If you want to be less generic, skip the chain stores and try some local boutiques. It's more expensive, but they often have great sales, and you don't have to buy the entire outfits - you can spice up your AT/BR/Gap basics with cute accessories or even single pieces that not everyone will have (like a cute sweater with your usual AT pants).
As far as the chains go, Anthropologie has different stuff - some really cute and unusual casual skirts.
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