5 Stores Where You Can Buy On-Trend, Inexpensive Clothing
By Meaghan Dunn
, last updated November 30, 2011
Everyone wants to have on-trend and stylish clothing. However, clothes and accessories cost money, and the continual acquisition of expensive wardrobe items is a great way to blow a budget. Enter the inexpensive, on-trend fashion trailer. Once dismissed as cheap and tacky, ‘fast fashion’ has now become an element of style that everyone loves. From celebrities to First Ladies, all sorts of immensely fashionable individuals have been seen wearing pieces from inexpensive retailers. These stores are a great way to stay on trend without spending too much money on a seasonal item that may quickly go out of fashion. Since so many budget-friendly and trendy brands have emerged on the scene, we have put together a list of the 5 best stores where you can buy on-trend, inexpensive clothing to help you sort through the options.
Forever 21 is a perennial favorite for its continually rotating selection of on-trend pieces at incredibly inexpensive prices. They offer both basic pieces (make sure to look for their $3 tees and tanks) and trendy seasonal options that won’t break the bank. From faux fur vests to great sequined dresses for a night out, Forever 21 really offers it all.
We love Zara for its great designer inspired looks at reasonable prices. Zara is generally more expensive than other labels on this list, but their quality is higher and they have a great selection of heels and boots. We particularly like Zara’s selection of knitwear, as it has enough detail to appear expensive, while available at a reasonable and budget friendly price point.
The Swedish chain H&M has been a staple in megamalls and cities throughout the US for years. Their offerings cover all bases, including clothing, accessories, bathing suits, and shoes, making the store a one stop shop for instant, inexpensive acquisition of trendy pieces. Generally speaking, H&M’s price points are about on the level of Forever 21’s, though you may not find the same number of single-digit steal items. The one drawback to H&M is that they have no US e-commerce at this point in time, so keep your eyes peeled for a brick and mortar store in your area.
British e-commerce giant ASOS recently introduced US e-commerce with free shipping both ways on all orders. They sell a wide range of brands, including more expensive contemporary designer pieces. However, the real steals lie in their ASOS brand merchandise, which offers great pieces like versatile dresses and sweaters in the $30-40 range. Extra tip: browse the sale section, as it is always extensive and can yield an even better deal on an already great steal.
Surprisingly, we love Old Navy for its on-trend pieces and well-designed accessories. Once a den of pastel colored fleece and sweatshirts, Old Navy has moved in a much more stylish direction as of late. We particularly love their inexpensive scarves and sweater dresses at this time of the year, but the mix-and-match bathing suits and wide range of tanks are great in the warmer months as well.
