RS Recommends: Has Abercrombie & Fitch Finally Been Released from Fashion Prison?
Earlier this year, Abercrombie & Fitch’s sordid past was (re)examined in the Netflix documentary White Hot: The Rise & Fall of Abercrombie & Fitch, reminding us why the Oughts mall staple became so hated. But although the documentary touches on the brand’s current standing, it doesn’t mention a surprising, and maybe even controversial truth about Abercrombie & Fitch in 2022: it might be cool again.
Is Abercrombie & Fitch Cool Again?
As the documentary explains, much of Abercrombie’s problematic branding (and behavior) can be traced back to its old leadership. But after years of problematic choices and bigoted statements, Abercrombie CEO Mike Jeffries stepped down in 2014. He was replaced by Abercrombie’s current CEO, Fran Horowitz, who has seemingly completely overhauled the brand’s image, marketing and looks.
More from Rolling Stone
Apple Unveils New iPhone 14, Apple Watch Ultra And Long-Awaited AirPods Pro 2
The Surf Lodge Brings Lupe Fiasco, Amos Lee To The Stage This September
RS Recommends: Combat The Heatwave With This Cooling Mattress Pad, Now Just $40
The new Abercrombie has done away with its controversial (read: racist) slogan tees, non-inclusive sizing, and frat boy looks in favor of minimal basics, laid-back Nineties inspiration, and affordable upgrades for your office and going-out wardrobes. The moose logo and popped collars of the past have been replaced by baggy hoodies in muted colors, versatile summer dresses, and even knit polos worthy of Don Draper’s closet.
But these stylish new pieces aren’t the only reason for Abercrombie’s comeback. The brand has also turned to social media marketing (particularly on TikTok) where sponsored ads have led to organic trends. Last year, #abercrombiehaul and #abercrombiestyle were regular TikTok hashtags under videos of young fashion influencers reviewing — and liking — Abercrombie & Fitch’s new pieces.
Further proof of the brand’s new lane can be seen on the Abercrombie website, which (as of this writing) leads with a distinctly un-Abercrombie-style motto: “Today—and every day—we’re leading with purpose, championing inclusivity and creating a sense of belonging.”
Not only is Abercrombie cool again, it’s also for the first time, surprisingly progressive.
The Best Abercrombie & Fitch Pieces
So, is Abercrombie & Fitch cool again? We certainly think so. If you’re not convinced, read on. We’ve rounded up some of the best Abercrombie & Fitch pieces — including men’s and women’s jeans, sweaters, and button-ups — that remind us why Abercrombie & Fitch is cool again. Just be sure to act fast if you like something: the best Abercrombie pieces have been selling out fast.
Best Abercrombie & Fitch Clothing for Men
Here are some of the best Abercrombie pieces for men that you can buy online right now.
1. Abercrombie & Fitch Button-Up Sweater Polo
We rarely find pieces of clothing that we want to wear to the office and to the bar and while traveling. But this button-up sweater polo can do it all. The wave pattern is subtle yet unique, lending a throwback vibe that’s easy to pair with chinos, jeans, or slacks and sneakers or loafers.
Buy Wave Pattern Sweater Polo $60
2. Abercrombie & Fitch 90s Straight Jeans
These Nineties-inspired jeans walk the line between pulled-together and youthful. With a straight-leg fit, you can rock them with statement sneakers and a baggy T-shirt, or wear them with an oxford shirt and loafers for dinner. In either case, the light vintage wash adds a layer of style that you’d miss out on with more basic jeans.
3. Abercrombie & Fitch Essential Tee
If you ever feel like you’re on a never-ending quest for the perfect plain T-shirt, try Abercrombie’s Essential Tee. It’s made of 180-gram cotton that has some real weight to it, and the relaxed fit is neither too baggy nor too tight. Pick up this three-pack and never be stuck without a go-to tee.
Buy Abercrombie Essential Tee (3-Pack) $39
4. Abercrombie & Fitch Tab Front Suit Pant
Dressier than chinos but not quite as fancy as slacks, these Abercrombie suit pants are a great candidate for go-to office looks. They’re made of cotton with a dash of elastane, which adds some subtle stretch for walking commutes and a more comfortable sitting position. You also don’t need to dry clean these pants, which is a big advantage compared to fancy dress slacks.
5. Abercrombie & Fitch Essential Full-Zip Hoodie
This fast-selling full-zip hoodie features a slightly oversized fit and a droopy shoulder, creating that relaxed silhouette we’re going for right now. It uses Abercrombie’s cheekily-named “softAF fabric” (a cotton-polyester blend), that comes in handy on lazy weekends, travel days, and cold mornings. Plus, it comes in several on-trend colors.
Buy Essential Full-Zip Hoodie $80
6. Abercrombie & Fitch Crew Sweater
Here’s another example of how Abercrombie nails the modern professional look. This waffle-stitched crewneck can be a more refined hoodie alternative, or a means of making office looks more laid-back. The weight and softness of the knit means it’s also great for laying around the house as well.
Best Abercrombie & Fitch Clothing for Women
Abercrombie is also making some great stuff for women these days, from casual wear to office-appropriate looks. Here is the best Abercrombie & Fitch clothing for women to buy online now.
1. Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love High Rise Jeans
Shopping for pants with a curvy figure can seem impossible. These aptly-named “Curve Love” jeans are (hopefully) a help. Thanks to a cotton-elastane denim fabric and a versatile fit, the jeans are much more inclusive of different backsides. Plus, an ultra-high waist and slits at the ankle bring some vintage-inspired style to boot.
Buy Curve Love High Rise Jeans $99
2. Abercrombie & Fitch Long-Sleeve Mockneck Top
Easing into fall doesn’t have to be stuffy. This form-fitting mockneck top exists somewhere between a sweater and a shirt, making a great pairing with jackets or as an extra layer over small tops. It comes in a few classic colors, but we like black for the most versatility.
Buy Long-Sleeve Mockneck Top $29
3. Abercrombie & Fitch Long-Length Vegan Leather Coat
Lately, outerwear has gone badass, and this long-length vegan leather coat nails the look — think, Trinity in the Matrix. It’s structured enough to wear with more upscale attire but works best over a slim-fit top on a night out. And considering what a great statement piece it is, the jacket is well-priced too.
Buy Long-Length Vegan Leather Coat $180
4. Abercrombie & Fitch Vintage Lace-Trim Cami
It’s no secret that the Oughts are back, and lacey sleepwear is one piece we’re seeing as a part of this trend. This slim-fit, lace-trimmed cami gets the idea, lending the look of a real undershirt but ensuring that you can wear it out without showing everything.
Buy Vintage Lace-Trim Cami $40
Best of Rolling Stone
