Where to Shop in Your 30s If You Don’t Want to Look Like Gen Z
Here's where to find clothes that embody grown-up chic and are effortlessly cool.
The product recommendations in this post are recommendations by the writer and/or expert(s) interviewed and do not contain affiliate links. Meaning: If you use these links to buy something, we will not earn a commission.
We love our younger Gen Z friends — and yeah, we’ll take a few style pointers from them when it feels right. For example, bless this generation for making comfortable sneakers the go-to shoe whether you’re at the airport or a bar, and let’s give them some kudos for bringing back some (emphasis on *some*) ‘90s era nostalgia so we can relive our best teenage dirtbag lives once more.
That said, some of the trends we’re seeing from this generation just won’t fly for those of us thriving in our 30s. We need cool sophistication — AKA a wardrobe that’s equal parts “grown-up chic” but that doesn’t feel dated, expected, or boring. Clothing that has a little bit of an edge, but said edge has been gently polished.
Ready to infuse your closet with some unique pieces? Check out these ten places to shop that won’t make you look like Gen Z.
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Madewell’s style is in the name. The retailer goes above and beyond to curate timeless essentials with quality in mind for your favorite staple pieces.
Think a killer pair of well-fitted jeans, basic tees you’ll wear over and over again, and gorgeous sweaters that never go out of style.
For a pinch of easy bohemian flare, look no further than Free People. From breezy tunics to oversized coatigans to flowing maxis, the store is brimming with pieces that you’ll feel excited to show off.
Anthropologie is a one-stop shop of home decor, curated wellness goodies, and trendy clothing.
Similar to Free People, the retailer curates quite a few boho-chic styles, but it also sells classic wardrobe staples, trendy footwear, and even some preppy clothing.
We love a company that cares about the environment, and Rothy’s totally fits the bill with its lineup of footwear made from recycled plastic.
In addition to the classic flats you can wear with literally anything, Rothy’s makes loafers, boots, and sneakers. All the shoes are machine washable, too.
Speaking of sustainability, Rent the Runway is one of the best places to shop if you care about reducing waste and looking good. Simply sign up for a membership to receive a rotation of either four or eight items per month, and you’ll have something new to wear all the time.
The membership gives you access to everything from designer gowns (perfect for formal events) to office attire, accessories, bags, and beyond.
With its sophisticated and timeless style, we’re pretty sure Banana Republic’s heritage-chic aesthetic will never, ever fall from fashion’s favor.
Plus, the brand prides itself on creating high-quality garments and accessories that you can confidently keep in your closet for years to come.
Aerosoles proves you don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars on shoes to enjoy style and comfort.
The retailer offers a versatile range of trendy, middle-tier priced footwear that’ll typically cost you between $50 to $200. With shoes for everyday wear, work, and an evening out, there’s literally something for every occasion.
If you haven’t peeped apparel from Good American yet, you are seriously missing out.
The jeans are game-changing not just because they make your legs and butt look amazing, but because one size accommodates up to four different sizes so you can comfortably wear them if your weight fluctuates. The bodysuits are legit, too.
Undeniably fashion-forward, Zara does a stellar job of curating collections that follow today’s biggest runway trends.
At the same time, its clothing and accessories are super wearable, allowing you to have your real world-meets-catwalk moment whether you’re at a party, happy hour, or just running errands.
This roundup wouldn’t be complete without a little athletic wear. With so many brands to choose from it’s hard to narrow it down to just one, but our pick is Girlfriend Collective.
The retailer makes its products from recycled materials, caters to a broad range of sizes, and the clothing is addictively comfortable.
