Theory is known for its modern, polished apparel that effortlessly transitions from day to night. But the price tags often leave shoppers searching for quality Theory competitors to explore.
Luckily, quite a few brands offer contemporary classics similar to Theory. I analyzed fit, fabrics, quality, versatility and price across top competitors to uncover the best places to shop.
Below are 14 brands like Theory to consider if you love their aesthetic and want to expand your wardrobe.
14 Best Stores Similar to Theory for Contemporary Clothing
1. Uniqlo
Uniqlo builds affordable, fashionable collections known for lightweight fabrics and clean silhouettes. The fit tends to run slim, especially in outerwear, knits and button-downs.
The no-iron cotton dress shirts rival higher-end brands. Cashmere crews keep you equally as cozy for a fraction of the cost.
It also nails high-quality basics like Airism tees, Heattech layers and colorful ankle socks. Standard shipping is free for orders over $100.
Key Benefits
- Quality cotton dress shirts under $30
- Cashmere under $50
- Premium basics without designer prices
- Free shipping over $100
2. Hugo Boss
For sleek suiting and refined casualwear, Hugo Boss aligns well with Theory’s tailored yet contemporary vibe. The German fashion house offers sharp silhouettes and luxe materials like wool, leather and cotton blends.
Shoppers can browse polished button-downs, trousers, blazers and more.
In terms of quality and attention to fit. this brand sits a small step above fast fashion but lower than premium designers, pleasing fans of Theory’s positioning.
With a balance of style and substance across apparel for work and weekends, it fuses function and fashion.
Key Perks
- Precise fits through the shoulders and chest
- High-stretch dress shirts
- Modern slim cuts
- Bundling opportunities
3. Of Mercer
Of Mercer takes a luxe approach to essentials with fine Italian fabrics and signature accents like contrast pocket lining. The silk dress shirts particularly stand out and often come equipped with built-in performance features such as sweat-wicking.
The brand offers complimentary in-house alterations for the perfect personalized fit. It runs regular sales around 30% off site-wide with discounted shipping on purchases over $150. Returns are free.
Why Shop Here
- Beautiful Italian fabrics
- Custom alterations
- Discounted shipping
- Generous sales and returns
4. Everlane
Everlane centers transparency around ethical factories and quality materials that uphold through years of wear. The versatile staples work for casual Fridays in the office and laidback weekends alike.
Signatures like the Grade-A cashmere crews, Japanese denim and washable silks maintain exceptional value at respective prices. Expect a lot of neutrals and earth tones. Free returns and standard shipping over $75.
What Makes Them Popular
- Radical transparency model
- High-grade cashmere under $100
- Flattering everyday wardrobe heroes
- Sustainable supply chain
5. AllSaints
AllSaints conveys edgy elegance through leather jackets, drapey shirts and skinny denim stacked with quilted patches and chalky fades. The details really make the brand standout.
The fabrics lean toward natural fibers like cotton, wool and linen with nicely weighted drape. Expect cropped, tailored cuts that transition from season to season.
It resonates with customers wanting to invest in unique statement pieces that transcend basics without losing a modern, sophisticated style.
Key Advantages
- Signature rocker aesthetic
- Innovative fabrics and details
- Investment-worthy leather
- Flattering contemporary cuts
6. COS
This streamlined fashion label belongs to the H&M group known for Scandinavian minimalism. Considered the chic older sister to H&M, it focuses on quality over quantity. Pieces have an avant-garde yet timeless aesthetic perfect for Theory devotees.
It offers updated wardrobe essentials in luxurious natural fabrics like silk, wool and cashmere. Clean lines, attention to fabric and site-specific tailoring echo Theory’s approach. For affordable, architectural fashion, it nails polished simplicity with an elevated edge.
Why People Love It
- Airy linen-rich fabrics
- Intricate details and prints
- Laidback feminine cuts
- Large savings opportunities
7. Club Monaco
With European inspiration, Club Monaco delivers polished urban style through modern pieces like plaid trench coats, printed silk shirts and textured sweaters. Luxe fabrics make the brand stand out with dimensional wool, brushed twill and lightweight cashmere.
Silhouettes sit neatly between fitted and relaxed. It runs various sales throughout the year around holiday weekends and during summer/winter clearances for the best deals.
Key Perks
- High-end fabrics with texture
- Contemporary mixed media prints
- Transitional wearability
- Generous savings events
8. Rag & Bone
Rag & Bone brings edgy personality to clean classics with moto details, raw finishes and deconstructed tailoring. Signatures like the well-fitting five-pocket denim keep things effortlessly cool.
A lot of the cotton button-downs, henleys, knits and tees work back seamlessly into more polished looks.
Shoppers can rely on the label for cool takes on basics like tees, button-downs, blazers, jeans and more. With premium craftsmanship, this clothing brand echoes Theory quality.
Why People Love It
- Signature moto-inspired details
- Flattering, resilient five-pocket denim
- Edgy everyday wardrobe staples
- Reliable knits and cotton shirts
9. ASOS
Online giant ASOS funnels the latest trends into affordable everyday wear drawing influence from high-fashion runways. Expect to discover emerging brands and unique collaborations you won’t easily find elsewhere.
The house line offers contemporary style through faux leather pants, puff sleeve button-downs and oversized outerwear balancing out edgier silhouettes. For endless contemporary fashion possibilities, this is a top stop for you.
Key Benefits
- Runway-inspired collaborations
- Hundreds of brands to discover
- Trend-driven staples and accessories
- Free shipping and returns
10. Urban Outfitters
Urban Outfitters delivers effortlessly cool style just a step ahead of mainstream trends. The assortment includes fresh dresses, jeans, graphic sweaters and universally flattering staples from your favorite brands.
BDG denim often rivals designer quality around $60 with trend-driven washes. Lots of boho romance tops and utility jackets balance out the edgier side. Standard shipping is free on $50+.
Why People Love It
- Totally on-trend contemporary style
- Trendy denim and staples under $100
- Boho-chic and ’90s throwbacks
- Free shipping minimum
11. Muji
For affordable, architectural basics, Muji delivers quality cotton, cashmere and linen essentials in neutral, mix-and-match colors. A less is more mindset streamlines the shopping experience.
The soft relaxed tees work into any casual look starting around $9.90. Cashmere crews can cost just $49.90. Expect excellent quality control on all materials and transparency around manufacturing.
Key Perks
- Architectural everyday staples
- Supersoft cotton and cashmere
- Relaxed silhouettes
- Impressive quality for price
12. American Apparel
Iconic for everyday staples, American Apparel keeps things fresh and comfortable with premium fabrics and neon pops of color throughout basics like leggings, bodysuits and fleece pullovers. The clothing feels light and soft while holding its shape wash after wash.
Expect a decent amount of cropped lengths, high-waisted pants and bodysuits along with quintessential tees and pullovers. Standard shipping is free in the continental US.
Why People Love It
- Iconic everyday basics
- Soft premium fabrics
- Neon colors and prints
- Mix-and-match comfort
13. Zara
Zara delivers of-the-moment fashion directly inspired by the world’s leading runways. New arrivals typically sell out fast. So when you find fresh dresses, jumpsuits or outerwear you love, grab them quick.
The clothing mixes trend-driven pieces along with wardrobe classics like leather jackets, bodysuits, coated denim and textured knits. Sales can offer up to 60% off select items.
With new deliveries twice a week, it makes high fashion whims accessible to the Theory shopper on a budget but unwilling to compromise quality.
Key Benefits
- Fast fashion spot-on for current trends
- Mix of trendy and forever staples
- New arrivals 2x a week
- Generous sales
14. Jil Sander
With luxury minimalism at its heart, Jil Sander crafts sculptural polish for modern power dressing. The perfectly tailored silhouettes feature exacting cuts crafted from exquisite fabrics like double-faced cashmere and silk-wool bi-stretch.
While the price tags run exceptionally high, the detail, quality and precision stand leagues above competitors. Investment pieces promise to uphold for decades. Shop end-of-season sales for the best deals.
Why Invest
- Unparalleled minimalist precision
- Opulent fabrics and quality
- Timeless sculptural silhouettes
- Worthy heirloom investment pieces
Conclusion
Theory sets a high bar for apparel quality and polish. Luckily, there are alternative brands like Theory that also craft contemporary wardrobe staples everyone can afford.
No matter your price point or personal aesthetic, quality alternatives exist to try out new contemporary classics. Use the list above to find inspiring Theory competitors that speak to your style.
FAQs About Stores like Theory
What is Theory known for?
Theory is known for modern yet versatile high-quality clothing that effortlessly transitions from day to night. Signatures include precise tailored fit, luxe natural fabrics and polished silhouettes.
Does Theory have sales?
Yes. Theory offers end-of-season sales up to 60% off on their online outlet and discounted specials around holidays. Sign up for emails and check outlets for the best deals.
What is Theory’s price range?
Theory prices range from $100 on the low end for basic tees and knits up to $1000+ for designer suits and leather jackets. The bulk of collections averages around $250-$500 per piece.
What makes Theory so popular?
Theory signature style, fit consistency, fabric quality and versatility make the brand so popular worldwide. The clothing effortlessly transitions from casual Fridays to date nights out.
What should you buy from Theory?
Best Theory buys include versatile dresses, precision tailored blazers, luxe cashmere crews and everyday denim that transitions seamlessly from season to season. These classics uphold quality for years.
Does Theory have a teen line?
Yes. Theory launched Theory Plus specifically for younger trend-driven shoppers. The line features fresh interpretations of classic Theory style crafted to appeal uniquely to teenagers.
Is Theory true to size?
Theory runs exceptionally true-to-size, especially in staples like button-downs and pants. Some coats, dresses and leather pieces fit slim though. Reference size charts and reviews to confirm best fit.
Where is Theory manufactured?
While Theory operates American headquarters, manufacturing occurs internationally across Europe, Peru, China, India, Vietnam and other imported locations.
