Matalan

I am totally not ashamed to say that — I. Like. Matalan.
It seems to have a bit of a mad reputation but they’re doing their best to advertise it differently with big bill board ads. To be clear, I don’t like everything in Matalan, some of the stuff you should just walk straight past but I’ve had quite a few really successful buys from this particular store.
Their going to work formalish section is pretty good for nice fitted dresses and feminine suits and they usually have some good summer options too.
The home section is really good to, you can pick up anything from a dinner set to a suitcase.
It’s not as cheap as Primark but it’s still quite reasonable and probably better quality.

It’s chavvy fashion, granted, but not as you know it.
I sometimes have a poke about in the Brislington store when I’m over that way to see what they’ve got. This particular branch is glossy and well laid out — there’s a young fashion area, a plus size area, clothes for older ladies. Look past the fluoro colours and slightly scratchy fabrics and you might find one or two pieces with class and that look a lot more expensive than they are.
The weekend queues snake around the shop, whereas weekday evenings are so quiet, a lovely time to browse and try things on.
I can’t vouch for the menswear or kids’ clothes (though both look pretty cool and there’s a wide selection) but the homeware is definitely worth a look. Antique-​style mirrors, bargainous crockery and stylish storage solutions — I’m in décor heaven. Much of it is less than £20.
The Bris shop stocks a whole section of greetings cards, gift wrap and party gear (a bit messy on the shelves, but an added bonus). Don’t always turn your nose up at cheap clothes shopping — sometimes at Matalan its quite a pleasurable experience.