Target Brands: What to Buy and What to Avoid - A UK Shopper's Guide

Target offers surprisingly good value on certain own-label brands, but knowing which ones deliver quality versus those that'll fall apart after a few washes is crucial for UK shoppers navigating this American retail giant. As someone who's spent years analysing fit, fabric quality, and value across international brands, I've tested Target's offerings extensively during my US shopping trips and can tell you exactly where to spend your hard-earned pounds and where to steer clear.

The Target Brands Worth Your Investment

Goodfellow & Co. - The Gentleman's Choice

This menswear line genuinely impresses with its attention to detail and fabric quality. Their chinos rival what you'd find at Zara (Spain's fast-fashion powerhouse known for trend-led pieces) but at half the price. The button-downs are particularly well-cut, and I've found their sizing translates well for UK body shapes. Think of it as Target's answer to COS (minimalist Scandinavian design with architectural silhouettes) but more accessible.

A New Day - Professional Power Dressing

For workwear that won't break the bank, A New Day delivers surprisingly sophisticated pieces. Their blazers have proper structure and lining - something you'd expect from Reiss (British brand known for contemporary tailoring and premium fabrics). The trousers hold their shape beautifully, and I've found the sizing consistent across their range. Perfect for building a capsule work wardrobe.

Universal Thread - Denim Done Right

Their denim selection offers excellent value with good stretch recovery and flattering cuts. The high-waisted styles particularly suit the current silhouette trends we're seeing across Mango (Spanish brand offering elevated basics with Mediterranean flair) and & Other Stories (Scandi cool with artistic edge).

The Brands to Approach with Caution

Xhilaration - Fast Fashion at Its Worst

I've tested multiple pieces from this line, and frankly, the quality control is shocking. Fabrics pill after one wash, seams split easily, and the fit is wildly inconsistent. You're better investing the same money in H&M (Swedish fast-fashion with better quality control) or ASOS (British online retailer with extensive size ranges and easy returns).

Wild Fable - Hit or Miss Trendy Pieces

While the styling can be on-trend, the execution often falls short. Fabric choices feel cheap, and construction quality varies dramatically between pieces. For trend-led pieces, stick to Zara or Mango where quality is more predictable.

My Professional Styling Recommendations

High Street Alternatives in the UK:

COS - Minimalist designs with exceptional fabric quality**& Other Stories** - Creative Scandinavian pieces with artistic flair**Arket** - Sustainable basics with modern cuts**Everlane** - Transparent pricing with ethical production

Premium Options for Investment Pieces

When Target fails to deliver, consider Sezane (French brand known for effortless Parisian chic with vintage-inspired pieces) or Ganni (Danish brand famous for playful prints and contemporary femininity). Both offer superior construction and distinctive styling that justifies the higher price point.

Luxury Designer Picks

For special occasions, Rotate Birger Christensen delivers statement pieces with impeccable construction, while By Malene Birger offers sophisticated Scandinavian luxury with attention to detail that Target simply cannot match.

The Sizing Challenge for UK Shoppers

Here's where shopping Target becomes particularly tricky for UK customers - American sizing runs differently from our UK standards, and Target's own-brand sizing can be inconsistent even within the same line. This is where proper sizing tools become invaluable.

How tellar.co.uk Solves Your Sizing Dilemmas

As the UK's leading sizing tool, tellar.co.uk takes the guesswork out of shopping both UK brands and international retailers like Target. With your body measurements matched precisely to over 1500 brands instantly, you'll never need to puzzle over a size guide again.

Here's How It Works:

1. Measure once using your bust, waist, hip measurements, or input your existing brand size
2. Use the Store Size Lookup tool at tellar.co.uk to get your precise size in any brand
3. Always free - no downloads needed, works seamlessly in your browser

Expert Resources in the Tellar Fashion Hub

The Tellar Fashion Hub offers a comprehensive library of styling advice from experienced fashion professionals. All content is honest, unbiased, independent and completely free. Whether you're building a capsule wardrobe or hunting for the perfect jeans, our stylists provide the insider knowledge you need.

Essential Reading from Our Fashion Hub:

• tellar.co.uk - Stay ahead of the denim curve
• tellar.co.uk - Find your perfect outer layer

My Final Verdict

Target can offer excellent value on specific brands like Goodfellow & Co. and A New Day, but the key is knowing exactly what to look for and ensuring proper sizing before purchase. For UK shoppers, I recommend focusing on these quality lines whilst having backup options from reliable UK retailers like COS, Arket, and & Other Stories ready in your shopping arsenal.

Remember, the best wardrobe investment is always about cost-per-wear rather than initial price. With tools like tellar.co.uk ensuring perfect fit every time, you can shop confidently knowing your purchases will work beautifully with your existing wardrobe.