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On keen autumn mornings whenever I don't have the energy to put together an outfit, I attain for my favorite cardigan.
This versatile sweater is uncomplicated to manner alongside a T-shirt and jeans for a informal day, or tier complete a attire whenever I desire item a small additional polished.
However, I wanted to discover a new go-to cardigan I'd really attain for on repeat, so I tested akin styles from three brands I already shop regularly — Old Navy, Gap, and Banana Republic.
I bought one from all store, afterward wore them for a assortment of occasions. I compared the cardigans according to comfort, material, design, fit, and quality.
Although I loved them all, there's one I cognize I'll be wearing consistently this season.
1 / 6
The choice from Old Navy was the most classic.
I'm a fan of Old Navy for its range of wardrobe basics inside a sensible cost range, so I knew I'd discover a decent cardigan there.
I ordered the SoSoft cloth crew-neck cardigan in a chocolate brown colorway, and was drawn to the rich, fall-ready hue and traditional knit design. Once I put it on, I loved these features equal more.
The matter felt comfortable and gentle on my skin. When I checked the tag, I was pleasantly amazed to see that it was crafted from 100% cotton.
This cardigan disbursal me $43, which is slightly higher than Old Navy's customary pricing, but value it for specified a gentle feel.
Image: These days, it feels rare to discover an item made of 100% cotton. Karen Santos for BI
2 / 6
However, the fit made me awareness a bit frumpy whenever it was buttoned up, and the cloth sagged a bit loosely about my waist and shoulders.
So, I wore this sweater unbuttoned and layered complete a container for a night out to meal and drinks alongside friends. I paired it alongside capris and kitten heels, which looked elevated and on-trend.
Once the climate cools downward more, this cardigan would be a stylish layering part alongside a scarf or overcoat.
Image: The crew-neck manner makes this cardigan awesome for layering. Karen Santos for BI
3 / 6
Next, I tested the Gap cardigan, which offered a additional relaxed and versatile look.
Gap is one of my tried-and-true retailers for clothing essentials, and its website offers a broad assortment of cardigan styles to choose from. I went alongside the modern crewneck cardigan, additionally in a warm-brown shade.
After taking it out of the package, I noticed that the matter — made of 58% cotton, 38% modal, and 4% elastane — was additional akin to that of a T-shirt than a sweater.
I didn't intellect it, though. I really think it makes this choice additional versatile for casual, athleisure, and elevated ensembles.
Image: I akin that this cardigan was slightly cropped. Karen Santos for BI
4 / 6
I wore this one alongside a brace of baggy jeans to run errands, and it stayed comfortable and breathable throughout the day.
However, I didn't think the matter felt as durable as the knit cardigan from Old Navy. Plus, it disbursal $50, which seemed a bit steep for the additional informal piece. Still, I idea it was a decent option.
Image: The Gap cardigan was ideal for a informal day out. Karen Santos for BI
5 / 6
In my opinion, the Banana Republic cardigan was value the money.
Banana Republic is Gap Inc.'s additional luxurious brand, and I regard the store's elevated obtain on essential styles.
I ordered the crinkle-knit cropped cardigan in an olive-green tone, and was immediately drawn to the neutral, fall-appropriate hue. I additionally loved the intricate ribbed-knit detailing.
After putting it on, I got equal additional enthusiastic concerning this piece. The body-hugging, slightly cropped fit was flattering and modern.
I paired it alongside dark-wash jeans, a belt, and boots for a work event, and I felt assured networking throughout the night.
Image: Even although the color was neutral, it added a nice pop of color to my outfit. Karen Santos for BI
6 / 6
However, I didn't think the matter — made from 72% cloth and 28% nylon — was excellent breathable. It was lean but slightly coarse on the skin, and I felt my underarms sweating following lone a few hours.
Despite this, I cut in affection alongside the general scheme of this cardigan. Although I normally wouldn't pay $120 for basics, I think the disbursal per deteriorate I'll get from sporting this regularly justifies the investment.
Overall, all the cardigans were nice, but the one from Banana Republic was my favorite.
Business Insider reached out to Old Navy, Banana Republic, and Gap for comment.
Image: The cardigan from Banana Republic was my favorite. Karen Santos for BI
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Business Insider tells the stories you desire to cognize concerning the earth of business, technology, and finance
Business Insider tells the stories you desire to cognize concerning the earth of business, technology, and finance
Business Insider tells the stories you desire to cognize concerning the earth of business, technology, and finance
Business Insider tells the stories you desire to cognize concerning the earth of business, technology, and finance
Business Insider tells the stories you desire to cognize concerning the earth of business, technology, and finance
Chloe Caldwell is a writer, satisfied creator, and presenter who believes that the fun moments in existence matter — which is why she covers travel, fashion, wellness, and manner topics. She lives by the coast and spends most of her liberated period outside, exploring new places, in a yoga class, or online shopping. You can discover her on Instagram and TikTok at @bychloecaldwell.
