In a world of fast fashion and abandoned malls, it can be difficult to find quality, affordable clothing—especially when it comes to casual basics. While you'd once head to your local shopping center in search of a sturdy black T-shirt or go-anywhere leggings, you now have to order online and hope for the best. And if you don't know where to shop, that can involve a lot of trial and error. To make that process easier, we asked personal stylists for the best affordable clothing brands for casual wear. These spots have all the basics you need, and most even stock workout wear and clothing for more elevated situations like the office or a night out.
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1 | Los Angeles Apparel
Miss Ty / ShutterstockVisit this shop for T-shirts, bodysuits, socks, and sweaters. "Los Angeles Apparel has been doing basics long enough to offer everything under the sun and do it well," says Elizabeth Kosich, certified image stylist and founder of Elizabeth Kosich Styling. "Their low price points allow seasonal refreshes to keep your basics fresh, spiffy, and unfaded."
Of its offerings, she loves the baby rib long-sleeve tees ($28), velour tracksuits ($78), and fleece sets ($68). Kosich can also vouch for its biketards and unitards for workoutwear. "And don’t miss their sleeveless jersey jumpsuit—it’s the ultimate Sunday uniform," she says. You can pick one up for just $80.
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2 | Lands' End
Lands' EndHead to Lands' End for all your activewear, sleepwear, jackets, and other basics. Carol Davidson, NYC-based mid-life stylist and founder of Life.Style.Strategy, calls it a stylist's secret.
"Do not underestimate them for high-quality, well-cut, well-priced basics such as tanks, turtlenecks, and tees," she says. "And let’s not forget their low-maintenance, no-iron, crisp white blouses, which, remarkably, seem to stay crisp and white!" Purchase one of those for $78, and it'll last you a lifetime.
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3 | Uniqlo
Sorbis / ShutterstockYou've probably shopped Uniqlo for basics, but Kosich says outwear is where the brand really shines.
"From ultra-light down to Pufftech technology to travel-ready drawstring pouch packaging, their winter puffers are a must-have," she says. "Try a quilted long vest in autumn, oversized Pufftech coat in winter, and ultra-light down jacket in spring, then press repeat once fall arrives."
She says you'll want to keep an eye on their collabs, too; They've had some with big names like Mame Kurogouchi, Jil Sander, and Marimekko—but you'll have to shop fast!
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4 | MUJI
Heng Lim / ShutterstockThe Japanese brand MUJI is a jack of all trades—it's got everything from bathroom decor to ballpoint pens to home organization supplies. But its minimalist clothes are also worth looking into.
"Their T-shirts are outstanding—thick, brushed, high-quality cotton that washes and wears with gusto," says Kosich. "Across the collection, look for details like UV ray protection, washable wool, recycled down, quick-drying broadcloth, and non-itchy sweaters."
In the casual category, she's fond of the boatneck tees ($40), 3/4-sleeve tunics ($40), and stretch flared legging pants (also $40).
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5 | Everlane
EverlaneThe casual clothes at Everlane are totally polished, meaning you can wear them to the office or on a lazy Sunday. Kosich suggests its dresses, which marry form and function with details like pockets and adjustable waists. However, it's Everlane's accessories that stand out most.
"The minimalist Italian leather tote ($250) has become a favorite go-to tote of city girls everywhere," she says. Plus, the company does good, she notes: "Beyond its collection, Everlane stands for ethical manufacturing practices and sustainability, so consider peace of mind a gift with purchase."
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