Although online shopping may not provide the same instant gratification as walking out of a store with your purchases in hand, for many millennials it’s a more practical and popular option.
According to the National Retail Federation , online sales should increase from 10 to 12.5% this year. This upward trend is accompanied by a consensus among the younger generation that online shopping is easier and more convenient than sifting through overflowing racks of clothes that don’t fit you.
Keep reading if you’re not willing to bow down to the chaos at department stores. Together, let’s finally replace Sears with a digital alternative. Like one of the six incredible online stores below?
Showpo
Showpo, founded in September 2010 by Jane, a fashion-forward analyst, sells trendy clothes for low prices. They have girly clothes with a boho and contemporary flair.
Pros:
- Showpo is a popular Instagram account with more than 1.3 million fans. If I were to imagine any of these girls wearing top buns, and monogrammed necklaces in 14k gold, then they would be rocking top-buns.
- Showpo is inclusive and offers sizes ranging from 0-16.
- Orders over $50 qualify for free shipping. They charge $9 as a flat rate for all other orders.
- Register at Student Beans to unlock the 10% discount for students.
Product Reviews Rating: Items arrived in a few days! “I’m recommending Showpo now to my friends.” – Petra
Gymshark
Fit Leggings Black/White
The ideal Gymshark client is a fitness queen who also teaches baby goat yoga on weekends. Gymshark customers are those who prefer the idea of purchasing figure-hugging clothing to actually using it.
Pros:
- Showpo has a social media presence that is impressive. You’re not even close to the 2.1 million Instagram users that Showpo has.
- Gymshark offers a online outlet store.
- They’re not as compressive as you might think. This makes them perfect for lounging at home.
- With Student Beans, you can get a student discount.
Review: “Favorite Brand for Gym Wear!! I received a free replacement pair of leggings the following day after my damaged ones. Friendly staff and top service! The products are also incredible — they’re so comfortable, flexible, and attractive.” — Jasmine Archer
Athleta
The Athleta brand is a Gap subsidiary, making it the Gap of athleisure. It’s a wonderful emporium with high-quality basics at affordable prices.
Pros:
- Athleta clothing is available at Gap, Old Navy and Banana Republic.
- Free shipping on all orders above $50. All orders over $50 are eligible for free shipping.
- Athleta offers a “give it a workout” guarantee. If your item does not perform as advertised, you may return it free of charge. ( There are some exclusions .
Influenster Review: There. I said it. You know what? I’ve tried it and it worked! Their workout clothes and joggers are great. Although they don’t have the same durability as Lulu, I still think that it’s an excellent alternative if you cannot afford to buy the Mecca for all yoga clothing. It’s not cheap. “But the product is great!” — Nicole.
The product that I would wear every day: French Terry Pique Hoodie. It goes with everything.
Superdry
superdry is a British phenomenon that has taken America by storm. It combines vintage Americana and popular Japanese-inspired graphics. The product is as cool as the name suggests.
Pros:
- Superdry offers sizes up to 16 (whoo!) ).
- Use the promo code Super25 to get 25% off.
- Superdry offers a website support line.
Review: Trustpilot “Super Everything!! Superdry has delivered my three orders on time, or even earlier. The invoices inside are easy to read and are well-packaged. Superdry’s communication is great, they keep you informed about everything. The products are excellent, high quality and affordable (with a discount code!). )” — Mark Clements
Rookie Classic Military jacket. Both tough and durable.
Torrid
Torid is the ultimate plus-size shopping destination. Their collection is trendy and flattering.
Pros:
- Torrid offers free returns to the U.S. and free shipping from stores.
- Chrissy metz, This is Us star , recently wore a Torrid maxi gown during her appearance on The View.
- Shipping is flat-rate at only $6.
- The Torrid insider program gives you rewards when you shop at their website (e.g. $10 for every 200 points).
Influenster Review: This is my favorite store ever. Torrid has been my favorite store for more than 15 years. I used to travel two hours to reach the closest store after they closed all of the stores in the state. Plus size women can find a wide variety of stylish and practical clothes. “I can’t get over Torrid and I’m glad they’ve opened so many stores around the country.” — Cory B.
Uniqlo
This Japanese casual wear retailer was founded in 1949 and is known for its affordable prices and unisex designs. Uniqlo clothing is simple and innovative. It’s also easy to purchase online.
Pros:
- Uniqlo’s emphasis on sustainability benefits the entire world. Since 2006, their All Product Recycling Initiative donated over 10,000,000 clothes to people in need.
- All online Uniqlo purchases can be picked up at the store for free.
- Sign up for emails and you will get a piece of Uniqlo AIRism cooling innerwear.
Influenster Review: I think Uniqlo has a better quality than Old Navy. All of your basic items (shirts, khakis and underwear, pjs and jackets) are available in better quality fabrics. Uniqlo’s Ultra Light Down is my favorite feature. The items are all compact and easy to carry (great for traveling), with insulation that will keep you warm. Their prices are very reasonable for the quality you get.” — Danielle C.
I’ve had this dream for years: Easy-Bra Dress with Short Sleeves. Who doesn’t like already padded dresses. !
ASOS
You’re missing the largest online fashion retailer in the world if you haven’t heard of Asos. This British company ships to more than 140 countries and sells over 800 brands, making it a huge influence for young adults worldwide.
Pros:
- Asos is offering a student discount.
- Their website, which is always evolving, uses augmented-reality for displaying clothing on various body types.
- The sizes range from 00 up to 26.
Influenster Review: I’ve ordered from ASOS so many times and their products have always been so unique. They also fit my style. After ordering shoes, I ordered more and then a few pieces of high-street clothing. My packages are always delivered before I expected, and they arrive so quickly! Asos, thank you! You’re the best online shop! Keep up the good job!” — Liliana B.
Thoughts?
Do you prefer shopping in a department or online store? What are your favourite online retailers? Please share with us your favorite online retailers.
