American Eagle has long been a favorite brand among American youth and older adults, as its mission was straightforward — to produce only high-quality items that were comfortable to wear, making them a great choice for everyday wear.
Recently, the brand has received considerable criticism and attention it caused quite a stir with its advertisement featuring Sydney Sweeney, and it reminded many longtime fans why they loved the brand in the first place.
Is American Eagle a luxury brand?
American Eagle Outfitters cannot be called a full-fledged luxury brand, but despite this, their clothing is very close to it and has always striven for the highest quality. No one really knows their trick, but the fact is – their prices are still budget-friendly.
What age group is American Eagle for?
If you look at their collections, it becomes clear that American Eagle has always targeted young people aged 16 to 22 who are studying at university or college, and adults aged 22 to 28. If you are over 22, you will definitely like their jeans or stylish leather jackets.
1.
Madewell
Madewell is a brand that has brought numerous new ideas to the fashion world. It’s a brand that’s become a symbol of a new era and change. Their jeans are still considered some of the best bang for your buck, and their basics are surprising—they’re simple but have character. There are some drawbacks, though. Fans of the brand note that interesting items sell out too quickly and don’t come back into stock.
Features:
Return Policy: Returns accepted within 30 days for refund; final sale, monogrammed, altered, vintage, swimwear, and intimates are not returnable.
Price Range: $40 up to $638
Size Range: S to XXL
Shipping Costs: For non-members, shipping starts at $3 (economy) or $5 (standard). Insiders get free standard shipping
Pro Tip: Join the free Madewell Insider program for free shipping, free returns, and perks like denim recycling credits.
2.
J.Crew
J.Crew is the first brand that comes to mind when we need a simple yet comfortable and high-quality wardrobe that will last for more than one season. Buyers often recommend the classic chinos and relaxed straight-leg chinos, which fit perfectly and remain durable after dozens of washes. The brand also has a premium line called Wallace & Barnes.
Features:
Return Policy: Returns accepted within 30 days for refund to original payment
Price Range: $60–$180 and some premium or special pieces may reach $400+
Size Range: XXXS–XXL
Shipping Costs: Free shipping on jcrew.com for J.Crew Passport members
Pro Tip: Join J.Crew Passport (free) for perks like free shipping
3.
Levi’s
Levi’s is an absolute classic in the world of jeans, but the brand is famous for its cut and quality. At its price point, Levi’s remains one of the best options, especially the cool 501 STF models and premium lines that retain their shape for years. Fans of the brand advise trying on jeans before buying and, if possible, choosing premium models to find the perfect pair of Levi’s that will last for years.
Features:
Return Policy: Returns accepted within 30 days
Price Range: $59 up to $270
Size Range: generally runs XS to XXL
Shipping Costs: Ground shipping is $7.95 (free for Red Tab™ members on US orders over $75); 2-day shipping is $25; overnight shipping is $32; free in-store pickup is available.
Pro Tip: Join the free Red Tab membership to get free shipping (on orders over $75), easier returns, points on purchases, and a sign-up bonus.
4.
Wildfox
Wildfox is a symbol of cozy casual style, with soft sweatshirts and denim jumpers forming the basis of this brand’s sales. We love this brand for its Californian vibe and fun prints. Their regular customers advise taking good care of this brand’s items and, most importantly, drying them properly to ensure they stay like new for years to come.
Features:
Return Policy: Returns accepted within 30 days for refund to original payment. Final sale: fragrance, sale items, swimwear, gift cards, and “Throwbacks on Demand” (custom-made) are non-returnable or eligible for store credit only.
Price Range: Hoodies and sweatshirts: approximately $63–$108, dresses and playsuits: $76–$118, t-shirts and tops: $37–$64.
Size Range: XS – XL — plus “Throwbacks on Demand” offered up to 2XL.
Shipping Costs: Free standard ground shipping and 2-Day is $19.95, Overnight is $29.95.
Pro Tip: Sign up for the Wildfox newsletter to stay informed of restocks and new releases.
5.
Abercrombie & Fitch
Abercrombie & Fitch, a brand with a not easy history, became a symbol of a new culture in the late 90’s, and all this turned it into one of the symbols of high-profile scandals. Now the situation has changed significantly. After a change in management, Abercrombie has been completely revamped. Clients note that the items have become more affordable and stylish, especially in the categories of basic shirts, jeans, and accessories, the brand now feels fresh and modern.
Features:
Return Policy: Returns accepted within 30 days (from delivery or estimated delivery date). Exchanges are free within the same 30-day window (or 60 days for VIPs).
Price Range: $29 to $200
Size Range: XXS to XL.
Shipping Costs: Standard rate isn’t specified publicly, but expedited options include 2-Day for $15 and Next-Day for $22.
Pro Tip: Joining the VIP myAbercrombie program (free) extends your return/exchange window by 30 days – that’s 60 days total
6.
Urban Outfitters
A brand with bright designs, focused on current trends, which explains its popularity among young buyers who like to express themselves in everything they do. They really do have cool stuff, unusual accessories, and, of course, stylish jeans and shirts. Shoppers believe that the quality of their jeans and jackets does not match the price and that you can find better quality items for the same money.
Features:
Return Policy: Returns accepted within 30 days from delivery for most items
Price Range: $20 – $200.
Size Range: Alpha sizes include XS, S, M, L, XL. Many items extend up to 2X or 3X, especially in dresses and more inclusive lines.
Shipping Costs: Free on orders over $50, flat rate of $6.95 on orders under that
Pro Tip: Sign up for the UO Rewards or download the UO app to unlock perks like free shipping
7.
Asos
An online store where you can buy almost anything from budget T-shirts to branded items. Many shoppers love it for its frequent and generous discounts, and no one has had any problems with delivery. Overall, ASOS is suitable for bargain hunting during sales and for finding rare sizes or brands, but don’t expect premium quality.
Features:
Return Policy: Returns accepted within 28 days from delivery or collection
Price Range: $40 – $200.
Size Range: XS- XL. Many items are also available up to 2X or 3X
Shipping Costs: Free for orders over $50, otherwise $10 flat. Delivery typically takes 5–8 business days, up to 14 for shipping from the UK warehouse.
Pro Tip: ASOS Premier can be a great value – free shipping perks and faster fulfillment.
8.
American Apparel
American Apparel remains our leader among places for basic wardrobe items, with extremely affordable prices. The designs are truly intriguing, and there are many basic styles to choose from that can be perfectly combined with other bolder items in your wardrobe (such as bright accessories). If consistent quality and comfort are important to you, AA is the right choice.
Features:
Return Policy: Returns accepted within 45 days of shipment
Price Range: $25 – $250.
Size Range: XXS-XL, and selected items are available in 2XL
Shipping Costs: Flat rate of $10 for U.S. orders; higher for international shipping.
9.
Hollister
Hollister is something new for all of us. The quiet and calm Californian vibe will perfectly complement your everyday wardrobe, and the excellent quality of the T-shirts and their affordable price should satisfy even the most demanding customers. The latest collections have become more neutral and minimalistic, making them suitable for a more mature audience.
Features:
Return Policy: Returns accepted within 30 days from the estimated or actual delivery date
Price Range: $25 – $300.
Size Range: XXS – XL, and many items go up to XXL.
Shipping Costs: Starts at $8 for orders up to $50, scaling to $10 ($50–$100), $15 ($100–$300), and $20 ($300–$500); orders over $500 cost $25. Delivery in about 5–7 business days.
Pro Tip: Join Hollister House Rewards—it’s free. You’ll unlock perks like free shipping on orders over $59, birthday rewards, exclusive offers, and the potential to earn a $5 reward for every 12,500 points spent.
10.
Pacsun
Pacsun definitely keeps up with fashion trends, and they have an educational TikTok/Instagram account on how to pick the right clothes and colors. But there are some downsides—sometimes one order can come in different packages, and sometimes when you pay with PayPal, the refund comes as store credit, but overall it’s not a big deal.
Features:
Return Policy: Returns accepted within 30 days of the ship date for online orders
Price Range: $59 – $600.
Size Range: XXS to XXL
Shipping Costs: Typically $7, though free shipping is offered on jeans, pants or orders over $59
Pro Tip: Shop during promotions when tees begin at $10, jeans at $29, and look out for free shipping on qualifying orders.
11.
Brandy Melville
Brandy Melville is among the winners in the youth clothing category. The clothing has a certain vibe, in short, it’s the mood of cozy college evenings. Their social media has created an image of a “natural but unattainable” cool girl that teenagers want to emulate. When it comes to clothing, they have wonderful pajamas.
Features:
Return Policy: Returns accepted within 30 days of purchase for unworn, unwashed items with original tags
Price Range: $30 – $800.
Size Range: XS – XL
Shipping Costs: flat rates like around $8
12.
Forever 21
Forever 21 is a phenomenal example of fast fashion. You can find the latest trends at very affordable prices with frequent sales that let you save even more. However, the quality can be unpredictable, ranging from excellent to quite low- especially when it comes to the t-shirts.
Features:
Return Policy: Returns accepted within 30 days of receipt for eligible online and in-store purchases
Price Range: $30 – $250.
Size Range: XXS – XXL
Shipping Costs: Free on orders over $75
Pro Tip: Return online orders in-store when possible to avoid the $9.99 return shipping fee.
13.
Old Navy
Old Navy gets mixed reviews, but the brand has its own niche and loyal fans. Their basics-T-shirts, shirts, sweatshirts and sweatpants– are affordable and usually hold up pretty well. The tricky part is sizing and quality can be inconsistent, so make sure to check the size chart before you buy.
Features:
Return Policy: Returns accepted within 30 days of delivery (online)
Price Range: $20 – $400.
Size Range: runs XS – XXL, with extensive plus sizing up to 4X
Shipping Costs: Orders over $50: Free (Rewards members), Orders under $50: $7 for members, $9 for non-members
Pro Tip: Join the Navyist Rewards (free loyalty program) to get free shipping on orders over $50,
14.
H&M
H&M is a classic fast-fashion choice. While quality can be unpredictable, their clothes are always affordable and comfortable. Simple T-shirts, tank tops, and sometimes jeans or pants-especially those made from natural fabrics like 100% cotton or linen-are definitely worth trying. The premium “Conscious” collections stand out with noticeably better fabrics.
Features:
Return Policy: Returns accepted within 30 days of purchase (in-store) or delivery (online)
Price Range: $10 – $169.
Size Range: XS – 3XL
Shipping Costs: U.S. Standard Shipping: $5.99, free on orders over $60.
Pro Tip: Join the H&M Loyalty Program. Members get free return shipping, free standard shipping on lower order minimums, exclusive discounts, rewards, and first-look access
