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Fabletics

Fabletics

Overall Rating

1.3

109 Customer Reviews

Summary

Fabletics is a budget athletic clothing brand that offers VIP pricing to anyone willing to sign up for a monthly subscription.

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Fabletics Review: Is It Worth It?

By Lydia Noyes

Updated on: Oct 21, 2019

What Is Fabletics?

Tired of sporting drab workout wear? Fabletics claims to offer clothing that’s cut to keep pace with your active lifestyle, from brightly patterned printed leggings to fashionably designed crop tops and more.

While Fabletics is promoted by co-founder Kate Hudson, the Hollywood actress known as much for her super-fit shape as starring in a slew of romantic comedies, the brand isn’t a solo celebrity venture.

Instead, Fabletics is manufactured by Just Fabulous, Inc.—parent company to several other fashion and lifestyle brands, including JustFab, Shoedazzle, and FabKids.

But will Fabletics clothing hold up to your workout routine, and is the company transparent about their costs? To help you decide, let’s take a look at what the brand claims sets them apart.

How Does Fabletics Work?

The appeal of Fabletics appears pretty straightforward. The brand claims to offer high-quality, stylish activewear at affordable prices.

Shoppers can surf collections by sport or look at their complete range of tops, sports bras, leggings, accessories, shoes, and even swimwear.

Unlike some top brands, Fabletics clothing is available in a wide range of sizes. You can choose from XXS (0 to 2) up to XXXL (18 to 20).

Just note that sports bra sizes are categorized in the same way, not by standard bra sizing of cups and bands—a potential problem for women with larger bra sizes who need support during high-impact sports.

We should note that Fabletics isn’t claiming to beat prices you’ll find at cost-conscious retailers, such as Old Navy and Target.

Instead, they compare their stylish offerings with more fashionable activewear brands like Lululemon, Lorna Jane, and Nike.

But here’s the catch—these low prices aren’t available to just any shopper. While you can shop Fabletics without signing up, taking advantage of their slashed prices means first signing up for a VIP Membership.

With that in mind, the average Fabletics ensemble would cost a non-member about $100. Alternately, members would pay about $49.95 for the same outfit with the added perk of free shipping.

How the Fabletics VIP Membership Program Works

When you make a purchase on Fabletics and choose the lowest listed price, the company will automatically enroll you in its VIP Membership program.

There’s an option to opt-out of VIP membership before purchasing, but not all shoppers are likely to see it, and doing so may more than double the price of your initial purchase. Later, we’ll talk about how that’s causing some customer complaints.

If you do enroll in the membership, Fabletics will share a recommendation for a handpicked new outfit on the first of the month that takes your personal style into account, as indicated by your profile and buying history.

If you don’t buy an outfit in the first five days of the month, Fabletics will charge you $49.99 for a “credit” you can redeem for $49.99 worth of clothing.

Fabletics applies the credit price to your purchase—if an outfit costs more, you’ll be charged the difference.

There’s also no obligation to buy any or all of the recommended outfit.

Some of the other perks of membership include the following:

  • Monthly personalized recommendations
  • 20% off all listed items
  • Access to members-only sales
  • Earn rewards points for future purchases
  • Free shipping and returns
  • Workout tips from celebrity health trainers

What if you want to skip a month of Fabletics? You can do so as many times as you’d like. However, you must log in between the first and fifth of the month to select “skip a month” to avoid charges.

Suggested outfits won’t ever ship without your approval. However, if you forget to log in to either shop around or skip the month, you’ll still be charged the $49.95, and the funds will be credited to your account for a future purchase.

How to Cancel the Fabletics Membership

You can cancel your Fabletics membership at any time by calling (844)322-5384, then press “4” to speak to someone about closing your account. You can also use the company’s online chat service.

Note that some reviewers state customer service will offer additional credit to your account if you’re willing to give Fabletics one more chance.

Is Fabletics Good Quality?

All Fabletics clothing is purchased online, meaning that shoppers can’t try on items before they buy them. This leads to a common question: Is Fabletics good quality?

HighYa reviewers (which we’ll address later) aren’t convinced. Most cite quality concerns as their biggest complaint with Fabletics, stating that the too-thin material was see-through, pilled easily, and had low-quality stitching.

Fabletics quality may also be inconsistent between pieces. Jessie Quinn, writing for CheatSheet, reported that her first pair of leggings were nice, but the rest of her orders looked and felt cheaply made, especially the sports bras. She also thought the sizing varied wildly between items, even for the same size leggings and workout tops.

However, not all Fabletics customers agree with this verdict. We found dozens of reviews on Influenster from shoppers happy with the quality of their purchases.

For these reasons, your mileage might vary with Fabletics in regard to quality. As the brand gets inconsistent marks, there’s a chance you will find particular products you purchase to be higher quality and a better fit than others. That’s one reason to keep the return policy in mind.

About the Fabletics Shipping and Return Policy

Standard shipping throughout the United States costs $4.95 per order but is free for orders over $49.95 and for VIP members. You can also select rush shipping for $8.95. First-timer shoppers will often qualify for free shipping as well, regardless of their order size.

Fabletics permits returns and exchanges for your first VIP order within 45 days of the date of shipment in new, used, or damaged condition.

After that initial order, the company will only accept returns and exchanges for brand new clothing that’s still in its original packaging within 30 days of shipment.

Any store credit that was used to pay for returned items will be returned as credit, and any items purchased through the Fabletics rewards program aren’t eligible for returns.

Comparing Fabletics Prices to Other Athletic Brands

Much of Fabletic’s branding is based around the idea that the company offers quality clothing at budget pricing. How does it compare to other brands?

We decided to look at the cost of purchasing an outfit from Fabletics and comparing it to equivalent products from both high end and budget brands.

Fabletics Listed Price Fabletics VIP Price Target Price Old Navy Price Lululemon Price Nike Price
Top Kessler Performance Tank: $54.95 $44.95 Women’s Core Long Tank Top: $12.99 Lightweight Twist-Back Performance Tank: $16 Swiftly Tech Racerback: $58 Nike Dry-Fit: $35
Jacket Bri Mock Neck Jacket: $94.95 $64.95 Full-Zip Cardio Track Jacket: $29.99 Fitted Soft-brushed Performance Zip: $36.99 Define Jacket Nulux: $128 Nike AeroShield: $175
Shorts Olesia Perforated Short: $49.95 $39.95 Women’s Running Mid-Rise Shorts: $16.99 Dolphin-Hem Run Shorts: $16.99 Hotty Hot Short II: $58 Nike Tempo Luxe: $50
Leggings High Waisted Seamless Turbo Legging: $59.95 $44.95 High Waisted 7/8 Leggings: $39.99 High Waisted Built-In Warm Performance: $39.99 Mapped Out High Rise Tight: $128 Nike Pro: $50
Sports Bras Faye High Impact Sports Bra: $59.95 $44.95 Women’s Power Core Compression Bra: $16.99 Medium Support Racer Back: $22 Free To Be Serene Bra: $52 Nike Classic Padded: $35

As this chart shows, Fabletics clothing falls in the middle of the pack from a price perspective. Our chosen budget-friendly brands (Target and Old Navy) consistently cost close to half as much as Fabletics, even when accounting for VIP membership discounts.

However, we noticed on Fabletic’s website that the company often runs deals that bring prices lower.

For instance, new VIP members will currently receive 70% off their first purchases. For example, this would take the Bri Mock Jacket price down to $19.48. That beats the price for our equivalent finds from Target and Old Navy.

Surprisingly, the Fabletic’s membership non-membership prices don’t differ much from the established athletic brands we looked at (Nike and Lululemon).

While the company claims to offer a less costly option for athletic clothes, we noticed that the prices between them barely differed by much, and in some instances, it’s possible to find better deals with Nike.

Analysis of Fabletics Customer Reviews and Complaints

Browsing Fabletics outfits, there’s little doubt that the brand offers brightly-colored and stylish activewear, or that initial prices are lower than the competition.

However, the majority of customers who’ve reviewed Fabletics on HighYa have been less than impressed with quality and fit. Common complaints include:

  • Poor quality fabric and stitching
  • Material that is thin enough to be see-through
  • Pilling of fabric on the inner thigh and underarm areas
  • Tops that are too revealing

While some customers have been satisfied with wearing their Fabletics apparel as casual wear, we’re cautious to recommend this brand to those looking for athletic clothing that can keep up with more vigorous activities.

However, we found that shoppers seemed more upset about Fabletic’s business practices than the clothing’s questionable quality: specifically, unauthorized charges.

HighYa reader Anna shared her experience after realizing she’d been charged more than $600 for VIP credits she didn’t know she signed up for:

“Turns out this is a commonplace problem and that I did not ‘forget’ I signed up for a membership. Like many others, I was unaware that I had been signed up in the first place. When you confirm your purchase, you are also confirming authorization for them to sign you up for their membership and take money from you monthly -- didn't read that part? Yeah, it's in the fine print.”

Other complaints surrounding unexpected charges include Fabletics failing to make good on their promised offer of a $25 initial purchase and difficulty canceling. Combined, HighYa readers have rated Fabletics at an average of 1.3 stars.

The Bottom Line: Is Fabletics a Good Buy?

While Fabletics promises high-quality fitness wear at reasonable prices, the number of negative reviews stating that items wore out faster than normal or just plain didn’t keep them covered leads us to believe that the brand might not perform as highly as they claim.

That being said, those who are looking for a cute alternative to their loungewear might be pleased with what they find at Fabletics.

The only caveat? Make sure you read the fine print. While ongoing membership charges might not be an outright rip-off, enough reviewers were taken by surprise to raise red flags.

Should you decide to make a Fabletics purchase, know that you may need to keep an eye on your credit card statements to avoid getting too familiar with their customer service.

Overall, we think Fabletics makes sense for anyone looking for mid-range activewear, and that wants to buy new pieces regularly.

So long as you fully understand the company’s terms and conditions (and pay attention to the date so you know when to skip your membership), there’s a good chance you’ll be happy with this service.

If, however, you don’t plan to buy new workout gear every month, you might do better buying pieces you love from Fabletic’s competitors.

In many cases, they aren’t much different in price, and you won’t feel obligated to purchase things you don’t need to use up your credits.

Customer Reviews

1.3 Stars out of 109 Reviews
5 Star:2% 4 Star:3% 3 Star:1% 2 Star:8% 1 Star:83%
7% Recommend This Company
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Posted on Dec 2, 2017

Advocate for Fabletics

By Candace Pollock, Carlinville, IL, Verified Reviewer

I have placed numerous orders over the past year with Fabletics. I have only ever had one problem with that site, which was when I skipped a month, and it didn't go through. I simply messaged them on Facebook and explained to them what happened, and I received a refund back on my card within two weeks. Sure, that takes some time, but think about how they are still a developing company. All newer companies have kinks they need to work out.

Yeah, some things can be see-through when you bend over, but so are leggings from Victoria's Secret and other yoga pants from retail stores that everyone is boasting about. This article alone had false information about Fabletics that probably will upset people even more. If you're saying you were "scammed" into a VIP membership, you're not a very bright person as they don't hide anything when you sign up. Take a moment to actually read what is happening on a website before signing up.

Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Helpful Review? 3 People Have Voted

Posted on May 9, 2018

It's the best. Very easy to return and wonderful customer service.

By Srey Pov, Virginia, Verified Reviewer

I had bought many legging and sport clothing. When I needed to return it, it was free and easy. Customer service was friendly and helpful. I’m very happy with everything. It is easy to skip the monthly if I’m not ready to buy the new style yet. There's always a coupon and discount on this website.

Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Posted on Dec 2, 2018

No problems after 2 years

By Jennie L., Orlando, FL, Verified Reviewer

I bought the 2 for $24 promo (I think that’s what it was) 2 years ago and the 2 pairs of pants were awesome. You must follow the wash instructions and not dry them in the dryer and the prints and colors last. They send you an email reminder every month with the option to cancel, and I too set a monthly alert. A couple of months ago I ordered a promo workout outfit for $24 (now in a smaller size, yay) and it is perfect. I am not sure if I would pay $50 plus for this stuff, but this company has followed through, never billed me without knowing, and they send enough reminders before your time is up to skip.

Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Helpful Review? 3 People Have Voted

Posted on Jun 11, 2015

Worth the price

By Louisa , St. Louis, MO

I've been a Fabletics subscriber since May and have had no problems skipping months. My initial purchase was $25, and I would have paid are least that much for the capris alone. After almost four months when I wore my purchase at least weekly, the capris are pilling slightly at the inner thigh and they have retained their fit. My shirt is a slub cotton blend which is cute with a sports bra and acceptable for everyday casual wear with a neutral colored bra. I'm a new yoga teacher in my late 50's and look forward to seeing if they will offer me something I can't live without next week or if I will invest in an Athleta legging.

Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Helpful Review? 3 People Have Voted

Posted on Jan 19, 2017

I don't see the issue

By Ashley G., Washington, Verified Reviewer

I just recently signed up for Fabletics, and I don't understand how people were "tricked" into it or didn't know they were signing up for a membership.

It was very clear to me during the purchase process, and signing up to be a "VIP," that I was signing up for a MONTHLY subscription and would be charged MONTHLY. I can only assume the people who feel duped didn't bother to read what they were agreeing to. I was also provided clear instructions on what to do if I didn't want to be charged for a month. I guess some people need to pay more attention when they enter their credit card information.

I can't speak to the quality of the clothing, but I was well aware of what I was signing up for.

Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Helpful Review? 7 People Have Voted

Posted on May 23, 2018

Not bad

By CNB, Denver, CO, Verified Reviewer

I am a personal fitness trainer, so gym clothes are my work clothes. I have been a VIP member, canceled, and rejoined because of a client telling me about one of their special promotions.

I find some of the pieces to be a little cheap and some to be good quality. If I return items, I typically take it to the store that is in my area and have had no problems. The items I've kept and worn have worn well. As a 34D/DD bra size, I've only tried a few of their support bras and don't like them. They're sized with S, M, L, etc. and most don't have adjustable straps and I just can't do a one size fits all bra for athletics.

It makes me really happy to see the broad variety of items available in plus sizes. I can't say the frustrations I've had trying to advise a larger sized client on where to find comfortable, cute workout clothes in performance fabrics and with a variety of styles offered and Fabletics does that.

I totally understand peoples' frustration with the monthly charge. When I joined, I already knew about this feature, so I set a monthly reminder in my calendar to cancel the charge by the 4th (gives me one extra day if I forget).

Days ago I put a bunch of sale stuff in the cart and then went to pay today and all the prices were higher. I was NOT happy to see this, so I called and actually got someone on the phone. She was able to get the prices back to where they had been, which was a pleasant surprise. They had been on a 50% off markdown promotion.

I will pretty much only buy markdown items from Fabletics. They do have multiple promotional events every year, and occasional 50% off markdown, so I'm staying with it. I hope this info is helpful.

Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Helpful Review? 3 People Have Voted

Posted on Jan 23, 2019

Good quality

By Alejandra G., New Mexico, Verified Reviewer

I bought my first outfit when I was 18 in 2012. I instantly fell in love. I still have the outfit seven years later, and the tights I bought barely have a hole in the crotch area. I literally wore them until they died. I, of course, own another four tights, and a pair of shorts. So I've purchased a workout outfit from Fabletics at least once a year for myself. Not counting all the outfits I have purchased for my sisters who are in love with the quality too. Now to be fair, I am way more impressed by the bottoms. Sports bra-wise, it's a hit or miss. The last one I purchased has no support and isn't very thick. I do still love it. Tops are also a hit or miss, some are thick and tight and others made of thin material. Customer service has always been able to help me with any questions I have had, so on that end, I am also pleased.

Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Posted on Jan 8, 2020

Nonexistent “SKIP THIS MONTH” button

By Rebecca T., San Pedro, CA, Verified Reviewer

I have been unable to find the “Skip this month” button now for 9 months. That’s a lot of credit in my Fabletics account. When I tried to cancel my membership by phone, I was told to use my credits first so I can also get the 30% membership discount. When I went to the store to use my credits, I found the tops all to be too revealing - mostly midriffs, and the bras to be too small and boob squishing. That left the pants. I bought 5 pairs and still have 3 credits remaining. AND I STILL CAN'T FIND THE FREAKIN "SKIP THE MONTH" BUTTON! It is not in the My Account section where they say it is.

Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend

Helpful Review? 2 People Have Voted

Posted on Sep 26, 2020

Real review from a real customer

By Jack S., not giving, Verified Reviewer

I'm a 5'10, 160-pound male and I purchased a few pairs of shorts and sweatshirts to wear casually to class and stuff. The product quality alone is 5/5 stars. All of my stuff was packaged well and fits much better than I even expected.

However, much like many other reviews, the entire business scheme feels unprofessional and shady to me. Yes, they disclose their policy of paying around $60 a month for a membership (unless you opt-out within the first five days of each month). First off, even though you disclose something doesn't make it a lame sales tactic. They 100% intend to profit off of you forgetting to opt-out. And they will counter that complain with, "oh, well, we make sure to disclose that you'll be charged if you don't go through the rigorous steps to opt-out" or "we do have another *way higher* price you can pay if you don't want the VIP membership". Any argument they have against a consumer complaint is just a lazy way of beating around the bush.

In summary, the products really are high quality but before you go to purchase something, go in with the expectation that you need to remember to cancel your VIP membership as soon as you get confirmation your items have been shipped out. You can do it online through a smart-talk associate robot but they will put you in a "waiting room" for 10-15 minutes before you can chat with the robot and have it cancel your membership, again this is just another unprofessional way to inconvenience customers into paying their ridiculous $60/month fee.

Product quality: 5/5.

Customer service/business model: -5/5.

Length of Use: Less than 3 months

Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend

Posted on Apr 18, 2016

Incompetent staff and cheap website

By Margie Smith, Virginia , Verified Reviewer

They take money out of account when told to skip a month. They take money out of account when you put items in wish list.

Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend

Helpful Review? 15 People Have Voted

Posted on Aug 29, 2017

Not worth the hassle

By Bridget W, Newark, DE, Verified Reviewer

I had two separate Fabletics VIP accounts to reap the benefits of the first time free. Then I really didn't see the benefit of using it anymore, and they hiked up the monthly cost per outfit even if you were VIP. It was annoying that I had to skip each month or else I'd be charged.

When I finally decided to cancel they try and convince you not to. There is no simple button to click to cancel, which is silly. I even tried to do the live chat in hopes of it going quicker, but they still try to fight you on changing your mind or offering you extra points that won't even be enough to redeem anything worthy.

If you really think you'll buy a new exercise outfit every month then sure, this is the site for you. But if you're more of a "one and done," you're better off going to Target.

Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend

Helpful Review? 6 People Have Voted
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