Trying on Winter Coats: Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic Review

2025-12-19T12:23:01.218Z

I tried on similar black peacoats at Gap, Banana Republic, and Old Navy.

I compared each winter coat based on the design, fabric, price, and overall quality.

I wasn’t a fan of how the Gap coat felt, but really loved the option from Banana Republic.

I recently relocated from Southern California to the chillier Bay Area, necessitating a quality winter coat.

My search led me to three familiar Gap Inc. brands: Gap, Banana Republic, and Old Navy. Here’s how the options compared in design, fabric, price, and quality.

I started my day with a trip to Gap.

A rack of black clothing on display at Gap. — I had no trouble finding what I was looking for at Gap.

Chloe Caldwell

Gap was my first stop in search of a stylish peacoat. The store’s layout was intuitive, allowing me to quickly locate the coat I was interested in.

However, I wasn’t blown away by this option.

Chloe wears a long black peacoat in a fitting room. — I thought this coat looked a bit like a bathrobe.

Chloe Caldwell

The wool-blend wrap coat from Gap had a nice structure and fit well over layers.

While the thick-notch lapels were appealing, the fabric blend (52% recycled wool, 40% recycled polyester) felt itchy, particularly around the neck. Without buttons and with hidden pockets, the coat slightly resembled a bathrobe. At $248, the polyester content made it hard to justify the purchase.

Next, I went to Banana Republic.

Coats, jeans, and shirts hanging at Banana Republic. — The Banana Republic store I visited was well-organized.

Chloe Caldwell

After Gap, I explored Banana Republic for a more suitable option. It was easy to find a black peacoat there.

This coat was pricey, but I think it would be worth the investment.

Initially, the $550 price tag on the Italian-wool cashmere wrap coat seemed excessive. However, after trying it on, I found the quality justified the cost.

Crafted from 91% wool and 6% cashmere, it felt thick, warm, and soft without any itchiness. The coat’s design, with a pointed collar and large pockets, was both chic and practical, making it a worthwhile investment for years to come.

I made one last stop at Old Navy before heading home.

Racks of coats, pants, and dresses on display at Old Navy. — It took me a few minutes to find a peacoat at Old Navy.

Chloe Caldwell

While I enjoy Old Navy for its affordability, finding a peacoat at my local store was a bit challenging due to its disorganization.

I didn’t love how the Old Navy option felt.

The oversized twill overcoat from Old Navy lacked a waist tie, which I believe is essential for adding shape.

Made entirely of recycled polyester, I doubted its warmth and found the fabric less flexible, limiting layering options. The spread lapel and textured buttons were appealing, but at $90, it felt like a budget choice.

I’d be most likely to buy the coat from Banana Republic.

A composite image of Chloe wearing three different long black peacoats. — The Banana Republic coat checked all my boxes.

Chloe Caldwell

Banana Republic’s coat stood out with its durable materials, comfortable fit, and elegant style. This experience reinforced the value of investing in quality clothing staples.