Introduction
Although I am not one of the girls in the same way, I love a well-dressed woman, so I always keep my ears open to where the women are shopping—not only to buy gifts but to know what looks are in, keep up with trends, and more. I keep seeing a lot of women wanting to move away from the BBL-style fashion and posting TikToks asking where other women are shopping that isn’t Fashion Nova and PrettyLittleThing. So I wanted to help out and give you a list of places that I heard the girls are shopping right now.
So, where are the girls shopping now? Let’s get into it. I’ve got the receipts on what’s hot, where to get it, and why these brands are becoming the new go-tos.
Table of Contents
Why We’re Moving On from Fashion Nova and PLT
Fashion Nova and PrettyLittleThing had a chokehold on millennial and Gen Z fashion for a while. But let’s keep it real: quality started slipping, the fits got inconsistent, and the styles? They started to feel tired. And don’t get me started on the return policies.
Now, shoppers want clothes that actually last longer than a weekend. We all want elevated basics, clothes that speak to our grown-up glow-up, and pieces that work from brunch to boardroom to the club. Plus, many of us are learning more about sustainability, fair wages, and ethical production, and it’s influencing where we put our money.
For Black women in particular, shopping has always been about more than the trend. It’s about fit, versatility, cultural influence, and style that doesn’t scream fast fashion. That’s why so many of us are gravitating toward brands that understand our bodies, our style, and our power.
What the Girls Are Prioritizing Now
So what makes these newer spots so appealing? Here’s what we’re seeing:
- Fit that flatters: You are looking for brands that actually understand curves, hips, and full busts without needing a full tailoring session.
- Elevated vibes: The new “sexy” isn’t all cut-outs and bodycon. It’s high slits, wide-leg pants, perfectly tailored blazers, and silky maxi skirts.
- Work & play versatility: Whether it’s working from home or flying out for a girls’ trip, you want pieces that move with you.
- Realistic price points: We still love a deal. But if we’re paying more, it better be giving quality and wearability.
- Inclusivity: We’re not just talking about size range; we mean brands that celebrate Black beauty, feature LGBTQ+ models, and embrace a wider scope of identity and expression.
Now let’s get to the fun part.
The List: Where the Girls Are Shopping
1. Meshki
A sexy upgrade from PLT. Meshki’s cuts are clean, minimal, and grown. Their dresses serve the body without looking cheap.
2. Banana Republic
Yes, sis. Banana Republic rebranded, and it’s giving classy, neutral, high-fashion-adjacent. Think soft linen trousers, chic matching sets, and that clean girl aesthetic.
3. Revolve
If you’ve got a bit more budget, Revolve is where the girls are turning for elevated going-out fits, sleek vacay dresses, and influencer-approved looks.
4. Farfetch
Designer and boutique finds in one place. Think of it as the stylish cousin with money and taste.
5. Abercrombie & Fitch
Yup. They made a comeback. Their Curve Love jeans actually fit thick thighs, and their outerwear is chef’s kiss.
6. Traditional Department Stores (Macy’s, Nordstrom, Dillard’s)
You’d be surprised what gems you can find—especially during sales. Great for shoes, outerwear, and staple pieces.
7. TJ Maxx & Ross
The thrill of the hunt is real. And when you find that $200 dress for $39.99? Whew. Worth it.
8. ZARA
Still fast fashion, but the quality is often higher than Nova or PLT. Great for structured blazers and edgy pieces.
9. Club L London
Serving luxury party looks that hug the body like a dream.
10. Tropic Babe
A newer name with flirty, feminine pieces that work for date night or a night out with the girls.
11. Cou Coo
A Black-owned brand with unique, statement-making pieces. It’s fashion-forward without trying too hard.
12. Jeneva Label
Small business, big drama. In the best way. Think satin draping, bold colors, and eye-catching silhouettes.
13. Mina Monroe
Another Black-owned fave with sexy, daring looks and sizing that works for the thick girls.
14. Hanifa
A luxe Black-owned label known for innovative designs and body-conscious pieces that still feel artistic.
15. Ivory Kutts
Inclusive, chic, and stylish. One to watch as it grows.
16. House of CB
Not new, but still thriving. A great upgrade from PLT when you want the same body-snatched look, but with better material.
17. ASOS
Still popular for a reason. Their curve section is solid and the variety is unmatched.
18. Express
Think workwear with some edge. Tailored pants, chic blouses, and elevated basics.
19. NY & Company
Serving boss vibes. Especially good for office looks and structured sets.
20. Ann Taylor
A little auntie, but when styled right? It’s giving timeless chic. Think midi skirts, classic blazers, and turtlenecks with gold hoops.
21. AKIRA
Trendy, bold, and full of standout pieces. AKIRA is known for unique designs and vibrant looks that still sit in a friendly price range.
Where Personal Style Meets Brand Loyalty
As you level up, you’re also becoming more intentional about how you shop. It’s not just about what’s trending, it’s about how it fits into your personal style and how it makes you feel. The best part about moving beyond Fashion Nova and PLT is the creativity it inspires. You can mix Zara with TJ Maxx finds, pairing Hanifa statement pieces with department store basics, and actually building a wardrobe, not just shopping for the weekend.
Whether you’re a Black girl finding pieces that actually fit your body or someone just trying to show up for yourself in style, these brands offer more than just clothes. They offer options.
Section 6 – Styling Tips to Shop Smarter
- Sign up for brand emails. This is how you get early access to sales, restocks, and discount codes.
- Mix high and low. Pair your Banana Republic blazer with a Zara skirt or your Hanifa top with Abercrombie jeans.
- Don’t sleep on resale apps. Poshmark, Depop, and The RealReal can get you designer or boutique brands at a steal.
- Know your measurements. Especially when shopping Black-owned or international.
- Curate your closet. Focus on pieces you can wear multiple ways.
Shopping isn’t just about spending, it’s about expressing. So go ahead and upgrade that cart.
Conclusion
You’ve evolved, and so has your style. While Fashion Nova and PrettyLittleThing might still hold a place in our hearts (and maybe our carts), there’s a whole world of brands out here giving you what you really want, style that lasts, pieces that fit, and brands that see you.
So whether you’re trying to dress like a rich auntie, the hottest at the party, or the boss chick with brunch plans and a budget, there’s a brand on this list for you. The girls have moved on, and honestly? You can look better than ever.
Now, did I put you on? Am I one of the girls?