What's Good to Buy at Target and What's Not: A Stylist's Honest Guide

Target offers excellent value for basics and trend pieces, but skip their premium collaborations and focus on their strengths instead. As someone who's spent years styling clients on every budget, I've learnt exactly where Target shines and where you're better off investing elsewhere. Let me break down the smart buys versus the items that'll leave you disappointed.

Target's Fashion Wins: What Actually Works

Target's A New Day line delivers surprisingly well-cut basics that rival what you'd find at H&M (the Swedish fast-fashion giant known for trend-led pieces at accessible prices) or Zara (Spain's fashion powerhouse famous for translating runway trends quickly and affordably). Their cotton tees, ponte blazers, and midi skirts offer that sweet spot of quality and price that works beautifully for building a capsule wardrobe.

The Universal Thread denim collection genuinely competes with Topshop (the British brand beloved for its youthful, trend-conscious approach to fashion). I've styled clients in Target's straight-leg and wide-leg styles, and the fit is remarkably consistent. At £25-35, they're positioned perfectly between fast fashion and premium denim.

For activewear, Target's All in Motion range offers brilliant alternatives to pricier options. While not quite reaching Lululemon (the Canadian athletic luxury brand synonymous with premium yoga and workout wear) standards, the leggings and sports bras perform admirably for casual workouts and cost a fraction of the price.

Target's Accessories Game

This is where Target truly excels. Their handbag selection offers styles reminiscent of what you'd find at Mango (the Spanish contemporary brand known for sophisticated, affordable luxury looks) but at half the price. The structured totes and crossbody bags are perfect for creating that polished look without the premium price tag.

Shoes are hit-and-miss, but their ballet flats and loafers work well as affordable alternatives to M&S (Marks & Spencer, Britain's reliable high street staple known for quality basics and footwear). Just don't expect them to last beyond a season of regular wear.

What to Skip at Target

Target's designer collaborations often disappoint. While the marketing suggests you're getting designer-level pieces, the execution rarely matches the promise. You're better investing in pieces from COS (the minimalist Scandinavian brand offering contemporary design with architectural silhouettes) or & Other Stories (the creative Swedish brand known for eclectic, fashion-forward pieces with artistic flair) where the design integrity remains intact.

Avoid Target's formal wear entirely. Their blazers and work dresses lack the structure and finish you need for professional settings. Instead, invest in pieces from Whistles (the British contemporary brand celebrated for modern, sophisticated workwear) for high street options, or Reiss (the London-based label known for refined, tailored pieces perfect for the modern professional) for premium quality.

Brand Alternatives: High Street to Luxury

High Street Champions: For everyday basics, ASOS (the British online fashion giant offering thousands of brands and their own trend-led pieces) provides broader selection with similar pricing. Next (Britain's reliable fashion retailer known for contemporary styles and excellent fit) offers superior quality for work basics.

Premium Upgrades: When you're ready to invest more, Ted Baker (the British lifestyle brand famous for quirky prints and impeccable tailoring) offers elevated designs that justify the price increase. Their attention to detail and distinctive aesthetic create pieces you'll treasure for years.

Luxury Investment: For special pieces, consider Max Mara (the Italian luxury house renowned for exquisite tailoring and timeless elegance, particularly their iconic coats). Their craftsmanship and design philosophy create wardrobe foundations that last decades.

Target's Sweet Spot Strategy

Use Target strategically for trend pieces you won't wear beyond a season, quality basics for layering, and accessories that add personality to your outfits. Their children's clothing genuinely impresses—often matching the quality of more expensive brands while being refreshingly practical.

The key is understanding Target's limitations whilst maximising their strengths. Shop there for immediate wardrobe gaps, but invest in quality pieces elsewhere for items you'll wear repeatedly.

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