How to Find Affordable Quality Clothing
Nowadays, finding affordable clothing that will last a lot of time and become an everyday staple can be tricky. There are lots of brands that skimp out on quality fabric to make a cheaper product. Other companies use blends that make us think we’re buying a quality product when in reality, only a small percentage is made of wool, cashmere, or cotton. We’re sharing some of our favorite brands that will last and won’t break the bank and our tips for finding affordable quality clothing.
Tips to Remember
Price doesn’t always mean quality.
Sadly, brand quality can change over time.
The quality of fabrics can differ depending on where they’re made and the fabric grade.
Feeling fabric in a store is always better than relying on a description online.
Opt for natural fabrics like cashmere, wool, silk, cotton, and leather. Look out for when they leave out fabric composition. While we recommend opting for natural fabrics, sometimes blends can last even longer.
Look at seams and finishing techniques.
Make sure you know how to take care of a piece of clothing. Different fabrics might need different care, whether it is gentle washing, hot water over cold, etc.
Brands We Like
Quince
With products made of cashmere, silk, and blends, Quince has lots of affordable basics for men and women. Quince’s motto is that everyone should be able to afford nice clothes. Quince has a factory-direct motto to allow them to make their products affordable, and with cashmere sweaters for only $50, it’s clear they’re delivering on their promise.
Aerie
Aerie’s is the brand if you’re looking for athleisure and comfy clothing. With lots of online deals and a rewards system where you can easily get points, you’ll be saving every time you shop. Their “Offline” brand includes leggings and sports bras that are more than 50% cotton. The brand also has cotton and linen tees that will last you for years to come.
J.Crew
You’ve certainly heard of J.Crew before — maybe you also remember J.Crew catalogs coming in the mail. The brand has switched directions as of late, angling toward a younger audience, but they still have timeless styles that work for everyone of all ages. If you like preppy looks, then J.Crew will always be a solid option for colorful, sleek silhouettes. With a range of options from casual to professional, and even dresses for special occasions, J.Crew has duality.
Everlane
If you also want a brand that puts sustainability at the forefront, then Everlane is the brand for you. This eco-friendly brand focuses on ethically sourced materials and designing clothing that will last and won’t end up in a landfill. Everlane focuses on classics and stays clear of trends. They have organic cotton t-shirts for only $35 and an array of classic but stylish cotton and alpaca sweaters.
Uniqlo
Like the rest of the brands, you’ll find your lasting staples at Uniqlo. This Japanese casual wear company has everything you need, from pants, shirts, underwear, rain jackets, accessories, and so much more. With lots of cotton blends, Uniqlo pieces tend to be soft, have a bit of stretch but not enough to deform the fabric, and are durable. Not only that, but they’re also easy to wash, dry, and take care of because of the cotton blend.
Remember, if you’re feeling overloaded with information and not sure where to start, our stylists are a great option! A StyldLife session can be a great jumping-off point to get personalized styling information tailored to you. Our stylists can drive you in the right direction to find the perfect brands for your style.