(The Verge) – Reading blogs and articles about fashion, a common theme that seems to run through is, the importance of the basics. The white t-shirt, the crewneck sweater, the “Jackie-O-esque” cardigan; all of these items are viewed as staples of any good wardrobe because of their versatility and timeless nature.
A white t-shirt can be worn with a pair of leggings and a comfy flannel or it can be paired with a slimming blazer for a day at the office. No one can deny the necessity of such an item, but where does one go to purchase a cardigan, sweater, t-shirt, etc., that is high enough quality to be worn with so many different outfits and won’t break the bank? Stores like Banana Republic and J. Crew carry some great basics, but they can set you back $30 to $50 for just a simple t-shirt. So where do you turn? A Japanese based company known as “UNIQLO” may be the answer!
UNIQLO’s first store opened in 1985 in Hiroshima under the name “Unique Clothing Warehouse” and has continued to gain support over the last few decades producing the essentials of fashion. The Japanese clothing retailer is known for its classic silhouettes, wide array of colors, exceptional construction, and affordable prices. UNIQLO stands out among other “deep-discount” store like Forever 21 and H&M because the retailer focuses on the quality of the fabric used rather than producing a large variety of trendy products.
While they stay away from trends, UNIQLO does pride themselves on offering customers basic styles that are still current. A newer trend that many are excited to find offered by UNIQLO is the long slouchy cardigan (“grandpa sweaters” if you will!). UNIQLO has produced a line of such sweaters with colors ranging from a classic black to a vibrant moss green that are perfect for a chilly Fall day. These cardigans are also great for layering! You can never go wrong with a flannel button down under a cozy sweater and right now a myriad of flannels are available for $29.90 (check out the store opening promotions online to grab the flannel for $19.90 for a limited time!). Whatever color you’re looking for, sweaters, flannels, fleeces, jeans, and other styles all come in countless different hues that could fill the “basics quota” of anyone’s wardrobe (check out the Alpaca V-neck sweater – it’s flattering and comfy!).
With all of the options offered by UNIQLO one may be wondering where they can go to explore – not a problem! UNIQLO stores have been popping up in malls across the nation and will continue opening in years to come. The retailer has even stated that there are plans to open 200 stores in the United States, with locations in every major city. Right now, there are about fifteen locations with New Jersey’s Garden State Plaza Mall store serving as the flagship. If a location has not been built near you yet, please don’t feel like you’re missing out. UNIQLO’s website offers the majority of their merchandise and has a full schedule of upcoming store openings.
While UNIQLO prides itself on offering high quality fashion at an affordable price, the company also does its part in helping the community by lending a hand in enriching people’s lives through art and design. This past May UNIQLO partnered with The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City to sponsor “UNIQLO Free Friday Nights.” The Free Friday Night program offers museum goers free admission to exhibitions, film screenings, and the famous Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Garden. UNIQLO’s sponsor has aided in opening the museum to a wider audience and making the MoMA one of New York’s most beloved Friday night spots.
Deciding to go to one of the Free Friday Nights at the MoMA seems to be a no brainer and with so many great styles offered by UNIQLO, picking out an outfit should be a breeze! (Oh, and if that breeze is chilly, cover up with that UNIQLO flannel.)
