The Evolution of Our Favorite Tween Stores

As I was scrolling through my Instagram feed (which I do about 50 times a day), an ad popped up for Hollister. As I stared at the ad, I couldn’t believe this was the same store that I shopped at when I was in middle school. None of the models were in navy blue spaghetti strap tops or in t-shirts with seagulls on them. Instead, they were wearing sparkly crop tops and black dresses. These outfits differed drastically from the classic Hollister look I once knew, and loved. I began to wonder how other stores I shopped at in my tweens have fared over the years, as I grew up and moved on to other stores.

Here’s a look at how all of your middle-school self’s favorite stores have changed (some for the better and some for the worse):

Abercrombie and Fitch

From jeans to hoodies, everyone wore head-to-toe Abercrombie in his or her middle school days. Yet the perfect looking in-store models made it hard for shoppers to feel secure in the tight fitting Abercrombie t-shirts. Abercrombie no longer calls its workers “models” and has made an effort to have more diverse looking people work in their stores.

What you used to know: Preppy blouses, shirtless models and the reeking smell of perfume.

What it is now: While Abercrombie still sells preppy sweaters and plaid skirts, it also sells more current trends like bodysuits and jean skirts. And while the shirtless models may be gone from stores, the smell of Abercrombie perfume is still ever so present.

Lace Trim Bodysuit, $14.40 from Abercrombie

Aéropostale

Always the cheaper alternative to stores like Abercrombie, Aéropostale was always the place to find a cute new outfit. While this store used to be extremely popular amongst teens, it filed for bankruptcy earlier this year.

What you used to know: Camis, sweaters, polos and button down tops.

What it is now: While the clothes are still a great price, nothing about Aéropostale’s clothes is that exciting. Yet, it’s still a viable option for a cute, casual, yet cheap look.

Prince & Fox Box Pleat Corduroy Skirt, $17 from Aeropostale

Hollister

From navy blue blouses to maroon tank tops, everything in Hollister used to look the same. However, Hollister has revamped its clothes to adapt to modern fashions. The clothes are actually pretty cute and not as pricey as they used to be.  

What you used to know: Soft t-shirts, tank tops, bikinis and lace tops.

What it is now: Hollister has maintained its beachy look, but it also has popular trends like lace-up shirts.

Must-Have Lace-Up Lace Top, $24,95 from Hollister

Justice

Ok, I’m throwing it pretty far back for this one, but who didn’t love Justice when they were younger? With its fun, cute and girly looks, Justice was once a staple in every girl’s wardrobe.

What you used to know: Fun t-shirts with matching arm warmers, sundresses, and halter tops.

What it is now: The only way to describe it is a neon glitter explosion. Please tell me I never wore a sparkly tutu skirt when I was younger.

Shining Sequins Skirt, $32.90 from Justice

American Eagle

 I shopped at American Eagle in middle school, and I still shop there now. American Eagle has done the best job of keeping up with current trends and remaining a place where millennials want to shop. Its #Aeriereal campaign has made it appealing to people with any body type, and its new collection “Don’t Ask Why” is definitely on trend.

What you used to know: Laid back vibe, jeans, t-shirts, and polo shirts for your school uniform.

What it is now: Boho looks, lace tops, and (in my opinion) the most comfortable jeans you will ever buy.

Don't Ask Why Off-The-Shoulder Crepe Tee, $34.95 from American Eagle

dELiA*s

dELiA*s was known for being trendy, but also quirky and fun. From its wide array of t-shirts to its trendy tops and sweaters, dELiA*s was a must go-to on any shopping trip. Its popularity didn’t last, for it declared bankruptcy in 2014. With no stores left in the mall, dELiA*s is now solely an online retailer.

What you used to know: Graphic tees, cute dresses, and blazers.

What it is now: The clothes are almost exactly the same as they were five years ago, and there are still plenty of graphic tees to choose from (although most of them are a little childish).

My Unicorn Tee, $14.90 from dELiA*s