J. Crew Factory vs. Gap – Store Wars Rd. 1

STORE WARS: J. Crew Factory vs. GAP

Starting March 13th and running through April 2nd, Dappered.com is hosting a bracket based tournament with the purpose of eventually crowning the all around Affordable Men’s Style Retail Champ for 2012.  For a full introduction see this post.  The bracket on the right will be updated as the tournament progresses.  Click on it for the full size.  Make a case for your preferred competitor in the comments section, but don’t forget to vote at the bottom of each match up.  On with today’s showdown:

Strengths:  Overall style and fits are pretty close to J. Crew, at much more palatable prices.  Especially if you wait for one of the many extra 30% off codes.  Went online in the last year or so and now everyone has access to them.  That’s huge.  Their 80% wool suiting is phenomenal for the price.  Their summer cotton suit is also quite good and can be had for a song.  Merino V-Necks held up well this past winter, and speaking of winter, their tweed sportcoats from this past winter were fantastic for $125 on sale.  They’ve had an incredibly good year.  So much so, that they might be the best overall place to shop for those making $35k or less.

Weaknesses: The entire “we’re not open until the weekend” thing.  Yes they take the link off JCrew.com, but all you have to do is go directly to their webpage, or simply google up “J. Crew Factory” and you’re there.  Stock and sizes can go extremely fast when something good goes on sale.  Some have raised concerns about quality, especially when it comes to accessories like ties and belts.  Shipping can get expensive quick.

 

Strengths:  Been around and then some.  Can produce excellent, inexpensive sport coats and blazers.  Their basic leather belts.  Sales are plentiful and clearance racks are usually worth a quick look.  Free shipping at $50 and free returns in store.

Weaknesses: For awhile there, items were drifting towards brooding, hipstery, and sometimes flat out boring.  Started to be the forgotten middle child between big brother BR and little brother Old Navy.  Pants seemed to get much tighter, more tapered, and straight fits weren’t around as much any more.  Sweaters didn’t feel as substantial.  Like other GAP inc. brands, just about everything seems to be made in China.  You continuously have to play the sale/code game.  Overall:  Not a good year for GAP.

Your votes determine who goes on to the next round. Cast your ballot below. Voting ends at midnight ET.
UPDATE:  That wasn’t close.  J. Crew Factory gets to the next round easily.
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