Where I live, store options have been dwindling since the onset of Covid-19. Malls, department stores and standalone stores have been slowly vanishing from my area. For the record I actually enjoy shopping locally, support businesses and trying things on. It seems that my options are becoming increasingly scarce and I have to shift the bulk of my styling to online sources.
Perhaps you aren't like me and you just hate shopping. I get it. It's like you have to plan an excursion to do it right, and it's an all day event. And some of us just don't have that kind of time. Whether it's because the options are fewer or you just don't want to do it, there are ways to keep looking spiffy. Here are a few sources that I have found that you may enjoy as well.
Stitch Fix
I like Stitch Fix for its flexibility and range of products. The first thing is their quiz and style assessment, which was pretty straightforward. From there, you set your budget and how often you want to get a "Fix". They carry a wide range of sizes which makes it nice for everyone to find something. Their shipping is nice and easy, they include a postage paid envelope with every order. If you dont want it, send it back. They do charge a $20 styling fee, but it gets applied to any purchases you make.
I also like how they allow you to focus on lifestyle, such as casual or business. And there is no subscription. I just logged onto the app and suspended or terminated the delivery schedule at will. The brands I received included Toms, rag bone, vineyard vines, Ralph Lauren and more. Definitely a solid choice and again, if there is something you don't like you just send it back.
Bombfell
Bombfell is a very similar setup in some ways. They also have a $20 styling fee, although its not applied to the cost of the clothes you may keep. However, you save 20% if you keep 4 or more of the items, so that math might work in your favor sometimes.
Bombfell also has a survey to determine your style preferences. However, this quiz asks a little more than size, including things that you will never want delivered (saving the hassle of returning something you never wanted anyways). It also asks about favorite brands, in case you already have preferences based on cut and fit. Their system uses a combination of AI and human stylist to put together the picks, and you can preview them as well.
The Gentlemen's Box
I really like this service! It's very unlike the others in that this is all about the accessories. Get 4-6 fashion and lifestyle accessories each month for $29. There are also options to purchase individual items from their store as add-ons or one-offs. Another really cool feature I found was their Groomsmen packages, so this service can be not just for you but a great source for gifting.
How the program works is like this: You sign up and fill out your profile. They send you the box and you keep all the items (no returns like in the full outfit programs). It is flexible, you can skip a month, switch or add subscriptions, or cancel any time.
The Gentlemen's Box is definitely not a starter system. This is for adding on those little touches that take your style game to the next level. And for $29 a month, it's easy to give it a try. They also offer a Premium Lifestyle package which sends a new box each quarter for $100, and they are designed with the seasons in mind.
Nordstrom Trunk Club
I love Nordstrom. I mean really, as much as I can love a department store, I love this one. Maybe its that there isn't one near me, so it feels like a "special trip" when I get to go. Maybe it's the incredible style and customer service I get each time I go there. But since there isn't one close to me, I was elated to find the Trunk Club.
Here's how it works. You request a trunk, and indicate what you want them to focus on. A stylist will hand select the pieces to send based on your indicated style profile and needs. Then you get a digital preview of the items. Approve the items you want to receive or remove any items that simply don't work for you. Once you get your trunk, try everything on. Keep only what you love, send the rest back. There is free shipping both ways. There is a $25 styling fee, but like Stitch Fix it get's credited to any items you decide to keep.
Search often for new options
There are new services coming out all the time. And just like anything else, there will be some good ones and bad ones. Make sure to check out the reviews and look over what they offer. Also look for hidden fees and sketchy pricing models. While I haven't any problems with the ones listed here, not everyone will be as aboveboard. And don't feel like you have to stay with one service for a long time. Rotate among a couple and change your delivery frequency so that you get a wider variety.
Hopefully this gave you some good information and sources for staying spiffy in the 2020's!