Where to shop DC: Express

One of the places I’ve been shopping lately is Express. I know what you’re thinking? Why is Express on my where to shop list? It’s a chain store. I can find them everywhere. How’s the quality when compared to some of the other stores you shop at. Really why is it on this list?

Before I get to into why, let’s back up a bit. The men’s division of Express was originally known as Structure. It was part of the Limited retail chain that owned a variety of those familiar stores populating most malls. The list of stores included the Limited, Lane Bryant, Bath & Body Works, Victoria Secrets and even Abercrombie and Fitch. In 2001, Express became a duel gender brand, integrating Structure as Express Men.

Being almost ubiquitous, Express was always one of those stores that I found I had pieces in my closet. When I was younger, it was larger because it was affordable. Another is because I’d been a fan of their stretch tees so every time I’d go in, I’d find some other fun piece of clothing to wear. I liked that the store had a good mix of trendier pieces along with more classic basics.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve gravitated away from the store feeling I was a bit too old for some of the styles. However over the past year and a half, I’ve picked up a few things that I’ve been pleased with. While I still feel that the store caters to a younger age set, I think that’s one of the reasons Express is on the list. Express has a nice variety of styles for the younger set at pretty reasonable prices. With the store’s aggressive sales practices, it’s pretty common to pick up a suit for less than $200.

From the Express.com website

Another reason why it’s a good place to shop is Express does a great job of catering to all body types. A quick look at their website shows models of all shapes and sizes. From super skinny to bigger boned, guys can see how clothes actually look on various body types. Typically most Express stores have a multitude of sizes available. And with several stores in the area if the size isn’t available at a particular location, there are several others in the area that will have the size.

Express’ decision to sell much of the suiting as separates is also a smart move. Guys have more flexibility in finding a suit that fits them. However that shouldn’t negate getting the pieces tailored for a better fit! One drawback is that since the suits are sold as separates, sometimes it may be difficult to find the jacket and matching pants to create the full look especially as it gets later into any season.

One of the things to consider in buying any suit is the quality. At such low price points, Express is not going to be offering Loro Piano or Zegna fabrics or a lot of styling choices. However for a starter suit or a budget friendly option, this is a nice choice.

I’m a fan of tonal dressing. For spring, I’ve found this light gray cotton suit paired with a tonal gray floral shirt. It’s got a bit of stretch because I don’t quite have my summer body. The rules of wearing a suit are changing. It doesn’t always have to be so businesslike or ready to wear for the office. This would be a great look for outdoor wedding or garden party. Lose the bowtie and it’s can be a date night look or an evening out with friends.

Shop my Look Details

Light Gray Textured Cotton Blend Stretch Suit Pant – Express

Light Gray Textured Cotton Blend Stretch Suit Jacket– Express

Floral Dot Cotton Dress Shirt– Express

Slip-on Sneakers – Uri Minkoff

Gray Striped Bow tie – Vineyard Vines

Photos by Jen Jean Pierre