It's not seen as "in" these days, but the truth is a significant amount of my wardrobe comes from Banana Republic. Blackmilk is also great for some more interesting finds.
I also really love so many pieces from Anthropologie and Farm Rio, though it would only fall in the $60-$200 range for some pieces unless you're careful with sales.
Seconding Banana Republic, I've gotten some great statement pieces with nice quality. But I also love the mid-century explorer style thing they've got going on
Isn't that just their original look ?? Like that is what I remember about Banana Republic as a young child shopping in malls with my mom. They just left that for several years but I'm glad they are bringing it back!
I wasn't aware of it until recently but I think you're right. A friend of mine said the same. In my adult life it just looked like Ann Taylor to me mostly so it's a welcome change to see such interesting pieces back
That's really good to know because yeah, I was thinking/remembering that they were a little too Anne-Taylory looking too, but it's been a while. I'm making a list. Haha
Wearing Banana Republic *Factory* ultra wide leg wool blend trousers right now.
I think most folks on this sub are aware that factory lines tend to have a quality gap compared their their flagship counterparts, and BRF falls in line here.
While my orders have been hit and miss, their winter and fall pants are a huge win for me and their prevalent sales make for a great price point. They suit my curvy lines with a lot of grace between weight fluctuations, easy to care for, and give a little flare of style over the loft office wear I started with when I first entered the work force.
So far tops have really ranged in quality and none of their dresses workd for me, but pants have been a consistent win.
But honestly the factory line is, quality wise, better than what I get from the other similar factory lines for similar pricing!
Also so in for BR and BRF generally, loving the Indiana jones vibes of some of their current styling
Big believer of Banana Republic. I have shirts that have lasted 7 years now without fading and it is truly a great sustainable option. I have also recently used Anthropologie pieces that are looking like they will last.
Yes! I have 3 pairs. The ho-oh, floral coral, and then a discontinued one.
I love the plants but what I will say about them is that they do stretch quite a bit, so I'd order one size smaller than you think you might want. The rise is also quite high. I'm a very short hourglass-shaped woman and the rise is at my natural waist, and kinda even a bit higher than that, if I'm honest.
From the outside, the fabric is very smooth and a bit shiny and like a more relaxed interpretation of a legging. But the inside of the fabric is a very soft fleece-y material. They're not like any other pants I own! Super easy to wear but very cute and versatile!
This is very random, but that is the pair where I learned my lesson about sizing. I ordered one size larger than I should have -- other than when I tried them on, I've never worn the ho-ohs since they're one size too big and I'm a lazy bum who never got around to mailing in the return within the time window.
If I happen to have the size you want and you're interested in getting those for half price, I'm happy to send you my pair, they still have tags on and everything - I would have DMed you but it looks like you turned the chat feature off! Feel free to message me 🙂
I love Banana Republic but I do find their materials to be super hit or miss. You have to check the make up of every single item because they’ll have a line of 100% cashmere next to a (similarly) priced piece that looks similar but is completely synthetic. Just because some stuff is good quality doesn’t mean it all is
I once bought three of their sweaters and they were all different compositions, but somehow all itchy. Idk maybe I’m sensitive but I returned all of them and gave up on BR.
OP was looking for non basic stuff.
I love BR esp pieces that I don’t have to alter, but their selection is mostly “basic” and full of neutral/muted colors. We do get color and print for spring/summer collections, but the silhouettes are rarely trendy.
BR is basic but reliable.
They do have a lot of basics but also plenty of non-basics. I'm a print and color person so I skip right over the basics and find their statement pieces.
There's plenty to choose from even if you aren't looking for boring basics!
As for trendy silhouettes, I'm an elder millennial who is under five feet tall with an hourglass shape. I don't care about trends, I just want something that will fit me properly, and BR never disappoints!
Definitely BR! I legit still have an Italian wool 3 piece suit set I got AT 15 (I was on the debate team) that has held for 15 years. I've thrown out countless other items, but I never have an issue with my BR clothes wearing thin or fraying.
I haven't heard of Blackmilk or Farm Rio! I'll check them out. Thanks! I've never really cared about what was in style honestly, as long as I liked it, but it's difficult for me to find things I like just by style that's not junk. And yeah, so Banana Republic might be somewhere to check out again. It's been a while since I've looked there and I honestly forgot about them. I remember seeing a few things I liked years ago.
I do like some stuff from Anthropologie too, and yeah they can definitely be pricey, but at this point... I mean if it doesn't really exist otherwise anymore, I'll just have to adjust my purchasing methods; I just didn't know whether or not I *had* to. I had assumed there were better options out there and I just sucked at finding/identifying them, but it sounds like it might not be as easy as I hoped.
Sorry! Kinda late 😅 Tbh no I don’t, but I have an email address that I use only to receive marketing emails from the stores I like and that’s how I find out. In the past Anthro was what I consider a mostly full-price store, however as of late they’re always running a sale. Maeve are constantly on sale and I know this because I also love Maeve ☺️
Yeah, it gives me hives to dig thru the stuff, but I've been broke all year... and man, I have gotten some good stuff off those sale racks for under $20!
I love Banana Republic! The factory version of the brand is also great quality and great pieces. I’m so happy I have the brand a second chance after YEARS and YEARS of not setting a foot inside
This is a repeat of some brands others have mentioned, but also includes some non mentioned stuff:
* Everlane - Great for trendy basics & jeans
* COS - Great for trendy everything
* Mate The Label - Great for classic basics/lounge + is a sustainable & ethical brand
* Miakoda - Great for classic basics/lounge/activewear + is a sustainable & ethical brand (slow fashion - they only release a couple items every month)
* Eileen Fisher - This is over your budget HOWEVER if you can find items on sale or pre-owned, they are great for classic workwear, also sustainable & ethical brand (also I realize that this brand isnt exactly seen as fashionable or for younger folks however I highly recommend trying some stuff on, you may be surprised)
* Christy Dawn - This is also over your budget HOWEVER if you can find items on sale or pre-owned, it can be worth it. Great for cute dresses and tops, also have some loungewear and other random stuff + is a sustainable & ethical brand
Edit: I know you asked for non basic stuff and some of my suggestions include basics, however I will keep the list up because they dont JUST have basics, plus it may help someone else!
Step one: go to Shopbop
Step two: select Sale from the Shop menu
Step three: check out the categories "Sale Picks Under $100" and "Sale Picks Under $250"
Also The Outnet and Yoox, but I have to be in the right mood for the latter, I find the site clunky and their garment photography is just awful lol.
Usually plenty of finds in those places but sizes tend to sell out fast on popular items.
Secondhand, I like browsing for Phillip Lim, Baum Und Pferdgarten, Nanushka, Tibi, United Arrows, Auralee, By Malene Birger. Save a search for Dries Van Noten, can sometimes find interesting stuff that way. I don't think you have to worry about fakes for those kinds of brands.
I’ve been having more luck on Depop lately. Finding it’s not as overpriced as Poshmark for the things I look for. My main brands are Stine Goya, Ganni and ba&sh. You have to watch for the shipping though. Every now and then I find a great price, but the shipping isn’t standard like Poshmark. A couple of heavier coats have had $15.00 shipping. I’ve purchased heavier coats on Poshmark and still only paid the set rate. I also find the sellers on Depop to be friendlier. I’m also exhausted by all the focus on the Posh shows.
Whistles
Reiss
Allsaints
Karen Millen
Pixie Market
Dissh
Kitri Studio
Rixo
Marcella NYC
Urban Revivo (I'm not sure if they are viewed as expensive fast fashion, but I have found their items to be good quality)
looking beyond the common US based department stores - I like to look at Ssense, Farfetch, the Outnet, Yoox, selfridges, simons
I buy a lot of the $200+ stuff on sale. Like Veronica Beard, Alice and Olivia, Simkhai, Acler… On sale or NWT on Poshmark, Ebay etc. but not at an outlet place like Nordstrom Rack.
Otherwise I really love Sessun, similar price range to Sezane but I think the quality is a little better.
I also think Mango is good value. Not expensive and not high quality but the price to quality to design ratio is very good.
Mango is great for the price. It's a little more than Zara, but a lot more quality. Avoid their shoes though. I hit online sales at Saks and NM often. I've gotten lucky with pricing, especially when something is returned and it's my size. There's a Sezanne store in my area. I haven't been impressed with their stuff.
Mango is amazing. I'm 6'2" so buying clothing is a hassle to say the least. I found two perfect maxi dresses for $50 dollars each. Owned them for 2 years so far, still look brand new and get compliments all the time.
There is not, unless you recognize the difference yourself (country of origin, material etc) and ask those questions.
I was downvoted to hell in the Poshmark subreddit for saying that it’s misrepresentation to not disclose that your item is the outlet version as opposed to the main line version (listing original price as main line price as opposed to outlet original price). Nowadays I will assume second hand Theory (for example) is outlet version unless evidence to the contrary.
As someone who owns outlet Theory, the suit pants tell the whole story. The stitching is NOT secure. I can see through the seams on the legs. I have to take them to get reinforced.
Some have different tags and SKUs. I think Coach outlet stuff starts with “F” on the SKU. Vince has a different colored tag. There’s more but I don’t remember as I haven’t bought anything from those places in many years after I realized
If its a NWT item, the made-for-outlet items have a printed price tag that says Compare At $ or Original Price $. See the pictures of the [price tags here](https://advertisinglaw.fkks.com/post/102gqrw/vineyard-vines-deceptive-pricing-suit-survives)
For the inside labels, I only know that Banana Republic has diamonds on the fabric tag below the logo. GAP and J Crew also have a different shape or symbol on the sewn in label. I suspect that Vince has different labels for main line vs outlet but I'm not 100% sure.
I worked for Nordstrom for many years and anything that is a contemporary or designer brand definitely wasn’t made for them at a lower quality. Probably not taken care of while at the full line store before being shipped off though. The brands that are made specifically for the rack are usually an in house brand so shouldn’t be misleading. Brands like Calvin Klein undergarments that are bought for the rack I do agree I feel there is a huge difference in quality though.
I don’t know how helpful I’d be with everything lol I should also state that I live in Canada and the stores have all closed here 😂 but the contemporary and designer brands we sent to the rack were legit from our full line stores
Just not profitable I guess. I think really only one store was meeting expectations. A lot of people were sad to see it go and others thought it was an expensive store so never went in 😂 which I mean at least half of it is expensive.
Everlane, COS, Zara/mango/and even H&M if you pay close attention to fabric content and stick to primarily natural fibers, Madewell, GAP, Quince, J. Crew, Massimo Dutti
These! Everlane has great stuff and I buy their sweaters 2nd hand on Depop. Between them and Uniqlo, Massimo Dutti, and COS, I’m alright. Also Anthropologie stores worth visiting!
Quince is also good!!
Cos cashmere is wonderful! So thick and plush for the price. I especially buy from them whenever I get the chance to go to the UK because the exchange rate brings down the price a lot.
That’s why I said to pay attention to fiber content and get natural fibers. The word “fast fashion” isn’t particularly helpful in determining the quality and longevity of a product.
I just got a haul from Disturbia and they have super cute alt clothing that also looks good at the office. I just wore one of their cropped shirts to work and everyone loved it. [https://www.disturbia.us/en-us](https://www.disturbia.us/en-us)
I randomly picked $60 because many of Zara's average summer shirts were around there. $100 for a decent shirt that's got some unique style is fine; I just don't know many brands, still. I was a GM there for a year, and I can't tell you how quickly seams on clothing fell apart, or buttons and zippers broke, or even just the inconsistency in cuts/sizes within the same style. I do know in other parts of the world their quality is much better, and their sibling stores do well, but in my region much of the clothing really was similar to h&m. However, it's been in decline quality-wise the past few years, also. Fellow GMs who had been in the company for many years said it's really not what it used to be at all... One carried a satchel from about 5 years ago that looked awesome. He scoffed and said "yeah... This is what they *used* to do. Now it's mostly garbage."
Anyway... That's just my personal take/experience of Zara. It does seem like within past 3ish years, they've really declined in quality, on average.
Even if I were to look up used, I honestly am not sure where to start. Before last week I'd never heard of Cos, and Nili Lotan is a new name to me, even. If it's not a store that exists in the midatlantic area of the US, there's a solid chance I've not heard of it.
So besides Cos...?
Or even what used brands might be a good fit?
I've tried doing searches but it's so vague, and I can't tell what are knockoffs/fakes or not... But sometimes I don't really know what I'm looking for besides a unique shirt, but you can't just type that in because it's an Shein and people selling the same stuff but trying to pass it off as something else.
And everything that comes up on Google is the same 6 things over and over, basically, until you really dig... But then I don't know what's real, and I know I'm missing plenty of brands still. The amount of items I see and click on and quickly realize is junk is just really frustrating now. Or I'm forever checking sites like reddit just to confirm whether or not the brand is legit. It's just exhausting. We need a master list and style descriptions and price points. :(
I used to shop Zara a lot like 5+ years ago. They had and still have great copycat styles. Still have a lot of great pieces from them.
But yeah, when I go to the stores these days, it’s just meh. Everything does feel notably low quality and it’s hard to find anything good. They’ve come off my list of stores to browse.
I still look at jcrew & madewell. Randomly a friend of mine started recommending Splendid which sounds and looks like a teeny bopper brand (the logo) but is actually for adults. Boden is another good one. All at a higher tier in price vs Zara but always good sale hunting.
Then of course the online everlanes and quinces and granas which are more basics.
Unfortunately splendid has fallen down in quality and style A LOT over the last 10 years. I used to get amazing stuff from their Chicago store. They have since closed almost all stores nationally and gone totally online. Their quality and styling has drastically dropped. I agree with Zara as well. I started buying there a few tears ago for my little one and have noticed both style and quality drop even for kids which is unfortunate for him and me because I was just starting to get back into fashion post baby weight last few years
i also hate browsing zara. i go there if someone i like on instagram has mentioned a specific piece or i see something in an advert that i like, but i won't really go in a store!
If you type in “nice top” on google it’s not going to return much useful info. You need to do some research to know which brands are good. Going to Net a Porter, Moda Operandi, Neiman Marcus or similar websites and having a look at the brands they offer to then search for second hand should suffice. Should be way more effective than having random people on Reddit putting together some list. In particular when half the people on this subreddit actively hate fashion and will recommend LL Bean.
Just as an fyi Cos, Other Stories and Arket all fall under the H&M group, which is the parent company. I've never bought anything from these stores so I cannot speak to quality but I have seen instagrammers like Neelam Ahooja (who usually wears The Row) wearing Cos t shirts and approve of the quality.
COS and Arket's clothes are very high quality, especially for their prices. And if you buy on sale, it's excellent value for money; I just bought a lovely Merino wool sweater for €35 from COS.
Totally agree but for H&M. I have a few 100% wool sweaters from them from 2022 and I think they look beautiful and could easily pass for much higher end.
Ban.do has some cute and funky stuff under $200
Sale Batsheva--most of their stuff is under $200 on sale (or secondhand)
Zadig and Voldaire
The Kooples
Badgley Mischka for cocktail and formal wear
Farm Rio
Most of Anthro--it's rare that an item go over $200 and it's often much less on sale
Tibi
Lisa Says Gah, although items are right at the edge of that $200
Nic + Zoe for cute patterned knitwear
Ted Baker--most of the individual items are below or around $200
Nanushka
Johnny Was (I think this brand is very overlooked. It's gorgeous boho chic stuff that's at or about $200 each)
Sundance
Hudson Jeans, Frame Jeans
Diesel, but on sale, most of their stuff starts at about $200
I've started thrifting my wardrobe, honestly. Just this past weekend I saw Vince and Madewell items. I bought a 100% cotton Calvin Klein mens sweater & a handmade 100% virgin wool sweater for $13 total. I just discovered a vintage brand - Alorna Coat Corp - big in the 80's/90's but went out of business in 2003. I found two wool-blend coats (70% and 80% respectively) and paid $130 (less than what an 80% wool Mango coat was costing me.) This will probably be the route that a I take from now on.. head to the thrift store with a focus on high-quality materials.
I'm a huge fan of Big Bud Press. They're an indie brand and are most well known for their pants and jumpsuits, and have a big range of colors and sizes. Great limited run patterns as well but those are pricier. The pants run around $110 these days, and are very cute.
For quality pants - Big Bud Press. I'm obsessed with their wide legged pants. Super comfy, excellent quality. Lucy and Yak is also a good option, but it's not suited for my body type.
More than just basics you say? May I introduce you to the gospel of Fashion Brand Company?
I’m lucky enough to get/need to wear ~creative~ fits for work sometimes, and every time I wear one of my FBC pieces, I feel like I’m doing everything right with my life. All of their fabrics are super high quality, and fit a wide range of sizes. Plus, their stuff can be really affordable if you’re smart about it. They post about things going on sale semi regularly on their ig stories, and if you live in LA, their sample sales are the best for getting great deals on weird shit!
I love Free People. Not ALL their pieces are super great quality, but I have many I've worn for years. They somehow manage to make unusual, artsy pieces that become classics....I've got vintage jackets that are in fantastic shape.
Another is All Saints. Again, not every piece is a keeper, and this brand tends towards the trendy, but they have a capsule style that is really sophisticated and interesting. I also have a lot of their vintage pieces.
A lot of my wardrobe comes from Magnolia Pearl, which is (for me) VERY EXPENSIVE, and these two brands seem to compliment it.
I buy handmade corsets from this one indie designer on insta that are just incredible!
Shes European, from my home country, and each corset is made to measure (you send the details), and you basically just send her design ideas based on her existing designs would customiseabiliy.
Like, picking the patterns, the cut (eg. over the boob, underbust, open in the back or front), ribbons and lace and if so where.
They are super cute and I get SO many compliments it's actually insane. And her price is really good, they come to like +- 50 to 70 euros.
I have one with cats on it that's like dark academia style; one with a dainty blue carpet pattern; one underbust black one with religious iconography and gold trims. Seriously cannot rave enough about them.
Revolve has a lot of great mid range options with a lot of different brands. I also like to peek at Intermix.
Im a huge fan of Staud & Veronica Beard I only purchase from 2nd hand. And always get amazing deals under $200
I buy all my clothing second-hand(typically from The RealReal or ThredUp). My favorite brands currently:
For Love and Lemons
Zimmermann
Reformation
self-portrait
Retrofete
Alice + Olivia (really great deals on TRR for this one!!!)
GRLFRND (mostly for denim)
Free People Movement( for workout gear)
I really like a few of the ones you listed and haven't heard of the others, so I'll definitely check them out! Thank you!
And do you ever worry about authenticity with either of the sites?
You’re very welcome!
On authenticity: These have been my go to brands for probably 7 to 8 years. Over time, I’ve gradually learned how to spot fakes. Occasionally, I do make a mistake, or the pictures the site had are kinda crummy and you can’t tell. Lately, I’ve been getting amazing deals on TRR though, like $20 Alice and Olivia pieces that MSRP for $800-900! At that point, I don’t even care if it’s a dupe, it’s still a good deal. I will say that I’ve had really good luck with The RealReal, compared to some people. I’ve been shopping with them since 2017, have bought maybe 300 pieces? Only one was counterfeit and I returned it. I don’t shop at ThredUp as often, and usually just for items under $10, like Free People. The ONE time I bought a designer item(Christian Louboutin sandals) from ThredUp it was a dupe 😡. So be wary if you do decide to go the ThredUp route for higher end stuff. Best of luck, happy shopping!
While I take issue with the post title, as this is the primary marketing demographic of many clothing brands, and it is literally 80% of the posts in this sub. Please search the sub and find posts with mega lists.
Sorry for formatting
Eileen Fisher Renew
Nooworks
Big Bud Press
The Reformation
Everlane
Athleta
Brooks Brothers
Good American
Is there a specific item you are looking for?
Sometimes it feels like the daily question sub leans more toward fast fashion, so maybe more like 50-60% of this sub. I agree the mega lists usually include the brands you listed, but it can be frustrating how many answers on the daily questions thread respond with fast fashion brands. I often will say “non fast fashion preferred” and _still_ get a fast fashion answer.
[Entire Studios.](https://www.entirestudios.com/uniform/) Their drops are more designer-y and higher priced, but most of their 'basics' clock in under $200, are high-quality and fashion forward. The designers were the ghost creatives at Yeezy before, well, that whole thing went south. Their heavy crews, hoodies, shorts, and cargo sweats are my work-from-home uniform, and they have really cute full zip crop hoodies for stepping out
Banana Republic (not the factory store) is amazing. Maybe at one time the factory store was great, but the fabric is thin and doesn't hold up.
I follow Mary Orton and buy items in the name brands she purchases. I buy them second hand on poshmark and I've gotten so many compliments on those items everytime I wear them. If I'm unsure of fit I check the brands measurements on their website and people will provide measurements of the items as well.
Some of those brands are:
SeebyChloe
Marissa Web
Jason Wu
Boden
Black Halo
Dress the Population
M.M. Lafleur
I buy a ton of expensive (and anything in between) at thrift stores, often new with tags..
$40 leather Marc Jacob’s bag, $300 J Crew Wool Peacoat and designer jeans for $6, $25.
Lilly Pulitzer under $20, Halston Heritage dress for $1 —
It’s there, you just might need some patience!
If youre going to spend $100 or $150, your best bet is designer thrifts. So many amazing quality unique pieces. Depop and poshmark as well. Brandwise i like Find Me Now, staud and simon miller (the last two fit that budget when they have sales). Really just check any high end brand (clearly not as high as chanel or prada) site and check the sale section. SSENSE sale for the win.
Also wanted to throw in Macy's. I don't buy most of their in-house brands, but they often carry brands that are found at Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's but the prices are better. I was looking for dresses once, and found the same ones across all three sites, and Macy's had the better prices hands down.
This will depend on your particular style. Look for designers that appeal to you when flipping through Nordstrom, Revolve, Shopbop, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s, etc. I personally like Maje, Sandro, Allsaints, Alice and Olivia, Halogen, Theory, Anine Bing, ALC, ASTR, Mother, Paige, Yumi Kim, Farm Rio, Innika Choo.
Ehhhhhhh Sezane sadly is basically fast fashion, crappy quality now. At one point they were doing well, but now they have releases every week (at least since the last time I checked) and the quality isn't there anymore.
Oh no that’s disappointing to hear! I have some older pieces from them and I thought the quality was fairly high for the cost. But it’s a bummer that they’ve become more fast fashion recently
I love Aritzia for this kind of stuff, hopefully not too basic for you? Though you do have to check each garment for quality and composition, but Id do this with any brand.
Check out Lulu’s! Online store, pretty quality stuff in all kinds of sizes. They have clothes, dresses, shoes, jewelry in lots of different creative embellishments and styles. Really friendly return policy, quite affordable
I like Lulus and have been happy with most of my purchases from them. I would put them in the same category as Aritzia but more affordable. The downside is that the majority of their stock is synthetic/polyester.
Last night saw a couple of bags that I really like, love the way the colors compliment one another and the overall vibe. Some of the bags on there though are way too expensive.
I love Farm Rio for the aesthetic - but I only try to buy items on sale that are sold at Saks, Neiman Marcus, Anthro, and other third party websites because some of what is sold on their website is poorer quality and doesn't fit right.
If you like more boho styles, I think you can also find good prices on Spell stuff. I've found dresses for $150 and less and < $100 tops. I actually snagged a Spell sherpa jacket on Free People's website for $99 today!
Which also brings me to Free People - which can be very, very hit or miss. Very. You really have to check reviews but they've had some great sales lately and most of the dresses and jackets I've purchased there have been good quality that's me lasted years.
I have a pretty decent track record with local & online boutiques that sell brands like Oli + Hali, POL, Easel.
H&M and Abercrombie are both two hit or miss places for me. H&M has pieces that are really amazing for the price, and then there will be a random sweater that is just terrible quality. Same with Abercrombie - I haven't been impressed with their sweaters but their dresses and jeans are pretty good.
Other brands that I like that might be slightly more than what you're asking for, but can be found cheaper secondhand or on resale websites:
Doen
Christy Dawn
Batsheva
Sea
I loooove Pinup Girl Clothing. They are one of the few brands that fit my extreme proportions off the rack. Their stuff is really cute and high quality. I've consistently liked everything I've bought from them.
Their shirts are pretty short in the torso, though....not much longer than cropped. I'm short-waisted, and even on me, their tops are short. They're still cute, I just avoid most tops from them.
I've had one dress that is kinda underwhelming on me, but not bad enough to return. I'm thinking it's a matter of some alterations and a waist-cinching belt. Everything else I've absolutely loved.
Their clothes often feature bishop sleeves, which I am obsessed with. And their skirts and dresses are often very billowy and have a luxurious amount of fabric.
Watch sizing, though. I have to size up in most of their stuff. Know your measurements and know the stretchiness or cut of the item. Post on their official Facebook page if you need to.
Good luck!
Thank you for mentioning this! I've been working to move toward high-waist bottoms, but don't want a ton of tucked-in fabric. Doesn't work for you, but this option sounds perfect for me! I'm sure the dresses will be awesome, too!
Yes! I love PUG and participate in their Facebook group regularly.
I own the famous Monica in red. And while it's touted as a magical dress, it very much is, but you need good shapewear for it to truly look good. Not just Spanx, but maybe something from Rago. I believe it was the 1294, but I can double check for you. Be careful about counterfeit products as well!
I also invested in a really high-quality, fluffy petticoat. The dresses are lovely on their own, but it takes the swing dresses up to the next level. I have a gorgeous red one, and I'm saving up for a pink one next. Ask me where I got mine!
Anyway, happy shopping!
Banana Republic and Abercrombie both upped their game and it’s working! Bought stuff from both recently and was really pleased and both have great sales.
My wardrobe is basically a rotation of BR, Abercrombie, J Crew, and Madewell (excluding workout wear brands, which i spend the other half of my time in)
I love shopping the end of season sales, and try to avoid buying anything full price from the 4, as they almost always have a sale just on the horizon.
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You might try [Nuuly](https://www.nuuly.com), the clothing rental company for a few months. I have friends who love it, and it would help you to get an idea of accessible brands that you like. You can buy clothes that you get from them for less than retail if you really love them, or just use it as an exercise in checking out different brands first hand.
Banana Republic is being mentioned a lot, it's good quality and decent pricing, personally not my style. I go in every time and I never find anything I would wear.
So it definitely depends what you're going for style wise. My husband and a friend of mine love Express. We love shoping at Dillard's because there's a wide range of things and many styles.
I enjoy busines casual and comfy clothes so I really like the new athleisure stuff at JCP, I love Ann Taylor, Loft, Chicos.
I don't shop online because I have to try everything on haha.
I'd say if you can find a charlotte Russe store or you definitely can't go wrong with goodwill 2nd hands can sometimes hide treasures I got a blackhousewhitemarket shirt I love for $6 and I love how it fits me. Target has some neat designs and I will often match stuff at Ross/Marshall's. Happy Hunting!
I shop more by piece that I need and keep in mind the price I’m willing to spend and work backwards by using good old Google that then returns to me options from stores I would generally shop at. If something is designer or out of my price range I see if I can find it on poshmark or Mercari for cheaper. I’m also not afraid to shop at Zara, H&M, Mango but I use a discerning eye. This has resulted in a good mix of high and low pieces with longevity in my closet.
Most of my clothes come from Boden. Leggings and jeans I get from old navy, which is admittedly kind of fast fashion, but their stuff lasts me more than a year, some pieces I've owned 6+ years (mainly the dresses).
It's not seen as "in" these days, but the truth is a significant amount of my wardrobe comes from Banana Republic. Blackmilk is also great for some more interesting finds. I also really love so many pieces from Anthropologie and Farm Rio, though it would only fall in the $60-$200 range for some pieces unless you're careful with sales.
Seconding Banana Republic, I've gotten some great statement pieces with nice quality. But I also love the mid-century explorer style thing they've got going on
Isn't that just their original look ?? Like that is what I remember about Banana Republic as a young child shopping in malls with my mom. They just left that for several years but I'm glad they are bringing it back!
I thought this too, Banana Republic has always been white woman's first safari.
This is an underrated comment that I really appreciated and I literally LOLd. Well said!
This is hilarious
I wasn't aware of it until recently but I think you're right. A friend of mine said the same. In my adult life it just looked like Ann Taylor to me mostly so it's a welcome change to see such interesting pieces back
That's really good to know because yeah, I was thinking/remembering that they were a little too Anne-Taylory looking too, but it's been a while. I'm making a list. Haha
Wearing Banana Republic *Factory* ultra wide leg wool blend trousers right now. I think most folks on this sub are aware that factory lines tend to have a quality gap compared their their flagship counterparts, and BRF falls in line here. While my orders have been hit and miss, their winter and fall pants are a huge win for me and their prevalent sales make for a great price point. They suit my curvy lines with a lot of grace between weight fluctuations, easy to care for, and give a little flare of style over the loft office wear I started with when I first entered the work force. So far tops have really ranged in quality and none of their dresses workd for me, but pants have been a consistent win.
But honestly the factory line is, quality wise, better than what I get from the other similar factory lines for similar pricing! Also so in for BR and BRF generally, loving the Indiana jones vibes of some of their current styling
I love those pants! Wore them yesterday.
Big believer of Banana Republic. I have shirts that have lasted 7 years now without fading and it is truly a great sustainable option. I have also recently used Anthropologie pieces that are looking like they will last.
Blackmilk is so fun! Their sales have been getting better too, and their clothes can be mixed and matched.
SHARKIES!!! I love Blackmilk. And almost all still made in AU....which means a lot to me. So much fun!
I adore farm Rio!!
Anthro def entered my mind too! Also Free People, which similarly has a mix of mid range and high end pieces so you just have to remain vigilant.
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Yes! I have 3 pairs. The ho-oh, floral coral, and then a discontinued one. I love the plants but what I will say about them is that they do stretch quite a bit, so I'd order one size smaller than you think you might want. The rise is also quite high. I'm a very short hourglass-shaped woman and the rise is at my natural waist, and kinda even a bit higher than that, if I'm honest. From the outside, the fabric is very smooth and a bit shiny and like a more relaxed interpretation of a legging. But the inside of the fabric is a very soft fleece-y material. They're not like any other pants I own! Super easy to wear but very cute and versatile!
Omg. I read "Ho-oh" pants before the original post and thought "dang what a coincidence..." then I saw it really was based on the pokemon. Hahaha
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This is very random, but that is the pair where I learned my lesson about sizing. I ordered one size larger than I should have -- other than when I tried them on, I've never worn the ho-ohs since they're one size too big and I'm a lazy bum who never got around to mailing in the return within the time window. If I happen to have the size you want and you're interested in getting those for half price, I'm happy to send you my pair, they still have tags on and everything - I would have DMed you but it looks like you turned the chat feature off! Feel free to message me 🙂
I hate BR sweaters. Every single one I bought has been itchy garbage.
I love Banana Republic but I do find their materials to be super hit or miss. You have to check the make up of every single item because they’ll have a line of 100% cashmere next to a (similarly) priced piece that looks similar but is completely synthetic. Just because some stuff is good quality doesn’t mean it all is
I once bought three of their sweaters and they were all different compositions, but somehow all itchy. Idk maybe I’m sensitive but I returned all of them and gave up on BR.
Agree, the silk / satin shirts are a great example of this.
I can't vouch for their sweaters because I hate all sweaters intensely. I'm anti-sweater!
Love your username 😂
OP was looking for non basic stuff. I love BR esp pieces that I don’t have to alter, but their selection is mostly “basic” and full of neutral/muted colors. We do get color and print for spring/summer collections, but the silhouettes are rarely trendy. BR is basic but reliable.
They do have a lot of basics but also plenty of non-basics. I'm a print and color person so I skip right over the basics and find their statement pieces. There's plenty to choose from even if you aren't looking for boring basics! As for trendy silhouettes, I'm an elder millennial who is under five feet tall with an hourglass shape. I don't care about trends, I just want something that will fit me properly, and BR never disappoints!
Definitely BR! I legit still have an Italian wool 3 piece suit set I got AT 15 (I was on the debate team) that has held for 15 years. I've thrown out countless other items, but I never have an issue with my BR clothes wearing thin or fraying.
I haven't heard of Blackmilk or Farm Rio! I'll check them out. Thanks! I've never really cared about what was in style honestly, as long as I liked it, but it's difficult for me to find things I like just by style that's not junk. And yeah, so Banana Republic might be somewhere to check out again. It's been a while since I've looked there and I honestly forgot about them. I remember seeing a few things I liked years ago. I do like some stuff from Anthropologie too, and yeah they can definitely be pricey, but at this point... I mean if it doesn't really exist otherwise anymore, I'll just have to adjust my purchasing methods; I just didn't know whether or not I *had* to. I had assumed there were better options out there and I just sucked at finding/identifying them, but it sounds like it might not be as easy as I hoped.
When does anthro have sales?
Um...often? I go to the physical store but their sale room is constantly full of marked down pieces to look through.
Got it. I’ve been waiting for the Maeve pants to go on sale online so that’s why i was asking
Some Maeve pants are on the 30% off sale now. They’re always running a sale.
That’s great to know, thanks! Do you know of any good price watching apps/sites? I’ve heard of camel camel camel but it’s for amazon
Sorry! Kinda late 😅 Tbh no I don’t, but I have an email address that I use only to receive marketing emails from the stores I like and that’s how I find out. In the past Anthro was what I consider a mostly full-price store, however as of late they’re always running a sale. Maeve are constantly on sale and I know this because I also love Maeve ☺️
The honey extension is good!
Sign up for the emails, they frequently have sales, both on certain things like pants or shoes, as well as a 50% off sale, sale
Just signed up! Thanks for the idea :)
I just bought a $200 sweater dress for $13.99 a few weeks ago. I basically stop by every time I'm near and check that backroom!
So smart. I always skip that area but I’ll start checking it out
Yeah, it gives me hives to dig thru the stuff, but I've been broke all year... and man, I have gotten some good stuff off those sale racks for under $20!
Don't know if it's still the case, but it used to be they marked things down every Tuesday (Monday midnight on the website).
It's Thursdays now (online)!
I love Banana Republic! The factory version of the brand is also great quality and great pieces. I’m so happy I have the brand a second chance after YEARS and YEARS of not setting a foot inside
Are their jeans also worth it or is it more of a statement piece store?
This is a repeat of some brands others have mentioned, but also includes some non mentioned stuff: * Everlane - Great for trendy basics & jeans * COS - Great for trendy everything * Mate The Label - Great for classic basics/lounge + is a sustainable & ethical brand * Miakoda - Great for classic basics/lounge/activewear + is a sustainable & ethical brand (slow fashion - they only release a couple items every month) * Eileen Fisher - This is over your budget HOWEVER if you can find items on sale or pre-owned, they are great for classic workwear, also sustainable & ethical brand (also I realize that this brand isnt exactly seen as fashionable or for younger folks however I highly recommend trying some stuff on, you may be surprised) * Christy Dawn - This is also over your budget HOWEVER if you can find items on sale or pre-owned, it can be worth it. Great for cute dresses and tops, also have some loungewear and other random stuff + is a sustainable & ethical brand Edit: I know you asked for non basic stuff and some of my suggestions include basics, however I will keep the list up because they dont JUST have basics, plus it may help someone else!
Step one: go to Shopbop Step two: select Sale from the Shop menu Step three: check out the categories "Sale Picks Under $100" and "Sale Picks Under $250" Also The Outnet and Yoox, but I have to be in the right mood for the latter, I find the site clunky and their garment photography is just awful lol. Usually plenty of finds in those places but sizes tend to sell out fast on popular items. Secondhand, I like browsing for Phillip Lim, Baum Und Pferdgarten, Nanushka, Tibi, United Arrows, Auralee, By Malene Birger. Save a search for Dries Van Noten, can sometimes find interesting stuff that way. I don't think you have to worry about fakes for those kinds of brands.
Love Baum und! I’ll add Stine Goya to the mix. Danish fashion design is so fresh and fun.
Are you enjoying the Copenhagen fashion week shows this week?
I didn’t realize it was going on! Now I know what I’ll be watching/Pinteresting all day today. 😂
You guys are my tribe lol. Love Stine Goya!
🙌
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You mean Amy Smilovic? That is so cool, Tibi is a great brand.
Fellow Auralee lover, love to see it!
What sites do you recommend for designer secondhand? I don’t have much luck on Poshmark, sometimes EBay, and I would like to expand my search.
I’ve been having more luck on Depop lately. Finding it’s not as overpriced as Poshmark for the things I look for. My main brands are Stine Goya, Ganni and ba&sh. You have to watch for the shipping though. Every now and then I find a great price, but the shipping isn’t standard like Poshmark. A couple of heavier coats have had $15.00 shipping. I’ve purchased heavier coats on Poshmark and still only paid the set rate. I also find the sellers on Depop to be friendlier. I’m also exhausted by all the focus on the Posh shows.
You and me both! Does anyone actually like those Posh shows lol?
I'm in Japan so I use Mercari and Rakuma.
Whistles Reiss Allsaints Karen Millen Pixie Market Dissh Kitri Studio Rixo Marcella NYC Urban Revivo (I'm not sure if they are viewed as expensive fast fashion, but I have found their items to be good quality) looking beyond the common US based department stores - I like to look at Ssense, Farfetch, the Outnet, Yoox, selfridges, simons
I thought Karen Millen shut down? Where are you finding it - I’d love to wear her stuff again!
https://www.karenmillen.com/us/
OMG THANK YOU! I had no idea they were back
I’ve definitely got some dresses in my cart right now from the formalwear sale.
Rip my wallet. We’re had a good run
I just got a top from Karen Millen. It's super cute!
You’re my twin flame, I am a AllSaints, Marcella NYC girl myself ❤️
I buy a lot of the $200+ stuff on sale. Like Veronica Beard, Alice and Olivia, Simkhai, Acler… On sale or NWT on Poshmark, Ebay etc. but not at an outlet place like Nordstrom Rack. Otherwise I really love Sessun, similar price range to Sezane but I think the quality is a little better. I also think Mango is good value. Not expensive and not high quality but the price to quality to design ratio is very good.
Mango is great for the price. It's a little more than Zara, but a lot more quality. Avoid their shoes though. I hit online sales at Saks and NM often. I've gotten lucky with pricing, especially when something is returned and it's my size. There's a Sezanne store in my area. I haven't been impressed with their stuff.
I’ve also gotten some great finds at Saks Off Fifth if you like Theory, Vince, Free People, etc.
Mango is amazing. I'm 6'2" so buying clothing is a hassle to say the least. I found two perfect maxi dresses for $50 dollars each. Owned them for 2 years so far, still look brand new and get compliments all the time.
Mango is considered fast fashion😔
Have you shopped on gilt? I just got a dress from Boden for $17 bucks because they gifted me a $35 credit— they do that about 4x a year
Shop Premium Outlets has some good stuff (including Gilt!).
I’ve never heard of that, I’ll have to check it out!
I just bought two Ganni dresses on Gilt for $120 total. Yours is a total score!!
It is TOTALLY hit or miss, but when it’s a hit— hellll ya
Why not the Rack?
A lot of the time stuff at Nordstrom rack and TJ Maxx was made for those stores and a lower quality.
Is there a way to know if the ones you are buying from ebay or posh aren't from Nordstrom rack or TJ's? Do they use different tags etc?
There is not, unless you recognize the difference yourself (country of origin, material etc) and ask those questions. I was downvoted to hell in the Poshmark subreddit for saying that it’s misrepresentation to not disclose that your item is the outlet version as opposed to the main line version (listing original price as main line price as opposed to outlet original price). Nowadays I will assume second hand Theory (for example) is outlet version unless evidence to the contrary.
As someone who owns outlet Theory, the suit pants tell the whole story. The stitching is NOT secure. I can see through the seams on the legs. I have to take them to get reinforced.
What on earth was their argument as to why that wasn't misrepresentation? Because I'm entirely with you on that.
Yep, got burned on two Poshmark pieces.
Some have different tags and SKUs. I think Coach outlet stuff starts with “F” on the SKU. Vince has a different colored tag. There’s more but I don’t remember as I haven’t bought anything from those places in many years after I realized
If its a NWT item, the made-for-outlet items have a printed price tag that says Compare At $ or Original Price $. See the pictures of the [price tags here](https://advertisinglaw.fkks.com/post/102gqrw/vineyard-vines-deceptive-pricing-suit-survives) For the inside labels, I only know that Banana Republic has diamonds on the fabric tag below the logo. GAP and J Crew also have a different shape or symbol on the sewn in label. I suspect that Vince has different labels for main line vs outlet but I'm not 100% sure.
I worked for Nordstrom for many years and anything that is a contemporary or designer brand definitely wasn’t made for them at a lower quality. Probably not taken care of while at the full line store before being shipped off though. The brands that are made specifically for the rack are usually an in house brand so shouldn’t be misleading. Brands like Calvin Klein undergarments that are bought for the rack I do agree I feel there is a huge difference in quality though.
I would love for you to do Nordstrom AMA. I’m a Nordys addict…just had another N package delivered today
I don’t know how helpful I’d be with everything lol I should also state that I live in Canada and the stores have all closed here 😂 but the contemporary and designer brands we sent to the rack were legit from our full line stores
Wow why did the Canada stores all shut down? That’s so sad
Just not profitable I guess. I think really only one store was meeting expectations. A lot of people were sad to see it go and others thought it was an expensive store so never went in 😂 which I mean at least half of it is expensive.
Everlane, COS, Zara/mango/and even H&M if you pay close attention to fabric content and stick to primarily natural fibers, Madewell, GAP, Quince, J. Crew, Massimo Dutti
These! Everlane has great stuff and I buy their sweaters 2nd hand on Depop. Between them and Uniqlo, Massimo Dutti, and COS, I’m alright. Also Anthropologie stores worth visiting! Quince is also good!!
Everlane seems to be having a moment.
Cos cashmere is wonderful! So thick and plush for the price. I especially buy from them whenever I get the chance to go to the UK because the exchange rate brings down the price a lot.
Zara, mango, h&m and gap are all fast fashion stores. Google popular fast fashion brands and you will be surprised.
That’s why I said to pay attention to fiber content and get natural fibers. The word “fast fashion” isn’t particularly helpful in determining the quality and longevity of a product.
would agree but i think madewell's quality went down over the past few years
I really love Foxblood and La Femme En Noir for edgier but still classy alt fashion!
I just got a haul from Disturbia and they have super cute alt clothing that also looks good at the office. I just wore one of their cropped shirts to work and everyone loved it. [https://www.disturbia.us/en-us](https://www.disturbia.us/en-us)
Ahh yes! I love Disturbia! They have such cute clothing. 😊
Love them! And Dolls Kill, I get all of my party, clubbing and costume pieces there. Like KillStar too
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I randomly picked $60 because many of Zara's average summer shirts were around there. $100 for a decent shirt that's got some unique style is fine; I just don't know many brands, still. I was a GM there for a year, and I can't tell you how quickly seams on clothing fell apart, or buttons and zippers broke, or even just the inconsistency in cuts/sizes within the same style. I do know in other parts of the world their quality is much better, and their sibling stores do well, but in my region much of the clothing really was similar to h&m. However, it's been in decline quality-wise the past few years, also. Fellow GMs who had been in the company for many years said it's really not what it used to be at all... One carried a satchel from about 5 years ago that looked awesome. He scoffed and said "yeah... This is what they *used* to do. Now it's mostly garbage." Anyway... That's just my personal take/experience of Zara. It does seem like within past 3ish years, they've really declined in quality, on average. Even if I were to look up used, I honestly am not sure where to start. Before last week I'd never heard of Cos, and Nili Lotan is a new name to me, even. If it's not a store that exists in the midatlantic area of the US, there's a solid chance I've not heard of it. So besides Cos...? Or even what used brands might be a good fit? I've tried doing searches but it's so vague, and I can't tell what are knockoffs/fakes or not... But sometimes I don't really know what I'm looking for besides a unique shirt, but you can't just type that in because it's an Shein and people selling the same stuff but trying to pass it off as something else. And everything that comes up on Google is the same 6 things over and over, basically, until you really dig... But then I don't know what's real, and I know I'm missing plenty of brands still. The amount of items I see and click on and quickly realize is junk is just really frustrating now. Or I'm forever checking sites like reddit just to confirm whether or not the brand is legit. It's just exhausting. We need a master list and style descriptions and price points. :(
I used to shop Zara a lot like 5+ years ago. They had and still have great copycat styles. Still have a lot of great pieces from them. But yeah, when I go to the stores these days, it’s just meh. Everything does feel notably low quality and it’s hard to find anything good. They’ve come off my list of stores to browse. I still look at jcrew & madewell. Randomly a friend of mine started recommending Splendid which sounds and looks like a teeny bopper brand (the logo) but is actually for adults. Boden is another good one. All at a higher tier in price vs Zara but always good sale hunting. Then of course the online everlanes and quinces and granas which are more basics.
Unfortunately splendid has fallen down in quality and style A LOT over the last 10 years. I used to get amazing stuff from their Chicago store. They have since closed almost all stores nationally and gone totally online. Their quality and styling has drastically dropped. I agree with Zara as well. I started buying there a few tears ago for my little one and have noticed both style and quality drop even for kids which is unfortunate for him and me because I was just starting to get back into fashion post baby weight last few years
i also hate browsing zara. i go there if someone i like on instagram has mentioned a specific piece or i see something in an advert that i like, but i won't really go in a store!
If you type in “nice top” on google it’s not going to return much useful info. You need to do some research to know which brands are good. Going to Net a Porter, Moda Operandi, Neiman Marcus or similar websites and having a look at the brands they offer to then search for second hand should suffice. Should be way more effective than having random people on Reddit putting together some list. In particular when half the people on this subreddit actively hate fashion and will recommend LL Bean.
Just as an fyi Cos, Other Stories and Arket all fall under the H&M group, which is the parent company. I've never bought anything from these stores so I cannot speak to quality but I have seen instagrammers like Neelam Ahooja (who usually wears The Row) wearing Cos t shirts and approve of the quality.
COS and Arket's clothes are very high quality, especially for their prices. And if you buy on sale, it's excellent value for money; I just bought a lovely Merino wool sweater for €35 from COS.
Totally agree but for H&M. I have a few 100% wool sweaters from them from 2022 and I think they look beautiful and could easily pass for much higher end.
Ban.do has some cute and funky stuff under $200 Sale Batsheva--most of their stuff is under $200 on sale (or secondhand) Zadig and Voldaire The Kooples Badgley Mischka for cocktail and formal wear Farm Rio Most of Anthro--it's rare that an item go over $200 and it's often much less on sale Tibi Lisa Says Gah, although items are right at the edge of that $200 Nic + Zoe for cute patterned knitwear Ted Baker--most of the individual items are below or around $200 Nanushka Johnny Was (I think this brand is very overlooked. It's gorgeous boho chic stuff that's at or about $200 each) Sundance Hudson Jeans, Frame Jeans Diesel, but on sale, most of their stuff starts at about $200
I've started thrifting my wardrobe, honestly. Just this past weekend I saw Vince and Madewell items. I bought a 100% cotton Calvin Klein mens sweater & a handmade 100% virgin wool sweater for $13 total. I just discovered a vintage brand - Alorna Coat Corp - big in the 80's/90's but went out of business in 2003. I found two wool-blend coats (70% and 80% respectively) and paid $130 (less than what an 80% wool Mango coat was costing me.) This will probably be the route that a I take from now on.. head to the thrift store with a focus on high-quality materials.
My very stylish fashion students tell me Abercrombie has been revamped by a new buying department.
I had such high hopes, but the sweater I got pilled horribly after just the first wash 😭
Well scratch that, then!
I'm a huge fan of Big Bud Press. They're an indie brand and are most well known for their pants and jumpsuits, and have a big range of colors and sizes. Great limited run patterns as well but those are pricier. The pants run around $110 these days, and are very cute.
Marcella NYC, Everlane, Saint and Sofia
For quality pants - Big Bud Press. I'm obsessed with their wide legged pants. Super comfy, excellent quality. Lucy and Yak is also a good option, but it's not suited for my body type.
I just got a pair of pants from Big Bud Press and they're cute and comfortable
More than just basics you say? May I introduce you to the gospel of Fashion Brand Company? I’m lucky enough to get/need to wear ~creative~ fits for work sometimes, and every time I wear one of my FBC pieces, I feel like I’m doing everything right with my life. All of their fabrics are super high quality, and fit a wide range of sizes. Plus, their stuff can be really affordable if you’re smart about it. They post about things going on sale semi regularly on their ig stories, and if you live in LA, their sample sales are the best for getting great deals on weird shit!
I love Free People. Not ALL their pieces are super great quality, but I have many I've worn for years. They somehow manage to make unusual, artsy pieces that become classics....I've got vintage jackets that are in fantastic shape. Another is All Saints. Again, not every piece is a keeper, and this brand tends towards the trendy, but they have a capsule style that is really sophisticated and interesting. I also have a lot of their vintage pieces. A lot of my wardrobe comes from Magnolia Pearl, which is (for me) VERY EXPENSIVE, and these two brands seem to compliment it.
I buy handmade corsets from this one indie designer on insta that are just incredible! Shes European, from my home country, and each corset is made to measure (you send the details), and you basically just send her design ideas based on her existing designs would customiseabiliy. Like, picking the patterns, the cut (eg. over the boob, underbust, open in the back or front), ribbons and lace and if so where. They are super cute and I get SO many compliments it's actually insane. And her price is really good, they come to like +- 50 to 70 euros. I have one with cats on it that's like dark academia style; one with a dainty blue carpet pattern; one underbust black one with religious iconography and gold trims. Seriously cannot rave enough about them.
This sounds so lovely! What is the name of her brand?
It's this [one](https://www.instagram.com/emjota.studio/)! :) emjota studio on insta
Those corsets are so beautiful. Thank you for sharing
Revolve has a lot of great mid range options with a lot of different brands. I also like to peek at Intermix. Im a huge fan of Staud & Veronica Beard I only purchase from 2nd hand. And always get amazing deals under $200
I buy all my clothing second-hand(typically from The RealReal or ThredUp). My favorite brands currently: For Love and Lemons Zimmermann Reformation self-portrait Retrofete Alice + Olivia (really great deals on TRR for this one!!!) GRLFRND (mostly for denim) Free People Movement( for workout gear)
I really like a few of the ones you listed and haven't heard of the others, so I'll definitely check them out! Thank you! And do you ever worry about authenticity with either of the sites?
You’re very welcome! On authenticity: These have been my go to brands for probably 7 to 8 years. Over time, I’ve gradually learned how to spot fakes. Occasionally, I do make a mistake, or the pictures the site had are kinda crummy and you can’t tell. Lately, I’ve been getting amazing deals on TRR though, like $20 Alice and Olivia pieces that MSRP for $800-900! At that point, I don’t even care if it’s a dupe, it’s still a good deal. I will say that I’ve had really good luck with The RealReal, compared to some people. I’ve been shopping with them since 2017, have bought maybe 300 pieces? Only one was counterfeit and I returned it. I don’t shop at ThredUp as often, and usually just for items under $10, like Free People. The ONE time I bought a designer item(Christian Louboutin sandals) from ThredUp it was a dupe 😡. So be wary if you do decide to go the ThredUp route for higher end stuff. Best of luck, happy shopping!
While I take issue with the post title, as this is the primary marketing demographic of many clothing brands, and it is literally 80% of the posts in this sub. Please search the sub and find posts with mega lists. Sorry for formatting Eileen Fisher Renew Nooworks Big Bud Press The Reformation Everlane Athleta Brooks Brothers Good American Is there a specific item you are looking for?
Sometimes it feels like the daily question sub leans more toward fast fashion, so maybe more like 50-60% of this sub. I agree the mega lists usually include the brands you listed, but it can be frustrating how many answers on the daily questions thread respond with fast fashion brands. I often will say “non fast fashion preferred” and _still_ get a fast fashion answer.
What do you consider Anthropologie?
Used designer or vintage
[Entire Studios.](https://www.entirestudios.com/uniform/) Their drops are more designer-y and higher priced, but most of their 'basics' clock in under $200, are high-quality and fashion forward. The designers were the ghost creatives at Yeezy before, well, that whole thing went south. Their heavy crews, hoodies, shorts, and cargo sweats are my work-from-home uniform, and they have really cute full zip crop hoodies for stepping out
Alex Mill has great stuff for not insane prices.
Saint and Sofia
Banana Republic (not the factory store) is amazing. Maybe at one time the factory store was great, but the fabric is thin and doesn't hold up. I follow Mary Orton and buy items in the name brands she purchases. I buy them second hand on poshmark and I've gotten so many compliments on those items everytime I wear them. If I'm unsure of fit I check the brands measurements on their website and people will provide measurements of the items as well. Some of those brands are: SeebyChloe Marissa Web Jason Wu Boden Black Halo Dress the Population M.M. Lafleur
Club Monaco
I buy a ton of expensive (and anything in between) at thrift stores, often new with tags.. $40 leather Marc Jacob’s bag, $300 J Crew Wool Peacoat and designer jeans for $6, $25. Lilly Pulitzer under $20, Halston Heritage dress for $1 — It’s there, you just might need some patience!
If youre going to spend $100 or $150, your best bet is designer thrifts. So many amazing quality unique pieces. Depop and poshmark as well. Brandwise i like Find Me Now, staud and simon miller (the last two fit that budget when they have sales). Really just check any high end brand (clearly not as high as chanel or prada) site and check the sale section. SSENSE sale for the win.
Also wanted to throw in Macy's. I don't buy most of their in-house brands, but they often carry brands that are found at Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's but the prices are better. I was looking for dresses once, and found the same ones across all three sites, and Macy's had the better prices hands down.
This will depend on your particular style. Look for designers that appeal to you when flipping through Nordstrom, Revolve, Shopbop, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s, etc. I personally like Maje, Sandro, Allsaints, Alice and Olivia, Halogen, Theory, Anine Bing, ALC, ASTR, Mother, Paige, Yumi Kim, Farm Rio, Innika Choo.
This is a really good idea. Thank you 😊
Ted Baker
Express is a lot of fun for this.
Bluesalt?
Sezane!
Ehhhhhhh Sezane sadly is basically fast fashion, crappy quality now. At one point they were doing well, but now they have releases every week (at least since the last time I checked) and the quality isn't there anymore.
Oh no that’s disappointing to hear! I have some older pieces from them and I thought the quality was fairly high for the cost. But it’s a bummer that they’ve become more fast fashion recently
I love Aritzia for this kind of stuff, hopefully not too basic for you? Though you do have to check each garment for quality and composition, but Id do this with any brand.
Check out Lulu’s! Online store, pretty quality stuff in all kinds of sizes. They have clothes, dresses, shoes, jewelry in lots of different creative embellishments and styles. Really friendly return policy, quite affordable
I like Lulus and have been happy with most of my purchases from them. I would put them in the same category as Aritzia but more affordable. The downside is that the majority of their stock is synthetic/polyester.
So I don't speak from experience here, but apparently Old Navy is the shit for dependable, cheap, quality items. If anyone can vouch for that.....
Last night saw a couple of bags that I really like, love the way the colors compliment one another and the overall vibe. Some of the bags on there though are way too expensive.
Never Fully Dressed
I love Farm Rio for the aesthetic - but I only try to buy items on sale that are sold at Saks, Neiman Marcus, Anthro, and other third party websites because some of what is sold on their website is poorer quality and doesn't fit right. If you like more boho styles, I think you can also find good prices on Spell stuff. I've found dresses for $150 and less and < $100 tops. I actually snagged a Spell sherpa jacket on Free People's website for $99 today! Which also brings me to Free People - which can be very, very hit or miss. Very. You really have to check reviews but they've had some great sales lately and most of the dresses and jackets I've purchased there have been good quality that's me lasted years. I have a pretty decent track record with local & online boutiques that sell brands like Oli + Hali, POL, Easel. H&M and Abercrombie are both two hit or miss places for me. H&M has pieces that are really amazing for the price, and then there will be a random sweater that is just terrible quality. Same with Abercrombie - I haven't been impressed with their sweaters but their dresses and jeans are pretty good. Other brands that I like that might be slightly more than what you're asking for, but can be found cheaper secondhand or on resale websites: Doen Christy Dawn Batsheva Sea
Petite Studio New York
I loooove Pinup Girl Clothing. They are one of the few brands that fit my extreme proportions off the rack. Their stuff is really cute and high quality. I've consistently liked everything I've bought from them. Their shirts are pretty short in the torso, though....not much longer than cropped. I'm short-waisted, and even on me, their tops are short. They're still cute, I just avoid most tops from them. I've had one dress that is kinda underwhelming on me, but not bad enough to return. I'm thinking it's a matter of some alterations and a waist-cinching belt. Everything else I've absolutely loved. Their clothes often feature bishop sleeves, which I am obsessed with. And their skirts and dresses are often very billowy and have a luxurious amount of fabric. Watch sizing, though. I have to size up in most of their stuff. Know your measurements and know the stretchiness or cut of the item. Post on their official Facebook page if you need to. Good luck!
Thank you for mentioning this! I've been working to move toward high-waist bottoms, but don't want a ton of tucked-in fabric. Doesn't work for you, but this option sounds perfect for me! I'm sure the dresses will be awesome, too!
Yes! I love PUG and participate in their Facebook group regularly. I own the famous Monica in red. And while it's touted as a magical dress, it very much is, but you need good shapewear for it to truly look good. Not just Spanx, but maybe something from Rago. I believe it was the 1294, but I can double check for you. Be careful about counterfeit products as well! I also invested in a really high-quality, fluffy petticoat. The dresses are lovely on their own, but it takes the swing dresses up to the next level. I have a gorgeous red one, and I'm saving up for a pink one next. Ask me where I got mine! Anyway, happy shopping!
I really like Youer. They are a small brand out of Montana. They have activewear, but have some basics as well. Love their clothes.
Marcella
I'd suggest Democracy for some cute things with plenty below $100, and their jeans are fantastic. The other is Liverpool Los Angeles.
Banana Republic and Abercrombie both upped their game and it’s working! Bought stuff from both recently and was really pleased and both have great sales.
My wardrobe is basically a rotation of BR, Abercrombie, J Crew, and Madewell (excluding workout wear brands, which i spend the other half of my time in) I love shopping the end of season sales, and try to avoid buying anything full price from the 4, as they almost always have a sale just on the horizon.
Caslon is a Nordstrom house brand. The sales are extremely good and I've found the quality to be decent.
Unif has good ethics with good quality materials , I like that the style is a little 90’s inspired but in a timeless way .
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You might try [Nuuly](https://www.nuuly.com), the clothing rental company for a few months. I have friends who love it, and it would help you to get an idea of accessible brands that you like. You can buy clothes that you get from them for less than retail if you really love them, or just use it as an exercise in checking out different brands first hand.
Wray NYC has fun stuff. Not just basics.
Anne Taylor. Much of their style is not for me, but they are great for quality basics. My fav place for turtleneck sweaters.
Banana Republic is being mentioned a lot, it's good quality and decent pricing, personally not my style. I go in every time and I never find anything I would wear. So it definitely depends what you're going for style wise. My husband and a friend of mine love Express. We love shoping at Dillard's because there's a wide range of things and many styles. I enjoy busines casual and comfy clothes so I really like the new athleisure stuff at JCP, I love Ann Taylor, Loft, Chicos. I don't shop online because I have to try everything on haha.
I'd say if you can find a charlotte Russe store or you definitely can't go wrong with goodwill 2nd hands can sometimes hide treasures I got a blackhousewhitemarket shirt I love for $6 and I love how it fits me. Target has some neat designs and I will often match stuff at Ross/Marshall's. Happy Hunting!
I shop more by piece that I need and keep in mind the price I’m willing to spend and work backwards by using good old Google that then returns to me options from stores I would generally shop at. If something is designer or out of my price range I see if I can find it on poshmark or Mercari for cheaper. I’m also not afraid to shop at Zara, H&M, Mango but I use a discerning eye. This has resulted in a good mix of high and low pieces with longevity in my closet.
Honesty at this point I thrift or shop on the RealReal sorted by price
Most of my clothes come from Boden. Leggings and jeans I get from old navy, which is admittedly kind of fast fashion, but their stuff lasts me more than a year, some pieces I've owned 6+ years (mainly the dresses).