Target vs. Macys – Store Wars Rd. #1

STORE WARS: Target vs. Macys

Starting March 17th and running through April 7th, Dappered.com is hosting a bracket based tournament with the purpose of eventually crowning the all around Affordable Men’s Style Retail Champ for 2014.  For a full introduction see this post. The bracket on the right will be updated as the tournament progresses. Click on it for the full size. Make a case for your preferred competitor in the comments section, but don’t forget to vote at the bottom of each match up. On with today’s showdown:

 

Strengths: Doesn’t get more affordable than this. One of the places that those who are on a real strict budget actually like to shop at. It’s possible to assemble an entire, good looking casual outfit from Target’s merchandise if you had to. Terrific basics like t-shirts, shorts, polos, and sometimes rumpled cotton blazers. Their substantial collar, decent enough fitting Ultimate Dress Shirt, which once you get it tailored, can be a real workhorse. Their C9 workout clothes. The simple fact that they’re extremely similar to Wal-Mart, yet shopping there doesn’t feel like you’re shopping at Walmart.

Weaknesses: While obviously affordable, sometimes the quality of their goods can feel… a little on the wimpy side. Fits can sometimes be inconsistent. You can’t wear a red shirt and khaki chinos to their store (not that you were itching to do so).  Fitting room dimensions in some stores can be about equal to that thing they used to pull the Chilean Miners out of the ground.

 

Strengths: Where this developing-personal-style thing started for many of us. Y’know, the place you started shopping on your own once you decided to give a crap about how you dressed. House brands like Bar III, INC, and Alfani RED can make some great looking and affordable stuff. Their One Day Sales are worth a glance, at least, when they come around. They’ve started carrying Allen Edmonds, which you can usually apply their codes & coupons to.

Weaknesses: They seem to be… fading. What was once a standard place to shop has started to feel more than a little forgettable. Over-embellished blazers from INC. Lots of synthetic suits & sportcoats pepper their racks. Website feels cluttered. Free shipping doesn’t kick in until $99.

Your votes determine who goes on to the next round.  Cast your ballot below.  Voting closes at midnight ET.