Aéropostale Is My Best-Kept Secret for Comfy, Affordable Clothes

I recently rediscovered Aéropostale after years of writing it off as “just a mall brand from high school.” Big mistake on my part. I walked in during a sale, grabbed a few basics, and now half my casual wardrobe is from there. Here’s why I keep coming back.

The Sales Are Genuinely Wild

Aéropostale runs some of the most aggressive discounts I’ve seen from any mall retailer. Their Annual Firework Sale slashes nearly everything by 50% to 70%, with tees starting at $10, shorts at $12, and dresses at just $16. Beyond that, they regularly run Buy 1, Get 2 Free on graphic tees, plus promo codes like AFFSAVEBIG for 20% off orders over $100. Students get an extra 15% off through UNiDAYS verification, which stacks nicely with existing sales. Their clearance section is where the real steals hide—I’ve found $8 tops and $20 jeans that don’t look or feel cheap.

The Quality Actually Holds Up

What surprised me most was the fabric quality for the price. Their hoodies are buttery soft and don’t pill after washing. One reviewer summed it up perfectly: “Their fabrics are always super soft, whether it’s a cozy fleece hoodie, a classic tee, or even their denim”. The jeans have enough stretch to be comfortable without getting baggy, and the tees keep their shape and color wash after wash. My Aéropostale items “tend to hold up well, maintaining their shape and color”—which is rare for budget-friendly basics.

The Fit Is Reliable

I’m 5’6″ and typically a medium, and everything I’ve ordered online has fit exactly as expected. Their sizing is consistent, which means I don’t have to gamble every time I click “add to cart.” The fit is “comfortable and flattering without being overly tight or loose,” and that reliability is a huge reason I keep ordering without hesitation.

Shipping and Returns Are Painless

Standard shipping is free on orders over $50, which is incredibly easy to hit when basics are this cheap. My orders have arrived within 3–5 business days, neatly packed. Returns are straightforward too—60 days for unworn items with tags, and you can return in-store for free if you have a location nearby.

The Bottom Line

If you want affordable, comfortable clothes that don’t look affordable, Aéropostale is seriously underrated. Skip the $60 hoodie elsewhere and grab two here instead. Head to aeropostale.com, check the clearance section, and stack a promo code. Your wallet—and your closet—will thank you.