I still remember the first time I stepped into a Gap store.
I was in high school and wanted some stylish basics to update my wardrobe.
The jeans, t-shirts, and sweaters at Gap were affordable and on-trend.
I’ve been a loyal Gap customer ever since. An interesting fact – Gap was founded in 1969 in San Francisco!
1. Old Navy
Old Navy is owned by the same company as Gap, so their styles and quality are very similar.
I love browsing the aisles at Old Navy because they have such a huge selection of casual clothes for the whole family at bargain prices.
Their t-shirts come in every color and sleeve length imaginable, with cute graphics and sayings on many of them.
Old Navy’s jeans selection is awesome – they carry multiple fits like slim, relaxed, and bootcut, in lengths from petite to tall.
They also have tons of cozy fleeces and sweaters, trendy activewear, pajamas for all ages, and the softest socks ever!
Old Navy regularly runs huge sales, so you can stock up on staples like solid tees and jeans for as little as $5-10.
Their dresses and swimsuits are super affordable too – I never pay more than $20 for either.
Old Navy has really expanded their plus size range in recent years, with lots of cute on-trend options.
I appreciate that they carry petite sizes too, being a shorty myself.
You can definitely find the same classic preppy vibe with Old Navy’s wardrobe basics as you do at Gap.
2. Banana Republic
Another brand in the Gap Inc. family, Banana Republic has a more sophisticated take on Gap’s timeless American style.
While Gap has casual everyday wear, Banana Republic has stylish clothes for the workplace and going out.
Their blazers, button-downs, trousers, and sheath dresses are made from luxe materials like wool, silk, and fine cotton.
Banana Republic pieces just feel high-quality and well made – they really hold up over time.
I love their shift dresses for work – so flattering and professional looking, yet comfy.
Their men’s dress shirt collection is amazing – oxfords, ginghams, stripes, several collar and cuff styles.
Banana Republic jeans have a more tailored, trouser-like fit than Gap’s jeans.
Don’t sleep on their sweaters either – cashmere, merino, cotton-cashmere blends in modern cuts.
If I need work clothing that’s stylish but also comfortable, timeless and high quality, Banana Republic is my go-to.
They really do have a similar understated chic aesthetic to Gap, just geared more towards the workplace or events.
3. J.Crew
J.Crew has a similar East Coast preppy look to Gap.
Walking into a J.Crew store, I feel like I’m on a college campus in New England.
Their clothes have that iconic, slightly retro Ivy League aesthetic – it’s gorgeous.
Crisp oxford shirts, polished chinos, cable knit sweaters layered over button-downs.
J.Crew’s attention to detail really sets them apart – monogrammed buttons, custom prints and fabrics, interesting stitching.
Their shorts have a 7″ inseam – the perfect length to show a little leg without veering into booty shorts territory!
I love their chino pants and jeans for the office – the Driggs fit is super flattering.
J.Crew also makes high quality, tailored blazers to instantly class up any outfit.
Their dresses and wrap tops work perfectly for date nights or weddings.
Even their t-shirts and casual button-downs have that elevated collegiate look that defines J.Crew’s style.
4. Madewell
Madewell is like a more relaxed, bohemian version of Gap.
They focus on laidback women’s clothing, especially jeans, tees, button-downs, jackets, and dresses.
Madewell’s aesthetic has a vintage Americana vibe that Gap fans will appreciate.
I’m obsessed with Madewell’s jeans – the perfect amount of stretch and a flawless fit every time.
They’re known for their denim, but Madewell’s tops are equally amazing.
I love their graphic tees, flowy peasant tops, plaid flannels, and striped boatneck shirts.
Madewell has super soft, lived-in tees and tanks at affordable prices – they’re all I wear on weekends.
Their floral dresses and jumpsuits are absolute staples in my spring and summer wardrobes.
For fall and winter, Madewell’s jackets and coats are timeless – denim, leather, sherpa.
Their accessories complete any outfit – bags, jewelry, hats, belts, and more.
Madewell just has that effortless cool girl style that really resonates with me and so many other women.
5. Uniqlo
This popular Japanese brand is known for affordable, quality basics with clean silhouettes.
Uniqlo’s t-shirts, jeans, sweaters, and loungewear are similar to Gap’s casual staples.
Walking into a Uniqlo store, I’m surrounded by simple versatile pieces in an array of colors.
Their t-shirts are made of soft, breathable cotton – I have them in every color imaginable.
Uniqlo jeans are super stretchy and always retain their shape – I love their skinny and boyfriend fits.
Their Heattech long underwear keeps me so warm in winter under my jeans and sweaters.
For work, Uniqlo’s button-down shirts, slacks, and blazers are totally professional but comfy.
Don’t sleep on their loungewear – ultra soft leggings and sweatshirts for weekend wear.
Uniqlo is amazing for stocking up on base layers and undergarments too – tanks, socks, bras.
Everything is affordable but made from high quality materials built to last.
The clean lines, quality fabrics, and timeless styles give Uniqlo that same minimalist preppy Gap vibe.
6. Everlane
Everlane has the same minimalist aesthetic and modern basics as Gap.
They offer quality, ethical clothing without traditional retail markups.
Everlane’s clothes have that pared back Scandinavian vibe that really appeals to me.
Their t-shirts are made of premium Supima cotton – so soft and they hold their shape perfectly.
For jeans, their high rise skinny and wide leg crops are flattering winners.
Everlane’s button-downs are wrinkle-resistant, which is so key for traveling and busy days.
Their trousers have an elastic waistband that makes them super comfy but still polished looking.
Their outerwear is amazing – stylish trench coats, leather jackets, puffers and more.
Everlane’s shoes are all quality made – from flats to boots, heels to sneakers.
Everything comes in an array of neutral tones that all mix and match flawlessly.
Minimal styling and ethical manufacturing really set Everlane apart in a great way.
7. Land’s End
Land’s End offers well-made clothing for the whole family, much like Gap.
Their casual pieces like polos, fleece, sweaters, and swimwear have a similar timeless preppy look.
I’ve been shopping at Land’s End since I was a kid going on summer vacation with my family.
Their swimsuits come in classic solids along with fun seersucker prints and ruffles – super flattering.
Land’s End makes quality activewear too – leggings, tanks, shorts, and tees for yoga, running, and more.
Their jeans come in multiple fits, washes, and lengths for a customized look.
For guys, Land’s End has business casual button-downs, comfy polos, sturdy chinos, and dress slacks.
Their fleece tops keep me so cozy on cold winter days – I love the full zip and quarter zip options.
Land’s End really shines for outerwear – parkas, peacoats, puffers, you name it.
Flannel pajamas from Land’s End have been a holiday tradition in my family for years.
Their kids’ selection is full of durable, play-friendly clothing in fun colors and prints.
Land’s End is an awesome one-stop shop for casual wardrobe essentials with timeless style and quality.
8. Eddie Bauer
Eddie Bauer has that same rugged, outdoorsy vibe that some Gap styles channel.
They offer durable, comfortable clothing for men, women, and kids.
Expect cozy flannels, fleece, thermals, and puffer coats in addition to rugged jeans and tees.
Living in the Pacific Northwest, Eddie Bauer is one of my go-to clothing brands.
Their First Ascent hiking pants and base layers keep me warm and dry on the trail.
For apres-hike, their flannel-lined jeans, sherpa fleeces, and down jackets are so cozy.
Eddie Bauer makes super durable outerwear built to withstand the elements – I rely on their down parkas.
Their shirts and tops work for everyday wear too – I love their plaid button-downs and waffle henleys.
Don’t sleep on Eddie Bauer for travel clothes either – their pants have awesome stretch and their tops resist wrinkles.
Their kids’ clothes are made for adventure with reinforced knees, waterproof zippers and stain resistance.
Eddie Bauer just has excellent quality and performance – perfect for enjoying the great outdoors in every season.
9. L.L. Bean
Another trusted outdoor brand, L.L. Bean shares Gap’s heritage New England aesthetic.
Their clothing skews towards outdoorsy with flannels, fleeces, boots, and technical outerwear.
But they also have casual pieces like oxfords, polos, and weekendwear.
L.L. Bean is my one stop shop in the fall and winter – their flannels are so soft and the fleece-lined hoodies are heavenly.
For snow days, their goose down parkas, snow pants and winter boots are total lifesavers.
Their camping, hiking and outdoor gear is all durably made and field tested in Maine.
L.L. Bean’s button-downs in plaid, Oxford cloth, chambray are staples in my closet.
Don’t sleep on their shorts and swim trunks – perfect for summer days on the boat or at the lake.
The Bean boots with rubber soles are a necessity for walking through rain or snow.
L.L. Bean captures that rustic New England vibe through quality, durable pieces meant to last a lifetime.
10. J. Crew Factory
J.Crew Factory is like the lower-priced version of Gap and J.Crew.
Their clothes emulate the same preppy style of those brands at more affordable prices.
Expect casual staples like jeans, tees, button-downs, shorts, dresses, and sweaters.
As a student on a tight budget, I really appreciate the prices at J. Crew Factory.
Their t-shirts are super soft cotton at just $9.99 each – I load up on them.
For jeans, I swear by their high-waisted toothpick style – it makes my legs look a mile long.
J. Crew Factory always has sales on their shorts, dresses, button-downs, and sweaters too.
Their men’s oxford shirts are nice quality for the low price – great tailored fit.
The color palettes and prints they use are spot on for the preppy aesthetic.
You really get that iconic J.Crew look for less at J.Crew Factory.
11. Ann Taylor
While a bit dressier, Ann Taylor has many casual, feminine styles similar to Gap.
Their jeans, sweaters, tees, blouses, skirts, and dresses offer an elevated take on wardrobe basics for work or weekends.
Ann Taylor is my secret weapon for looking instantly put together, even on casual days.
Their button-down shirts come in gorgeous patterns and colors – I get so many compliments.
Ann Taylor’s trousers have a curvy fit that flatters my hips and waist.
Their sheath dresses are perfect for looking polished but still being able to move around.
I love wearing their lightweight cardigans and wrap sweaters to the office.
Ann Taylor’s denim is high quality with the perfect amount of stretch.
For weekends, their printed tees and striped tops add interest to jeans or shorts.
They just do femininity and polish so well while still being comfortable and casual.
12. Boden
Boden’s clothing has the same playful, retro prep aesthetic as Gap.
They offer colorful, patterned options alongside more muted solids and stripes.
Expect men’s, women’s, and kids’ clothing in casual, weekend-ready styles.
Boden is one of my favorite brands for adding whimsy and color to my wardrobe.
Their floral dresses, striped tops, and plaid button-downs have the most gorgeous prints.
Boden’s jeans come in cute hues like rose pink, mint, and pale blue – always fun twists on a basic.
Everything they make is super soft, comfortable, and ready for adventures big and small.
For kids, Boden makes clothing that’s playful but still high quality and durable.
Guys will love their oxfords, polos, pullovers, and casual blazers in fun colors and patterns.
Boden truly captures that lighthearted preppy look with their joyful use of prints, textures and colors.
13. Athleta
Owned by Gap Inc., Athleta mirrors Gap’s activewear with stylish, high-performance gear.
They make leggings, sports bras, tops, jackets, swimwear and more for yoga, running, and training.
I constantly get compliments on my Athleta activewear – their designs are so cute but also functional.
Their leggings don’t dig in or lose their shape, even during the sweatiest workouts.
Athleta’s sports bras provide ample support for running and high intensity training.
They use breathable, fast-drying fabrics so I never feel overheated in their tops or bottoms.
The colors Athleta uses feel fresh and modern – gorgeous teals, blues, and purples.
Their swimwear is made for athletes with chlorine resistance, UPF protection, and versatile cuts.
Their jackets are sleek and stylish while still being waterproof and breathable.
I appreciate that Athleta offers a diverse range of sizes, from XXS to 3X in many pieces.
They really fuse performance, comfort, and style in all their activewear pieces.
Athleta makes fitting in a workout seem effortless and fashionable.
14. Crewcuts
This J.Crew brand offers quality kids’ clothing with the same timeless preppy style as Gap’s kids’ range.
Expect bright colors and prints on staples like tees, polos, sweaters, jeans, dresses, and outerwear.
My kids absolutely love Crewcuts for the colors, prints, and details that make getting dressed fun.
Their t-shirts and polos hold up so well even after endless washings.
Crewcuts jeans have stretch for full mobility but don’t lose their shape.
Their girls’ dresses are perfect for school, play dates, and parties.
Even their pajamas and underwear are super cute and comfy for kids.
Don’t sleep on their outerwear – the jackets, fleeces, and puffers are all cozy and durable.
Crewcuts pieces work together seamlessly, making outfit planning easy for kids and parents.
The quality and smart design ensure these clothes can be passed between siblings or saved as keepsakes.
15. Abercrombie
Abercrombie has the classic American cool style that Gap is known for.
Their clothes range from denim, tees, button-downs, and fleeces to dresses, skirts, and sweaters.
I love Abercrombie for the soft fabrics and iconic logos that feel effortlessly cool.
Their jeans have the perfect amount of stretch if you are constantly on the move.
Abercrombie’s tees and fleece crews are my son’s uniform for school and weekends.
Their button-downs in preppy plaids and stripes add style to any outfit.
For my daughter, the sweater dresses, skirts, and cardigans are adorable but still practical.
Abercrombie’s swimsuits and coverups make my kids excited for beach days and pool parties.
The outerwear holds up against the elements but is never bulky.
Abercrombie simply nails that iconic all-American style Gap is known for.
16. Patagonia
Known for outdoor gear, Patagonia also has casual tees, button-downs, and fleece that exude Gap’s laidback prep vibe.
Their pieces are sustainably made and bluesign® approved.
As a longtime Patagonia fan, their casual pieces are mainstays in my weekend wardrobe.
Their cotton t-shirts come in cute graphics and colors – I have one for every mood.
Patagonia’s flannels are to die for – super soft and perfect to layer under puffers and parkas.
I throw on their Better Sweater fleece over just about everything once the temps drop.
Patagonia’s button-downs in chambray, Oxford cloth and plaid are wardrobe heroes.
Everything they make is meant to be worn and washed repeatedly – built to last for years.
By using recycled and sustainably sourced materials, they really walk the talk.
Patagonia defines laidback eco-conscious style with their casual pieces.
17. Vineyard Vines
Vineyard Vines captures that East Coast country club aesthetic that some Gap collections channel.
Although preppier, their polos, tees, pullovers, shorts, and hats have a similar timeless appeal.
Vineyard Vines is the epitome of the “go-to-the-beach-but-make-it-fashion” look.
As a New England native, their nautical stripes and whale logo call me home.
Their Oxford cloth button-downs come in preppy pinks, greens, and lavenders.
Vineyard Vines’ polos keep guys looking sharp whether on the golf course or sailing.
The pops of color and fun embroidered details make their pieces stand out.
Their shorts and swim trunks were made for weekends in the Hamptons or Nantucket.
Vineyard Vines bottoms have a relaxed fit without compromising quality.
They totally nail East Coast prep with a laidback vibe – perfect to channel that Gap aesthetic.
18. REI Co-op
REI’s in-house brand offers adventure-ready casualwear and activewear.
Their hiking pants, flannels, tees, and fleece share that sporty outdoor spirit with some Gap styles.
As an outdoorswoman, I rely on REI Co-op clothes made for campouts, hikes, and everything in between.
Their hiking pants have UPF protection, water resistance, and stretch for mobility.
REI’s flannel shirts are soft, durable, and come in great outdoorsy color combos.
For chilly nights around the campfire, their fleece hoodies and jackets retain heat.
Don’t sleep on their tees and tanks – moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and cute graphics.
REI Co-op clothes can keep up with me whether I’m scaling a mountain or just grabbing groceries.
Their casual pieces have that sporty functionality that defines the REI and Gap brands.
