Bershka vs. H&M: Which brand should you buy? [2026]

Bershka is laser-focused on trendy, edgy streetwear for a younger audience, while H&M caters to a broader demographic with a mix of versatile basics, work-appropriate pieces, and a much stronger emphasis on sustainability. Bershka is where you go for the latest micro-trend or festival outfit, whereas H&M is the destination for building a more timeless and eco-conscious wardrobe on a budget.

Let's compare them directly to help you decide which fast-fashion giant is the right fit for your closet and your wallet.

Bershka: The Trendy Streetwear Destination

As part of the Inditex group that also owns Zara, Bershka targets teens and young adults with fashion that is bold, vibrant, and always on-trend. Its aesthetic is heavily influenced by current youth culture, music, and streetwear, making it a go-to for shoppers who want daring styles without the high price tag. The brand excels at creating statement pieces meant for social outings, concerts, and making an impression.

• Product mix: A trend-forward assortment of womenswear and menswear, including oversized hoodies, graphic tees, cargo pants, mini dresses, and statement outerwear. It also carries a wide range of accessories and chunky footwear to complete the look.
• Price point: Very affordable, with most items falling into the $15 - $60 range. Expect to find basic tops under $20 and jackets or dresses for around $50-$60.
• Style & Aesthetic: Rebellious, youthful, and energetic. The brand is known for its of-the-moment styles, from Y2K revivals to edgy, grunge-inspired looks and vibrant festival wear.
• Fit & Sizing: Generally fits true to size, but some of the more fashion-forward or fitted items can run small. It's a good idea to consult the size guide, especially when ordering online. The brand focuses on standard sizing ranges.
• Return policy: Bershka typically offers a 30-day return window for online and in-store purchases, with details available on its website.

Bershka is built for the young, trend-driven shopper who wants to experiment with of-the-moment styles without a major financial investment.

Shop Bershka: bershka.com

H&M: The Versatile & Sustainable Favorite

H&M is a global fashion giant known for its incredibly broad appeal, offering something for everyone - from women and men to teenagers and children. Its strength lies in its diverse product range that covers everything from foundational wardrobe basics to eye-catching seasonal trends and formal workwear. The brand has also made a very public commitment to sustainability, which is a key differentiator in the fast-fashion space.

• Product mix: Extensive options across all categories: casual wear (jeans, t-shirts), professional attire (blazers, trousers), activewear, and even celebrity and designer collaborations. Products are designed for a wide range of ages and lifestyles.
• Price point: Highly accessible, with basics starting as low as $10-$15 and most core items priced between $20 and $50. Its frequent sales offer even deeper discounts.
• Style & Aesthetic: A balanced mix of classic, timeless styles and current trends. H&M's aesthetic is generally more mature and versatile than Bershka's, making it suitable for both casual and professional settings.
• Fit & Sizing: Known for having one of the most inclusive sizing charts in fast fashion, offering a consistent fit along with dedicated petite and plus-size ranges for a better customer experience.
• Sustainability: A leader in the fast-fashion industry on this front. Initiatives like the "Conscious Collection" use organic cotton and recycled materials, and the company has set clear goals for climate positivity and supply chain transparency.

H&M is the ideal choice for shoppers seeking stylish, affordable clothing for the whole family, with a strong focus on everyday essentials and sustainable practices.

Shop H&M: hm.com

Bershka vs. H&M Comparison

Style & Aesthetic

This is the most significant difference between the two. Bershka is undeniably youth-focused, with a brand identity built around streetwear, clubwear, and bold, internet-driven trends. Its collections are full of baggy fits, vibrant colors, cutouts, and graphic prints designed to be seen.

H&M offers a much broader and more classic aesthetic. While it certainly follows trends, its primary offerings are versatile pieces that can be seamlessly integrated into most wardrobes. You can find a professional blazer, comfortable lounge sets, basic knitwear, and a trendy seasonal dress all in one place. It serves a wider age range and more diverse style preferences.

Price Comparison

Both brands operate on the affordable end of the fashion spectrum, but their value propositions differ. Prices are generally comparable, with most items sitting in the sub-$60 category. H&M, however, often provides better value on wardrobe basics like cotton tees, classic jeans, and knit sweaters due to its emphasis on more durable, everyday fabrics.

Bershka's pricing is aligned with its trend-cycle business model, where styles are not necessarily designed for long-term wear. H&M's frequent sales and successful loyalty program can also make its already accessible price point even more attractive.

Quality & Materials

H&M generally has the upper hand when it comes to quality. Through its "Conscious" collection and sustainability pushes, the brand has invested in using higher quality, durable materials like organic cotton, Lyocell, and recycled polyester. Its basic items, in particular, tend to hold up well over time.

Bershka utilizes typical fast-fashion materials designed to capture a look at a low cost. Fabrics may be lighter and less resilient, which is suitable for trendy pieces that you don't expect to wear for multiple seasons but less ideal for foundational wardrobe items.

Fit & Sizing

For shoppers looking for a more inclusive size range, H&M is the clear winner. The brand provides consistent, true-to-size fits across most of its collections and offers dedicated plus-size and petite lines. Its "Find Your Size" tool online is also quite reliable.

Bershka's sizing is more standard and can sometimes run small, especially in pieces with a tighter 'going out' fit. While generally true to size for its oversized streetwear styles, shoppers on the curvier or more petite ends of the spectrum might find H&M's range more accommodating.

Sustainability & Ethics

H&M is significantly more advanced in its sustainability efforts. With public commitments to becoming climate positive by 2040, detailed supply chain information, and aggressive use of recycled materials, H&M is actively trying to address its environmental impact. While still a fast-fashion company, its efforts are notable and transparent.

Bershka and its parent company Inditex have incorporated more sustainable materials and practices, but they are not as central to the brand's identity or marketing as they are for H&M. If environmental and ethical considerations are a top priority, H&M is the superior choice.

Shopping Experience

Both brands offer strong e-commerce sites and physical stores globally. H&M stores are often larger and more department-like, with clear sections for men, women, Divided (teens), and kids. The website is very easy to navigate with great filters.

Bershka stores have a more curated, boutique feel, with music and visuals aimed at creating a cool, youthful atmosphere. The online experience is similarly image-driven and trendy but can sometimes be a bit less intuitive for finding specific items compared to H&M's straightforward layout.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both fast-fashion retailers offer great styles at great prices, but they are built for different shoppers.

Choose Bershka if:

• Your style is edgy, bold, and heavily influenced by current streetwear trends.
• You are shopping for a music festival, a party, or a statement piece to wear for a season.
• You love experimenting with Y2K, grunge, and other specific micro-trends.
• You have a younger, fashion-forward mindset and prefer a boutique-like shopping vibe.

Choose H&M if:

• You want to build a versatile wardrobe with a mix of timeless basics and affordable trends.
• Sustainability and ethical manufacturing are important factors in your purchasing decisions.
• You need inclusive sizing options like plus or petite that offer a reliable fit.
• You're shopping for multiple people, including kids or someone with a more professional style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bershka or H&M cheaper?

The prices are very similar, but H&M often offers better value on essential items like t-shirts, jeans, and knitwear, especially during its frequent sales. Bershka's price point is excellent for very trendy, of-the-moment pieces.

Which brand has better quality?

H&M generally offers better quality and more durable materials, a result of its focus on wardrobe basics and sustainable fabrics like organic cotton and recycled blends in its "Conscious" line.

Is Bershka a part of Zara?

No, but they are owned by the same parent company, Inditex. This shared ownership influences their fast-fashion business models, but Bershka has a much younger and edgier aesthetic than Zara.

Which is more trendy, Bershka or H&M?

Bershka is more singularly focused on fast-moving streetwear and youth trends. While H&M carries trendy items, including popular designer collaborations, its overall identity isn't as trend-saturated as Bershka's.

Does H&M have more sizes than Bershka?

Yes. H&M has one of the most inclusive size ranges in fast fashion, offering reliable options in standard, plus-size, and petite categories. Bershka has a more limited, standard size range.

Which brand is better for wardrobe basics?

H&M is the superior choice for wardrobe basics. Its collections of neutral knits, classic denim, casual dresses, and professional blazers are extensive and designed for everyday wear.

Which brand is more sustainable?

H&M is far more invested in and transparent about its sustainability initiatives. With its collections made from recycled materials and clear corporate goals, it stands out as the more environmentally-conscious choice.

Does Bershka's sizing run small?

Bershka's sizing can sometimes run small, especially for its more body-conscious or fitted styles. For oversized items it is typically generous, but checking the specific item's size chart is always a good idea.