12 American clothing brands that should be on your style radar

We've rounded up the American clothing brands that you should be shopping this season

composite of three models wearing clothes from the best american clothing brands
(Image credit: Future/Reformation, Anthropologie, Banana Republic)

When it comes to fashion, American clothing brands have so much to offer. Whether you're looking for high-performance clothing and sportswear, amazing jeans, or a stylish dress, the American fashion industry is bursting with design talent and labels that have a proven track record in great clothing.

While British clothing brands often offer classic styles with a twist, when it comes to American clothing brands, the options are incredibly diverse. You’re likely to recognize a number of the leading American clothing brands; from denim legends, Levi’s to sports giant Nike, and New York Fashion Week favorites, Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren. But American clothing brands offer much more than the best jeans, trainers, and polo tops. 

Unlike the chic appeal of French clothing brands, the glamour of Italian clothing brands or the minimal-meets-maximal aesthetic of Scandinavian clothing brands, each American clothing brand has its own distinct identity. Whether you’re after quality basics or statement pieces for special occasions, American clothing brands really do offer something for everyone. We've rounded up our favorites and the pieces to invest in this season.

The Best American Clothing Brands to Browse 

The Best American Clothing brands as chosen by our fashion editors

Whether you're after an outfit for a big event or looking to stock up on the basics, these are some of the best American clothing brands that ship to the US and the UK. Just remember to check individual brand sites delivery policies, as import duties and taxes may occur from internationally shipped brands. 

1. Good American

composite of three models wearing clothing from american brand good american

(Image credit: Good American)

If you’re after a confidence boost, look no further than Good American. Founded in 2016 by Emma Grede and reality TV royalty Khloe Kardashian, size inclusivity is at the heart of this label. Offering a brilliant size range from 00-32 - meaning they have some of the best jeans for curvy women, it even launched an in-between size 15 after noticing the majority of the returns it received were sizes 14 and 16. Genius! 

Every item is shot on a selection of models so that you can get a good idea of how it will look on various body types. Denim is the focus of Good American, so whether you’re after skinny, straight, wide-leg, or the best slimming jeans, there is a pair for you. But don't forget its timeless tops and figure-hugging dresses are worth a look too. This is one of the best size-inclusive American clothing brands we’ve seen, so bookmark it now.

Fashion editor's picks...

2. Reformation

composite of three models wearing various clothing items from reformation

(Image credit: Reformation)

Cool, feminine and edgy, Reformation is our go-to sustainable clothing brand that feels sexy, too. While it started out as a vintage store in Los Angeles, the brand expanded and now focuses on its own designs. If you’re in the market for a knockout dress, Reformation gets our vote. Its sleek style often comes with subtle splits, quirky necklines, or in multiple colors, and everything is made from low-impact materials, dead-stock fabrics, or repurposed clothes. 

The best bit? It starts with small quantities to keep production more exclusive and only makes more if there is a demand, meaning you’re less likely to have that cringe-worthy moment of seeing someone in the same outfit as you. Its wedding and bridesmaid dresses section is particularly impressive, and it offers extended sizing, too. 

Fashion editor's picks...

3. Anthropologie

composite of three models wearing clothing from anthropologie

(Image credit: Anthropologie)

If you consider yourself to have a more bohemian approach to life and have already nailed boho style, then it’s worth browsing the treasure trove that is Anthropologie. Since this American clothing brand launched in Pennsylvania in the early '90s, it has expanded to over 200 stores across North America and Europe and inhabits a lifestyle for the creative woman seeking a little adventure. 

As well as selling its own-brand clothing, there are pieces from other labels that share the same free-spirited ethos so you can widen your fashion credentials too. Plus, the homeware section is gorgeous, particularly if you’re looking to match your closet to your kitchen. Our top picks? Think clashing prints, crochet separates, and floaty maxi dresses.

Fashion editor's picks...

4. Everlane

composite of three models wearing pieces from everlane

(Image credit: Everlane)

Specializing in exceptional basics, this ethical brand can help to make up the building blocks of a minimalist capsule wardrobe. But it's the San Francisco-based label's transparency that really has our hearts. Revealing the estimated cost it takes to make every item on its site, you can see the mark-ups and the processes needed to make the clothes. 

It has a minimal, fuss-free aesthetic so you can weave its quality pieces into your wardrobe. Whether it’s boxy t-shirts, the best cashmere sweaters, or tailored pants, you can rest assured that these pieces are made to last. It even stocks some of the best scarves for women, if you're looking for great accessories too.

Fashion editor's picks...

5. J.Crew

composite of three models wearing clothing from j crew

(Image credit: J.Crew)

When thinking of American clothing brands, often thoughts can turn to that preppy college vibe seen in movies. If you’re drawn to collared shirts layered under v-neck sweaters, varsity logo tops or the best blazers, then J.Crew needs to be added to your shopping list. 

With a penchant for color, these stores are a breath of fresh air. You can even search for key items online via the print you’re after. Our advice? Get your stripes here, because J.Crew knows how to do a classic pattern ever so well. Loved by stars including Gwyneth Paltrow and Michelle Obama, you can shop A-list pieces without a celebrity budget. 

Fashion editor's picks...

6. Girlfriend Collective

models wearing clothing from american brand girlfriend collective

(Image credit: Girlfriend Collective)

Less of a trend and more of a movement, Girlfriend Collective is changing the way activewear is manufactured and marketed. Not only does it have one of the most sustainable approaches to making its clothes, but it also uses 25 recycled plastic bottles to make every pair of leggings and 11 for every sports bra. Plus, it's one of the most inclusive American clothing brands on the market. Modeled by a range of sizes and ages, it also showcases body hair, stretch marks, and skin blemishes. Because every body is beautiful and deserves good quality gym kit and loungewear. Period.

Fashion editor's picks...

7. Banana Republic

composite of three models wearing various clothing items from banana republic

(Image credit: Banana Republic)

It’s likely you’ve heard of the American clothing brand Gap, but are you aware the company also owns Banana Republic? If a utilitarian style is more your thing, then it’s worth taking a look. Originally launched to sell “safari-style” in the late '70s, and while it has diversified its offering it hasn’t ventured too far away from the style genre. 

Expect a muted color palette of khakis, beiges, and tans that are easily adopted into any closet, with a little animal print thrown in for good measure. Expect safari-inspired jackets, gorgeous silk scarves, and neutral pants for a well-edited, minimalistic style.

Fashion editor's picks...

8. Kate Spade New York

composite of three models wearing various clothing items from kate spade

(Image credit: Kate Spade)

If it’s good enough for royalty, it’s good enough for us, and Kate Spade comes Princess approved. Kate Middleton’s dresses have been topping best-dressed lists for years and while she has worn American clothing brands on a number of occasions, this label is one Kate has worn on repeat. 

Founded by couple Kate and Andy Spade, it initially sold bright, colorful bags before expanding into clothing and accessories. It’s fun and feminine, often emblazoned with quirky slogans and motifs. From classic florals to cheeky lips, it’s a brand that embraces all things girly. While founder Kate sadly passed away in 2018, her vision, playfulness, and creativity certainly live on through the best Kate Spade bags and beautiful garments. 

Fashion editor's picks...

9. Rag & Bone

composite of three models wearing clothing from rag & bone

(Image credit: Rag & Bone)

Sitting at the higher end of American fashion brands, Rag & Bone has all the elements that make up an urban New York label and are masters when it comes to the Stealth Wealth trend. Slouchy tees and ripped jeans are the backbones of the brand, with many of the products still made in factories in the US. Marcus Wainwright, who originates from Britain, sits at the helm and it’s clear there is a British influence as the label mixes strongly tailored pieces with an understated edge. 

A shout-out must go to its quality leather pieces too. They are a higher cost but will last you for years, especially as leather looks better when a little distressed. The American-made clothing at Rag & Bone is loved by the likes of  Jennifer Aniston and Katie Holmes, so it’s worth investing in some cool off-duty looks to bring the streets of New York to you.

Fashion editor's picks...

10. Gap

composite of three models wearing various clothing items from gap

(Image credit: Gap)

Gap is a classic American clothing brand, but well-loved the world over. Known for its jeans and sweatshirts, it's the ideal place to head for stocking up on affordable basics, and is a must for an over 50s capsule wardrobe, thanks to its well-made, classic pieces. 

While the monogram Gap hoodie remains one of the brand's most iconic styles, they also have a great selection of denim across all categories, alongside brilliant everyday separates, often in a rainbow array of colors. For year-round classics, head to Gap for its never-ending edit of loungewear, Breton tops, staple outerwear and of course, jeans.

Fashion editor's picks...

11. Patagonia

composite of three models wearing various clothing items from patagonia

(Image credit: Patagonia)

One of the best sustainable clothing brands, Patagonia is an outdoor and lifestyle brand with plenty of heart. Making some of the best waterproof jackets, great hiking gear, and even stylish and sustainable swimwear, Patagonia is very much in the business of slow fashion. Transparency is key for the brand and it guarantees everything it makes, and unlike other labels, it's not about selling you more, just what you need. Wanting its clothes to last longer, if it needs repair, Patagonia offer a repair service too.

Fashion editor's picks...

 

12. Torrid

composite of three models wearing clothing from torrid

(Image credit: Torrid)

Torrid is one of the best plus size clothing brands. Using lots of different plus size models and some of the best fashion bloggers on its platform, so you can see how the clothes actually look on fuller figures. The collections are packed with trend-led styles that won't break the bank. 

With multiple categories, including the best plus size swimwear, great denim, work clothes, party wear, and it's one of the best plus size lingerie brands too. There is really nothing you can't find at this curve-friendly brand. They regularly collaborate with designers and influencers such as runway designer Betsey Johnson, giving plus size women an opportunity to wear fashion-forward pieces.

Joely Chilcott

Joely Chilcott is an experienced fashion and features editor having spent over ten years writing, styling and editing for a number of women's lifestyle publications, including Woman & Home, Woman and Woman's Own. 

A certified shopping expert, Joely is always on the lookout for new and exciting brands that she can champion, while holding the high street close to her heart. She has had work published in Drapers, Women's Health, Fabulous, YOU, The Sun and the Metro, as well as being a regular fashion contributor to TalkRadio. 

With contributions from