New Style at Old Navy

Lately I’ve been taking a closer look at some stores and eateries and it seems now it’s time to sing the praises of my favorite: Old Navy.

Old Navy, located near the food court at the Monmouth Mall, is a relatively new company, founded  17 years ago. I remember when it first appeared and seemed to sell only those flag tees and basic jeans; since then I’ve seen the store go through phases of likability and stagnation. In recent years,  I feel it has returned to its best form: cute, colorful basics and some trendier items that flirt with the fads without going over the edge. At low prices, their clothes are a great way to test out new styles.

The prices have always been a major draw – or drawback – at Old Navy, depending how you look at it. Some find it “cheap” in a bad way, and in particular men have told me that they find the men’s clothes not up to snuff.

Since men’s apparel is less varied and therefore more focused on quality, I can understand this. However, from a woman’s point of view, Old Navy’s casual clothing more than makes the cut, and for someone like me who likes the new-now-next, their prices offer the opportunity to try tons of new things without a major financial commitment. 

Also bear in mind that Old Navy is a part of Gap Inc. along with The Gap and Banana Republic; among these three stores can often be found versions of the same items at different price points. What truly sets Old Navy apart, though, is how down-to-earth it is. Affordability, of course, engenders this, but the store also has a distinctly inclusive feel.  Old Navy caters to everyone, with clothes for the whole family and extended sizes (women’s 0-20, men’s up to XXXL).  Even the return policy is forgiving: 90 days to make your decision.

Besides now featuring the latest trends, Old Navy is still a powerhouse of basics.  I’ve become convinced that tank tops should not cost more than $5 and any “wardrobe staple” is better bought in twos. The store also is  nipping at the heels of  The Gap with their extensive denim selection. It used to be that Old Navy jeans didn’t fit anyone right: you, your hippy friend, your rail-thin sister, no one looked right in those things. Somehow they worked that out, and now offer a fit and style for everyone, from wide leg to denim legging (my favorite, and better than you think).

For everything from party dresses to work pants to flip flops, Old Navy has cute options on the cheap. If you wear it a few times and get over it, there’s no guilt and probably already some new merchandise to choose from. So head in, enjoy the upbeat, laidback vibe, and stock up.