How to Shop High Fashion for Low Costs
It would be nice to spend thousands of dollars on a new wardrobe every season, but not everyone has that kind of money. Rest assured, that doesn’t mean quality clothes are off the rack! Let’s explore affordable department stores and a handful of luxury brands still worth your time.
1. Amazon
Amazon, quite literally, has everything you need—including affordable clothing. You might not score name brands, but you’ll find quality items for less and a chance to comb through dozens of reviews to ensure you get the best. So long as you’re specific, you can find what you’re after.
2. Target
We often pop into Target for toiletries, but this department store deserves more than a quick visit. From affordable baby clothes and maternity outfits to cheap accessories and comfortable shoes, don’t skip their clothing section next time you run out of TP.
3. Costco
Costco isn’t really a place for style, but it is a place for quality clothing at fair prices. If you need children’s clothes or basic athletic wear, you’ll likely find what you need for around $20.00. It’s also a good place for some name brands like Bench and Baggallini.
4. Forever 21
Despite its name, Forever 21 is good for all ages! Whether looking for cute summer dresses or cozy winter sweatsuits, you’ll likely find something on sale. Even if you can’t nab reduced costs, their prices (and quality) are fair regardless.
5. ASOS
ASOS has always been a no-frills clothing store—good prices, stunning looks, and frequent sales put it a notch above the competition. It’s a great place to shop name brands like Topshop, Nike, and Adidas, but even if you stick with the ASOS name, you're bound to improve your closet!
6. ThredUp
Everyone needs a good consignment store, and ThredUp answers our prayers! Though the quality and the prices are there, our favorite part is the company’s environmentally friendly mission to reduce waste by selling clothes online. At the end of the day, it’s nice to know you’re doing your wallet and the planet some good.
7. H&M
No one does stylish, affordable clothes quite like H&M. With fashionable blouses for $20.00 and cable knit sweaters under $30.00, you’ll find durable items without issue. They’ve also partnered with ThredUp to offer their collection of pre-loved clothing, which helps you save even more.
8. eBay
Did you lose your favorite sweater five years ago? Do you like quality, name-brand pieces for half the cost? Look no further than eBay! You can grab anything from everyday high-end items to amazing secondhand outfits. Best of all? If you missed a sale from your favorite clothing place, you’ll likely find the piece you want on eBay—even if it’s out of season.
9. T.J. Maxx
T.J. Maxx might not have the same kind of sales as other popular brands, but they’re still notorious for affordable costs. The reason why is they don’t follow the same business model as other brands, meaning they buy merchandise to sell right away, not sit in a warehouse. The result is good prices and the chance to hunt for something special.
JJBers from Willimantic, Connecticut, USA on Wikimedia
10. Old Navy
Old Navy prices aren’t what they used to be, however, they’re still one of the best spots for your wallet (and closet)! For the price point, the quality is there and so is the style. They also frequently boast incredible sales, so you’ll always have an opportunity to nab something.
As nice as it is to save money, it’s sometimes nicer to splurge. From beloved names to hot-ticket items, here are some clothing brands to treat yourself to.
1. Nordstrom
Marvelous dresses, endless accessories, and chic shoes—Nordstrom has whatever you’re after. The prices aren’t outrageous, but they’re certainly higher than your everyday brands. However, you can rest easy knowing you’ll have the best fashion offers.
2. Bergdorf Goodman
There’s nothing wrong with a little luxury now and then, and Bergdorf Goodman knows it! You can shop for nearly every designer from Valentino Garavani and Prada to Christian Louboutin and Burberry. You’ll need some extra cash to shop properly, but you deserve a treat.
Ajay Suresh from New York, NY, USA on Wikimedia
3. Saks Fifth Avenue
Saks is a longtime crowd-pleaser, offering luxury and style to any shopper. Like Bergdorf Goodman, this department store has dozens of designers to choose from, such as Ralph Lauren or Marc Jacobs. On top of that, you can also complete your look with designer shoes and incredible accessories.
4. J. Crew
In the mood for a little cashmere? J. Crew has you covered! They also have plenty of denim and peacoats available, all for relatively affordable prices. Average costs soar into the hundreds, but you’ll build a long-lasting wardrobe.
5. Neiman Marcus
Gucci watches, Saint Laurent purses, Dolce&Gabbana dresses—the world is your oyster at Neiman Marcus! You might need to head to a physical location for the best finds, but you won’t leave empty-handed. How could you, with so many luxurious brands at your disposal?
Clark Street Mercantile on Unsplash
6. Zara
Zara’s one of the fastest-growing fast fashion brands, and for good reason. With reasonable price tags and countless options, shoppers can grab anything from warm parkas to sequined blazers for work. They also have plenty of shoes, bags, and fragrances available.
7. Roots
Popular Canadian brand Roots has offered comfort and style for decades. That adorable beaver graces sweatpants and cable knit sweaters alike, all for relatively decent prices. Sure, a sweater will probably run you a hundred dollars, but it’s more than worth it for the warmth and longevity.
Raysonho @ Open Grid Scheduler / Grid Engine on Wikimedia
8. SSENSE
From streetwear to business casual looks, SSENSE has you covered. They have nearly every designer you can think of, and the hardest part of shopping here is picking between Gucci and Alexander McQueen.
9. Lululemon
Gymgoers have turned to Lululemon for years, scoring quality athletic wear at decent prices. It’s more of a splurge than a spree, however, with the average cost of leggings tipping well past $100.00—but it’s worth it for that level of comfort.
10. Ralph Lauren
Sure, it’s a bit preppy, but Ralph Lauren’s timeless style is in a league of its own. It’s hard for some to justify the prices, but its incredible quality is built to last, and people hang onto those $2,000 coats for years!
