22 Brands Like American Eagle for Casual, Cool Style

Discover casual brands like American Eagle for stylish denim, cozy hoodies, and soft graphic tees. Find your new go-to pieces for a relaxed, cool look.
Written by: 
Ash Read
Last updated: 

We all have that one pair of American Eagle jeans that fits just right. For years, the brand has been a go-to for its comfy-cool aesthetic, delivering reliable denim, soft graphic tees, and cozy hoodies that perfectly capture a relaxed, youthful vibe.

But if you're looking to branch out while keeping that same casual energy, there are plenty of other brands serving up similar styles. Whether you want something more budget-friendly, a little more elevated, or just a fresh take on everyday basics, here are 22 brands like American Eagle to check out.

1. H&M

H&M is a global powerhouse for a reason, offering an endless supply of on-trend clothing at seriously affordable prices, usually between $10-$50. You'll find everything from basic tees and casual denim to trendy seasonal pieces, much like at American Eagle. The biggest difference is H&M's sheer volume and fast-fashion cycle, meaning there's always something new to see.

Plus, with its growing focus on sustainability through their Conscious collections and garment recycling programs, it's a great option for shoppers who want affordable fashion with an eco-friendly twist. It's a bit more trend-focused and has a wider style range than AE's Americana vibe.

Shop now at www2.hm.com

2. Uniqlo

If you love American Eagle for its comfortable basics, Uniqlo is about to become your new obsession. This Japanese retailer excels at creating high-quality, minimalist wardrobe staples that are built to last. Their focus is on simple, timeless design and technical fabrics like HEATTECH for warmth and AIRism for breathability.

With prices mostly ranging from $15-$50, it's a direct competitor to AE but with a more pared-down, modern aesthetic. Think less graphic tees and distressed denim, and more perfectly-cut T-shirts, premium sweaters, and sleek outerwear that form the foundation of an effortless wardrobe.

Shop now at www.uniqlo.com

3. Zara

For a more polished and fashion-forward take on casual style, Zara is the place to go. While it's known for its chic, runway-inspired pieces, Zara also offers a solid selection of elevated basics like high-quality jeans, sophisticated knit tops, and versatile jackets. Prices are slightly higher than AE, typically falling in the $20-$70 range for everyday items.

Where American Eagle is overtly casual and relaxed, Zara masterfully blends casual comfort with a European street-style edge. It's perfect for when you want your everyday look to feel a bit more put-together and sophisticated.

Shop now at www.zara.com

4. Forever 21

Forever 21 is the ultra-trendy, budget-friendly friend in a group that also includes American Eagle. They offer similar categories - graphic tees, hoodies, and jeans - but at a much lower price point, generally $10 to $40. Their pieces are designed for a youthful audience that loves to experiment with the absolute latest trends.

While AE focuses on classic, comfortable styles that have more longevity, Forever 21 is all about fun, affordability, and "right now" fashion. If you want to try a new trend without a big investment, this is your spot.

Shop now at www.forever21.com

5. Urban Outfitters

Urban Outfitters shares a similar youthful spirit with American Eagle but caters to a more eclectic and alternative crowd. Their aesthetic mixes vintage-inspired graphics, boho-chic dresses, and edgy streetwear into one cohesive, cool vibe. Expect prices from $20 to $80 for most casualwear.

You'll find familiar items like denim and cozy knits, but UO's selection feels more curated and trend-driven, often featuring unique finds from up-and-coming brands alongside its own label. If AE is classic-cool, Urban Outfitters is its effortlessly quirky, artistic sibling.

Shop now at www.urbanoutfitters.com

6. Gap

Gap is a quintessential American clothing brand and a direct contemporary to American Eagle. Known for its timeless staples like classic-fit jeans, logo hoodies, and basic tees, Gap offers a slightly more preppy and polished version of casualwear. The prices are comparable, hovering around $15 to $60.

While American Eagle leans into youthful trends and a more relaxed fit, Gap focuses on clean lines and classic cuts that appeal to a slightly broader age demographic. It's your go-to for foundational basics that feel comfortable and reliable year after year.

Shop now at www.gap.com

7. PacSun

If you're drawn to American Eagle's West-Coast, laid-back vibe, PacSun cranks that dial all the way up. PacSun fully embodies California style, with a strong focus on surf, skate, and street culture. You’ll find great denim, graphic tees, and hoodies, but with a cooler, more trend-forward edge than AE.

Pricing is similar, ranging from $20 to $70. The key difference is the aesthetic: while AE is all-American casual, PacSun leans heavily into streetwear, often carrying coveted brands like Vans and Nike alongside its in-house labels. It’s perfect for a true cool-kid, beach-meets-city look.

Shop now at www.pacsun.com

8. Cotton On

Hailing from Australia, Cotton On brings a fun, breezy, and super affordable take on casual basics, rivalling AE's price point at around $15-$50. The brand offers easy-to-wear essentials like stretchy jeans, comfortable basics, and cozy knits, often in bright colors and playful prints.

While both brands cater to a youthful audience, Cotton On has a slightly more playful, summery feel. Their collections often feel light and effortless, perfect for creating comfortable daily outfits without thinking too hard.

Shop now at cottonon.com

9. American Vintage

Don't let the name fool you - American Vintage is a French brand focused on creating luxurious, elevated basics. Think perfectly draped T-shirts, buttery-soft sweaters, and beautifully cut loungewear. Priced higher, from $40 to $80 for essentials, it’s a step up in quality and sophistication.

If you love the comfort of American Eagle but are looking for a more mature, minimalist aesthetic, American Vintage is the answer. It’s less about trends and more about investing in high-quality fabrics and timeless fits that feel incredible to wear.

Shop now at www.americanvintage-store.com

10. Pull & Bear

Part of the same family as Zara, Pull & Bear focuses on casual, easy-to-wear fashion aimed at a young audience. They offer a ton of streetwear-inspired pieces like oversized hoodies, relaxed-fit jeans, and bold graphic tees, often priced between $20 to $60.

Similar to American Eagle, they provide essentials for a youthful wardrobe. However, Pull & Bear has a distinctly more urban, international vibe, pulling inspiration directly from current street-style trends. It feels slightly edgier and more fashion-forward.

Shop now at www.pullandbear.com

11. Bershka

Bershka is Pull & Bear's bolder, more adventurous sibling. It targets the same youthful customer who loves casual style but isn't afraid to make a statement. Expect to find vibrant colors, daring cutouts, cargo pants, and plenty of Y2K-inspired pieces alongside basics like denim and hoodies.

Pricing is also in that sweet spot of $20-$70. Where American Eagle opts for a relaxed, approachable look, Bershka is all about high-energy, trend-heavy fashion that stands out.

Shop now at www.bershka.com

12. Old Navy

Old Navy is a fantastic alternative for anyone looking for super accessible and family-friendly casualwear. They are known for their reliable basics - denim, flag tees, activewear, and cozy PJs - at an even more budget-friendly price point, often from $10 to $40. Known for their frequent promotions and inclusive sizing, Old Navy makes everyday style easy for everyone.

While it targets a broader audience than AE, the core offering of comfortable, feel-good clothing is very much the same. It's a no-fuss option for stocking up on essentials.

Shop now at oldnavy.gap.com

13. Primark

If your main draw to brands like American Eagle is getting trendy styles with a low price tag, then Primark is a must-visit. This Irish fast-fashion giant is famous for its rock-bottom prices, with many items falling well below $20. You'll find a massive selection of casual clothing, from character-themed loungewear to jeans and basic tops.

The trade-off for the low prices can sometimes be quality, but for trying out a fleeting trend or grabbing a few fun graphic tees, it's unbeatable. It’s all about fast, affordable fun.

Shop now at www.primark.com

14. Levi's

Before there was American Eagle, there was Levi's. As the original name in denim, Levi's offers iconic jeans known for their quality, durability, and timeless style. Beyond their famous 501s, they also provide a full range of casualwear like denim jackets, logo tees, and flannel shirts.

Priced a bit higher from $30-$100, Levi's is an investment in heritage and quality. If you love AE's denim but are looking for a pair of jeans that will last for years and gain character over time, Levi's is the ultimate upgrade.

Shop now at www.levi.com

15. Brandy Melville

Brandy Melville nails the laid-back, "it girl" vibe with its collection of cropped sweaters, oversized sweatshirts, and relaxed-fit jeans. Catering primarily to a teen audience, the brand is known for its "one size fits most" model and its effortlessly cool and slightly vintage feel. Prices generally range from $15 to $50.

Like American Eagle, it’s all about comfortable, easy-to-style pieces. However, Brandy Melville's aesthetic is much more specific and trend-driven, offering a distinctive look that’s become a uniform for fashion-conscious teens.

Shop now at www.brandymelvilleusa.com

16. ASOS

ASOS is an online destination that offers a universe of fashion choices. They carry thousands of products from their own labels alongside brands you already know and love. You can find virtually any casual item you’re looking for - jeans, hoodies, T-shirts - across a massive price range and in an extensive range of sizes, including tall, petite, and curve.

It's like American Eagle's selection multiplied by a thousand. If you love browsing online and want endless options for building a unique casual wardrobe, ASOS is unmatched.

Shop now at www.asos.com

17. Madewell

Madewell feels like American Eagle’s chic older sister. Known for its incredible denim, Madewell focuses on effortlessly cool, timeless staples that blend classic style with modern touches. Think perfectly worn-in jeans, soft tees, stylish leather totes, and casual-but-polished dresses.

With prices ranging from $40-$100, it's a step up but worth it for those looking to invest in high-quality pieces that anchor a wardrobe. If you appreciate great fit and fabrics, Madewell elevates the everyday casual look you love from AE.

Shop now at www.madewell.com

18. Target (Wild Fable)

Target's in-house brand, Wild Fable, is a direct and affordable competitor for the American Eagle customer. It offers trendy, youthful clothing - think cropped tops, fun dresses, and stylish denim - at prices that are hard to beat, usually between $10 and $40.

Wild Fable specifically captures the latest social media trends, so it's a great place to find styles that feel current without the commitment. It has the same playful, comfortable energy as AE but with a more fast-fashion, budget-friendly approach.

Shop now at www.target.com

19. Joe Fresh

Joe Fresh is Canada’s answer to accessible, everyday style. They deliver straightforward, simple basics for the whole family, including well-priced jeans, T-shirts, sweaters, and outerwear, mostly in the $10-$40 range. The designs are clean, classic, and unfussy, making them perfect for building a practical closet.

Compared to American Eagle, Joe Fresh is less driven by youth trends and more focused on providing reliable essentials. It’s a great option for stocking up on no-frills staples at a fantastic price point.

Shop now at www.joefresh.com

20. Aritzia (Tna, Wilfred)

Aritzia offers high-quality, beautifully designed clothing through its various in-house brands. For a vibe similar to American Eagle but significantly more elevated, check out Tna for premium streetwear and famous sweatsuits, or Wilfred for more relaxed, feminine pieces. Prices are higher, about $30 to $80 for basics.

The brand is beloved for its luxurious fabrics, flattering fits, and minimalist-chic aesthetic. It's the destination for someone who grew up with American Eagle and is ready to invest in a more sophisticated and refined casual wardrobe.

Shop now at www.aritzia.com

21. Everlane

For the conscious consumer, Everlane provides high-quality, ethically-made essentials. Known for its transparent pricing model and minimalist designs, Everlane offers wardrobe staples like "The Perfect Jean," organic cotton tees, and cashmere sweaters. Expect prices in the $30-$80 range.

Everlane's aesthetic is clean, modern, and less trend-focused than AE, appealing to those who want stylish, sustainable basics that transcend seasonal fads. If you love the idea of building a more intentional and lasting casual wardrobe, Everlane is a perfect fit.

Shop now at www.everlane.com

22. Rue21

Rue21 delivers fashion that's edgy, trendy, and incredibly affordable, with most items priced between $10 and $50. They cater to a young demographic that seeks bold, statement-making styles, offering ripped jeans, eye-catching graphic tees, and streetwear-inspired looks that are always on-trend.

While American Eagle maintains a more classic, All-American feel, Rue21 pushes the envelope with more rebellious and fashion-forward designs. It’s perfect for expressing individuality on a tight budget.

Shop now at www.rue21.com

At Apart Style, we're obsessed with curating the best in fashion, beauty, and jewelry to help you discover new brands we think you'll love. Every brand we feature is independently selected by our editorial team based on quality, style, and uniqueness. When you make a purchase through our links, Apart Style may earn a commission - which helps support our small team, and allows us to continue bringing you the best in online style brands.

Looking for more inspiration? Explore our full brand directory or check out our curated brand guides to find your new favorite thing.