same old, but aren’t sure where to turn, check out some of these brands instead.
ASOS
Literally everyone can find something on ASOS. Just tread lightly — it’s easy to get lost in the tens of thousands of products they have. And no, I don’t know how to pronounce it either.
(Psst: they also give 10% off for students!)
Boohoo
Nothing beats Boohoo when it comes to cheap basics. $10 maxi dresses, rompers (sorry, “playsuits”) for under $20, and $6 tees make it the perfect place to stock up for every season. Plus, you can shop petite, tall, and plus size to find your perfect fit.
Dorothy Perkins
Dorothy Perkins = the UK version of Charlotte Russe. After you shop, check out their Instagram for style inspo!
Mango
Mango just made fast fashion even faster. From speedier deliveries, to new merch every two weeks, to price cuts on casual wear, the modern Spanish brand is stepping up its game.
Missguided
I don’t know what’s cooler: the fact that they cover every trend you can imagine — (check out their killer Instagram) - or that students get 20% off.
Nasty Gal
From the vintage shop that started it all, to their in-house label, to the rather outlandish, Nasty Gal’s got it all. Even celebrities like Bey, Rihanna, and Kendall and Kylie are fans.
Oasis
Prim and proper: Oasis in a nutshell. If you love feminine patterns and bold colors, say hey to your new obsession.
Reformation
One of these things is not like the other — and it’s Reformation. The made-in-LA brand does sustainable, eco-friendly fashion you don’t have to sacrifice style over. It’s more expensive than your typical fast fashion stops, but its cult following speaks for itself.
Topshop
If you’re a Beyoncé fan, you’ll know this name. Ivy Park, the active wear label cofounded by Bey herself, just launched in-stores and online. You can also shop their thousands of other pieces by collection — check out Topshop Finds for vintage-inspired pieces, Workwear, and Holiday Shop for everything you’ll need this summer.