Aerie vs. Aeropostale: What's the difference?

Aerie is known for its focus on comfort, body positivity, and high-quality intimates and loungewear with inclusive sizing. In contrast, Aeropostale offers trendy, sporty, and highly affordable casual apparel like graphic tees and hoodies targeted primarily at a younger teen audience.

Let's compare these two popular brands to help you decide where to spend your money.

Aerie: The Leader in Comfort & Body Positivity

Owned by American Eagle Outfitters, Aerie has carved out a distinct identity by championing comfort, inclusivity, and unretouched marketing campaigns. The brand primarily serves teenagers and young adults who value self-expression and comfortable, well-fitting essentials. Aerie's "REAL" campaign, which promotes natural beauty standards, has deeply resonated with consumers seeking a positive and authentic brand experience.

• Product mix: The core of Aerie's collection is intimates, loungewear, and activewear. This includes a wide array of bras, underwear, sleepwear, leggings, and swimwear designed with soft, flexible materials.
• Price point: Prices are generally in the $10 to $50 range. Bras typically cost between $20 and $40, underwear is often sold in bundles but averages $8-$15 per pair, and popular leggings or joggers sit around the $40-$50 mark.
• Quality: Known for superior comfort, Aerie uses soft and durable fabrics like cotton, modal, and microfiber. The construction of its intimates and loungewear is designed for everyday wear and holds up well compared to fast-fashion alternatives.
• Sizing/Fit: Aerie is a leader in inclusive sizing, offering most items in sizes ranging from XS to 3X. Its commitment to body positivity is reflected in fits that are comfortable and flattering across a diverse range of body types.
• Sales: The brand runs frequent sales and promotions, with popular deals like "10 for $35" on underwear and seasonal discounts on swimwear and leggings.

Aerie is the go-to choice for high-quality, comfortable essentials, from intimates to activewear, backed by a strong message of inclusivity and body positivity.

Shop Aerie: ae.com/aerie

Aeropostale: The Hub for Sporty & Affordable Teen Fashion

Aeropostale has long been a staple in American malls, catering to teenagers and young adults with its trendy and highly affordable casual clothing. While its peak popularity was in the 2000s, it remains a go-to for shoppers seeking a youthful, sporty aesthetic without a high price tag. The brand's identity is built on accessible, trend-driven pieces like graphic tees, hoodies, and jeans that appeal to a budget-conscious, fashion-aware demographic.

• Product mix: Aeropostale's collection centers on casual apparel like graphic tees, logo hoodies, sweatshirts, jeans, and shorts. They also offer a smaller selection of accessories and basics.
• Price point: Price is a key selling point, with most items falling between $10 and $40. It's common to find graphic tees under $15 and hoodies or jeans under $30, especially during a sale.
• Quality: The quality is consistent with its fast-fashion price point. Fabrics are primarily standard cotton blends and polyester, designed more for current trends than long-term durability.
• Sizing/Fit: Sizing is more traditional, typically running from XS to XL with some extended options available online. Fits generally stay true to size for a junior's or young adult silhouette.
• Sales: Aeropostale is known for constant discounts, BOGO (buy-one-get-one) deals, and an extensive clearance section where shoppers can find deep savings.

Aeropostale remains a top contender for teen shoppers looking for sporty, on-trend clothing at some of the most competitive prices in the mall.

Shop Aeropostale: aeropostale.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Aerie or Aeropostale cheaper?

Aeropostale is generally cheaper. Its business model focuses on offering trendy apparel at very low prices, with frequent sales and deep clearance deals. While Aerie is still affordable, its prices are slightly higher to reflect better material quality and construction.

Which brand has better quality?

Aerie has significantly better quality clothing, especially in its core categories of intimates, loungewear, and activewear. Its fabrics are softer, more durable, and designed for superior comfort compared to Aeropostale's fast-fashion materials.

What is the main style difference between Aerie and Aeropostale?

Aerie's style is comfortable, cozy, and minimalist, with a focus on relaxed fits and soft colors. Aeropostale's style is sporty, youthful, and trendy, featuring bold graphic tees, logos, and vibrant colors aimed at a teen audience.

Does Aerie have more inclusive sizing?

Yes, Aerie has a much more inclusive size range, typically offering products from XS to 3X. Aeropostale's sizing is more traditional, mainly offering XS to XL.

Is Aerie owned by American Eagle?

Yes, Aerie is a sub-brand owned by American Eagle Outfitters, though it has grown into a major retailer with its own standalone stores and distinct brand identity.

What age group is Aeropostale for?

Aeropostale primarily targets teenagers and young adults, typically between the ages of 14 and 22. Its style and price point are tailored to high school and college students.

Which brand is better for back-to-school shopping?

It depends on your needs. For comfortable basics, leggings, and undergarments, Aerie is an excellent choice. For trendy, affordable outfits like graphic tees and jeans, Aeropostale would be better.

Which brand is more sustainable?

Aerie has a stronger and more public commitment to sustainability initiatives, including the use of recycled materials and ethical production goals. Its parent company, American Eagle Outfitters, regularly reports on its environmental and social goals.