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Formulating a stylish, comfortable, and functional closet is a skill perfected over the years, ever-changing with the evolution of our personal style. While there are things to consider beyond individual pieces themselves (if you want to construct a capsule wardrobe, for example!) the quality, fit, and style of our clothes are essential for an intentional collection.
With an endless supply of stores and online retailers available to us at all times, it’s not always easy to know where to shop. Let’s be honest – we’ve all bought something online that looked nothing like we thought it would! At the end of the day, while shopping can often feel like a gamble, there are trustworthy, reputable stores out there that you can rely on. Years of experience in the fashion space have given me plenty of time to find a variety of great options, from brands with different business models to ones with a mission.
With that in mind, I have curated a list of some of the best high-quality brands out there today! Catering to a wide audience and often focusing on truly classic, timeless styles, these top picks are loved around the world. No matter what your priorities are, there is a brand out there that is perfect for you – from the highest-quality pieces at a fair price to ethical brands that are focused on the planet.
Ready to find a great place to shop at? Let’s get into it.
Everlane
When it comes to modern elegance with a commitment to transparency, Everlane takes center stage. Established in 2010, the California-based brand prides itself on redefining what it means to produce high-quality clothing and follow ethical practices.
With a focus on timeless pieces, Everlane offers a curated collection of essentials that are made from premium materials like sustainable cotton, cashmere, and recycled fabrics. Their clothing pieces definitely stand out for quality and style, while their shoes are known for all-day comfort.
Self-titled “radical transparency,” their ethical approach includes a few things that make this brand stand out among its competitors. From using ethical factories to including the estimated production cost of their products on their website, Everlane seems to be committed to making real change.
For those thinking of investing in an item or two soon, rest assured that these well-made, high-quality pieces will hang around in your closet for a long time, bringing style, comfort, and a conscious impact on the planet!
Related: Everlane Sustainable Clothing Review | Good Basics for Your Wardrobe?
Madewell
For the free-spirited fashion enthusiast who appreciates quality craftsmanship, Madewell is a go-to brand. With a long history, Madewell was founded in 1937 as a workwear company, eventually evolving into making modern-day closet staples.
Though the brand offers hundreds of effortlessly cool and laid-back styles, Madewell’s signature denim has earned them a lot of fame over the years. Known to be exceptionally durable and feature a great fit, this specific piece has become a trademark style of the brand.
Also committed to sustainability, Madewell integrates both eco-friendly practices and social responsibility programs into their manufacturing process, making them a standout amongst quality clothing brands today.
Banana Republic
Combining sophistication and everyday wear, Banana Republic has earned its name as a high-quality clothing brand since its establishment in 1978. With a focus on modern, versatile pieces, this brand captures the essence of timeless elegance with its stunning styles.
Known specifically for their expert tailoring, Banana Republic offers a range of wardrobe essentials that effortlessly transition from different settings, while still being elevated through fabric, design, and fit. The brand’s dedication to premium materials and attention to detail ensures that each piece stands the test of time, embodying the spirit of enduring style we all know and love!
When browsing for clothing items on their website or in-store, you will not be hard-pressed to find imported Italian pieces, truly elevated closet staples, and stunning statement pieces that are sure to turn heads.
Eileen Fisher
For many, Eileen Fisher is synonymous with sustainable luxury and classic simplicity, and I’m here to show you why!
Offering truly clean silhouettes and timeless styles, this brand has got you covered from your tops and denims to your pajamas – and everything in between. Made from high-quality materials and featuring great fits, these pieces will warm their way into their closet in no time.
While it’s definitely up there, style isn’t the only priority at Eileen Fisher. Moving away from a linear model and towards a circular one, this East Coast brand is opting for regenerative, renewable, and recyclable fibers in their garments.
Combating the fast fashion industry one piece at a time, this ethical clothing brand produces truly high quality clothing that lasts; durable and able to be reused, these premium clothing pieces will stick around (one way or the other!) as its sustainable fabrics are able to be reused after years and years of use.
Quince
When looking for high-quality clothing brands with sustainable practices, Quince is among the best places for a one-stop shop. Flaunting attractive price tags and better pieces than you would find at any fast-fashion house, this clothing company might just win you over.
In the realm of “inexpensive” luxury, Quince stands out as a brand committed to providing premium quality at affordable price points. Advocating that everybody deserves access to luxury pieces, Quince has steered away from traditional pricing models by offering premium clothing at direct-to-consumer prices.
The brand’s approach has made for a clear success among customers, with thousands of rage reviews on their website proving that this model works on both ends of the spectrum.
The best part? With a focus on sourcing the finest materials, Quince truly doesn’t let its affordable prices interfere with its excellent quality wardrobe staples. From cashmere sweaters to silk and organic cotton pieces, this Bay Area brand offers a wide selection of clothing for men, women, and children, making it easy to find everything you’re looking for in one place without sacrificing style, breaking the bank, or compromising on quality.
J.Crew
J.Crew stands amongst the quintessential American brands, setting the standard for classic, quality fashion since 1983. Blending sophistication and casual comfort, J.Crew has become a true source of some of the best wardrobe staples out there.
Renowned for their impeccable tailoring and attention to detail, J.Crew offers beautiful garments that are perfect for elevating any look further into chic territory.
The brand’s commitment to enduring style ensures that each piece withstands fashion trends, embodying the essence of classic, high-quality fashion. From tailored blazers and lady jackets to denim and accessories, J.Crew is a mandatory stop on your next shopping trip!
Tory Burch
Tory Burch has captured the hearts of women worldwide with its distinctive blend of bohemian chic and timeless elegance. Founded in 2004, the luxury brand has become a symbol of effortless sophistication that offers a range of clothing, accessories, and footwear.
From iconic ballet flats to sophisticated handbags, Tory Burch’s creations embody a balance of classic design and contemporary flair. With a clear dedication to quality materials and meticulous detailing, the brand continues to be a favorite for women seeking enduring style with a touch of luxury.
Known largely for its high-end accessories such as shoes and handbags, this famous American brand also sells quality ready-to-wear clothing, perfect for any fashionistas looking to make a statement (or get their hands on premium staples!).
Uniqlo
Uniqlo is a Japanese clothing brand that is best known for its quality, minimalist pieces offered at an affordable price. They offer a wide range of basics that are perfect for everyday wear. Thanks to its Japanese roots, Uniqlo prides itself on using innovative materials and technology to create clothing that is both stylish and functional. Their pieces are designed to be comfortable and easy to wear, making them a great choice for anyone looking for versatile wardrobe staples.
One of the things that sets Uniqlo apart is its commitment to minimalism and simplicity. They believe in creating clothing that is timeless and can be worn season after season. This philosophy is reflected in their designs, which are clean and modern with a focus on quality and functionality.
But before you think that this clothing brand is synonymous with “boring”, Uniqlo regularly collaborates with other designers, most famously, French woman Ines de la Fressange. In these collabs, you can get the chic French look at a wallet-friendly price.
Overall, Uniqlo is a great option for those who value affordability and style in their clothing. With a wide range of pieces to choose from, they are a brand that you can rely on to update your wardrobe without breaking the bank.
& Other Stories
& Other Stories is a Swedish clothing brand that offers high-quality, fashion-forward pieces for women. They are known for their unique designs and attention to detail, creating clothing that is both stylish and sophisticated. & Other Stories prides itself on using sustainable materials and ethical production practices to create clothing that is not only fashionable but also eco-friendly.
One of the things that sets & Other Stories apart is their European roots. Their philosophy of timeless style is reflected in their designs, which are versatile and chic, meaning they’ll be well-loved in your wardrobe for many, many years.
& Other Stories is a great option for those looking for fashion-forward pieces that are also sustainable. With a wide range of unique and stylish designs to choose from, they are a brand that you can rely on to elevate your wardrobe and make a statement.
Reformation
JavaScript is currently disabled in this browser. Reactivate it to view this content.Founded in 2009, Reformation quickly gained fame over the years with its high-quality clothing pieces and a focus on eco-friendly internal practices. The brand’s designs, from flowy dresses to versatile tops, are tailored for the modern woman who values style and sustainability.
Though often marketed towards younger audiences, Reformation offers a great selection of high-quality garments that can work for anyone, from cardigans to dresses and everything in between!
Its fashion-forward approach, as well as conscious practices and materials, accurately represent the brand to its target customer: those who are searching for premium clothing with a purpose.
Ann Taylor
For the refined woman who seeks classic pieces and sophistication in her wardrobe, this quintessential American brand definitely makes the cut. Established in 1954, Ann Taylor has been a trusted style companion for many, always known to deliver premium garments with impeccable style.
Renowned for its tailored suits, elegant dresses, and versatile separates, Ann Taylor epitomizes timeless workwear with a touch of femininity. Crafted with attention to detail, Ann Taylor’s pieces are truly versatile, effortlessly transitioning from the boardroom to social events – exactly what a classic wardrobe is all about.
With a focus on enduring style and sophistication, the brand continues to be a go-to for women seeking high-quality wardrobe essentials.
Lands’ End
Lands’ End is a well-known American clothing brand that offers high-quality, classic pieces that are perfect for everyday wear. They are known for their durable and versatile apparel, including outerwear, sweaters, and accessories.
Though many might not think of this brand as “stylish”, they shouldn’t be overlooked, as Lands’ End prides itself on using high-quality materials and craftsmanship to create clothing that will last for years. Their pieces are designed to be both stylish and functional, making them a great choice for anyone looking for reliable wardrobe staples.
Lands’ End also has a commitment to sustainability. They have a number of initiatives in place to reduce their environmental impact, including using recycled materials in their products and minimizing waste in their operations. This dedication to sustainability is reflected in the quality of their clothing, as they strive to create pieces that are not only fashionable but also eco-friendly.
Lands’ End is a great option for those who value quality and sustainability in their clothing. With a wide range of timeless pieces to choose from, they are a brand that you can rely on for all of your wardrobe needs.
Jenni Kayne
Plenty talked about, Jenni Kayne is a high-end fashion brand known for its sophisticated and effortless style. Why do people love shopping here? Simply put, Jenni Kayne is a good place to shop because of its commitment to luxury materials and expert craftsmanship. Though it’s reflected in their clothing prices, the brand works with skilled artisans and factories to create high-quality garments using the finest materials available.
Whether you’re shopping for a sumptuously soft cashmere sweater (their best-seller) or a beautifully tailored coat, you can trust that each piece from Jenni Kayne is made with care and attention to detail.
In addition to their luxury materials and timeless designs, Jenni Kayne is also dedicated to sustainability. The brand uses eco-friendly materials and practices in its production process, ensuring that its clothing is made with minimal impact on the environment. Jenni Kayne also partners with organizations that support female artisans and entrepreneurs, empowering women and creating positive change in the fashion industry.
Frank & Eileen
Frank & Eileen is a popular clothing brand known for its luxurious and effortlessly chic tops and shirts. One of the main reasons why Frank & Eileen is a good place to shop is their commitment to using high-quality materials and ethical labor practices.
The brand sources its fabric from top Italian mills, ensuring that each garment is made with the finest materials available. Additionally, Frank & Eileen prioritizes the well-being of their workers, ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions in their factories. By shopping at Frank & Eileen, you can feel good knowing that you are supporting a brand that cares about the environment and ethical practices.
Though the clothes are not inexpensive by any means, here you’ll find versatile and timeless designs whether you’re shopping for a casual everyday top or a chic vacation look. Their classic button-up shirts and cozy sweaters are wardrobe staples that can be dressed up or down for any occasion.
This is the place for you if you value high-quality materials, timeless designs, and sustainability in your wardrobe.
Cuyana
Widely known for their quality leather handbags, Cuyana is now applying that same philosophy of “fewer, better” to their clothes.
Cuyana is worth having on your radar because of its commitment to quality craftsmanship and ethical manufacturing practices. The brand works with skilled artisans around the world, ensuring that each garment is made with care and expertise. Additionally, Cuyana only partners with factories that adhere to strict labor and environmental standards, ensuring that their clothing is produced ethically and sustainably.
Another reason to shop at Cuyana is their focus on creating timeless and versatile pieces that can be worn for years to come. The brand’s classic silhouettes and neutral color palette make it easy to mix and match their pieces for a cohesive and stylish wardrobe. Whether you’re looking for a tailored blazer for the office or a cozy sweater for the weekend, Cuyana has a wide range of options to choose from.
Brands to Consider
Though there have been reports of Aritzia’s quality diminishing over the years, they are refocusing their efforts on what has worked well for them. Known for their well-crafted pieces and contemporary designs, Aritzia’s pieces cater to the many needs of the modern woman. The brand provides women with enduring style options for every occasion.
Self-labeled “everyday luxury,” the Canadian brand offers a blend of classic and trendier pieces, often appealing to a younger customer base while still prioritizing versatile pieces.
From true wardrobe staples to the latest fashion styles, Aritzia caters to all who wish to buy clothes they can wear more than once.
This brand was once well-loved for its quality fabrics and timeless, yet fun silhouettes. Though some say the quality has diminished, it may be worth keeping on your radar.
Since its founding in 1993, Kate Spade New York has been a go-to brand for modern women, exuding sophistication and personality through its designs.
Blending classic designs and whimsical touches, the brand puts particular focus on quality craftsmanship, landing a spot as one of the best clothing brands today. Iconic for its handbags, Kate Spade New York extends its charm to a range of timeless accessories and unique clothing pieces, perfect for those who love the preppy style with an added layer of fun flair.
From playful prints to refined silhouettes, each piece exudes joy and enduring style, making Kate Spade a reliable choice for those seeking good quality clothing pieces that speak to their individual style.
How To Get the Most out of the Best Quality Clothing Brands
Identify Your Style
From this website to Instagram and Pinterest boards, the internet is a great resource to have when looking to narrow down your style preferences.
Besides searching for curated outfits beyond these brands themselves, it can also be a great idea to go directly onto their website for a quick browse. If you are able to, an even better idea is to go check them out in person! Getting a feel for the materials and fits of the garments can be a great point of reference when you are shopping at an online retailer in the future.
Need help discovering your personal style? I have a resource for you that will help you build your entire wardrobe from scratch!
Define Your Wardrobe Needs
Take a look at your lifestyle and daily activities – getting a sense of both what you want and what you need is a great way to identify the brand that most speaks to you!
Looking for something casual chic, or classic and sophisticated? Having even a general idea of the feel you’re after can go a long way in saving you time and stress when shopping.
Research the Brand’s Ethos
Over the years, sustainability and ethical fashion have become a priority for many clothing brands around the world. Helping the planet and resulting in more durable garments that will stay with us for years and years to come, these processes are essential for the positive growth of the fashion world today.
Doing some research into the brand’s mission statement and values can help you to align yourself with the brand’s values, adding a layer of meaning to your style choices that makes them even more special.
Assess Quality and Craftsmanship
Pay attention to the details! Even high-quality clothing brands like these sometimes produce some clothing items that are lacking. So whether in-store or when it arrives at your door, inspecting things like zippers, seams, stitching, and the fabric is a great way of actively searching for the quality of a piece.
Remember, higher quality and premium material will not only look and feel better, but it’ll also last a lot longer in your closet.
Consider Fit and Sizing
Oftentimes, brands will have fit specifications on items that are listed on their website. Things like “based on reviews, we recommend sizing up!” can be incredibly helpful when buying a new item you are not familiar with.
Even if special notes aren’t included, items will often have a fit & description section to describe how the item is intended to fall. Beyond looking at the pictures listed for the items, it’s also important to take note of this section when shopping!
Read Reviews
On a similar note, reviews are generally great indicators of the quality and fit of a piece. There, you can often find honest and specific feedback on an item – whether it runs big or small, if it’s see-through, and other important aspects that change from piece to piece.
Make sure to take a peak before you click “add to cart”!
Explore Versatility
While all of the brands on this post do great in this category, exploring versatility is a great general rule when shopping. Especially for those interested in classic styles and elevated wardrobe staples, actively searching for these kinds of pieces is helpful for ending up with what we’re really after.
Look for pieces that transition easily from casual to formal or from one season to another. Versatile brands often offer a broader range of styling options for their pieces as well, helping to maximize the utility of your wardrobe.
Check Return Policies
For those who prefer to shop online or don’t have the option of going into some of these stores, checking return policies is crucial. As I mentioned before, online shopping from an unfamiliar brand can feel like a gamble!
Even when purchasing a well-reviewed piece from a reputable brand, there can always be one reason or another that something doesn’t work for you. In that case, you want to be able to easily fulfill a return on your item. Thankfully, most brands today have great return policies that make it easy to switch out or return items, but it’s always good to double-check.
Wrapping Up the Best Quality Clothing Brands
Despite having many aspects in common, each of these brands offers their own version of premium quality clothing pieces and fashion sense. Whether you are exploring new styles, putting together your new streamlined wardrobe, or simply searching for some classic complementary pieces, these stores are great places to begin!
Prioritizing both sustainable practices, quality, and style, these fashion brands have earned their great reputation amongst consumers for years, and only seem to be going up from here.
In the same way that they are different in some aspects, all of the brands included in this list have one thing in common: fitting the universal standard of quality items that will add both value and versatility to your collection.
Interested in more sustainable brands? Keep reading: 14 Sustainable Clothing Brands That Make Clothes You’ll Always Want to Wear
