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If you’re looking into affordable and trendy clothing options then you probably need little introduction to PacSun. They are one of the go-to companies for clothes that capture the here-and-now.
Shopping from PacSun is akin to diving headfirst into the zeitgeist pool. They have their finger so tightly on the pulse of modern trends that they’re nearly controlling it.
However, it’s possible that you slipped onto this article looking to learn more about the clothing brand.
If that’s the case then keep reading to find out which stores like PacSun are out there. We won’t be covering rip-off, discount brands ala SunPac, PackedSun, or even Packs of Sun. No, this article will examine other clothing stores like PacSun that sell hypnotic apparel at modest prices.
Overview of PacSun
PacSun boasts over 40 years of experience in the fashion industry. Their name is most commonly associated with skater culture and streetwear due to their humble beginnings in California.
The brand has grown into a more affordable alternative to other high-price point fashion companies. Their products include t-shirts, sweaters, hoodies, flannels, jeans, trousers, sneakers, and so much more.
They’ve earned quite an impressive following too. Their Instagram page boasts over 2.5m followers. Many of their items carry the laidback yet high culture vibes of Los Angeles.
Speaking of high culture, PacSun reached a level of unmatched cultural relevancy when they collaborated with sisters Kylie and Kendall Jenner in 2012 to produce and distribute a fashion line.
But if you’re looking for stores like PacSun it’s probably because you want more companies with some of their pros and less of their cons. What are we talking about? Keep reading and we’ll fill you in on some of the company’s highlights:
Highlights
- Wide range of trendy clothing items for men and women
- Offer international shipping to many countries
- More than 400 stores across the United States
- Constantly rotating selection of discounted items available
- An extensive list of celebrity collaborators like A$AP Rocky and the Jenner sisters
How We Chose The Best Stores Like PacSun
You probably want us to reveal the process behind our selection of the best stores like PacSun. Luckily for you, we’re not magicians. We’ll happily reveal our tricks.
Selecting which clothing stores like PacSun were best suited for our list came to a few criteria points. It wasn’t enough for a store to simply sell clothes similar to PacSun’s. Just like how you demand more from what brings you joy in life, we demanded more from our selections.
Our list expands beyond simply online stores like PacSun or cheap stores like PacSun or even cheap, online stores like PacSun. That’s because there’s more that goes into a brand than novelty and clothing.
Here are the criteria behind our inclusions in this article.
Price
It wasn’t enough for us to include cheap stores like PacSun, otherwise, we’d link to several different Alibaba accounts and call it a day.
We selected stores that orbited similar price ranges to PacSun with similar product qualities and materials. That way your dollar would be going similar distances whether it was spent at PacSun or elsewhere.
Style
PacSun draws influence from modern fashion trends like streetwear, skater culture, workwear, and surfer wear. These diverse inspirations mean that there are plenty of stores like PacSun but none that are the exact same as them.
Keep in mind that many of the brands we’ve included in this article usually err towards a singular component of PacSun’s signature style without outright aping it.
Quality
Clothing quality goes deeper than thread counts and well-woven fabrics. It also includes how the fabrics are manufactured, where they come from, and how ethically they are sourced.
With those components in mind, we opted to select stores that produced clothing of similar quality and practices as PacSun.
Selection
Some of the brands we’ve included (like Vans, for example) are chiefly known for a certain product. However, we didn’t select any brands because they had one item that was similar to one item that PacSun sells.
The stores we deemed worthy of inclusion here all produce a wide range of clothing items and accessories. Each brand’s offerings are distinct yet can scratch a similar itch that PacSun does.
Convenience
One of PacSun’s largest advantages is its convenience. The brand is available in over 400 stores in America and offers international shipping.
It’s difficult to match that level of customer outreach, but the stores like PacSun that we’ve selected go the extra mile for their clients. That includes features like quick delivery times, free shipping, or wide product distribution.
Diversity & Inclusion
It’s about time that the corporate fashion world recognizes that not everyone is a white, skinny, able-bodied fashion consumer. More brands are adopting diverse policies both in front of the camera and in the board of directors.
You should keep your ears perked for any company that goes the extra mile to include diversity in their approach or that redirects their profits towards groups and services that act to improve corporate inclusivity. The best way to be an ally is to give back, and some of these brands allow you to do so by supporting their businesses.
Now that we’ve taken care of those considerations, it’s time to begin our list of the best stores like PacSun.
13 Best Stores Like PacSun
These are our picks for the best retail clothing alternatives to PacSun. Each of them captures at least one of the key components we just mentioned.
The lesser person would quickly glance through these stores and think, “Wow, cool,” then shut their brains off. However, we invite you to think deeper about each entry on our list. Think about the differences and similarities you find between these stores and PacSun.
Remember, it’s only through reflection that we grow and learn. Many of these companies have learned, grown, reflected on themselves, and improved over time.
#1 – Tillys
Our first entrant on this list is Tillys. This is a streetwear-focused company that has the same affinity for skater culture as PacSun.
Their products are something the world’s largest Tyler, the Creator fan would sport. That means they sell skateboarding shoes, bold graphic tees, and lots of floral prints. Tilly is also notable for their collaborations with brands like Vans, Nike, and Brixton.
Their prices orbit a similar range as PacSun’s, but what may sway some would-be purchasers is their sustainability shop. This is the section of their website that only features products from companies with sustainable practices.
That alpha mindset is what makes Tillys a great modern proxy for PacSun fans.
#2 – Forever 21
Forever 21’s inclusion here might surprise some readers, but hear us out. Yes, their pieces aren’t as flashy as PacSun’s, but their rapid adoption of modern shapes, wide availability, and agreeable prices designate them as a fine alternative.
This company’s items are more timeless in design (pun intended). You won’t find as many bold graphics as you will interesting patterns, daring shapes, and well-selected fabrics.
Forever 21, like PacSun, was born in Los Angeles but their style is closer to The Hills than The Lords of Dogtown. They’ve extended their breezy California aesthetic across the world through their numerous international outlets.
In terms of sustainability, they just wrapped up their holiday collaboration with Tree Canada in which they planted a tree for every $50 customers spent on online orders. That’s definitely a step in the right direction in terms of giving back to the environment.
#3 – ASOS
This company is an online marketplace that produces their own clothes as well as items from Nike, Dr. Martens, Carhartt WIP, Tommy Hilfiger, and more. Their huge selection of clothes ranges from minimalist basics to maximalist flexes.
That’s partially due to how large their product line is. They boast one of the biggest available wardrobes of all the online stores like PacSun. Their prices can skew a bit higher because of their numerous collaborations, international shipping options, and selected fabrics.
ASOS’ biggest advantage is their lines of clothing that are tailored for specific body types. These offerings set them apart from other stores like PacSun. They put diversity front and center by promoting their ASOS Tall and ASOS Plus Size men’s collections with POC models.
This body diversity is even larger for their women’s clothing. These are the different body fits they sell:
- ASOS Petite
- ASOS Tall
- ASOS Maternity
- ASOS Curve & Plus Size
#4 – Urban Outfitters
If we’re talking style then Urban Outfitters is the closest analog to PacSun. They’ve forged their name in the fashion game by quickly adopting emerging trends and delivering them to customers.
Urban Outfitters is more expensive than PacSun but their pieces tend to last a good amount of time. The only downside is that because they’re in touch with modern trends, their garments may survive longer than the style.
You can take comfort in the fact that they also sell wardrobe essentials of noteworthy quality.
These pieces are available through their brick-and-mortar stores as well as through online orders. Oh, did we mention that Urban Outfitters ships internationally? We should probably tell you that too.
#5 – Aeropostale
When we say that Aeropostale’s catalog is safer than some of the other stores like PacSun, we mean it as a compliment. They have the requisite graphic tees, distressed denim, and athleisure that are all the rage these days, but their shapes and fits are conventional.
That makes them a good choice for people who want a contemporary look without diving too deep into oversized clothing. Their prices are worth mentioning too, as they’re one of the most affordable brands on this list.
Aeropostale’s graphic designs frequently feature recognizable characters like Rick and Morty, Reptar from Rugrats, and Spongebob Squarepants. As charming as these collaborations are, we can’t speak much for the brand’s sustainable practices.
They don’t seem to publish much about how they’re striving to keep their manufacturing green or how they’re promoting diversity, which can be a knock against them.
#6 – Abercrombie
If you’re looking for the basics done right then there’s no better store than Abercrombie. Actually, they’re in the midst of a cultural renaissance at the moment. Their simple yet reliable clothes are earning praise for being some of the best minimal offerings around.
Abercrombie has come under fire in the past for their prices, but nowadays their price tags aren’t too different from other stores like PacSun.
Speaking of culture, Abercrombie has been making bold moves to increase their corporate diversity and inclusivity. They strive for open communication between all parties in areas of cultural sensitivity, representation, and community activity.
They also publish their gender pay gap online so you can study how evenly they distribute compensation.
#7 – Hollister
Hollister often gets lumped in with its sister company Abercrombie but this bird flies on the strengths of its own wings. They aim for a younger demographic and deliver less expensive clothing.
The company has an entire collection dedicated to celebrating LGBTQ+ pride. Their Pride is Power line features pieces from GLSEN, an organization striving to make schools a safer environment for young queer people.
Hollister covers plenty of bases with their offerings. They sell everything from jeans to outerwear, lounging clothes to undergarments, and athletic wear to gaming wear. They’re a youth-focused company that empowers adolescents by providing them the style to express themselves.
#8 – Roxy
While many stores like PacSun sell clothes that are great for outdoor activities, none of them quite capture the feeling of the great outdoors like Roxy. This brand develops garments for all walks of nature, from beaches to snowy mountaintops.
Roxy is a women’s fashion company that produces all manner of garments, even pieces PacSun dare not make, including the following:
- Rompers
- Bodysuits
- Purses
- Swimwear
The folks at Roxy further distinguish themselves by offering discounts for military personnel and first responders. It’s nice to learn about a company that makes women’s clothing that rewards female enlistees in programs where women were oftentimes shunned.
#9 – American Eagle
You only have to look at this brand’s name to know their style. We could spell it out for you but that’d rob you of the gift of inference!
American Eagle is best known for their affordable and reliable jeans – a classic American item. They’ve also earned praise as one of the best producers of women’s undergarments with their Aerie line.
But if you think that this brand only sells jeans and panties then you’re missing the forest for the trees. Their line-up includes thick flannels, activewear, delectable tops and bottoms, and more. All their items have a varsity attitude, separating this brand from others on this list.
Price-wise, American Eagle is in good company here. They frequently have sales on their website and their in-person locations. You can find American Eagle stores throughout Canada and the United States.
#10 – Vans
Skater-this, skater-that, you’re probably wondering how many times we’re going to mention stores like PacSun and Zumiez before we highlight the Mecca of affordable skateboarding garments, Vans.
Well, wait no longer! This company has flourished in the past decade thanks to their Vans Old School’s incredible popularity as well as collaborations with Tyler, the Creator, Fear of God, and Supreme.
Since they’re primarily a skateboarding brand, their products are tough. They’re built to endure the falls, scrapes, and bruises that come with the sport’s territory. However, they also have the laidback vibe associated with skateboarding.
A solid pair of Vans sneakers can last you years. Actually, their best products improve the more they get beaten. There’s something about the canvas top and gummy bottoms that looks better the more punishment it endures.
Is that a metaphor for how the human soul can only grow through pain? Don’t ask us, we’re just here to recommend our favorite stores like PacSun, not philosophize about the nature of man.
#11 – Zumiez
Zumiez products are so loud that your ears can hear them. This is the PacSun alternative to turn to if you want bold graphics, bombastic designs, bright colors, and youthful patterns.
That’s the best thing about Zumiez, actually. Every one of the items, which mostly cost less than $100, has a youthful vigor. There’s a blend of adolescence, freedom, and energy behind the items hanging on a Zumiez rack.
That adrenaline extends into their prosocial actions too. Zumiez partners with organizations like Rock the Vote and Voto Latino to not only encourage young people to voice their opinion but to dismantle barriers that prevent BIPOC people from registering to vote.
They also established the Zumiez Foundation to inspire local action in their shoppers. The foundation donates winter clothing to those in need and urges their workers to find ways to support their communities.
#12 – Billabong
Billabong supersedes the stereotypical caricature of the average surfer. You know what we’re talking about: the perpetually zoned-out dude with sandy blonde hair and aspirations to spend their entire lives buried in the sand.
The type of guy who says, “that’s rad” when you tell him about your new job promotion, or says “cowabunga” before diving into an extra-large pizza. We’re definitely not verging on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle territory here.
They make refined clothing ideal for outdoor sports like surfing, skiing, and snowboarding. They imbue all their items with the wanderlust nascent to these outdoor adventurous activities.
There’s a degree of maturity to Billabong’s clothing that other stores like PacSun sometimes lack.
Billabong has been increasing their environmental and equality awareness over the past decade. More and more of their products are made with recycled materials. They also ensure that all their beach products are eco-conscious.
What does that mean? It means that they use fibers and fabrics that are safer for the environment, sometimes even reusing plastic water bottles.
They do all of this while keeping their prices affordable. A standard Billabong tee costs $26, which is about the same as you’d pay at most other stores like PacSun.
#13 – Romwe
The last store we’ll cover in this list is Romwe, which has quite a distinct branding. They promote coolness and uniqueness over everything. And what’s cooler than cool? Ethical business practices.
On that note, Romwe holds their suppliers to binding agreements wherein they must adhere to the strictest of fair treatment standards.
We’d normally admonish any company that cracks a whip this hard, but it seems Romwe ensures that nobody is doing any whip cracking in regards to production values.
But back to the clothing. Cool is the name of the game here. Romwe’s designs include rambunctious tie-dyed designs, high-waisted jeans, and punk attitudes. Romwe definitely aims for a younger demographic, evidenced by how zany some of their products are.
We’re talking shirts with designs of aliens smoking weed, Japanese kaiju monsters, and edgy gothic prints.
They ship internationally, meaning you can grab one of their brash products from most countries.
What Age Groups are Stores like PacSun for?
The more minimally-designed stores like PacSun are great for any age group. Teens, young adults, and parents can find products that’ll only improve their wardrobe through brands like ASOS, Abercrombie, and American Eagle.
The great thing about stores like PacSun is that some are best-suited for the most fashionably minded of all demographics: teens.
Hollister, Zumiez, and Romwe are all our top picks for those who aren’t old enough to drink, drive, or vote (and certainly not all three at once). That’s because these stores cater to younger markets through their designs and lower price tags.
Which Stores like PacSun are the Most Affordable?
None of the stores featured on this list will have you debating whether you can afford next month’s rent. They’re all decently affordable at the very least. Many have deep catalogs of discounted clothing while others regularly have sales and savings opportunities.
ASOS is our recommendation for the most affordable brand here because of their products’ quality per dollar. Looking at the numbers may not reveal that they’re the quote-unquote “cheapest” available option, but you can’t knock the integrity of their clothing.
If you’re looking for stores like PacSun that have the lowest price points in general then turn your eyes towards Romwe and Forever 21. The latter is especially affordable if you consider that most of their products are relatively basic. That means you can get more versatility and wear out of them.
Which Stores like PacSun have the most Inclusive Size Ranges?
Again, ASOS is the most obvious answer here. They have multiple lines dedicated to specific body types. These lines incorporate multiple fits, lengths, and fabrics.
In fact, while conducting research for this article, some of our writers were upset that they were too short or too small for the items ASOS develops for plus-sized customers.
Vans is another solid selection for inclusive size ranges. This is partially because skater culture as a whole skews towards baggier fits and oversized shirts. That means that people with larger bodies may feel more at ease sifting through Vans’ clothing racks.
Many stores like PacSun are slowly widening their offerings to be more inclusive towards people who don’t fit conventional clothing standards. Some brands are slower at integrating this practice than others, but the ones who adopt this mindset often do so subtly.
We’re saying that instead of developing an entire collection for plus-sized customers they’ll use strategies like elongating the pieces or using more relaxed fabrics.
Final Thoughts
While there are no stores like PacSun that 100% capture the brand’s appeal, that’s not the point of this article. If you wanted to shop at a store that was exactly like PacSun then you could just – crazy idea here – shop at PacSun.
The beauty of finding alternatives is not seeing the similarities between companies, but discovering the differences. Some people are drawn to PacSun because of their designs but don’t like their practices. In that case, there are plenty of online stores like PacSun that may better suit that customer’s ethical requirements.
We can’t decide which of these stores is perfect for you, dear reader. You have your own tastes, biases, and desires, and we celebrate that. Our goal with this article was to inform you of the best stores like PacSun.
Picture this like a parent packing a lunch for their child; we’re not forcing you to eat the food, but we’re providing you with the healthiest options so that you can make your own decision.
You can spend your lunch money on pizza and fries, or you could eat the delicately-prepared kale orzo salad we slaved over.
When looking into each of these brands consider how their prices, social practices, styles, accessibility, and overall aesthetic align with your desires.
We’ve got plenty more where that came from. Check out some of our other articles on store alternatives:
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