How to shop the latest trends on a budget in 2021

2020 was crazy. Crazy enough that the nation stayed at home – sheltering in place one week, then another, and another…until you wake up one day realizing you wore the same jogger outfit a few days in a row, when before, that would have been an atrocity. If this sounds familiar, just know you’re not alone. I’ve definitely thrown on a nice blazer over my worn-in sweatsuit just to look presentable for meetings!

The pandemic suddenly took how we work, socialize, and live out our personal lives – and confined it within our homes. Even though life may never be the same, a year later, we’ve adjusted with new routines and even changed the course of fashion trends.

Now that we’re well into 2021, can you reflect on how your fashion has changed? While more loungewear is a popular answer, you may be considering something else more than ever – saving money! While prioritizing budgeting is more top-of-mind than ever, fashionistas are looking for ways to shop their favorite trends while sticking to affordable prices. Analyzing research as well as data from over 3 million reviewers, consumer protection platform Sitejabber found the top budget-friendly fashion brands of 2021.

So, where did shoppers report finding the best deals for the latest trends? While prices vary across each site, we’ve listed the top eight brands in order of (generally) how low the prices are, with the cheapest at the end. Check out these sites to stay stylish while shopping smart!

Lulus

According to reviewers, Lulus stands out from this list primarily because of one thing you don’t hear much about when it comes to fast fashion – good quality. From the aesthetically pleasing website to well-tracked shipping to the quality compared to the lower costs, shopping with Lulus will likely provide you a pleasant shopping experience. Lulus is also best known for their event-wear, especially their dresses. For elegant rompers, cocktail, bridesmaid, and wedding guest dresses, Lulus could be your next go-to! And if you’re feeling adventurous for your wedding day, Lulus also has a line of beautiful wedding dresses you can order online.

ASOS

Sophistication, fresh off the runway, trending brands – need we say more? ASOS hosts many unique brands with looks that are perfect for street style. You can find many environment-conscious and sustainable pieces here, and filter your shopping by those too. ASOS also produces its own line, which includes high fashion-looking pieces at a more affordable price range. While clothing from ASOS can sometimes be expensive, they have a wide range of prices from less than twenty dollars to a couple hundred. ASOS has so many options, and you’re likely to find what you’re looking for within your budget.

Tobi

Tobi exploded onto the fast fashion scene in 2010, becoming extremely popular early on. Tobi regularly releases lots of cute pieces every season that can be described as having an overall feminine flair. Reviewers typically shop on Tobi for casual outfits, including cheap dresses, crop tops, sweaters, and pants. Tobi is especially popular with young women, with many shopping on Tobi for events like graduation. Keep an eye out for their 50% off sales that occur very often, so you don’t miss out on the best price.

Zara

Out of all the brands on this list, you might be most familiar with Zara. A household name, Zara’s popularity stretches across the globe. Zara has over 2,000 stores worldwide, and although it was founded back in 1974, it is trending perhaps now more than ever. Zara’s image-focused website looks very artistic, showcasing each collection like it’s high fashion. With Zara’s timeless basics and powerful business attire, you just might look like you’re wearing a luxury outfit!

Nasty Gal

Next, we have the Los Angeles brand, Nasty Gal. Looking to get your party on? Nasty Gal has got some night-out outfits for you. Shoppers love the brand for their party dresses (especially slip dresses), platform shoes, and bikinis, too. You can find plenty of on-trend and picture-ready casual outfits here as well. Nasty Gal is a subsidiary of Boohoo, another fast-fashion site you can check out with more outfit choices.

Missguided

Headquartered in the UK, Missguided is another trendy fashion brand popular in Europe and now, across the world. Missguided provides lots of options and often collaborates with other brands and celebrities to create fun new lines. You can find fashion-forward coats, swimsuits, and outfits for the season. Missguided is also commonly shopped on for its evening dresses, like slinky silk slips, elegant gowns, little black dresses, and more. Like many of the other brands on this list, Missguided often goes on site-wide sales, so you might want to keep an eye out for those before you purchase.

Fashion Nova

Taking social media by storm, next, we have Fashion Nova. Partnering with celebrities like Cardi B, the Kardashians, as well as many social media influencers, Fashion Nova has made a name for itself as an icon in trendy fast fashion. Fashion Nova is particularly inclusive with its chic fashion lines for extended sizing, which you can find in the “curve” section of the website. The brand is well known for its jeans and body-con dresses, but tons of shoppers also rave about their trendy shoes and the fashion-forward line for men.

Shein

While Shein is a controversial site, it has begun to grow into its own brand. The main reason why people shop there – being able to find absolutely anything for the lowest prices. Whatever is on-trend, you’ll likely find it on Shein. They have everything, including clothing for all ages, pets, and even home supplies. For the lowest prices to get a quick fashion fix (or even purchasing a haul like thousands of YouTubers), Shein is a top choice.

Discount fashion is more accessible than ever. Not only are clothes more affordable than ever, but brands are also keeping up with all the new looks you see on Instagram, celebrities, and more, so you won’t need to break the bank. With these top-rated brands, you’ll be able to shop the latest trends on a budget all throughout 2021 and beyond.