A recent perusal of the Gap website revealed some interesting things. First, there's the return of functional/stylish work clothes and casual wear made for The Gap’s previous majority clientele. But the real question is: is it possible for The Gap to change public opinion? To recapture a unique marketshare not already owned by its sister companies, Banana Republic and Old Navy? Possibly. The Gap's winter-into-spring collection features some cute dresses, capris and shorts. Of course you can still find every style of denim--from topstiched to drawstring to bootcut to skinny--but the gig's up, Gap jeans just aren't cool anymore. So, the Powers That Be at Gap headquarters are trying some new tricks.   

I was pleased to see the Wear Now, Wear Later section on the Gap website, where dresses, skirts, and tops are shown on models for winter and then alternatively for spring. It falls in line with the rise in transitional fashion--and these handy pictorial guides help shoppers visualize entire outfits before they buy. They're also great for getting new ideas for clothes you already own. 

But the price points threw me off. One leather handbag costs $198, which is something you might expect at Banana Republic maybe … but The Gap? The bag is part of the new premium (luxe) leather hangbag line. Across the board the company seems to have upped the ante—a move I’m not sure consumers will buy, both figuratively and literally. Are women willing to fork over nearly $200 for a bag with a little blue label inside? Only time will tell.