Informative Writings
» Shopping Guide: A-Z Brand Names
Alright, alright. I know what you’re thinking. “Hmph. Mall-going fifteen year old girl writes about clothing brands! Typical!” Laugh all you want. Although I may be your usual fifteen year old girl, the fact that I’m aware about different clothing brands shows that I have valuable knowledge to share with my fellow web-surfers. I’m actually doing you all a service. I don’t care who you are or what arguments you present; me trying to help people will never be a bad thing.
Of course you agree. Well, it’s time to move on.
Listed alphabetically, here’s valuable information/my opinions regarding several mall stores in the United States.
Abercrombie and Fitch
Personally, I regard this store as the epitome of “pretentious” and “teen central”. If it weren’t for the fact that the prices are so unreasonably high, I doubt that many teens would think of this store as highly as they do. At Abercrombie, all you’re doing is paying for a shirt with the brand’s name on it. If you think that’s worth $30, then go for it, but if you’d like to avoid looking like a walking billboard, I’d suggest you visit some other store. As for online shopping, the selection is decent, I suppose.
Personally, I think the only good thing this store has going for it is its clearance, which is where the clothing drops down to the level of reasonably priced. If you can’t find anything on clearance, leave the store immediately and hope your eardrums haven’t already suffered from the heart-pounding techno music booming in the background.
Aeropostale
As with every oasis in the middle of a hot desert of expensive-for-no-good-reason clothing stores, Aeropostale is a godsend for those of us who believe that money doesn’t grow on trees. Most of the clothing here is cut down from its original price, and you can generally get a designed tee for $10 or so. Although it might take a while of looking around to find something you’ll adore, as with every other store, it’s worth a look.
American Eagle
American Eagle…Think “Abercrombie” and “Hollister” but without the booming music in the background. It promotes just a regular shopping experience, really. Nothing here is that special and extraordinary, but sometimes you can find some really good deals.
Forever 21
This store is a favorite of mine and has a nice selection for online shopping. Although it’s somewhat “junky” at first glance, after some searching around, you can find some great clothing at bargain prices. Needless to say, if you ever come across one of these stores, it would be worth it to take a look. If you don’t have a store near you, the store’s online shopping selection is worth a glance.
Esprit
Ever since I joined my school’s debate team (I swear I’m not a geek), I’ve had to look around for clothing that’s professional and interesting at the same time. I tried almost every store, and it always seemed like the clothes were either too boring or didn’t fit well. But then I came here and was blown away by their great quality clothing and designs. The clothing at Esprit may be on the expensive side, but if you can manage to find something on clearance, you can get some nice deals. Also keep in mind that it’s intended to be more professional than, say, fun for going out with your friends. Just remember to stop here the next time you’re in need of professional or dressy wear.
Hollister
This brand is owned by Abercrombie and Fitch, but in my opinion, it is much more reasonably priced. Keep in mind, though, that you’re still paying for a shirt with a name on it, which doesn’t appeal to everyone.
Also, you might want to keep in mind that the clothing’s quality isn’t exactly top-notch. I remember ordering clothing from the store once, and after a mere two or so weeks, holes started to open up within the fabric. Similarly to Abercrombie, I’d highly advise that you limit yourself to the Clearance section here.
I hope you’ve learned something in this shopping guide! The next time I come across a new and interesting store, I’ll be sure to add onto this article when I get the chance. In the mean time, happy shopping!
Written: March 22, 2008