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Here's my honest review.
Raise your hand if you're a fan of Uniqlo.
I'm right there with you. For years, the brand's quality basics have been truly the backbone of my wardrobe. And its world-class designer collabs never fail me—in fact, a pair of JW Anderson for Uniqlo pinstripe trousers I bought back in 2017 is still in my weekly outfit rotation eight years later. Plus, the company's innovative fabrics make transitional layering simple and stylish (hello, heat tech turtlenecks). Plus, with recent news of Claire Wright Keller's appointment as Creative Director—she's the designer behind Meghan Markle's famous wedding dress—the Japanese clothing line seems to be entering something of a fashion renaissance.
So, when I heard that Uniqlo’s sister brand was finally launching stateside, I was immediately intrigued. GU (pronounced like the letters “G” and “U”) has been around in Japan since 2006, but its first U.S. online shopping hub and New York flagship store debuted this September, along with fresh finds for fall and winter.
What makes GU different from its older counterpart? Think of the brand as less of a Uniqlo offshoot and more of a youthful take on the brand ethos: Both offer inexpensive yet elevated basics that last for years. But much like eyebrows, these two are sisters, not twins. At GU, you'll find Gen Z favorites like ballet flats and knee socks, as well as trend-forward staples like cropped button-downs and ribbed turtlenecks, rather than standard heat tech fare.
If Uniqlo is Instagram, then GU is TikTok: fresh, cool, and off-beat. Lucky for you, I tried it all (so you don't have to). From knits and tanks to skirts and jeans, read on for my honest review of the GU's fall collection.
This demure pleated skirt was calling my name the moment I opened the GU website. It’s the perfect shade of grey. The best part, however, is that the pleats and midi length lend any outfit a prep vibe that’s hard to resist. My inner academic really came out for this look—I added a cropped white shirt, clip-on tie (they’re back in a big way!), silver ballet flats, and a baby blue cardigan. All that’s missing is a copy of The Secret History under my arm to live out all my Donna Tartt fall fantasies.
My Thoughts
I was impressed by the tailoring here. The skirt's pleats stayed crisp and in place—plus, the midi length and fitted waist deliver the perfect preppy silhouette. Bonus points to whoever chose this slate grey color for easy styling. The white shirt was thicker than expected and made from 100% cotton. If you prefer a cropped fit, run, don't walk. This top is worth every penny.
Styling Tip
If you’re going for more of a casual look, this skirt is surprisingly versatile. Dress it down with a tank top and some fun socks, and let the compliments rain in.
I’m a huge fan of raw denim, but it’s difficult to find a wash this dark for a decent price. And coming across a wide-legged, baggy pair is even more unlikely. So when I found these jeans on the GU website, I was equal parts hopeful and skeptical—a barrel fit is not usually my go-to. But I picked a ribbed cream turtleneck and cropped zip-up to try GU’s denim out. Of course, my look wasn’t complete without this cute puff purse—I truly couldn’t resist its frilly charms—and some chunky lug sole boots.
My Thoughts
These jeans may have converted me from a barrel skeptic to a barrel fan. I love how they fit, and the dark wash is exactly what I've been looking for. My only note here would be to size up (I did!) if you prefer a baggier fit.
As for the rest of my outfit, GU's basics hold up to the Uniqlo standard. The turtleneck is a touch see-through in white, but that's not a deal breaker for me—I plan to layer it under sweaters and jackets this winter rather than styling it as a standalone piece. The zip cardigan is cute, comfy, and cropped just the way I like it. It matches this quirky adjustable purse (it holds more than you'd expect!). As for the boots, I'd recommend sizing up if you're between sizes.
Styling Tip
I love how dark denim looks with pastels. Try out this pair with a butter yellow or pale pink top and thank me later.
When I say I love this bag, I really love this bag. There’s something about wearing sparkles in the daytime that tickles my fancy, and I love how much it holds—this jeans and carry-all combo may just replace my reusable tote and flared leggings I wear on repeat every weekend. For the rest of the outfit, I went pink, adding a light button-up, long-sleeved undershirt, and matching rose ballet flats.
My Thoughts
The best thing about a good pair of jeans is how often you can re-wear them. This indigo wash pairs as perfectly with the cool pink tones shown here as it does neutrals, proving this is a versatile denim piece I'll reach for time and time again.
What I love most about this outfit, though, are the special details that elevate this look and add visual interest. GU's pink shirt has an edge to it, thanks to a cool back button detail, and the dusty rose ballet flats have a pointe shoe-inspired folded square toe that guarantees they'll stand out in a crowd.
Styling Tip
Add a burgundy turtleneck or mossy mock neck underneath this baby pink shirt for an unexpected and vibrant color story.
The Final Review
GU exceeded my expectations, delivering on its "cool younger sister" promise. The collection offers a twist on the classics complete with subtle design elements that make GU's style just a bit more trend-forward than its older sister's paired-down aesthetic—and I, for one, am a fan.
Overall, the standout category for me was the brand’s various bottoms. Both the jeans and skirt I tried are destined for heavy rotation in my wardrobe, and I’ve already got my eye on a GU mini-skort and bubble hem to add to my closet for fall.
If you're already a fan of Uniqlo and want to incorporate a few fall fashion trends into your wardrobe this fall, look no further. GU has you covered.