Chances are, if you're looking for easy, on-trend basics that don't break the bank, you’ve spent some time shopping at Cotton On. The Aussie retailer is a global go-to for its laid-back essentials, from perfect-fit jeans and comfy tees to cute activewear, all at prices that make a wardrobe refresh feel totally guilt-free.
But when you're ready to expand your closet with similar vibes, there are plenty of other brands serving up that same affordable, youthful, and casual style. Whether you’re looking for high-quality basics or the latest micro-trend, here are 18 must-know brands like Cotton On to check out.
H&M is a fast-fashion staple that delivers a massive selection of trendy basics, workwear, and seasonal pieces at a price point very similar to Cotton On. With most items falling in the $10 to $50 range, you can easily stock up on everything from essentials to statement outfits. While both brands are known for accessible, stylish clothing, H&M often puts a larger emphasis on sustainability through its Conscious collections and designer collaborations, bringing a slightly different flavor to the affordable fashion scene.
Shop now at hm.com
If you love Cotton On’s trend-focused pieces but want something slightly more polished and urban, Zara is your next stop. It’s known for bringing runway looks to retail at lightning speed, offering a mix of casual essentials and fashion-forward designs. Prices for basics typically range from $20 to $60. While Cotton On’s aesthetic is super relaxed and casual, Zara offers a sleeker, more sophisticated vibe that’s perfect for dressing up or down.
Shop now at zara.com
Uniqlo is the master of high-quality, functional basics. The Japanese brand is famous for its simple, clean designs and innovative fabrics like HEATTECH and AIRism that are made to last. With most items priced between $15 and $50, it aligns perfectly with Cotton On’s affordability. While Cotton On leans into current trends, Uniqlo prioritizes timeless, minimalist essentials that form the foundation of any wardrobe, offering a more refined and universal take on casual wear.
Shop now at uniqlo.com
Forever 21 is a go-to for hyper-trendy, incredibly affordable fashion aimed squarely at a young audience. With most items under $30, it’s a paradise for experimenting with new styles without a big commitment. Like Cotton On, it targets trend-savvy young shoppers, but Forever 21 is often bolder and more daring. If Cotton On is your source for everyday cute staples, Forever 21 is where you go for that fun, of-the-moment piece you want to wear this weekend.
Shop now at forever21.com
As a massive online marketplace, ASOS offers an almost endless selection of casual, trendy clothing from its in-house brands and hundreds of others. It’s a one-stop-shop for stylish pieces, with basics often ranging from $15 to $60. ASOS shares Cotton On’s accessible, on-trend approach but blows it out of the water with variety and inclusivity, offering extensive tall, petite, and curve ranges. It’s a great destination when you want choice above all else.
Shop now at asos.com
Part of the same family as Zara, Pull & Bear is geared toward teens and young adults with a streetwear-inspired, relaxed aesthetic. Prices are very comparable to Cotton On, generally falling between $20 and $50. The brand excels at trendy denim, graphic tees, and casual outerwear. If you like Cotton On's youthful energy but want styles with a slightly edgier, more urban look, Pull & Bear is a perfect fit.
Shop now at pullandbear.com
Another brand under the Zara umbrella, Bershka is a bit more adventurous and vibrant. It caters to young shoppers looking for both casual daytime looks and party-ready outfits, with most items priced in the $20 to $50 range. While Cotton On is king of laid-back basics, Bershka pushes the envelope with bolder prints, modern cuts, and streetwear influences. It’s for the trendsetter who isn’t afraid to make a statement.
Shop now at bershka.com
Aeropostale delivers comfortable, teen-focused casualwear that’s heavily influenced by laid-back, sporty style. Think graphic tees, cozy hoodies, and tons of denim, all priced affordably between $15 and $50. Both Aero and Cotton On appeal to a young audience with accessible fashion, but Aeropostale has a stronger focus on athletic-inspired staples and classic collegiate vibes.
Shop now at aeropostale.com
Old Navy is a fantastic destination for affordable, family-friendly fashion. With a vast selection of casual clothing, activewear, and basics often priced under $30, it’s a go-to for everyday wear. Like Cotton On, Old Navy emphasizes comfort and value. However, it caters to a much broader demographic - including kids and adults of all ages - giving it a more classic and universally approachable style.
Shop now at oldnavy.gap.com
For fast fashion at lightning speeds and incredibly low prices, Boohoo is a top contender. The online retailer offers edgy, youthful, body-con styles, with most items falling under $30. While Cotton On curates collections of casual staples, Boohoo is all about dropping hundreds of new, high-trend pieces weekly. It's the place to go when you need a standout outfit for a night out without making a dent in your budget.
Shop now at boohoo.com
Operating primarily through brick-and-mortar stores, Primark is a titan of budget fashion, famous for its shockingly low prices, often under $20. The brand offers everything from trendy apparel and accessories to home goods. Primark shares Cotton On’s mission to make style accessible, but it operates at an even lower price point, making it a favorite for hauling basics and dupe-hunting in person.
Shop now at primark.com
If you love the effortless, casual vibe of Cotton On but are willing to invest a bit more for quality, Madewell is for you. Known for its amazing denim, leather goods, and timeless basics, Madewell offers a more premium take on everyday dressing, with prices starting around $50. It’s the perfect “grown-up” alternative, delivering durable, stylish staples that feel both relaxed and well-put-together.
Shop now at madewell.com
Urban Outfitters targets the same young, trend-conscious demographic as Cotton On but with a more eclectic, bohemian, and vintage-inspired twist. You’ll find graphic tees and denim alongside artsy dresses, unique homewares, and vinyl records, with apparel typically priced from $20 to $60. It offers a curated, indie-store feel that’s perfect for expressing a more alternative personal style.
Shop now at urbanoutfitters.com
Don't sleep on Target's in-house fashion lines! Brands like Wild Fable offer fun, Gen Z-focused trends, while A New Day provides modern, versatile staples - all at classic Target prices, usually under $40. These collections are competitive with Cotton On in both style and affordability, with the added bonus of being able to grab everything on your weekly shopping trip.
Shop now at target.com
Shein is an online-only giant known for its ultra-low prices and a never-ending stream of trendy new arrivals, with most items costing less than $20. While Cotton On has a more distinct, brand-focused aesthetic, Shein offers an ocean of options that cover nearly every micro-trend imaginable. It's an ideal choice for fashion lovers on a strict budget who want maximum variety.
Shop now at shein.com
Garage feels like Cotton On’s North American cousin, offering youthful, carefree fashion to teens and young adults. It specializes in trendy basics, fantastic denim, and everyday essentials, with prices generally sitting between $15 and $50. The aesthetic is fun, playful, and perfectly suited for school, weekends, and hanging out with friends. If you love Cotton On, Garage will feel instantly familiar.
Shop now at garageclothing.com
Lulus is another online destination great for trendy finds, but often with a slightly more feminine and elevated touch. While you can find casual basics, Lulus really shines when it comes to cute dresses, blouses, and coordinating sets that feel perfect for brunch or a casual date night. With prices starting around $30, it’s a great option when you need an affordable-but-special outfit.
Shop now at lulus.com
For a dose of color and British charm, check out Boden. This brand offers high-quality casualwear with a playful, preppy twist, often featuring vibrant prints and cheerful designs. Prices are higher than Cotton On, typically from $40 to $80, reflecting a focus on quality fabrics and craftsmanship. If you’re ready to graduate to well-made basics with more personality, Boden is a fantastic choice.
Shop now at bodenusa.com
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