Store

At first glance, American Apparel's assortment of men's and women's casual gear doesn’t look all that revolutionary, until you discover the thing that sets American Apparel apart from such chain stores as The Gap: American Apparel's goods are made in Los Angeles by employees who "are paid fairly and have access to basic benefits like healthcare."

This sweatshop-free approach to manufacturing and sales seems to have no effect on the prices (which are low) and everything to do with the quality of the garments (which is high). American Apparel's basic, no-nonsense T-shirts, tank tops, swimwear, jackets and underwear are comfortable, durable and smart-looking. And did we mention inexpensive and guilt-free?

By Geoff Carter
NWsource staff