Charlotte Russe

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Founded in 1975 by two brothers from New York, Charlotte Russe has since assumed a ubiquitous presence in malls across the country and become a mecca for bargain-hunting tweens. The brand's first and only store in Manhattan is stationed in the Manhattan Mall, attracting the same clientele as the nearby Forever 21 and H&M outposts. The chain specializes in affordable, trend-touting clothes: graphic tees, ruffled tanks, and sequined and studded dresses. High-schoolers looking for a cure to the "nothing to wear" syndrome�at least until the first wash-and-dry cycle�find salvation in the store's vast collection of stretchy tops, brightly colored corsets, lacy leggings, and Refuge denim, which has earned a following for its $29.99 skinny jeans. Though the brand was named after a fancy, spongy French cake that was one of the founding brother's favorite desserts, the interior décor favors a minimalist look, with white-tiled floors and tightly packed racks. Enticing bargains like five panties for $10 or colorful pumps for under $40 draw a steady flow of young fashionistas. — Elif Ince<