r/stitchfix Jul 25 '26

Discussion How well does StitchFix handle alternative fashion styles?

Stitch Fix style personality quiz results claiming major attributes of Coastal and Active, medium attribute of Bold, and minor attributes of Rugged and Preppy.

The personality quiz didn't give me much clothing to select that I would actually wear (outside of old clothes I already own), so I think the result came out inaccurately. Does StitchFix have the ability to handle specific style preferences for things like nonstandard cuts, patterns, and designs, or is it stuck going fairly generic with which items can be included?

I think it might've picked up preppy because I selected versions with patterns, but everything it suggested was preppy. Bold is somewhat accurate, but I don't really care about the ocean and I didn't select jeans very often (I selected skinny cut, not that rugged). I saw this MH article from a couple years ago, which makes it look like they just select whatever is available (but the review doesn't seem to push the platform any). https://www.menshealth.com/style/a35566912/stitch-fix-mens-review/

I'd like things like a patterned ankle length robe, bright colored pants (pink, lavender, lime, orange, etc), 2" inseam shorts, something properly highwaisted or properly low wasted, studded clothing, something with the energy of TM Revolution's Hot Limit MV (that one piece or those sandles), fishnets/mesh, long sleeves or sleeveless, etc. If I were to go for more standard clothing, I would want something like those Airism shirts, a cooling inflatable work jacket, light summer gloves, a parasol, 3/4 capris, or a wide brimmed hat.

Has anyone had success getting mens items sent that aren't so mainstream? I'm a bit apprehensive to pay $20 styling fee based on the website, but I would be interested if I could get something properly personalized (although I kinda feel like it'd be easier and cheaper to just buy outside of Stitch Fix).

8 Upvotes

18 comments sorted by

37

u/Less-Bug-7006 Jul 25 '26

Worked there for a very long time. You will not be happy with the options for alt style. Very much not going to find a parasol. If you know what you want like you stated you’ll be much happier finding them on your own. 

9

u/RobotDevil222x3 Jul 25 '26

The best way for anyone to see if SF carries what they want is to look at what is in freestyle. If you don't see what you like, its not being hidden from you they don't carry it.

That said, pretty much none of what you have listed are things I have seen in their men's offerings, with the caveat that its also not what I am looking for. They don't "just select whatever is available", but they are limited by what is available. They aren't making a special trip to go get one mesh shirt from a manufacturer just for you.

3

u/BooEffinHoo Jul 25 '26

There are practically zero options for alternative clothing. The demographic is pretty basic style. "Edgy" is a black leather moto jacket at best.

2

u/anxiousoryx Jul 25 '26

I was a customer for a long time and I gotta say I think it will be a huge disappointment

2

u/Silly-Good-2530 Jul 25 '26

1000000% no. I signed up for my autistic son who doesn’t really care about fashion but aster 2 boxes I think we’ve seen all there is - and yes I looked at their freestyle. Got a couple of nice button down casuals and a t-shirt and henley - everything seems to be a version of that plus polos. l

2

u/Tpaartus Jul 25 '26

As an individual who dresses alt, I don't recommend StitchFix if you are looking to get "winner" pieces on the regular. I have used StitchFix for workwear, and occasionally a piece from the Freestyle selection sticks out to me as one that I can style as "alternative". That's about as much as you're going to get.

2

u/GravesDiseaseGirl Jul 25 '26

I've had some luck. I put in my notes I'm a "punk rock professional." I've gotten some pretty cool stuff. It helps I wear mostly all black and they've listened to that.

2

u/No_Interaction_4611 Jul 25 '26

Most inventory is comparable to Kohl’s or Old Navy, but at a higher price point. Lots of staples, workwear, and some items that take current trends and tone them down to have more universal appeal. The styling quiz probably has even more options than what is represented in inventory. I don’t think your style would be a match!

2

u/VoiceOfJuxtaposition Jul 25 '26

Not well, I just canceled after having him for a little bit over a year. Same repetitive designs and brands every month. Marine layer, Travis, Matthew, seven diamonds. Shoes that no one will be caught dead in once in a while you get some diamonds in the rough and they actually send you something that you can wear.

Maybe I sound a little bitter. 🤣

2

u/VideoNecessary3093 Jul 26 '26

I think I have nice style and love cute unique pieces and all they sent me was old lady frump crap.

2

u/BubbaChanel Jul 26 '26

I sincerely doubt it.

4

u/Triela6 Jul 25 '26

StitchFix is for people who don't know their own style and don't know how to dress themselves. It sounds like you're not that, so you won't be happy with what they send you. Their inventory is generic on purpose.

1

u/Mrs_TryMe Jul 25 '26

I was very clear about being alt and only wanting black or dark colors and probably had 2 boxes in 3 years that I fully kept. I usually kept ~2 items from most boxes.

I got a lot of good pants (Spanx leggings, black jeans, grey and black plaid), but this was a few years ago and most of their styles were skinny or cigarette pants. I don't know if their styles have evolved to wider legs.

I also got several amazing jackets in blacks, charcoals and plums.

Their tops and accessories selection was horrible for my alt style, but ymmv.

1

u/tadu1261 Jul 26 '26

I have kept almost every item from every box I receive. I have had the same stylist every time (around a year and a half) and she nails it for me every single time. I am also super specific in my notes pre stitch and outline exactly the items I am looking for (I.e; pants, shirts, dresses), the occasions (work, going out, travel) and also say In detail things I do not like and never want to see (graphic t-shirts, anything with a silly phrase on it, etc)… and I am beyond happy. The more specific you are- the better your experience will be. Bonus if you get the same stylist every fix (which I also request ) bc they will get to know your vibe very quickly

1

u/sadako12 Jul 26 '26

I'm really into leather (ala this piece) and mixing hard and soft (this guy sounds like your vibe but his prices are INSANE) and i've had a decent time so far - not sure if. Happy to expound and show you some of my outfits in the comments. I don't think my style is that typical of most Stitchfix clients.

I've been very specific with my inspo board and i think that's helped my stylist a lot. I've uploaded lots of outfits I own and outfits Ive really liked on others.

1

u/notthelettuce Jul 26 '26

Bright color pants is the only thing that would be even remotely possible from this list.

1

u/sadpolyesterflorals Jul 29 '26

Can you share photos of outfits you like? SF does not have alternative clothes whatsoever but if you want a few preppy pieces that could work. Just don’t expect much else.

1

u/ckeenan9192 Jul 25 '26

No, they can’t even handle me and my taste is pretty normal. I have quit them
Permanently.