american apparel: basics
For that petite, perfectly fitted tee, look no further than American Apparel. Seriously, we’re talking great quality, affordable, and hip. American Apparel runs the gamut of cotton tops, bottoms, undies, and swimwear and every bit of it runs small, small, small. Amid the resurgence of Downtown Los Angeles, American Apparel has consolidated all stages of its clothing production under one roof — from design to the cutting and sewing of every garment, even the company marketing.
Rather than follow seasonal trends, American Apparel offers an expansive year-round line that continues to introduce new styles and colors. We’re talking quality garments that last forever.
And their sizing is consistent. I wear a S shirt and XS pant in everything made by American Apparel — no fail.
American Apparel’s size chart estimates pant/short size as a zero with a 23-24 inch waist; the small is designated as a 25-26.
They have XXS in tanks and t-shirts with a chest size of 26-28 (uber small!). Lingerie sizes include the teensy AA and undies that start at XS (with waist sizes in 23-24). Jackets start at XXS; dresses from XS. You can check out their sizing chart to find your size.
Also, the pricing is excellent. I have the following in my closet:
long sleeve henley | small | $24
baby thermal cap sleeve top | x-small | $14
loop terry lounge pant | small | $32
long sleeve hoody | small | $26
I find the baby thermal cap sleeve top to be perfect for all occasions: work, weekend wear, yoga bedtime, beach — you name it.
You’ll find an American Apparel on almost every corner in L.A. (and everywhere else in the world, including Mexico City, Amsterdam and Tokyo — to name a few).
For that online shopping habit (I admit to one myself), American Apparel makes it easy with a thorough web store.
