Gap
Could Gap’s Denim Line Bring Down Prices of Others Like it?
What:The Gap introduced a premium denim line called 1969 last month, and it did so with some pretty aggressive advertising. Well, now makers of other similar high-quality jeans (like 7 for All Mankind and Levi’s) are having to defend their high prices. Gap’s denim costs around $50, while others cost triple that. Many say the Gap is overstating how premium their denim really is, as most their materials come from China and Mexico - as opposed to Italy and Japan.
What They Say:
“I think the Gap is going to have some impact, but I don’t think it is going to shake up the overall retail environment,” said Stefano Aldighieri, a denim designer who has worked for 7 For All Mankind, Levi’s Premium and Hudson Clothing Co. He is also the co-founder of the Los Angeles consulting firm Another Design Studio Inc. “But you can find premium denim at any price point and at any distribution. If you go to JCPenney or Sears, you will find examples of what they call premium denim. Then you go to Barneys and see their premium denim. Premium denim has become an obsolete word.”
What We Say: We’ll take a good $50 pair of jeans over a slightly better $150 pair of jeans any day, especially right now. We doubt the entire denim industry is going to start heavily discounting their products, though, because if they do, they’ll be admitting that they’re not putting out that much better of products in the first place. Any predictions?
Designer Khaki Collection from Gap
What: The CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) and Gap have come out with a new khaki collection that, well, we’re pretty much in love with - although some items will go for as much as $88, others will go for as little as $39.50, which isn’t bad for something by designers Alexander Wang, Albertus Swanepoel, Lisa Mayock, and Sophie Buhai. The Khaki CFDA Collection features jackets, cocktail dresses, “boyfriend jeans” (the khaki version of course), and other high-end looking pieces.
What We Say: Price wise, we’re not leaping for joy, but we’re also not surprised. We do have a major bone to pick with Gap, however. The line only goes up to size 10. Lame!
Got Kids? Get to the Gap for Stella McCartney’s New Line
What: British designer/Beatles kin Stella McCartney will soon debut a collection of clothes for babyGap and GapKids. Although the collection will only be available in select US stores, it’ll be more prevalent across the pond, and it’s bound to be good - this isn’t Stella’s first partnership with a more accessible retailer. Both girls and boys will be able to wear the line.
What They Say:
“I believe that kids clothing should be more accessibly priced, which is particularly important at the moment given the current climate,” the designer said. “It’s really exciting for us to do a boys and girls collection for the first time.”
What We Say: We’re looking forward to checking out these uber-cute duds, and we wonder… will babies who don Stella’s designs start babbling in English accents? For those out there who are childless, take this as an excuse to spoil the kiddies of your friends and family members.
Banana Republic Puts Accessories to the Test
What: You may recall that Banana Republic launched a concept store, BR Monogram, featuring an exclusive collection of high-end apparel. The store didn’t last more than nine months, but that wasn’t really the point. It was just a “test.” Well, Banana Republic is trying a similar thing with Edition, which will offer shoppers limited-edition accessories, most costing less than $100. None of the pieces will be sold online.
What They Say:
“Edition by Banana Republic - featuring limited-edition handbags and jewelry, along with some shoes, sunglasses and personal-care products from Banana Republic
- will open exclusively in Gap’s hometown Westfield San Francisco Centre in May.”
What We Say: Shouldn’t most accessories cost less than $100, anyways? Isn’t that what makes them so great - dress up an old dress with a stylish, but sensibly priced belt? We’re not sure we can really afford “$79 jasmine chandelier earrings” right now. If this is Banana Republic’s attempt at appealing to budget shoppers, we’re not sure the retailer’s gonna start improving any time soon; the store’s been struggling like everyone else.
Are you crossing your fingers for this store, in hopes that its limited-edition accessories will end up in a Banana Republic near you?
Save at Gap Women’s SALE
“THIS SALE HAS ENDED”
The Deal: Gap - Women’s SALE
The Lowdown: March Madness is in full swing, which makes this a great season to update our wardrobe with some sports-inspired tees, camis and capris. Turn to the Gap to pick up some seasonal items along with a few classic pieces that should be in every closet.
The women’s sale features a lineup of basics on sale including the Favorite striped crewneck T for only $4.99 (orig. $14.50) and the Essential Tank, now $10 (orig. $14.50). Show off your sporty side with a Striped Cowel Neck Top, now $12.99 (orig. $24), or this lightweight Striped Lace Trimmed Boatneck Sweater that’s perfect for those cool nights at the stadium; $25.99, originally $48.00.
Shop: Gap.com
30% off at Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic
THIS COUPON HAS EXPIRED
The Deal:Get 30% off at Gap, Old Navy
, and Banana Republic’s
Friends & Family event.
If you need to pick up some basics, like say a basic white t-shirt or a pair of jeans, then this is the sale to shop. From March 12-15th, receive and additional 30% off purchases at Gap, Old Navy
, and Banana Republic
, and their outlets and their sites. In addition, Gap Inc, will donate an extra 5% to your favorite charity. Just click here for the Friends & Family Coupon or use the code BCKRH9CN8VDB to shop online.
Some of Our Picks
The Budget Fashionista’s Weekly Retail Closing Report, March 9
So, we’re gonna have to play Captain Obvious this week, because the retail industry had no surprises for us (or Wall Street).
As you might expect, shoppers are looking for the highest markdowns and avoiding luxury outlets altogether. As a result, retailers like Saks and Victoria’s Secret are doing exponentially worse month to month, while stores that sell $15 handbags instead of $1000 handbags are still managing to hang on. (Target’s even opening some stores in Hawaii, while Gap hopes to get over this bad economy by going overseas.) But everyone’s struggling - just to different degrees. Liz Claiborne, Urban Outfitters, Macys (duh), Dillards (duh), and Ann Taylor are this week’s notable strugglers. In order to get folks into your stores, you gotta slash your prices, and that ultimately means you’re gonna make less of a profit. And so the circle of life continues.
Some exceptions to the economy’s new rules include Foot Locker, Adidas, Wet Seal, American Outfitters, The Buckle, Hot Topic, and above all, Wal-Mart, who are exceeding investors’ expectations. Are they doing awesome? Well, no. But they are doing a lot better than the rest. This is hopefully a sign that the economy is stabilizing itself and while it may not improve any time soon, it just might stop getting worse.
Read our past retail reports:
March 3
Feb 27
Feb 20
Feb 9
Feb 4
Jan 23
Get 30% Off Maternity Dresses at Gap.com
“THIS SALE HAS ENDED”
The Deal: Get 30% off the season’s latest Maternity Dresses at GapMaternity
The Lowdown: Fortunately, these days, just because you’re expecting (okay, even if you aren’t, you may know someone who is, so pass it along) doesn’t mean you have to abandon your fashionista nature. But maternity clothes can be ridiculously pricey, which is why we’re giving you the heads up . . .
Anyone who’s been with child knows that dresses are the most comfortable and forgiving option out there, and Gap has some truly fab maternity dresses on sale now. We wish there were some more colorful options, but this shirred yoke dress
in seaglass, for just $41.65, should be sufficiently mood-boosting, and you might actually want to live in this jersey tie-belt dress
for $39.99.
Shop: GapMaternity
Shop New Markdowns at Gap.com
The Deal: New Gap styles for on sale now
The Lowdown: While we have no spring getaway plans (sigh) it’s quite possible that you do—but if there’s a vacation in your near future, we’re guessing much of your budget has already been spent (seriously, who can afford plane tickets AND clothing these days?). Still, you’ll probably want a few cute, packable items to take (and with all the new baggage fees, packable is very important), particularly if you’re heading somewhere warm. Which is why it wouldn’t hurt to hit up this sale at Gap which includes, amidst the sweaters and wool pants, some very cute, vaca-worthy items.
We are now shifting into fantasy vacation mode (yes, we’re living vicariously through you) and have selected a couple of pieces we’d like to slip into before heading out for that poolside Margarita: an Plaid Empire Tie Dress, on sale $34.99, and this swimsuit: Bow Halter Bandeau Top, $29.99;
Bow Bikini Bottom, $19.99.
Of course, if you’re like us and don’t have anywhere to go, perhaps you can console yourself with one of the many pairs of fab Gap jeans on sale now—get the most mileage out of a classic denim look, like this new low rise boot cut in a dark wash, for just $29.99.
Shop: Gap.com
Save on Women’s Coats at Gap
The Deal: Shop Gap women’s coats on sale now.
The Lowdown: It always pays to get the most out of last year’s coat, then replace it midseason with something great from all the January winter clearance sales.
Case in point: this sale at Gap features up to 70% off on a selection that is, while somewhat limited, still classic enough to carry through to the next year. If you’ve already picked up your coat for this year, make a mental note to hold out for the deals next season (file it right there next to “skinny jeans are NOT the way to make your thighs look thinner, no matter what the salesgirl says”). If you’re in the market, however, we’d suggest these as smart picks:
Double Breasted Peacoat, $69.99
Shop: Gap
$20 Off Plus Free Shipping With Code from Gap!
The Deal: Get $20 off your Gap.com purchase of $100 or more plus free shipping wide code 20FREE at checkout.
The Lowdown: Through Dec. 14, 2008 only, get $20 off a purchase of $100 or more at Gap.com and get free shipping—and the timing couldn’t be better, as the deadline to order online and get gift items delivered by Christmas is drawing near.
We shop the Gap for a couple of reasons: versatile classic pieces that we can use as foundation items for the more trendy clothing in our rotation; and we’ve had good luck with the quality, particularly for the price. No, Gap isn’t the cheapest retailer out there, but the goods will last a lot longer than something from, say, Forever21.
Any—or all—of these pieces would be great additions to any closet: Funnel Neck Moleskin Coat, $78; Low Rise Bell Jeans
, $49.99; and a Flower Print Scarf, $29.50
Shop: Gap.com.
Cyber Monday Deals: Smartbargains.com, Gap, Piperlime, Old Navy
It’s the lunch hour, meaning you have ample time to check off some of those holiday gifts for less with these Cyber Monday discounts:
Smartbargains.com: Free shipping on orders of $50 or more. Get apparel, accessories, household goods, and more, including namebrand and designer items, at smart prices indeed. Even smarter? Taking advantage of free shipping.
Gap: Get 15% off your order at Gap on Cyber Monday with code GAP15, and right now, pick up holiday sweaters buy one get one half off.
Piperlime: Cyber Monday get 20% off at Piperlime with code MONDAY at checkout, and as always enjoy free shipping.
Old Navy: Get 20% off at Old Navy on Cyber Monday with code SAVENOW at checkout.
Michelle Obama Fashion: A Budget Style Retrospective
“SOME PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
One day you walk into your local Gap store to pick up a pair of size (insert your size here) jeans. After smiling at the overtly cheery folder/greeter/loss prevention associate, you head over to the denim wall to find your jeans. All of a sudden, 10 large men, wearing tailored dark suits accessorized by white ear plugs, rush into the store, causing a tower of cherry red wool/cashmere blend ribbed turtleneck sweaters to tumble to the floor (they also block the fitting room). Unaware of what is going on, you start to shake so hard that a pair of your (insert size again) jeans fall to the floor. As you bend over to pick it up you glance at a fabulous pair of Lanvin wedge ballet flats and the hem of an amazing pink and black floral printed swing skirt that you recognize from the Summer 2008 sales rack of your local J.Crew. You quickly grab the jeans from the floor and stand up to find yourself face to face with our new first lady, Michelle Obama.
Michelle Obama Fashion: A Budget Style Retrospective
At any other point in US History the likelihood of the above scenario happening to you would be, well, zero. However, unlike other stylish first ladies, Michelle Obama actually wears items from lower-priced, mall-based stores like J.Crew and Gap. She even wears them more than once Michelle’s love for the mall based store is so profound that her 6 year old daughter Sasha, unaware of the political filters put on her parents and telling it like only a six year old can, exclaimed “Mommy buys everything from the Gap”.
Regardless of your political stripes, there’s something quite comforting about a first lady who knows her way around an H&M (and has had to wait in those crazy long fitting room lines). In light of our current economic situation, this knowledge is even more valuable.
Michelle Obama Fashion: White House Worthy Style For Less
- 1. Victoria Ruffle Cami, $88 at J.Crew
- 2. Silk Cowlneck Top, $69 at Banana Republic
- 3. Striped Victoria Ruffle Shirt, $98 at J. Crew
- 4.Women's Crew-Neck Tees
, $15.00 at OldNavy.com
- 5. Alison LS Cardigan, $24.80 at Forever21.com
- 6. Pearlized-Button Cardigans, $26.50 at OldNavy.com
- 7. Alfani Capelet Jacket, $149.00 at Macys
- 8. Women's Ruffle Neck Cardigan
, $26.50 at OldNavy.com
- 9. The Wintersoft Cardigan, $48.00 at Gap
- 10. Lauren by Ralph Lauren Silk Geometric-Print Full Skirt, $71.55 at Macys
- 11. Double-serge Pencil Skirt, $128.00 at J Crew
- 12. Curvy Welt-pocket Pants, $54.50 at Gap
- 13. Silver-sand Jacquard pant, $228 at J Crew
- 14. City-fit Herringbone Cropped Pant, $138.00 at J Crew
- 15. MICHAEL Michael Kors Strapless Belted Jumpsuit, $142.12 at Macys
- 16. Lauren by Ralph Lauren Jessie Two-Tone Ruffled Dress, $142.50 at Macys
- 17. Wool flannel Golden Roses dress, $139.99- $195 at J Crew
- 18.Diane Von Furstenberg Colorblock Dress, $398 at NeimanMarcus
- 19. Color-Block Sweater Dress, $130 at Banana Republic
- 20. Cashmere Peyton dress, $99.99-$218
- 21. Moschino Printed Sheath Dress, $598 at NeimanMarcus.com
- 22. Ruffle Neck Shift Dress, $42.99 at Gap
- 23. Crew Neck Satin Dress, $34.50 at Old Navy
- 24. Isabella Paisley Halter Dress, $250 at J Crew
- 25. Animal Print Tafetta Dress, $175 at Banana Republic
- 26. Cashmere Asymmetrical Gown, $275 at Banana Republic
- 27. Lauren by Ralph Lauren Donnie One-Shoulder Dress with Ruffle, $135 at Macys
- 28. JS Boutique Single-Shoulder Ombre Gown, $200 at Dillards
Special Shout Out to some of favorite blogs and media outlets for images: Mrs.O, AOL Black Voices, Michelle Obama Watch, Associated Press
What to Buy Fall 2008: Gap
Gap has had its ups and downs as far as variety and stylish offerings—and as far as we’re concerned, they still have a ways to go. However, we do love Gap for sort of all-purpose, casual weekend wear and the occasional work piece. And their jeans are still fab, if sometimes a tad overpriced. Our picks from the Gap for Fall 2008:
Striped Roll-Sleeved Cardigan, $58 Wear it with jeans (see below), a t-shirt, and some ankle boots.
The Classic Trench, $148 This is one of the TBF Perfect Ten pieces—wear it with everything.
Wide Leg Trouser Jeans, $69.50 You know what to wear jeans with, but if you need a suggestion, we’re going with mary jane pumps and a cute little swing jacket.
Cable Cardigan, on sale $36.99 Pair with plaid trousers and some t-strap pumps.
The Perfect Plaid Trouser, $59.50 Wear with a ruffled, feminine top and/or a cardigan sweater, with some retro pumps.
Sheer Ruffle Top, $58 Perfect with jeans or a pencil skirt, and some cute heels.
Fashion Trend Alert: Tie-Neck Blouses
“THESE PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
In the past, only certain types of women have been able to truly pull off menswear , Katharine Hepburn among them. Right now though, aspects of menswear are appearing all over, giving everyone the opportunity to be a little androgynous. But don’t think of the 1980’s working woman blouse with the limp, sad-looking bow at the neck when you picture this trend. This year’s tie-neck blouse has sharper lines, comes in a variety of fabrics, and it doesn’t have to be worn with a business suit.
The button down, pseudo men’s tie: Fitted tie neck shirt, GAP, $32.99
The Technicolor checkered billowy tie: Printed tie-neck shirt, Old Navy, $15.00
The satin, knotted tie: City Style Wide Tie Satin blouse, NY and Company, $24.46.
The sheer, sparkly long tie: Black tie striped chiffon tie-neck blouse, Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent, Bluefly.com, $55.00.
The boldly printed tie: JM Collection Tie-Neck Printed Charmeuse Blouse, Macys.com, $44.00.
The fuchsia bow tie: Nicole by Nicole Miller tie-neck top, JCPenney.com, $33.60.
Fashion Trend Alert: Checkers
Checkers and gingham have been updated with bright colors and modern cuts—meaning they’re no longer relegated to the farm. The trends been spotted on Reese Witherspoon, Ashlee Simpson and Lauren Conrad, and we have to say, they all look pretty cute and comfortable in their loose, button-down shirts and jeans. The bright color trend of the summer, of course, is translated to the checker trend, but you can go with the classic black and white if you want to keep it traditional. You can wear the checkered shirt with jeans like Reese, or other bottoms like skirts, twill pants, and even khakis. Checkers don’t have to be relegated to tops though—we like it on dresses, purses, socks, and more. Just make sure to limit your checkers to one piece, or you’ll look like the tiled floor of a 1950’s diner.
Rock Steady Checker Picnic Halter Top dress, via styledetox.com, $49.99. This pink and white dress is a blast from the past, complete with a full skirt and a smart collar.
GAP sleeveless checkered ruffle top,, $34.99. The pattern on this shirt is more subtle, since the ruffles already add a sweet embellishment.
GAP checkered popover dress, $58.00. We’d throw this on every day if it wasn’t a fashion faux pas—we can pair it with all sorts of accessories!
The checkered racerback tank from Forever 21 ($9.80) channels the rockstar vibe that checkers can sometimes give.
We’ve written about the popularity of scarves already—“check” this one out from Urban Outfitters, $24.00. It’s in the men’s section, but who will know? Wrap it around your neck, your head, or loop it through your purse.
This checkered canvas tote comes in pink, green, or black. If you’re a fashionista who takes baby steps into a trend, check out this bag, since the pattern isn’t as intense. $38.95.
Transition Dressing: Fashion Advice
As August starts to wind down, thoughts turn to fall . . . and fall fashion. While we’re always anxious to jump into the season’s latest look, there’s the pesky matter of weather to contend with—and while the calendar may say it’s fall, there’s that in between time—when the mornings are brisk but by noon the mercury’s hit a sticky 80 degrees—that is soooooo very challenging to dress for. Of course, any fashionista worth her salt knows that layering is the way to go, but what to layer? We’ve got some ideas for what layering pieces will work to keep you both comfortable and in style as we bridge summer to fall 08:
Sleeveless or Short-Sleeved Tops
Think cotton, soft jersey, sheer, and keep the colors soft or neutral—no neon but not quite holiday-ready jewel tones either. This Women’s Twisted Neck Top at Old Navy is a perfect choice to layer under a jacket or cardigan, being sleeveless and a light breathable fabric, in a color like bordeaux, which could be appropriate almost year round. Another good choice—a short-sleeve turtleneck in a light, 100% cotton knit, like this Cinched Turtle Neck Top at Wet Seal, which will be stylish and comfortable both under a jacket and on it’s own, depending on whether you’re heading to work in the a.m. or on your way home . . .
Jackets
Consider a three-quarter length sleeve in either a curve-conscious fitted style or the 60s inspired cropped jackets that are still popular (like this City Style 1-Snap Jacket, $59.50 at New York & Co.)—and think a mid-weight cotton or even a linen in a fall-ready pattern like this Textured Linen Tie Blazer in plaid, on sale $24.99 at La Redoute
Short Sleeve or Elbow Sleeve Cardigans
Three-quarter length and shorter sleeved cardies are all over right now, and are the perfect layering piece to slip on over that cami or sleeveless blouse (and later, under a tailored jacket, assuming the sweater is short enough). This Elbow-Sleeved Cardigan at Gap is a versatile wardrobe staple for $44, while an Xhilaration Cap Sleeved Open Cardigan is a slightly trendier option, for $17.99.
Vests
Not quite ready for a jacket? Transition with a vest—they’re popular this year (though it seems people either love ‘em or hate ‘em), especially with the sort of vintage/glam/menswear/tweed trends we’re seeing—meaning they’ll be super versatile. Right now wear one alone over a short-sleeved blouse and make it work later (when the chill really sets in) by putting it over a long-sleeved top and/or under a cardie or jacket. A fall-friendly option? This Herringbone Vest, $22, at Forever21.
Scarves
Lightweight scarves are super hot this summer and fall, and are a no brainer for adding a little extra style and warmth (and easy enough to shed later when you don’t need it). At the moment, you’ll find scarves to suit just about everyone—from this funky Flight Pattern Silk Scarf for $28 at Urban Outfitters to this sort of ethereal Ombre Scarf for $10.99 at Charlotte Russe.
A note: Make sure that whatever layers you use, the base piece or pieces are appropriate enough to stand alone should you need to peel away as the temps cruise up to the afternoon high . . .
Big Sale at GAP
The Deal: GAP’s summer sale has arrived online and in-stores, so head there to get great deals on men’s, women’s, and children’s wear.
What We Say: GAP’s classic and affordable merchandise ranges from office to weekend wear. This sale offers uber-cute dresses, tank tops, T-shirts and camis, but their selection of blazers and little jackets are especially good. Since your summer wardrobe may already be completed, this is a good opportunity to pick up something to throw on in a cold movie theater or restaurant.
Check out our picks for those air conditioned locations:
This adorable puff sleeve jacket has three buttons and short sleeves, so you won’t feel stifled when you walk out into the heat. Now $44.99.
This button front shirt by none other than Phillip Lim has a little banded collar, which is a great twist on a classic. It’s now $27.99.
Pictured: This sleeveless embroidered tunic is great with flip flops in the summer—throw on jeans beneath when the leaves turn brown. It’s now $34.99.
Gap Swimwear Daily Deals
“THIS SALE HAS ENDED”
The Deal: 25% off women’s swimwear at GapBody until June 12, and their SummerWear campaign ends June 8.
The Lowdown: Find your summer suit both online and in stores. We’ve never understood the $300 bathing suit. Unless it’s covered with Louis Vuitton signature print, you can’t tell that it’s designer. The only requirement should be that it looks great on you. The best swimsuit is the one you don’t feel self-conscious in. If you can lay out on the beach or by the pool feeling at least fairly confident that your swimsuit complements you, you’re successful. There are so many mix and match suits to choose from that they flatter practically any body type. Their site has: triangle tops, halter tops, bandeau tops, tankinis, string bikinis, hipsters, skirt hipsters, boy shorts, and one pieces. We see trends all over their site—polka dots, animal prints, and nautical. Put together your favorites for as little as 20 bucks.
Pictured at top: Cut out one pieces are especially popular now—here’s Gap’s version for $37.50.
Gap Limited Edition Artist Tshirt: Jeff Koons, Chuck Close and more
Yesterday, the Gap launched their first-ever Artist Edition T-Shirt collection in stores and online. In celebration of the 2008 Whitney Biennial, the store collaborated with previous Biennial artists like Chuck Close and Jeff Koons to create this limited edition collection.
The limited edition collection is available exclusively at select Gap stores in the U.S., Canada, the U.K. and franchise markets, as well as online in the U.S. at Gap.com. It’s also available at the Whitney Museum of American Art, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, the Museum of Contemporary Art Los Angeles, the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis and at Colette, a Paris-based boutique. The t-shirts range in price from $28 to $38.
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