In the newest installment in my quest to find affordable minimalist fashion basics in unexpected places, I decided to give myself a real challenge: Abercrombie & Fitch. Could I find chic, grown up items in the store best known for piped-in perfume, shirtless door models, and relentlessly marketing to over-sexed teens? This was going to be a great experiment.
I have to admit, I had a hint that I might be successful thanks to a recent Bloomberg Business article on Abercrombie & Fitch’s declining profits and bevy of employment discrimination lawsuits. In a last ditch effort to save the storied brand – it once counted Ernest Hemingway, Teddy Roosevelt, and Charles Lindbergh as customers – focus has been shifted to more logo-less basics; brighter, less heavily perfumed storefronts; and a more inclusive attitude.
As good as that shift sounds on paper, has it translated into shopping reality? I hit up the online store to find out and was pleasantly surprised with the diverse selection. In no time my cart was full of casual minimalist basics completely devoid of annoying logos and perfectly suited to my luxe-leaning grown up tastes. Check out my favorite finds and let me know if you agree…
1. Abercrombie & Fitch Lightweight Hi-Lo Hem Tank, $28.00
This just-barely-transparent tee comes in a neutral palette of black, grey, and white. It’s perfect for layering with jackets or sweaters thanks to the low back hem and slim silhouette.
2. Abercrombie & Fitch Rylie Hooded Cocoon Cardigan, $58.00
Circle cardigans create an appealingly slouchy casual look, which goes great with skinny jeans and slim trousers. This particular cardigan gets a style boost from the hood, seam details, and button-less front.
3. New Balance 501 Sneakers, $65.00
Ok, so this one is kind of a cheat. Yes, technically these are not Abercrombie & Fitch, but I did find them in the online store. And they are quite perfect. I picture them with cropped black pants, a tee, and sweater for a chic weekend in the city look.
4. Abercrombie & Fitch Kaylin Fuzzy Bomber Jacket, $69.00 (was $98.00)
This might be my favorite find simply because it was so unexpected. This kind of faux shearling sweater-jacket has been super popular in fashionista circles for the past couple seasons. Who would have thought I’d find such a fabulous, and fabulously affordable, version at A&F?
5. Abercrombie & Fitch Tessa Bralette, $20.00
You know that sleek Helmut Lang bralette that was made to fit under all of those gorgeous transparent Helmut Lang sweaters? The one that costs $90.00? This is more or less the same thing, but for $20.00. Use the money you’ll save towards the sweater.
6. Abercrombie & Fitch Classic V Neck Pocket Tee, $12.00
I do love a good vintage tee. But, I always feel vaguely guilty when I use a $50+ tee as a layering piece. This solves that problem. This tee comes in a rich dark grey heather and has a fairly unique rounded hem, which will look interesting peeking out from under a sweater. And it’s $12.00.
