10 Places to Shop If You’re Misty-Eyed About the Demise of Wet Seal
It's official—Wet Seal, one of our all-time favorite clothing stores for on-trend, affordable fashion and accessories, is closing all of its stores.
After 55 years in the industry and 171 remaining locations, Wet Seal, formerly known as Lorne's before its 1990 makeover, is hanging up the "closed" sign for good.
This is sad news in the world of teen fashion, not only because the brand carried cute and contemporary looks, but also because it was a store that truly understood our budget at an age where no one really seems to get us.
While no one will quite be able to replace the now-gaping spot in our hearts, check out these 10 other relatively similar stores below that can help patch up the gap in the form of retail therapy.
Uniqlo
Uniqlo is great for casual basics and, for lack of better words, unique statement tees. Whether you're a fan of solid color sweaters or enjoy splashing your wardrobe with pop-culture artists, this Japanese brand offers both at an affordable cost. Personally speaking, we adore their Disney collection.
Forever21
Classic. We don't quite know where we would be without Forever21 providing the perfect on-trend staple or last minute party dress. But F21 wasn't always a go-to shop. Back in the day the store was like a color-coded rainbow that wrapped the store in basic jersey dresses and plain cotton t-shirts. Not exactly fashion-forward. But today, we can't help but pop into every F21 we see. It's like the Starbucks of the fashion world!
Cotton On
Cotton On is an Australian company that provides a simple, yet edgy, take on wardrobe basics. At this shop you'll find the perfect pieces for a snuggly overcast coffee date, to a wanderlust music festival experience. But maybe the best thing about this store is that you can give back by shopping the Cotton On Foundation, where 100% of the accessory proceeds help support educational causes in Uganda.
Love Culture
Love Culture looks are inspired by celeb styles, Fashion Week and rap lyrics. You'll find everything from athletic yoga pants to satin bomber jackets. Whatever it is you're looking for, this shop operates under a super positive mantra, so you know that when you enter their doors you'll find a wide variety of trendy looks to help you stand out as an unique individual within your girl gang.
Charming Charlie
While Charming Charlie carries it all, from apparel to accessories, we come for the jewelry and shop till we drop for the prices. This shop is all about color, creativity and classics, so you're bound to find everything you're looking for and more. Whether you're picking out a treat yo' self choker for you or an understated necklace for your mom, a piece from Charlie is sure to charm.
H&M
H&M is perhaps the best store to shop alongside your BF as their Men's selection is just as trendy as the Women's. This shop carries the perfect fashionable staples for school, weekend adventures, nights out and professional pieces for your first job interview. Basically, they have something for every occasion.
Angl
While Angl—pronounced angle rather than angel—is primarily a California shop, that shouldn't stop the rest of the country from browsing its online collection! This boutique offers clothing that will dazzle. You'll want to hit up this fashion staple if you're spending a romantic night at a hip restaurant or attending the concert of your life.
Windsor
Dresses, dresses and more dresses. Windsor is the must stop shop for any dress-worthy occasion, from prom to brunch. With impressive variety, this store is just as much fun to window shop as it is to browse inside.
Charlotte Russe
Charlotte Russe understands that you're a student first and an entrepreneurial babysitter second. But just because we're rolling in homework rather than dough doesn't mean our wardrobe should suffer for it! We totally dig this brand, which is equal parts edgy, elegant and economical.
Brandy Melville
Brandy Melville is made for the '90s beach baby inside of us. High-waisted, simple, oversized and just the right touch of grunge makes this shop perfect for the girl who likes to keep things classic while maintaining a fresh new sense of style.
If fashion is pretty much all you think about, style and design may be in your future. Read what steps young fashion designer, Alexia Maria, says you can take towards becoming a professional designer HERE.