Gap vs. Old Navy: What's the difference? [2026 updated]

Gap offers classic, timeless American staples at a mid-range price point with an emphasis on durable materials, while its sister brand Old Navy focuses on trendy, colorful, and family-friendly fashion at a much lower, budget-friendly cost. The core difference lies in their target audiences: Gap makes versatile wardrobe foundations, whereas Old Navy delivers fun, seasonal styles and incredible value.

Let's break down everything you need to know to choose the right retailer for your needs.

Gap: The Icon of Classic American Style

Gap is a foundational American apparel brand known for its clean, casual style and reliable quality. It targets consumers who appreciate simple, well-made wardrobe essentials like denim, neutral tees, and sweaters. The brand's aesthetic is minimalist and versatile, making it easy to build a lasting wardrobe with its pieces.

• Product mix: Focuses on versatile wardrobe staples like denim, khaki pants, sweaters, t-shirts, and button-down shirts for men, women, and children.
• Price point: Mid-range, with essential items typically priced between $30 and $80. A standard pair of jeans costs around $50–$80, while basic tees are usually $20-$30.
• Quality: Gap emphasizes quality fabrics like durable denim and soft cottons designed for longevity. The construction and stitching are reliable for regular wear.
• Style: Timeless and versatile with a clean, minimalist aesthetic. Collections often feature neutral tones and classic silhouettes suitable for dressing up or down.
• Sizing/Fit: Known for having a consistent fit that is generally true to size. They offer a comprehensive range of sizes, including petite, tall, and plus options.
• Sales: Offers frequent sales and promotional events, but the discounts are typically more moderate compared to Old Navy.
• Sustainability: Actively uses more sustainable cotton and is committed to reducing water usage and waste in its production processes.

Gap is the ideal choice for shoppers building a capsule wardrobe with classic, well-made pieces that won't go out of style.

Shop Gap: gap.com

Old Navy: Fun, Fashionable & Family-Friendly

Launched by Gap's parent company in 1994, Old Navy was created as a more affordable, energetic alternative. It targets families, teens, and budget-conscious shoppers with trendy, casual clothing in a vibrant array of colors and prints. The brand excels at providing fashionable items at a very low price point.

• Product mix: Offers a massive selection of casual clothing, activewear, swim, and seasonal pieces for men, women, kids, and baby. Famed for its affordable graphic tees, dresses, and "Pixie" pants.
• Price point: Extremely accessible, with most items ranging from $10 to $50. Jeans are often available for $20–$40, especially during one of their frequent sales.
• Quality: The quality is decent for the price point but is not designed for serious longevity. Fabrics are generally lighter, which works for trendy or kids' clothes that will be outgrown quickly.
• Style: Playful, bright, and trend-focused. Old Navy's collections embrace seasonal trends with bold prints, fun graphics, and a huge color palette.
• Sizing/Fit: Offers a great size range but can be inconsistent across different styles. Some items may run large, so checking reviews or trying them on is a good idea.
• Sales: Known for near-constant promotions, flash sales (like their famous $1 flip-flop sale), and deep discounts, providing excellent value for money.
• Sustainability: Incorporates sustainable practices like using recycled fibers and reducing water in manufacturing as part of Gap Inc.'s broader goals.

Old Navy is perfect for families on a budget, seasonal wardrobe updates, and anyone who wants to try a new trend without a big financial commitment.

Shop Old Navy: oldnavy.com

Gap vs. Old Navy Comparison

Price Comparison

This is the most significant difference between the two brands. Old Navy is the undisputed winner on price. For example, a standard pair of women’s jeans at Old Navy might cost $35 full price but can often be bought for under $25 during a sale. A similar pair at Gap would retail for closer to $70-$80.

This massive price gap applies across all categories, including t-shirts, dresses, and kids' clothing. While Gap frequently has sales, Old Navy's business model is built around aggressive promotions and ever-present deals, making it the go-to for shoppers prioritizing budget.

Quality & Materials

Gap positions itself as a higher-quality brand, and it generally shows in the materials and construction. Gap's denim feels thicker and more durable, its cotton tees are softer, and the stitching is often sturdier. These are clothes designed to be worn for multiple seasons.

Old Navy offers good quality for the price, but its main focus is affordability. Fabrics tend to be lighter, and fabric blends might not hold their shape as well after many washes. This is less of an issue for quick-trend items or children’s clothing that will be outgrown, but Gap clothes are more likely to last you for years.

Style & Aesthetic

The style difference is all about classic vs. trendy. Gap's brand identity is rooted in timeless American style - think clean lines, neutral colors, and classic silhouettes like crewneck sweaters and straight-leg jeans. Its clothes are intended to serve as a versatile foundation for your wardrobe.

Old Navy is a vibe. It is fun, colorful, and heavily influenced by current trends. Their stores are filled with bright graphics, bold prints, and seasonal must-haves. While they sell basics, the focus is on accessible, of-the-moment fashion for the whole family.

Fit & Sizing

Both brands offer an inclusive range of sizes, including petite, tall, and plus, which is a major advantage. However, Gap is known for having a more consistent and reliable fit. If you're a size 10 in one style of Gap jeans, you're likely a size 10 in others. Their sizing is generally considered true to size.

Old Navy's sizing can be less predictable. It often runs on the generous side, and sizing can vary significantly between different product lines (e.g., a dress vs. a pair of pants). For Old Navy, reading online reviews or a quick trip to the dressing room can save you from a potential return.

Which One Should You Choose?

Though they are owned by the same company, these two brands are designed for very different shoppers.

Choose Gap if:

• You're building a capsule wardrobe and want high-quality, versatile basics.
• You value durability and are willing to pay a little more for clothes that will last.
• You prefer a classic, minimalist, and more polished aesthetic.
• You need a reliable, consistent fit and want clothes that are true to size.

Choose Old Navy if:

• You're shopping on a tight budget or outfitting an entire family.
• You love experimenting with current trends, fun colors, and bold prints.
• You need affordable basics like tees and activewear and aren't focused on long-term durability.
• You are a deal-hunter who loves paying less for seasonal fashion finds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gap or Old Navy cheaper?

Old Navy is significantly cheaper than Gap across all categories. Its entire brand is built on providing accessible and trendy clothing at a low price point, reinforced by constant sales and promotions.

Which has better quality clothes?

Gap generally has better quality clothes. They use heavier, more durable fabrics like denser denim and softer cottons and focus on sturdy construction, meaning their items typically last longer than those from Old Navy.

Are Gap and Old Navy the same company?

Yes, both brands are owned by the same parent company, Gap Inc., which also owns Banana Republic and Athleta.

Does Old Navy or Gap have better sizing?

Gap is known for its consistent, true-to-size fit. Old Navy also offers a very inclusive size range, but its sizing can be less consistent between different items and collections, often running large.

Which brand is better for families?

Old Navy is generally considered better for families, especially those with young kids. Its low prices, durable enough quality for children's wear, and frequent promotions make it an economical choice for outfitting growing children.

Which is better for core wardrobe staples?

Gap excels at making core wardrobe staples. Their focus on classic designs, better quality materials, and neutral color palettes makes their clothing ideal for building a versatile, long-lasting wardrobe.

What is the style difference between Gap and Old Navy?

Gap’s style is classic, timeless, and minimalist. Old Navy's style is trendy, colorful, playful, and fun. Think of Gap as your go-to for the perfect white tee and dark-wash jeans, while Old Navy is where you’d buy a bright floral sundress for vacation.

Do they have similar return policies?

As part of Gap Inc., they have similar return policies, typically allowing returns of unwashed and unworn merchandise within 30 days. However, always check the specific policy for each brand, as final sale items are often excluded.