Gap

It’s the Gap. Sometimes the staff is a tad on the snooty side, usually they are über helpful (yes, I would LOVE for you to start me a fitting room so that I’m not toting around these seven pairs of jeans, three sweaters, and a t-​shirt, just for good measure… my arms are getting tired!). The secret here is to hit the sale. Jeans that are normally $ 60-​$ 70 can be found for $ 15-​$ 20. And these are jeans that are durable, come in a wide range of sizes and lengths (with more available online, of course), and are offered in several fits to flatter different body shapes. I am not very tall in stature, and have traditionally had a difficult, disparaging even, time finding pants that fit well. I don’t often have that problem here. The store layout isn’t hard to navigate. It is typically clean and well-​lit, inviting even. Occasionally the sale tracks are in disarray, but I think it is stereotypical of Gap to have someone folding and re-​folding everything to maintain a buttoned-​up appearance. I can’t recall a visit where I didn’t observe some employee doing just that. This is as good a location as any I’ve been to.

Well, it’s Gap Kids. And no, I don’t go to Gap Kids for kids. I go because I like their leggings, dresses, and tops for myself. What can I say? With no waist or hips to speak of and a double-​A cup, paired with very high hips, children’s tops and leggings just fit better. And are cheaper. And last longer for some reason. Additionally, as a yoga, pilates, and ballet enthusiast, many of these items can go from gym to street seamlessly.
Being from San Francisco, I only visit this outlet when I’m back home for the holidays but they always have the stock that’s missing at the SF flagship store, they always have XLs and XXLs (I’m 5’9″ after all), and everything is ALWAYS on sale. The only downside is that I get funny looks from the sales staff when I try on and buy the clothing for myself. Definitely worth a stop for staples at ridiculously low prices (and usually additionally marked down clearance items).