In my ongoing quest to find gorgeous, affordable minimalist fashion in unexpected places, I just took a virtual stroll through Gap. I was surprised to find not only a few smart clothing options, but also a couple accessories worth a second look.
If you’ve been paying attention to retail news lately, you know Gap has been experiencing a bit of an identity crisis. I was excited when they hired Rebekka Bay, the woman who conceptualized and launched COS, one of my go-to stores for budget minimalist buys. But, I should have known that European minimalism would not mesh well with the all-American brand. Her role was eliminated just last week.
It will be interesting to see where the brand heads next. In the meantime, wading through the completely erratic mix of styles on Gap’s virtual racks yields some casual minimalist buys. Check out my favorite new finds, and remember you can get 30% off your order through 2/4 with coupon code DEAL.
1. Gap Crop Tee, $19.95
This simple cropped pima cotton tee, available in both black and white, has elbow-length sleeves and a dropped shoulder. Wear it as-is in summer, or use it as an unexpected layering piece for winter and spring. I’d pull it on over a slim fit long-sleeve tee for a funky layered look.
2. Gap Belted Shirttail Dress, $69.95
A shirt dress is a classic piece that you’ll wear for seasons to come, for both work and play. But, I’d wear this cotton dress over skinny jeans and style it like a tunic for a more visually interesting look.
3. Gap Tailored Crop Pants, $54.95 - $59.95
A cropped trouser is one of the foundation pieces of a minimalist wardrobe. This cotton/ spandex blend pair is available in a range of colors, but the basic black option is a perfect starting point for building both casual and dressier ensembles. Fair warning for slim ladies: Gap has some pretty out of control vanity sizing, which is especially a problem with their pants. I am 5’8”, 118 pounds, and a size 2 or 4 in higher-end labels. I’m a 00 at Gap. Plan accordingly.
4. Gap Ankle Booties, $79.95
These sleek leather ankle booties are perfection. I’m not only amazed to find them at Gap, I’m amazed that they are so inexpensive. They are available in black, pavement grey, and cognac brown, and, at this price, I’d consider buying one of each.
5. Gap Leather Saddle Bag, $100.00
Gap has a whole collection of minimalist leather bags – ranging from cross-body, to shoulder bag, to satchel shapes – available on their site right now. If you are in the market for an inexpensive leather bag in a neutral shade, this looks like the way to go. This saddle bag is my personal pick because it’s a shape I find interesting, but not versatile enough to warrant buying an investment-level bag.
6. Gap Wide-Sleeve Popover Tunic, $54.95
This simple cotton popover would pair well with slim jeans or trousers for a casual look. But, use it to top an a-line midi skirt and you have an ensemble straight off the Acne website, but at a tiny fraction of the cost. How fun is that?
