I Used to Work at Free People, and Now I Shop at These 8 Stores to Get the Look

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(Image credit: @_sierramayhew)

I'll never forget my days spent working at the Free People flagship in Manhattan. Due to its location, the heart of Rockefeller Center, we had tourists from all over the world come in every day. I ended up meeting and styling so many different types of people, and working retail was a very educational moment in my early career days. Based on that experience, Free People will always have a special place in my heart. I got the now sold-out crochet skirt pictured above from there, and I'm still not over how good it is.

Free People specializes in dressing many different types of women, including everyone from the ultimate bohemian who stops and pets every dog she sees on her morning walk to the edgy skater girl who stays up all night with exploration on her mind. One thing that ties together every aesthetic the store offers is an effortless style that exudes a romantic touch. If you're a big fan of the brand and are looking to expand your collection of items from it, I strongly suggest you take a look at the below eight stores that march to the beat of the same drum.

1. Reformation

I have to start with Reformation because it's the ultimate sister brand of Free People. Its classic, French girl–esque pieces are timeless. You'll find something for every occasion, from a casual work-from-home day to whatever special occasion is currently on your calendar.

2. For Love & Lemons

If you love your prints as much as I do, you have to already know and love For Love & Lemons. It can do no wrong with styles that emphasize every figure. Buying a dress from the brand is a requirement for me every summer.

3. Mango

Everyone's favorite European store has something for everyone, and if you dive into the right corner of its site, you're going to find some pieces that match the Free People vibe. Let's start with its perfect summer dresses.

4. Faithfull the Brand

I can't remember ever seeing a Faithfull the Brand piece that I didn't love. Just like Free People, it doesn't miss a beat. Your effortless summer wardrobe starts here and includes a lot of flirty dresses.

5. Madewell

If you're a big fan of Free People, I'm sure you already know about Madewell. Allow me to entertain you regardless. I'd describe the brand as one of the greatest places to build a capsule wardrobe. Every piece is worth holding on to for many years to come.

6. Farm Rio

Farm Rio is the kind of brand that can take you on vacation without you ever having to leave your own city. Its whimsical prints contain details that you'd never notice at first glance, so take a closer look.

7. Revolve

How could I not mention Revolve? It won me over at a young age, and I still can't go a day without checking its new arrivals. If you're in love with the Free People aesthetic, you need to spend more time on this site.

8. Urban Outfitters

I'm going to leave you with the actual sister brand of Free People. Urban Outfitters walks hand in hand with the bohemian world of FP, so naturally, I had to include it. I've always had so much love for its trend-driven pieces and will continue to love on them.

Up Next: I'm Attending 22 Weddings This Year—These Are the 6 Dress Trends I'm Wearing

Associate Editor

Sierra Mayhew was always destined to work in fashion, but she didn't know it at first. Growing up with no choice but to wear a rotation of school uniforms and activewear, her love for fashion really blossomed when she moved away for college and was able to finally define her very own personal style. Shortly thereafter, she interned at Elle magazine and instantly knew that editorial was for her. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, she worked for ShopBazaar, contributing regularly to Bazaar.com, and finally made her way to Who What Wear, where she is an associate editor. When she’s not working, you can catch her always trying to catch a flight, rollerblading through New York City traffic, or exploring the latest luxury vintage boutique.