The recipe for most fall outfits starts with a good pair of jeans.
High-quality denim lasts for years and can be styled again and again with whatever the next season calls for. And although trends come and go, no fit is more versatile or reliable than a standard straight-leg jean.
I was overdue for a new pair, so I turned to Gap, Banana Republic, and Old Navy (all owned by Gap Inc.) to find my new closet staple.
I ordered a similar style from all three retailers and wore them each for one day on a variety of outings. Then, I evaluated them based on design, fit, fabric, price, and the overall online ordering experience.
After putting them to the test, there was one clear winner, one that was just OK, and one I probably wouldn’t order again.
Honestly, I was disappointed by the straight-leg jeans from Old Navy
I admire Old Navy for offering both classic and trending pieces at approachable price points.
I had originally ordered the mid-rise slouchy straight jeans in my usual size, but when they arrived, they were way too big on me. In fact, the pair fit so loosely that they were unwearable, so I had to return them.
Unfortunately, the smaller size wasn’t in stock, so I ended up buying the mid-rise Wow boyfriend straight jeans and sizing down.
The new pair still fit a bit awkwardly around the waist and thighs, but overall, they were much better. I liked the versatile dark wash, which goes well with both casual and more elevated outfits.
I wore these on a weekday while working from a coffee shop, and they were comfortable both while walking there and when sitting for a few hours at a time.
The fabric — made from 80% cotton, 13% recycled polyester, 5% recycled cotton, and 1% spandex — felt a bit stretchier than what I would expect from denim. However, it made the pants feel soft and chafe-safe.
Although I probably wouldn’t order these again due to the unpredictable fit, for $40, they’re a solid low-cost option (and I later saw them on sale for only $22).
I’m also excited to see how the brand’s offerings evolve in the coming months, given that Old Navy’s new president and CEO, is set to take over in November.
The Banana Republic jeans were nice, but came with a hefty price tag
Banana Republic is Gap Inc.’s “attainable luxury” brand, and I’m always a bit surprised by how highly priced some of their styles are. However, I was excited to give the denim a try.
I ordered the mid-rise 90s classic jean, and I immediately loved the medium wash and shape of the pants.
These were a bit too large around the waist and in length, and although I didn’t necessarily need to exchange them, I’d likely get them tailored for a better fit for my body type.
The structure of the straight-leg cut was incredibly flattering and would pair nicely with any blouse or sweater in my closet. I also thought the construction around the zipper and pockets seemed high-quality and durable.
When wearing these for a date night out to dinner and drinks, I felt both fashionable and comfortable throughout the evening.
I could feel the difference in fabric quality compared to the pair from Old Navy, too. Made from from 70% cotton, 28% Tencel lyocell, and 2% elastane spandex, the fabric felt more structured and crisp.
However, that also meant a significant difference in cost — this pair cost me $130. I think they’d be worth the investment, but I’d consider sizing down next time.
The Gap straight-leg jeans really won me over
Gap has always been a hub for closet staples. Lately, the brand’s denim marketing and ad campaigns have been especially notable, from the KATSEYE “Better in Denim” commercial to the Hailey Bieber collaboration.
So, I was excited to put the brand’s denim to the test and ordered the Gap mid-rise straight taper jeans.
I ordered these in my usual size, and they fit me perfectly. These had a slightly lighter medium wash, which is perfect for daytime and summer-to-fall transition looks. They hugged my curves well, and the waistline sat nicely at my hips.
I wore these jeans for coffee and shopping with a friend, paired with a simple blouse and kitten heels. I felt comfortable and confident wearing them, and the straight silhouette elongated my legs (which can be rare as a short person).
This pair is made from 100% cotton (95% cotton, 5% recycled cotton), so they were durable yet still soft enough on my skin. They cost $90, but are well worth the price for a pair of jeans I know I’ll wear for years to come. Plus, I later saw them on sale for $53.
Business Insider reached out to Old Navy, Banana Republic, and Gap for comment.
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