Clothing brand Express hit its peak in the 2000s when it was a top brand for higher-quality trendy fashions that helped people save money on essentials for their wardrobes.
Fast forward to April 2024 when the chain retailer filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and is now shutting down around 100 locations.
So, where can you go for stylish attire in bold patterns and fun materials with the working adult in mind? We dug up eight alternative retailers to help you fill that void.
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1. Banana Republic
Founded in 1978, Banana Republic has gone through several transformations. You’re now likely to find their designs on people at the local racquet club, at church, and at brunch on the weekends.
With over 700 stores worldwide, this brand is known for solid-colored, timeless staples, and keeps its prices affordable by using lower-cost fabrics.
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As the name might suggest, J. Crew carries preppy, clean-cut styles for the whole family at reasonable price points, especially for the long-lasting quality of the fabrics.
They have a robust offering that covers dresses starting around $60, shirts just under $50, and other items like cashmere, pants, suits, outerwear, accessories, and shoes — and they asd often run huge sales.
3. Ann Taylor
Largely known for more conservative and professional suits, dresses, separates, and accessories, this brand has made a recent pivot. Step into an Ann Taylor now and you may be surprised at their wide selection of offerings.
The current catalog includes an extensive list of jewel-toned items with fun patterns and textures. Detailed buttons, tailored jackets, and wide-legged pants are must-have staples from this chain.
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4. Talbots
Another retail chain that carries similar fashions to Ann Taylor is Talbots. Opened in 1947, the brand has always been committed to providing women with “timely and timeless style.”
Now, you can find anything from sweet floral blouses that carry you from workdays into weekends and fresh staples like wide-legged jeans and cardigans, to edgy embossed faux leather jackets and belted shirt dresses.
5. Lulus
If you’re in the mood for a great dress, you’ll find a great variety at Lulus. The brand went almost completely digital in recent years and carries its clothing exclusively online and in a flagship store in Los Angeles.
But with a generous return policy, efficient turnaround on shipping, and some great silhouettes at fantastic prices, you can afford to purchase multiple to try on.
6. H&M
Even with H&M’s more sustainable practices and “Conscious” collection, their reputation and pricing have historically thrown them into fast fashion categories. But H&M has some stunning wardrobe staples at deeply affordable prices.
Offerings include pleated skirts, tailored dresses and pants, and a host of beautiful blouses. With H&M’s clothing care guides, your items should last for years to come, no matter how deep the discount.
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Another fun place to shop for size-inclusive dresses appropriate for any age is the British online retailer ASOS. Whether you’re looking for a sweet summer dress or evening attire for a wedding, look no further.
The site features trends from both sides of the pond, which means you have tons of fun options. They carry both affordable and high-end clothing and accessories making it a real one-stop shop.
8. Madewell
Madewell has become many people’s go-to as a reliable on trend clothing retailer.
The brand focuses on using higher-quality fabrics, so their prices can seem a little steep at first, but they often have big sales for more reasonable prices on dresses, workwear, and beyond. And if you’re in need of a good pair of jeans, their denim collection is spectacular.
Bottom line
This isn’t the first time Express has worked to avoid a complete shutdown. In August 2023, they curbed their losses by laying off 150 employees to cut costs. While they don’t seem to be gone for good yet, having staple alternate clothing options is important.
Keep these retailers in your back pocket to help save money shopping .
Money tips that can work for everyone
No matter what your bank account balance is, there's always an opportunity to optimize and improve your finances. Here's a quick checklist of things you can look at today.
Focus on paying off your debt. Debt can hold you back from making progress with your overall financial well-being. Aside from cutting expenses, there are tools that can help you pay off debt faster like balance transfer credit cards and debt counseling.
Earning extra income can give you breathing room. If finances are tight, earning some extra money to supplement your income can make a huge difference. A new job is one option to consider, but if you're not ready to make a big change or already retired, a part-time side job could be a better choice.
Cut your expenses. It sounds painful and so not fun, but it doesn't have to be. Take a look at your biggest expenses because that's where you'll probably find the biggest savings. For example, auto insurance rates have been soaring so shopping around for a new insurance company can be the fastest way to cut your bill. Also, look for ways to cut your grocery bill (despite rising inflation).
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