Earlier this week, Aeropostale announced that it was filing for bankruptcy protection – closing 15% of its U.S. stores and all 41 of it’s Canadian stores. And just like that – another familiar mall store will disappear forever.
It seems like a lot of mid-range clothing brands have been suffering recently. Companies we thought would be around forever – like Jacob, Smart Set, Danier Leather and Mexx , have all closed down. And while we may have benefited from their store clearance sales – it’s hard to say goodbye to old favourites. I bought my first “office party dress” from Mexx – I felt so grown up! And who doesn’t remember how wearing a Danier Leather jacket automatically made you oh-so-chic?
So why are these stores tumbling over like dominoes? It’s a combination of competition from Fast Fashion giants (like H&M, Forever21 and ZARA) along with evolving shopping habits. Lower prices, quickly changing merchandise and online shopping options are all highly valued – and these mid-range clothing brands are not able to keep up.
So what are your alternatives now that Aeropostale is closing? If you loved their jeans – try American Eagle Outfitters or Express. And if it’s their logoed shirts and sweatshirts you’ll miss – you might be able to find similar merchandise at Roots or Garage.
Are you an Aeropostale fan? What mall store could you not live without?
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