Are you tired of scouring the internet for hours in search of affordable yet stylish fashion finds, only to be left disappointed by the lack of options? The struggle to find trendy and cheap clothing stores can be all too real, leaving many fashion enthusiasts feeling frustrated and disheartened.
But fear not because we’ve got the ultimate solution to your fashion woes! In this comprehensive guide, we’ve curated a handpicked selection of the top 20 best cheap clothing stores that are a fashionista’s dream come true.
Say goodbye to endless scrolling and hello to a treasure trove of chic and wallet-friendly fashion pieces that will elevate your wardrobe without breaking the bank. Whether you’re on the hunt for everyday essentials, statement pieces, or trendy accessories, these budget-friendly stores have got you covered.
Get ready to revamp your style game and unleash your inner fashion maven without burning a hole in your pocket!
Table of Contents
Top 20 Best Cheap Clothing Stores
20. Lulus
California brand Lulus actually began as a vintage store called LuLu*s Fashion Lounge.
Known for its affordable, girly clothing, Lulus is a great place to shop if you want to add trendy yet relaxed pieces to your wardrobe without breaking the bank. (BTW, they also topped our list of the best clothing stores for teens.)
In addition to its collection of everyday clothes – which encompasses everything from basic bodysuits to swimwear – the brand also has an expansive event-wear line of dresses and gowns. If you’re looking for a dress to wear to a formal, date party, or wedding, this should be one of the first stores you check!
Lulus also sells adorable jewelry, bags, shoes, scarves, and beauty products.
Note: Lulus is great for swimwear, but it’s not our favorite swimwear store! See our list of the best stores for cheap bathing suits for our faves.
19. J.Crew Factory
If you long for the fun, preppy-with-a-twist look of J.Crew, but can’t justify paying their prices, head over to J.Crew Factory, J.Crew’s equally-chic, yet more affordable, line.
While J.Crew Factory’s prices don’t always fall under the category of cheap, per se, they are definitely amazing for what you’re getting, especially when it comes to workwear staples like blazers and trousers.
The best part of J.Crew Factory is that they sometimes release items that look identical to the ones sold at J.Crew, only at a much lower price! They tend to wait until a later season to do so, and only do this with certain pieces, so you’ll have to be patient.
Like J.Crew, J.Crew Factory sells shoes, bags, accessories, pajamas, and jewelry in addition to clothing. They sell swimsuits as well, although their selection is much smaller than J.Crew’s.
Finally, the brand offers “special sizes,” which encompass petite and tall, sizes 18-20 clothing, and sizes 5 and 11 shoes. However, these collections are different and/or much smaller than their “mainstream” collection, so if you fall into any of those categories, it’s probably a good idea to look elsewhere.
Want more places to buy workwear? Check out our list of the best places to buy work clothes.
18. Cotton On
With plenty of basics and beachy items like tees and swimwear at affordable prices, Australian-born brand Cotton On is all about bringing the Aussie lifestyle to the world with its laid-back fashions for girls and guys.
Here, you’ll be able to scoop up graphic print t-shirts, jeans, and cute dresses with styles that range from basic to trendy – and most items are under $50. Score!
There’s also Cotton On Body, which is the brand’s line of activewear, pajamas, loungewear, bras, and panties, so you’ll be covered on all fronts at this store. They even have a homewares section on their website (along with gifts and stationery) called Typo, so you can decorate your dorm or room while shopping for a new outfit.
17. eBay and Etsy
I chose to group eBay and Etsy together because they are similar in that both are places where individuals, rather than brands, sell items directly to the consumer.
The main difference between the two is that Etsy tends to focus more on selling unique handmade or vintage items, whereas eBay’s focus is geared more towards the re-selling of used (or new) items.
One very important thing to keep in mind – especially when it comes to eBay – is that you need to make sure that the seller from whom you are ordering is reliable and safe.
I’m not going to lie; I did have a negative experience recently in which I thought I was ordering a bracelet from a certain brand but was sent a knock-off instead. I was definitely surprised, as the seller seemed to have very positive reviews. Thankfully, it was a relatively inexpensive purchase, but still – be extremely careful!
As far as Etsy goes, I have only had positive experiences. Nonetheless, I recommend being as cautious as possible, particularly when buying vintage items. This is because there’s more room for exaggeration and/or lying than with handmade items.
Lastly, don’t be shy to message sellers with your questions. Based on my own experience, they are always happy to offer help!
These stores sell everything, including costumes! Read our guide to the best places to buy Halloween costumes to learn more.
16. Express
Express is known for its stylish pieces and workwear staples – particularly its collection of well-fitting dress pants, available in different cuts and colors.
Just about everything is under $100, with most items in the $40-$80 range. So, their items might cost you a bit more than your typical Forever 21 or H&M finds, but the difference in quality is there.
Also, they are known for offering up to 50% off quite often – always wait for the sales with Express!
In addition to clothing, Express sells shoes, accessories, jewelry, swimwear, and activewear, so there’s something for everyone.
Finally, Express carries petite sizes, which, according to the retailer, are meant for women 5’4″ and under.
15. Nordstrom Rack
If you’re looking for a wide selection of fashion-forward and more sophisticated pieces, then Nordstrom Rack is the place for you! Most of their clothing rings in at $50 or less, and most of their items are well made.
Nordstrom Rack carries plus-size and petite clothing, as well as shoes, bags, jewelry, accessories, intimates, swimwear, items for the home, and gifts.
They also carry some items by department store designers at lower prices; however, it is worth noting that some brands produce items specifically for outlet stores that were never sold in full-price department stores at all. This isn’t necessarily the case at Nordstrom Rack, but it’s worth remembering when shopping at any outlet.
So, if you’re looking for bargains on department store items, it’s a good idea to do your research first to ensure you’re actually getting what you’re looking for.
And in the case that you aren’t happy with your purchase, you can now return your Nordstrom Rack purchases at Nordstrom locations, for added convenience.
14. Zara
I’m going to tell you a secret: Zara is my budget fashion weakness. Every time I go into a Zara store or browse through their online selection, I can’t help but admire the cool, on-trend clothes that look like they belong on the cover of a magazine.
Like any affordable clothing store, some Zara pieces are of poor quality. However, I’ve found most Zara clothes hold up well for years.
One thing to note: Zara carries extremely trendy (and sometimes unbelievable) styles, so it’s important that you go in with a sense of what you like to get the best value for your money.
I also love Zara’s more discreet, but still awesome, selection of basics: Think sophisticated trench coats, chic blouses, and tailored pants.
13. Online and In-Person Thrift/Second-Hand Stores
If you’re a seasoned bargain hunter, you’ve probably hit up brick-and-mortar thrift/second-hand stores such as Goodwill or Buffalo Exchange at some point in your life. Thrifting is awesome, and we love it here at CF!
However, due to the increasing popularity of online shopping, online retailers, including Poshmark and ThredUp have brought the thrifting experience to the digital world.
These online thrift stores simplify your search, ditching the usual thrift store chaos. Prefer the thrill of the hunt? Go check out a local thrift shop in person. Looking for cheap clothing stores? Online thrift shops have got you covered!
Love thrifting? See our guide to the best online thrift stores.
12. Old Navy
Old Navy is one of those classic stores that just never gets old! From their adorable dresses to their flattering jeans, Old Navy is a reliable standby that should be on every college girl’s list. Not to mention that they’re always making great sales, so you’re pretty much guaranteed to get a great deal on whatever you end up buying.
Old Navy carries petite, plus, and tall sizes, and they have a gender-neutral line of clothing, as well.
They also have an activewear line, which is definitely worth a look if you exercise a lot or just love the athleisure-style vibe.
If you’re looking for more places to buy activewear, be sure to check out our list of the best stores for cheap workout clothes and the 25 best athletic wear brands for women.
11. Amazon
In decades past, Amazon wasn’t exactly a fashion mecca, but now that’s all changed. These days, it’s one of our favorite places to shop for affordable clothes.
Amazon carries a massive range of fashionable clothing and accessories. From Shopbop exclusives to their own house brands to their influencer-inspired line The Drop, they have everything, and most of it is very affordable.
And they really shine in the activewear area — you can find everything from viral Lululemon dupes to the comfiest workout tanks of all time. With such an amazing selection available on Amazon, there’s no reason to spend hundreds of dollars on activewear anymore.
Yes, the clothing on Amazon can be hit or miss, so it’s important always to read reviews and look at the photos users post in the review section. And remember that Amazon’s return policy is generally great, which makes the shopping process much less stressful.
Need to accessorize your look on a budget? Here’s our guide to the best places to buy cheap accessories.
10. Missguided
If you want to stay on top of the latest fashion trends but don’t want to break the bank, Missguided is the store for you. The best part is that they’re almost always running a sale or offering a major discount code!
While they also sell sweats and basic pieces, Missguided is the ultimate destination for going-out looks: eye-catching dresses, trendy crop tops, and sleek skirts abound. Missguided also offers inclusive sizing with tall, petite, and plus-size options.
Thanks to Missguided’s unique designs that you won’t find at other stores, everyone will ask you where you got your outfit on your next night out!
9. PrettyLittleThing
PrettyLittleThing is a lot like Missguided, both with the type of clothing they offer and with their too-good-to-be-true prices. You can count on PLT to offer site-wide sales and/or epic discount codes all the time, so you’re sure to score ultra-trendy items for a bargain.
PLT also adds new merchandise to its website daily, so I’m constantly checking its “New In” section for freshly updated pieces that reflect the hottest trends, including accessories, shoes, and beauty products.
You’ll be able to find your perfect fit by shopping PLT’s ranges for petite, tall, plus-size, and shape (created for hourglass figures).
8. Uniqlo
Uniqlo is my go-to store for practical yet stylish basics.
Style-wise, Uniqlo is a cross between H&M and Gap: Their pieces are functional enough to stand the test of time while still being fashionable.
I recommend their amazing HEATTECH line for the colder months, as well as their signature Ultra Light Down jackets. (I have one, which keeps me warm while feeling like nothing!)
Uniqlo also has high-quality sweaters, feminine skirts, and dresses in chic silhouettes.
In addition, they carry loungewear and intimates (although unfortunately, bra sizes and styles are limited), and have done unique collaborations with style icons like Inès de La Fressange and Carine Roitfeld, as well as Disney and Star Wars.
We love Uniqlo’s inexpensive intimates, but they aren’t the only option. Check out our list of the best places to buy affordable bras.
7. Torrid
No list of affordable clothing stores would be complete without mention of the plus-sized fashion store Torrid.
They carry everything: clothes, intimates, loungewear, activewear, swimwear, and accessories. And unlike some plus-sized stores, their pieces are stylish and fashion-forward rather than frumpy.
While I personally don’t have experience shopping at plus-size stores, whenever I have seen the topic come up, Torrid is frequently mentioned. Customers have lots of positive things to say about them, especially when it comes to their bras, which come in a variety of sizes.
I also love that Torrid encourages all women to be proud of how they look and not to hide behind ill-fitting garments.
Want more plus-size store recommendations? See our list of the best plus-size clothing sites.
6. Windsor
Are you need a show-stopping dress but don’t want to spend a lot? Head to Windsor.
Windsor has a vast selection of occasion dresses. They are sure to make an impact at your next date party, prom, wedding, or other dressy events, with most formal dresses under $100.
In addition to their flattering dresses and gowns. Windsor offers on-trend clothing like crop tops, jeans, and jackets, with many perfect options for going out.
P.S. Check out Windsor’s line of Halloween costumes during the fall. Which are cute and affordable and often come with included props.
5. Nasty Gal
Nasty Gal has changed quite a bit over the years and is now one of my personal favorite stores to check out when I’m in search of an #ootd-worthy outfit.
There’s always a great sale happening or a major discount code being offered, and the variety of clothing styles caters to everyone’s aesthetic, whether your style is trendy, laid-back, glam, or edgy.
I adore Nasty Gal’s sets – from their sweat (matching joggers and sweatshirts) to swim sets (bikinis with matching cover-ups). They make getting dressed a breeze, and the prices are irresistible!
4. H&M
Ah, Hennes & Mauritz – in my mind, a true fashion paradise. H&M truly has something for everyone, including stylish plus-sized pieces.
Whether after trendy seasonal items or timeless classics, H&M is the perfect place to begin. They offer a wide range of affordable options, including cute tops, fabulous dresses, statement jewelry, scarves, and shoes.
H&M’s quality may vary more than Zara’s. However, with careful shopping, you can usually find what you need in durable fabrics and clean lines.
H&M frequently collaborates with top designers like Simone Rocha and Johanna Ortiz. Stay alert for exciting upcoming collaborations!
3. Target
You probably knew that Target would make the list. That’s because it’s the worst kept secret of stylish women on budgets everywhere.
I love how Target makes fashion fun and doesn’t skimp on style, unlike many large discount stores. Moreover, regardless of what you’re looking for, you’ll find it – and more!
Target carries tons of plus-sized items, so you can look great no matter what size you wear.
Lastly, like some of the other stores on this list, they have done collaborations with well-known brands such as Victoria Beckham and Lilly Pulitzer.
Even if you don’t have a Target in your area, don’t worry – everything is available online and ready to ship to your door. Just another reason to love them!
2. Forever 21
You didn’t think that I was going to make a post about affordable fashion and leave out Forever 21, did you? With its ultra-trendy aesthetic and even lower prices, Forever 21 is the ultimate fast-fashion destination and one of the most popular discount clothing stores in America!
In my experience, Forever 21’s sizes run small (although they have a plus-size line). Also, browse with caution, as some of their fabrics can be cheap and do not hold up well in the wash.
On a more positive note, if you shop wisely and with care, you’re very likely to find something you love, as they cater to a variety of different aesthetics, from boho to sporty to preppy and beyond.
Another tip: If you want your clothes to look more expensive, stick with simpler (read: less trendy and more classic) colors and styles; I’ve had luck with my Forever 21 purchases by shopping this way.
Finally, I have to say that I am a big fan of Forever 21’s adorable fabric tote bags and shoes that come in a variety of trendy styles and colors.
We’re also huge fans of F21’s budget-friendly selection of sunglasses. See our guide to the best cheap sunglasses to learn more!
1. ASOS
While ASOS carries clothing, shoes, and accessories at a wide range of price points, their selection of affordable clothing stands out as one of the best online (or anywhere, for that matter)!
While most ASOS pieces are on the trendy and sometimes edgy side, they also carry options that are classic and mature-looking (but not boring or matronly).
In addition, ASOS has a fabulous selection of formalwear that proves that getting dressed up for a special event doesn’t have to cost a lot. They even carry cute and affordable swimwear.
Lastly, ASOS has petite, tall, curved, and plus-sized lines and even carries wide-fit shoes, so you’re sure to find something you like, no matter your body type!
Smart Strategies for Finding Stylish Yet Affordable Clothing Stores
Finding the best cheap clothing stores for fashion on a budget requires a bit of research and consideration. Here are some tips to help you choose the right ones:
- Quality Over Quantity: While looking for affordable options, prioritize quality. It’s better to have a few well-made pieces that last longer than many items that wear out quickly. For instance, a $15 cotton top beats a $3 lycra one every day of the week.
- Compare Prices: Don’t settle for the first store you find. Compare prices across different websites or physical stores to get the best deal.
- Subscribe to Newsletters: Sign up for newsletters or follow your favorite stores on social media. Many stores offer exclusive discounts and promotions to their subscribers.
- Clearance and Sales: Watch for clearance sales and end-of-season discounts. This is a great way to score fashionable items at significantly reduced prices.
- Second-Hand and Thrift Stores: Explore thrift stores, consignment shops, and online second-hand marketplaces. You can often find unique, stylish pieces at a fraction of the original cost.
- Check Return Policies: Since you can’t try on items when shopping online. Ensure the store has a reasonable return policy.
- Pay Attention to Materials: Even on a budget, try to opt for natural fibers like cotton, wool, or silk. They tend to be more comfortable and durable compared to synthetic materials.
- Sizing Information: Look for detailed sizing information on the website. Some stores provide measurements for different sizes, helping you choose the best fit.
- Check for Hidden Costs: When shopping online, be wary of additional costs such as shipping, taxes, and handling fees.
- Limit Impulse Buying: Stick to your shopping list and avoid impulse buying. This will help you save money and choose items that fit your style.
Your Thoughts on these cheap clothing stores?
So there you have it: our list of the best affordable fashion retailers for college girls on a budget! (Note: You can also get a discount at many of these stores just for being a college student! See our list of student discounts for all the details.)
Now that you know my top twenty best cheap clothing stores, I want to see your lists! Which stores are your favorites, and what are your favorite things to buy there?
Leave a comment & tell me about your top-budget stores!
Editor’s note: This post was originally published in 2008; it was completely revamped in 2024 to reflect the clothing websites we love today.
Wow, a few of the places I agree on, some…not so much. I’m a college student AND a young mom, so I’m on a double budget, lol!
My list and how I feel about stores u listed:
1. I agree with TARGET. Target is awesome and they’ve really come a long way over the years! I’m not the smallest girl in the world (blame my baby hips!) but I’m in that weird gray area that tends to be forgotten, and my size varies greatly by whoever is making it, not helped by other weird proportions of mine (short, large breasted…) Target makes me happy with the extended sizes they have in juniors and also really nice women’s clothing that makes me look cute and trendy, but still not outrageously dressed since I am a mother.
2. TJ MAXX I like, but don’t love. They are half and half with me. If I need to go somewhere nice and dress up, I can rely on them to have better workwear/event wear than another place I have on my list that is similar. I tend to like browsing their designer purses, sometimes their shoes, and if I need a coat or jacket, I like going there as well, but I don’t go too often because they just never seem to have enough clothing!
3. Charlotte Russe use to have awesome clothes, but I think they’ve slid a bit down hill with me. I don’t tend to go often because the clothes come across to me as too “14-18” ish. I’m 23, so I don’t want to wear a bunch of random floral skater dresses and tees with awkward messages on them! It even bothers me when I see women who are in their 30’s shopping there. I use to love their shoes…I haven’t been able to find a pair I like there in ages.
4. Forever 21’s sizing is just weird to me. I also find it to be a bit too big and intimidating. I like browsing their jewelry from time to time, but you won’t catch me buying too many clothes. When I buy clothes, I DO want them to last, maybe even transition seasons with me. Forever 21’s items are just what they say they are: Fast Fashion. Not worth it even if it is cheap to me…
I do like H&M, but there isn’t one in my area (shocking…we are in a mid-sized city). They don’t ship to me so I can’t really take full advantage of them. DSW I’ve gone in once and found their shoes to be a bit on the pricier side. I once bought a pair of Not Rated Flats from there, but I haven’t gone back in a bit though if I think about it I might.
1. Ross- There is something about Ross being somewhat disorganized that makes the hunt fun. I like finding that one dress nobody saw because it wasn’t so organized. Seeing as people tend to be my size around where I live, I frequently find my size completely missing when I’m looking at a dress I really like, and then I have to cry because I won’t get it. Ross doesn’t have their garments organized because they tend to have 1-4 of a given dress, meaning there isn’t really a way to organize it. They do have it organized by garment though (dresses, tops, maternity, shoes, etc.) that’s organized enough for me! I can come out of there having only spent 100 dollars and have 8 new outfits, 200 dollars and I have a new wardrobe! When I can find tops for 6.99 and dresses for under 10, I’m in heaven, especially when they look like they are worth more than that. Just bought a Nine West bag there yesterday that was marked down from 90 to 20.
2. Kohls- I like them, but I don’t consider them cheap. I don’t usually go for things for myself either. I typically find myself there when I am looking for clothes for my daughter who is 3. Even still though, they tend to charge more money for the same brands (carters, osh kosh, etc.) than the other stores do, so I usually find myself upset I bought her a seat of pj’s there that were discounted EVERYWHERE else, even the manufacturer’s main website! I don’t usually find items I like enough to buy there but find myself trying to keep give them chances.
Other stores I like: Goodwill (shoot me!) and other thrift stores, Belk (it’s a southern store…), Dillards occasionally. I use to swear by JC Penny, but they really messed up. Lost my loyalty.
I liked your blog for several reasons. The fact that you included 2nd hand stores was great. Who could live without TJ Maxx and Marshalls those are two stores you go to before online. Nothing wrong with online, but nothing is more frustrating and disappointing than shopping for hours even days and it shows up and is not at all what you expected. If you don’t mind waiting 6 weeks for delivery Lovelywholesale is a direct wholesaler without a minimum, never seen lower prices anywhere. Thank you
I don’t recommend shopping Target AT ALL. The clothes are cheap, but they’re cheap for a reason. Buy one of their fitted t-shirts and it will look old, stretched out and baggy after a few wearings. So then you go and buy another one, and that’s how they make money.
You’re better off getting something that is more expensive, but well made.
Thanks for this amazing post. I normally shop: Target (price return of the items is okay – Remember you are paying cheap). For an alternative in finding cheap discounted jewelry and accessories I shop sixless.com which is not on the list.
Awesome post! I really like tobi.com
Knockoffs should not be supported. It hurts the fashion community and large parts of the world.
Basically if you want to return something at Forever 21 you have to sell your soul. I only buy from there if I can’t find anything anywhere else.
I love Target and Old Navy, and definitely Marshall’s and thrift stores. I’m going to be on a small budget for the next several years if I want to pay off loans, so these places are my favorites.
I absolutely adore your list! I’ve been waiting to see a list of budget-friendly noteworthy shopping places instead of websites (even though I love the Coupons Weekly you do) since you can see the fabric and it’s easier to return.
My Top Ten (no particular order)
1. Old Navy–you can find some real gems
2. Kohl’s–it’s really diverse in style there, so I know I’ll find something I like
3. Dillard’s–when it’s on sale, you know it’s good quality and they
4. Gordman’s
5. T.J. Maax
6. Outlet stores
7. Marshall’s–I love the dresses there.
I go to a couple of international trips once every five years, so I do some shopping there. Most of it’s much cheaper there. (I just pack nothing, and get a lot of stuff.)
I don’t have a H&M, Forever 21 or Vanity (very cute accessories) where I live, so sometimes when I go visit a friend who does have those stores, I hit up those places. I love them all, and they’re definitely on my Top Ten list.
I also like Talbot’s Outlet Stores and Shoe Carnival.
I love all these stores, especially Charlotte Russe. Although a few items I’ve gotten there seem to be have been poorly made… They ripped only after a few wears (and I know you they’re not meant to last years, but it was still disappointing).
I disagree with what you said about go jane. I’ve bought a lot of clothes from there, and have been happy with almost all of them. The pieces I hated were easy to return though, because they have an awesome return policy. It’s just like what you said about Wet Seal, you need to have a good eye for cute vs. tacky.
Great list! I might have to check out GoJane. I’ve never heard about it.
I’m also a big fan of deparment store clearance racks. You can find some great stuff for incredibly cheap, but it takes a lot of effort. I have a really cute sweater that I scored for $1.50 (in the summer).
I’m so glad C. Russe made the list. I <3 their layering camis! I bought a back-to-school top there and I’m more excited to wear that then my new Lucky jeans! <3 <3 <3
Target= AMAZING. So happy it made this list.
The other one that I LOVE is a consignment-like chain called Plato’s Closet. They deal strictly with gently used teen and young adult clothes, and have really rigid rules as far as what they take (LOTS of current A&F, Forever 21, AE, etc.). So I definitely love them! You can look to see if you have one near you at their website, platoscloset.com.
=]
I would be interested to hear your opinion on the top ten online stores. Some of the stores you have mentioned are no where near my small town.
URBAN BEHAVIOR ROCKS MY SOCKS.
Ahem. However, my closest one just closed and I am DEVASTATED. Where else am I going to get my 5 to 10 dollar dresses?!
H&M never did anything much for me. I found much of their things fit strangely. It may be just me.
Shoe Carnival is another goodie. Especially when they have sales, oh my! I got a 7 dollar pair of real suede boots, in GRAY!
I’ve also gotta say though, if you have a Steve and Barry’s near you, and it’s well-stocked with Bitten, then go!!! I love SJP’s line and the quality is pretty good and it fits perfectly!
I also love New York and Company for when they have sales, because they have really nice work clothes that you’re going to need!
aw old navy should definitely be on this list. Urban behavior is in Canada. Sad =( I’ll never see one. it’s weird that you guys are saying charlotte russe is classy because here it’s really trashy and cheap looking.
Definitely agree with H&M. That place has such great clothing – sure, they have some expensive items at times. But really, every time I go there there are a lot of really amazing items on sale.