10 Sustainable Clothing Brands For College Students Who Love Affordable Fashion

25 Best Clothing Stores For College Students That Are Stylish & Affordable

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Want to look fashionable while on a budget? We’ve got you! Check out this round-up of the 25 best clothing stores for college students that should be on your radar.

College life is not complete without dressing up once in a while. Everyone wants to look their best, whether it be for a date night, an interview, a house party, or just going to class.

However, not everyone has the money to spend on new clothes especially when college is expensive. Luckily for you, we have compiled a list of our favorite retailers that are trendy and fit any budget!

From higher-end brands to discount (but just as impressive!) stores, we got something for you. A lot of these stores are also available online, and we have linked them below for easy access and purchase.

The Best Clothing Stores For College Students

1. Lulus

Get these shorts on Lulus

We absolutely love Lulus – it is a great place to find a wide variety of clothes, shoes, and everything with different price points. They also carry some of our favorite brands like Free People, Levi’s, FILA, and more.

You can find everything from simple shirts to dresses and even wedding dresses and shoes. Their prices are very reasonable, so you don’t have to break the bank in order to get some trendy clothes for your wardrobe!

So, if you haven’t tried out pieces from this college student-friendly clothing store yet, this is your sign!

2. Nordstrom Rack

Get this top (on sale!) at Nordstrom Rack

If Nordstrom is too pricey for you, then no worries – check out Nordstrom Rack instead, which Nordstrom’s discount retail store. However, don’t be fooled by the word “discount,” because Nordstrom Rack offers high-quality pieces of clothing at great prices.

The one-stop fashion destination has students buzzing due to its student discount and a great selection of trendy clothing for college students – crop tops, dresses, and even formal wear for your upcoming job interview.

3. ASOS

Get this dress on ASOS

If you’re looking for a place to buy trendy clothes that are specifically targeted at fashion-forward young adults, ASOS is one of the best stores to go to. The store has an IMPRESSIVE selection of brands and styles for both women and men that are always changing, so it’s never boring.

They also have great deals—you can sign up for their email list and get new sale alerts every week! If you don’t like something you bought from them (or if it doesn’t fit), don’t worry—they have an easy return policy.

We are a fan of the huge shoe collection on their site, so be sure to check it out!

4. American Eagle & Aerie

Get this top on Aerie

American Eagle and Aerie are both owned by American Eagle Outfitters, and they’re both great options for college students. They’re two of the most popular clothing brand around, and they carry a wide variety of styles to fit everyone’s needs.

American Eagle caters to a more casual lifestyle, while Aerie has more trendy items for college students and young adults.

Both brands have clothing that you can wear on campus and off-campus, so you won’t have to worry about finding something that fits your style but also won’t make you look out of place when heading into class or going home for the weekend.

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5. Abercrombie & Fitch

One of the most popular clothing stores for college students is Abercrombie & Fitch. The store sells both casual and dressy clothing and accessories, so it’s great for any day-to-day outfit.

They have a wide selection of gorgeous dresses if you have a date night planned!

Their clothes are typically on the pricier side, but they have sales all year round that make their products affordable for anyone who wants to shop there. Right now, they have a gender-inclusive collection in line with Pride celebrations!

6. Beginning Boutique

Get these pants on Beginning Boutique

For the party girls, we got you covered! Beginning Boutique is the perfect shop for the girl who loves to look effortlessly chic. It’s an Australian-based women’s clothing retailer (but ships worldwide) and offers an array of different clothing items that can help you achieve your dream outfit.

Everything from dresses to blouses are available on the website, so you won’t have a hard time finding what you need.

Beginning Boutique is known for its vintage-inspired pieces and bohemian vibes—which means you’ll be able to find something that speaks to your personality without feeling like it’s too trendy or overdone.

We are especially in love with their festival outfits and crochet dresses!

7. & Other Stories

& Other Stories is a brand owned by H&M that is known for its luxe and minimalist aesthetic. You can find reasonably-priced clothing, romantic clothing and on-trend clothing here. You will also find great essential pieces that look good with any other outfit you wear!

Unlike its fast-fashion counterpart H&M, & Other Stories is a bit more on the pricier side, with their tops starting from $40.

8. H&M

Get this one-shoulder top on H&M

H&M is a brand that’s especially popular among college students. They have affordable prices and offer a wide variety of trendy clothing to choose from.

This clothing store is also preferred among college kids because it’s one of the best places to go when you’re looking for something new to wear that won’t break the bank, especially when it comes to getting a new pair of jeans (which can be quite pricey!)

Their “Divided” section leans more on the casual style, so this would be the best bet for college kids looking for some day-to-day wear.

Like most other stores on this list, H&M has a large selection, so you’ll have no trouble finding something that suits your style needs!

9. Target

Get this dress on Target

If you’re looking for affordable clothes, Target is a great place to start. With a wide variety of clothing options and prices, there’s something for everybody. They have great deals on clothes year-round, including their “Back To School” sale where they sell backpacks and school supplies at pretty low prices.

Target also has a wide selection of clothing options with different brands available in each section (such as the women’s section). This means that there are plenty of options when shopping at Target—you’ll never get bored!

They also have a surprisingly wide array of party clothes so that you’ll be able to party in style while staying in budget.

10. Boohoo

Get these jeans on Boohoo

Boohoo is a great place to score some trendy clothing for both men and women. They have a wide selection of clothes for all body types.

You can find cute dresses, tops, jeans, and accessories at Boohoo. Their prices are very reasonable and they offer free shipping with any order over $50.

Boohoo also offers its own line of plus-size clothing so you don’t have to settle for one or two items in your size when shopping on their site!

They have a huge selection of sizes as well as styles so whether you’re looking for something loose-fitting or fitted (or anything else in between) there’s something here for everyone!

11. Pretty Little Thing

Get this outfit on Pretty Little Thing

Pretty Little Thing is a UK-based retailer that sells amazingly on-trend clothes at very reasonable prices. They have a large selection of size-inclusive clothing, shoes and accessories for women. You can also find swimwear here, as well as cute party dresses and leisurewear.

The best part is that PLT also has a beauty section where you’ll find makeup brands like Revlon and a home decor page where you can purchase all the home items you need for your college dorm. It’s pretty much a one-stop-shop for all things girly.

12. Express

Get this denim jumpsuit on Express

If you have the money to splurge and you’re looking for essential pieces that will last you for a long time, Express is a great clothing store to check out. They have a huge variety of clothes in all sizes, styles, and colors.

They have modern styles that will keep you looking good on campus or at work. The quality of their clothing is excellent too, and they’re loaded with so many basics that you can add to your own capsule wardrobe.

Most of their clothes start at $70 (with the exception of a few sale items).

13. Urban Outfitters

Get this outfit on Urban Outfitters

Urban Outfitters is an expert on all things cool and casual. It has a wide range of clothing in many different styles, so you’re sure to find something that fits your personal preference.

Urban Outfitters also has a good selection of items for college students, such as backpacks, shoes and phone cases. When it comes to price range, Urban Outfitters goes from affordable to pricey – it depends on what you add to your cart.

14. Pink Lily

Get this tennis skirt on Pink Lily

For a little bit of Southern twist, Pink Lily‘s got you covered with lots of flannels, plaid, tank tops, and more. The brand has everything from basic tees to cute, casual dresses – great for campus life.

The prices are very reasonable with tops typically costing around $40, with some pieces more affordable than others. This fast-growing retailer is definitely one of our top picks for the best clothing stores for college students!

15. Princess Polly

Get this dress on Princess Polly

Fashion girls love Princess Polly. Princess Polly is a popular fashion retailer that offers women’s fashion and accessories. They specialize in influencer-approved, IG-worthy clothes that are super trendy and super chic!

Plus, if you want to dress up like your fave social media influencer, they have loads of collaborations with quite a number of them.

This brand has a great selection of clothing and accessories, as well as reasonable prices so that you’ll be able to dress up without going broke. Princess Polly also offers 10% student discount – just provide a valid student ID.

16. J.Crew Factory

Get this skirt on J.Crew Factory

J.Crew Factory is the discount offshoot of J.Crew, the popular clothing brand that’s been around since 1983. Founded by Mickey Drexler, J.Crew has become a household name for their affordable and chic clothing for men, women, and children alike that can be found in department stores all over the country (and now online).

While some might be turned off by this fact — because it means they aren’t getting something unique or special — if you want to look good while also saving money then J.Crew factory is where it’s at!

You’ll find everything from basic tees and hoodies to dresses and jewelry at prices ranging from $10-$500+. Their style is very relaxed but still professional enough to wear at work or even during interviews (which is great because we all know how expensive suits can get).

17. Bershka

Get this vest on Beshka (ASOS)

Bershka is a Spanish clothing retailer with clothing styles that appeal to young adult shoppers. Their collection includes jeans, tops, leather jackets, sleek blazers, shoes and accessories for both men and women!

ASOS carries the latest Bershka collection where you can find affordable pieces that will add an edge to your wardrobe. Go and build your new look!

18. Topshop

Get this dress on Topshop (ASOS)

Although Topshop closed its independent stores after bankruptcy in 2020, the brand is still up and running online after being bought out by ASOS. In addition to finding hundreds upon hundreds of their designs on ASOS, the US, you can also shop Topshop’s trendy clothing selection at Nordstrom.

Topshop is most famous for its fantastic jeans, but you can find on-trend, cool girl clothing there for any occasion.

19. Walmart Fashion

Get this jumpsuit on Walmart

Walmart is the biggest retailer in America, and for good reason. The store offers a wide selection of affordable clothing items for men, women, and children.

While you may not be able to find the latest trends at Walmart Fashion (it’s still pretty basic), it’s still stylish enough to make you look like an adult without breaking the bank.

20. Impressions

Get this dress on Impressions

Like Pink Lily, Impressions is a great online boutique to check out Southern-inspired clothing that’s fashionable without the absurdly high price tag.

They have romantic dresses, casual clothing, as well as shoes and accessories. When it comes to sizing, they’re very inclusive too!

21. Magnolia Boutique

Get this bodysuit on Mangolia Boutique

If you’re on the hunt for boho or Southern-inspired outfits, then you should definitely check out Magnolia Boutique. It’s a store you can trust because they have a wide range of aesthetics. They also offer many size options, colors, and styles so there is something for everyone!

If you’re looking to update your wardrobe on a budget, this is an excellent place to do so as they have clothing at all different price points.

22. Old Navy

Get this bodysuit on Old Navy

Old Navy is another great place to find affordable clothing for all types of students. Whether you’re looking for clothes that fit a variety of body types, or you need something that’s appropriate for the weather outside, Old Navy has got you covered.

Whether your student life is spent in the classroom or on campus, there are tons of options to choose from.

Of course, if you’re going to be spending time outdoors in the winter months (or staying indoors without heat during other seasons), then Old Navy has some awesome winter gear that will keep you warm!

23. Zara

Zara is one of the most popular clothing retailers in the world for those who like to look elevated and effortlessly cool. Their clothes are more on the trendy and dressy side that’s absolutely perfect especially if you’re going on a date night.

They have a wide selection of items, so you can find something that fits your style and body type.

24. River Island

Get this dress on River Island

River Island is a UK-based high street fashion brand that offers clothing ranging from edgy, to casual, to formal, and down to feminine. They have clothes for women, men, girls and boys, which means they pretty much have everything that a whole family needs.

When it comes to price range, their tops and dresses are a little bit on the pricey side – with dresses starting from $70 and tops from $50.

25. Forever 21

Get this crochet top on Forever 21

Last on our list of the top clothing stores for college students is Forever 21. This long-standing retailer is the perfect place to buy your garments if you’re looking for trendy pieces on a low budget.

They have free shipping and free returns, which means that you can try out their clothes without having to worry about how much it costs or whether or not they will fit properly.

The prices at Forever 21 are seriously great! Plus, they have tons of sales when they often mark down their prices by 40 percent, sometimes more.

Conclusion

High-quality clothing is not out of reach for college students if they know where to look.

The secret is finding stores with modern designs and good quality materials, like Old Navy or Abercrombie. These chains have been around for years and they’re known for their trendy picks without skimping on quality. You’ll be able to find lots of pieces you love without spending much money at all!

We hope you find this guide to the best clothing stores for college students helpful as you navigate all of your college shopping needs!

If you have any questions, comments, or concerns please leave them in a comment below. Also, share this with anyone who might benefit from it! And if you’re still looking for more fashion inspiration, check the posts down below.

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7 Fashion Students Explain What College Is Like During a Pandemic

College is full of major life changes, especially for fashion students entering a highly-competitive field full of potential. Whether you’re a rising freshman, nearing graduation, or just trying to get through the next day of classes, every stage presents a new set of challenges. Throw in a global pandemic, and it gets even more complicated.

Fittingly, being in the world of fashion, you learn to be creative, resourceful, and able to adapt to new circumstances. Today’s generation of fashion students are doing that in the traditional sense and the “new normal” caused by the pandemic.

Teen Vogue sat down with fashion students at different points in their academic careers to learn how COVID-19 has been affecting their studies. From social media communities to career changes, here’s how seven fashion students have been dealing with the pandemic.

Allison Ko

Senior in Fashion Design at Fashion Institute of Technology

Courtesy of Allison Ko.

Teen Vogue: What was a typical day as a fashion student like for you before the pandemic started?

Allison Ko: I usually had a pretty busy schedule. I tried to take a lot of classes, because there are a lot of things I [am] interested in. I also interned during the school year, so I had that real life experience kind of coupled with the classroom learning. I used to dorm before COVID, so I would wake up at 7:30 get ready for class and head over for my 9 which was probably a studio lab. So, that would be three or four hours. I would grab lunch somewhere near school, and then go back to the main building for another class. So again, like three or four hours, and then I would go back to the dorms, eat dinner, relax a little bit, and then go back to school to work on projects. I probably get home around midnight, go to sleep, and then wake up the next morning and do kind of the same thing. And then every other day, I would intern, so that would be a little bit of a variation. But I would say in general, my days were pretty full with classes, homework, and internship.

10 Sustainable Clothing Brands For College Students Who Love Affordable Fashion

Whether you’re looking to spruce up your sartorial style on a budget or scour the internet for quality ethical basics to adhere to your existing wardrobe, the sustainable clothing brands for college students below will certainly tick all your boxes.

Let’s not sugarcoat it; eco-friendly fashion can be a bit expensive. Especially if you are trying to shop ethically on top of all your college-related expenses. Luckily, 2022’s best sustainable fashion brands that are affordable for college students guarantee to elevate your vestiary game without going over budget.

No matter if you’re into bohemian vibes, a die-hard minimalist, or love bold and unapologetic ensembles, here is a list of the most coveted ethical fashion brands for college students to shop in 2022 and beyond.

Everlane is one of the first big sustainable clothing brands in the ethical fashion game. Every eco-conscious influencer has been spotted weathering their clothing around with pride. The brand uses natural fibers and recycled synthetics to craft denim, casualwear, shoes, accessories, underwear, and swimwear. Everlane is a bluesign® Systems Partner and currently holds the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification along with the Cradle To Cradle Gold Certification.

Girlfriend collective is hailed as one of the most size-inclusive, sustainable clothing brands for college students. Their quality basics are crafted with recycled plastic that was previously dumped in landfills. The brand is 100% transparent with its fair labor initiatives and design, and manufacturing practices. Currently, they have Social Accountability International (SAI)’s Fair Trade certification. You can opt for hoodies, t-shirts, leggings, joggers, and pretty much everything in between from XXS TO 6XL. Girlfriend Collective will ship everything to you in 100% recycled and recyclable packaging.

When it comes to the best sustainable brands for college students, Prana deserves all the hype. Apart from carrying an extensive collection of quality, durability, and versatile ethical fashion staples from XS-XXL, their Fair Trade Certified™ program has given back $400,000+ to 33,000+ workers around the world. The brand crafts sustainable clothing from organic cotton, hemp, and many other eco-friendly fibers. If you want to tap into a tropical daydream with their swimsuits or reinforce your bohemian aesthetic with a few floral dresses, no one could really blame you.

Made Trade is not exactly similar to the previous sustainable fashion brands that are affordable for college students, but it’s definitely a fantastic e-destination for all-things-ethically-made. The marketplace’s curated catalog of eco-friendly fashion brands offers us artisanal creations from all around the world. From shoes and accessories to fashion staples, consider it as a directory of the best ethical fashion brands that believe in fair labor, sustainable sourcing, and limited-waste manufacturing practices.

Your search for affordable sustainable fashion brands for college students is officially over. Organic Basics’ ethical collections run the gamut from underwear, tops, and bottoms to swimwear and activewear in sizes up to 2XL. They only partner with fair-trade factories and use the most sustainable fibers available. Thanks to their Regenerative Organic Cotton Pilot Project and Organic Basics Fund 2.43 tonnes of waste was saved from getting dumped in landfills thus far.

The B-certified cooperation All Birds deserves a place in our sustainable clothing brands for college students round-up. From oh-so-comfy ZQ Merino wool sneakers, flats, slip-ons, and everything in between to ethical activewear and casual wear, they have all your needs covered. The carbon-neutral brand uses Tencel, Lyocell, Recycled Nylon, and ZQ Merino Wool in their renewable energy factory. Did we mention that they just scored a partnership with Adidas?

There is a very good reason why the ethical fashion brand Tentree is touted as one of the most sustainable clothing brands for college students. This modern, eco-friendly clothing is made with award-winning technical fabrics combined with recycled materials saved from landfill waste. The brand shares that they are going to plant 1 billion trees by 2030 (10 trees for every purchase), which is quite impressive. They are also a certified B-Corporation. So rest assured that your sustainable loungewear and activewear are equal parts ethically-made and stylish.

The feminist brand ABLE offers to outfit us with gorgeously crafted sustainable bags and wardrobe staples like dresses, jeans, and shoes made ethically by women. “Women comprise 95% of our staff at ABLE, but globally they often hold the lowest-paid, least-secure jobs” they mention. As a certified B Corp, ABLE uses 100% recyclable packaging to ship their GOTS certified organic cotton clothing, ethically sourced leather products right to your doorstep.

If you are looking for ethical fashion brands for college students that thrive on creating high-quality jeans, Warp Weft is the e-destination for you. The brand has been creating the most coveted sustainable jeans for over 3 decades. From skinny, straight, and wide-leg jeans to maternity options and denim jackets, they have everything! Warp Weft also saves and recycles saving 98% of the water they use for their production to be even more kind to the environment.

KOTN is another great addition to our list of sustainable brands for college students thanks to their modern yet timeless casualwear. Recognized as one of the top 5% B corporations globally, the brand is known for its strict fair trade policies and ethical manufacturing. KOTN uses sustainably grown cotton from local farmers in rural Egypt to craft their loungewear and casual wear. From pastels to black and white styles for every occasion, your on-campus outfits are about to get an upgrade.

6 Korean Sustainable Brands That Deserve a Place In Your Ethical Closet

Now that you have a foolproof list of sustainable clothing brands for college students on a budget, it’s time for a guilt-free wardrobe refresh. What’s a better way to kickstart the new season than with affordable ethical fashion finds for on and off-campus outings?