American Eagle Outfitters in South Carolina: Where to Shop and What to Expect

American Eagle has multiple locations across South Carolina

American Eagle Outfitters operates stores in South Carolina's major shopping areas, with locations in Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, and Myrtle Beach. The chain carries casual clothing, denim, and accessories aimed at teens and young adults, though the brand has expanded its size range and style options in recent years. Each store stocks the full range of American Eagle and Aerie (the company's intimates and activewear line) merchandise.

Store hours vary by location, so checking the American Eagle website or calling ahead before you visit saves a trip. Most locations are in enclosed malls or shopping centers, which means you can browse other retailers in the same trip. The Columbiana Centre location in Columbia and the Towne Lake shopping area in Greenville tend to be the busiest stores during weekends and after school hours.

American Eagle also operates an online store with shipping to South Carolina addresses. Online orders typically arrive within five to seven business days, and the company offers free returns by mail or in-store for most items purchased online.

Key Takeaways

• American Eagle has physical stores in Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, and Myrtle Beach, plus an online option for home delivery.
• The brand specializes in casual wear and denim for teens and young adults, with an expanded size range that now includes extended sizing.
• Aerie, the company's sister brand sold in the same stores, focuses on intimates, loungewear, and activewear.
• Store locations are typically in malls or shopping centers, so you can combine your visit with other retail stops.

What American Eagle sells and who shops there

American Eagle's core inventory is denim—jeans in various fits, washes, and price points. The brand also carries graphic t-shirts, hoodies, shorts, and basics like plain tees and button-ups. Accessories include hats, belts, bags, and footwear. Prices are mid-range; a pair of jeans typically runs between $50 and $80, while basic tees cost $20 to $35.

The store draws shoppers across a wider age range than it did a decade ago. While the brand built its reputation with high school and college students, American Eagle now carries extended sizes and styles that appeal to adults in their 20s and 30s. The Aerie line within each store emphasizes comfort and body positivity, with loungewear, bras, and leggings that skew toward a more inclusive fit range.

South Carolina shoppers often visit American Eagle for back-to-school shopping in late summer and for holiday gifts in November and December. The stores run regular sales and promotions, particularly during these peak seasons, so timing your visit can mean significant savings.

Store locations and what to find at each

Columbia: The Columbiana Centre location is the largest American Eagle store in the state. It carries the full range of men's and women's clothing, shoes, and accessories, plus a dedicated Aerie section. This store is also the most likely to have extended sizes in stock.

Charleston: The Charleston Place mall location serves the Lowcountry and is a popular stop for both locals and visitors. The store is smaller than Columbia's but stocks core inventory and seasonal items.

Greenville: The Towne Lake shopping area location is convenient to downtown Greenville and the surrounding suburbs. It carries standard American Eagle and Aerie merchandise and is less crowded than the Columbia location during most weekdays.

Myrtle Beach: The Barefoot Landing location caters to beach visitors and local shoppers. Inventory leans toward casual summer wear and beachwear during peak season, though the store stocks year-round basics.

Denim fit and sizing at American Eagle

American Eagle is known for its denim variety. The brand offers multiple fits—skinny, straight, flare, and mom jean styles—across different rise heights. Fit names and availability change seasonally, so what you find in January may differ from what's in stock in June.

Sizing runs true to standard US sizes for most items. The brand has added extended sizing in recent years, with some styles available up to size 24 in women's and up to size 44 in men's. However, not all styles come in all sizes, and extended sizes may not be in stock at every location. Calling ahead or checking the website before visiting can confirm whether a specific size and style is available.

Aerie sizing also runs true to standard US sizes and includes extended options. The Aerie fit tends to be relaxed and comfortable rather than fitted, which appeals to shoppers looking for loungewear and activewear that prioritizes comfort over a tight silhouette.

Sales, promotions, and loyalty programs

American Eagle runs frequent sales throughout the year. Back-to-school (July through August) and holiday (November through December) are the biggest sale periods, with discounts often reaching 30 to 50 percent off select items. The brand also offers regular promotions via email and in-store signage, such as "buy one, get one 50% off" on certain categories.

The American Eagle loyalty program, called AEO Rewards, offers points on purchases that can be redeemed for discounts. Members also receive early access to sales and birthday rewards. Signing up is free and can be done in-store or online. The program is worth joining if you shop at American Eagle regularly, though casual shoppers may find the benefits modest.

Clearance sections in physical stores are worth browsing, especially at the end of each season. Markdowns on clearance items can be steep, though selection is limited and sizes may be incomplete.

Returning and exchanging items

American Eagle accepts returns and exchanges within 60 days of purchase with a receipt. Items must be unworn and unwashed. Without a receipt, returns are accepted within 30 days and are refunded as store credit rather than cash. Tags must be attached and intact.

Online purchases can be returned by mail using a prepaid label provided with your order, or you can return them in-store at any American Eagle location. In-store returns are processed immediately, while mail returns typically take five to seven business days to process after the store receives them.

Aerie items follow the same return policy. Damaged or defective items may be returned outside the standard window if you contact customer service with photos of the damage.

Parking and store amenities

All American Eagle locations in South Carolina are in shopping centers or malls with ample parking. Columbiana Centre and Charleston Place are enclosed malls with climate-controlled walkways, which is convenient during hot summers and rainy days. Towne Lake and Barefoot Landing are open-air shopping areas with covered walkways in some sections.

Fitting rooms are available at all locations, though wait times can be long during peak shopping hours (weekends, after school, and during holiday season). Most stores have a limited number of fitting rooms, so arriving earlier in the day or on a weekday typically means shorter waits. Aerie sections usually have separate fitting rooms from the main American Eagle area.

None of the American Eagle locations offer personal styling services, though staff can offer fit advice if you ask. Restrooms are available in the malls and shopping centers where the stores are located.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order online and pick up in-store at a South Carolina location?

American Eagle offers buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) at most locations. Orders typically are ready for pickup within one to two business days. You can place an order on the American Eagle website and select your preferred store location at checkout. This option is useful if you want to avoid shipping costs or need an item quickly.

Does American Eagle offer student discounts?

American Eagle does not offer a dedicated student discount program. However, the brand frequently runs promotions that apply to all shoppers, and AEO Rewards members receive regular discounts. Checking the website or signing up for email notifications is the best way to catch sales that may benefit you.

What is the difference between American Eagle and Aerie?

Aerie is American Eagle's sister brand focused on intimates, loungewear, and activewear. While American Eagle emphasizes casual wear and denim, Aerie prioritizes comfort and body positivity in its marketing and product design. Both brands are sold in the same physical stores and on the same website, but they have separate product lines and styling approaches.

Are there American Eagle stores outside the main shopping centers?

All American Eagle locations in South Carolina are in established shopping centers or malls. The brand does not operate standalone storefronts or outlet locations in the state. If you cannot visit a physical store, the online option with home delivery or in-store pickup is available.

Do American Eagle stores accept returns from online purchases without a receipt?

Yes, in-store returns of online purchases are accepted without a receipt within 30 days. You will receive store credit instead of a refund. Bring your order confirmation email or the packing slip from your package to speed up the process.