DKNY vs. Guess: Which brand is better? [2026]

DKNY is known for its modern, urban aesthetic, offering minimalist and versatile pieces ideal for a professional city lifestyle. In contrast, Guess offers a bold, sexy, and glamorous style with trendy, statement-making apparel suited to a younger, fashion-forward audience.

Let's break down everything you need to know to choose the right brand for your wardrobe.

DKNY: Urban Sophistication

DKNY (Donna Karan New York) is built for the modern urbanite who seeks sophisticated, functional, and stylish apparel. The brand's collections are known for sleek designs and versatile pieces that easily transition from the office to a night out. DKNY's target customer is a young professional or city dweller who values quality and timeless style with a contemporary edge.

• Product mix: DKNY offers a comprehensive range of products, including dresses, tailored outerwear, activewear, handbags, footwear, and accessories.
• Price point: As a mid-range brand, DKNY offers accessible luxury. Accessories start around $50, while handbags range from $150 to $500. Coats and other premium apparel can exceed $500.
• Quality: The brand emphasizes durable materials and solid construction, frequently using genuine leather and high-quality hardware in its accessories. The focus is on creating long-lasting, reliable pieces.
• Sizing/Fit: DKNY generally runs true to size with consistent, modern, and tailored fits. Sizing is often designed to create a clean, sharp silhouette.

DKNY provides high-quality, versatile, and understatedly chic pieces designed for a contemporary, professional wardrobe.

Shop DKNY: dkny.com

Guess: Youthful Glamour & Trend-Driven Style

Guess is an American fashion brand famous for its sexy, youthful, and adventurous aesthetic. Initially making its name with trend-setting denim, Guess has evolved into a full lifestyle brand recognized for its glamorous marketing and eye-catching designs. The brand appeals to young adults and trendsetters who want to make a bold fashion statement without a luxury price tag.

• Product mix: Guess is well-known for its extensive denim collection, but also offers dresses, outerwear, statement handbags, shoes, and jewelry.
• Price point: Guess is positioned as an affordable contemporary brand. Accessories can be found for as little as $30, with handbags typically priced between $80 and $150. More elaborate pieces can cost up to $600.
• Quality: Guess offers good value, particularly in its denim and leather goods. However, some items prioritize current trends over long-term durability, featuring embellishments that may wear over time.
• Sizing/Fit: Guess clothing generally fits true to size, though some customers find that more fitted styles can run a bit small. Its denim is known for a figure-hugging fit.

Guess is the go-to brand for bold, trendy, and glamorous fashion at an accessible price point perfect for making a statement.

Shop Guess: guess.com

DKNY vs. Guess Comparison

Price Comparison

Both DKNY and Guess operate in the mid-range market, but their pricing strategies cater to slightly different budgets. Guess is generally the more affordable of the two. For example, an everyday Guess handbag is often priced between $80 and $150, making it an accessible choice for younger shoppers. A comparable handbag from DKNY typically starts around $150 and can go up to $500, reflecting its positioning as a more premium, professional brand.

Both brands offer frequent sales and can often be found at discounted prices in department stores or outlet locations. However, Guess tends to have more aggressive promotions and deals, aligning with its younger, trend-focused audience.

Quality & Materials

When it comes to quality, DKNY generally has an edge. The brand focuses on using lasting materials like durable fabrics and genuine leather, with construction designed for longevity. DKNY pieces often feel more substantial and are built to withstand daily use, making them a practical investment for a work wardrobe.

Guess also uses quality materials, especially in its signature denim, but its focus is often more on style than durability. Embellishments and trendy design details may not hold up as well over years of wear compared to the classic construction of DKNY products. Guess offers excellent value for fashionable items, but if your priority is longevity, DKNY is the more reliable choice.

Style & Aesthetic

The core difference between the two brands lies in their style aesthetic. DKNY embodies a minimalist, urban-chic vibe. Its designs are clean, sophisticated, and versatile, featuring neutral color palettes and subtle branding. It's the perfect brand for building a sophisticated wardrobe that works for professional and casual settings alike.

In contrast, Guess is all about bold, youthful glamour. The brand's collections are sexy, eye-catching, and often feature prominent logos, bright colors, and statement-making details. While DKNY whispers "sophistication," Guess shouts "look at me." The choice here comes down to personal taste: understated chic versus trendy glamour.

Fit & Sizing

Both brands tend to offer true-to-size fits that are consistent with standard U.S. sizing. DKNY's clothing is often designed with a modern, tailored fit that aims for clean lines and a polished silhouette. Its sizing is generally very reliable across different product categories.

Guess also provides reliable sizing, especially for its famous denim. However, some shoppers report that its more form-fitting dresses and tops can sometimes run small. If you're between sizes, it may be wise to size up, particularly for Guess's tighter-fitting styles.

Sustainability & Ethics

Both DKNY and Guess are taking steps toward more sustainable practices, but neither is considered a leader in the field. DKNY has launched initiatives aimed at using more sustainable materials and has committed to improving transparency in its supply chain.

Guess has also introduced eco-friendly collections and focuses on responsible manufacturing. For shoppers whose primary concern is sustainability, there are stronger brands, but both DKNY and Guess are making positive movements. DKNY is slightly further along in communicating its efforts publicly.

Which One Should You Choose?

The right choice comes down to your personal style, priorities, and how you plan to wear the items. Both brands offer excellent options, but they serve very different fashion sensibilities.

Choose DKNY if:

• You need versatile pieces that transition easily from work to weekend.
• You prefer a minimalist, urban, and sophisticated aesthetic.
• Quality and durability are more important to you than following fast-fashion trends.
• You are building a timeless wardrobe with a modern edge.

Choose Guess if:

• You love bold, glamorous, and statement-making styles.
• You're shopping for trendy, eye-catching pieces at an accessible price point.
• Your style is youthful, sexy, and confident.
• You're a fan of prominent logos and fashion that gets noticed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is DKNY or Guess more expensive?

Generally, DKNY is more expensive than Guess. DKNY's prices reflect its focus on higher-end materials and a more premium, professional positioning, particularly with its handbags and outerwear.

Which brand has better quality?

DKNY is often perceived as having better overall quality and durability. The brand prioritizes lasting materials and classic construction, making their items a good investment. Guess offers solid quality for its price point but places a greater emphasis on trendy designs that may not be intended for long-term wear.

What is the main style difference between DKNY and Guess?

The main difference is their aesthetic. DKNY is known for its minimalist, sleek, and urban style - think sophisticated New York professional. Guess is famous for its bold, sexy, and glamorous look that is much more trend-driven and flashy.

Are DKNY and Guess considered luxury brands?

Neither is considered a true luxury brand like Gucci or Chanel. They both fall into the "accessible luxury" or contemporary category. DKNY is on the higher end of this category, while Guess is more on the affordable side.

Do DKNY and Guess sizing run true to size?

Yes, both brands generally run true to standard U.S. sizing. DKNY is known for its consistent and reliable fit. Some shoppers find that Guess's more form-fitting styles can run slightly small, so sizing up may be a good option if you are between sizes.

Which brand is better for work clothes?

DKNY is much better suited for work and professional environments. Its collection features tailored and versatile pieces with a clean, sophisticated look that is perfect for the office.

Where can I buy DKNY and Guess products?

You can purchase items directly from their official websites, dkny.com and guess.com. Both brands are also widely available at major department stores like Macy's and Nordstrom, and often have standalone retail stores and outlet locations.

Which brand is more popular?

Both brands have strong global recognition, but they appeal to different demographics. Guess has a very strong presence among younger, trend-focused consumers, while DKNY is more popular with young professionals and those seeking a more timeless, urban style.