This week, Gap Inc. revealed plans to close 175 stores, sparking a wave of nostalgia and sadness among many, including those who haven’t shopped there in years. The Gap represents more than just a clothing retailer; it shaped the wardrobes of our youth. Does anyone else remember those oversized denim jackets? Mine was a vibrant mint green! My first outfit from Gap was a “popcorn” sweater paired with a denim mini skirt. And right after college, I proudly bought my first pair of “real pants”—tapered black stretch pants with a hidden zip.
As we face the reality of fewer Gap stores, it’s worth pondering how our lives and the shopping landscape would be dimmer without it. Here are ten things we’d miss:
- No Pocket Tees
What would I have worn from 1988 to 1993 without my pocket tees? I had them in lavender, green, and white. They were a staple—worn tucked into jeans or over a black elastic-waist skirt. They survived bleach spills and endless wear until they were practically threadbare. - No Iconic Branding
Without the familiar logo and vibrant orange stores, we might have missed out on the catchy slogan “Fall Into the Gap.” - No Dorm Room Decor
My first-year dorm was plastered with Gap’s stunning ads featuring celebrities in khakis. It was an era of chic advertising that brought fashion into our living spaces. - No Denim Shirts or Jackets
Remember those trendy oversized denim shirts? They were the ultimate cool when hitting the dance floor to Terence Trent D’Arby’s “Wishing Well.” And those baggy jean jackets? Pure nostalgia. - No Wall of Sweats
Walking into Gap for the first time around 1983 felt like entering a paradise of comfort. Shelves overflowed with sweatshirts and sweatpants in every color imaginable. I had pale pink sweats that I paired with slouchy white socks and Reebok high-tops, wearing them constantly until my mom said enough was enough. - No Mom Jeans
Ahh, the infamous mom jeans—where would we be without them? - No Banana Republic
Without Gap, we wouldn’t have Banana Republic, Gap Kids, Old Navy, or Athleta, let alone the now-defunct Piperlime. - No (RED)
Gap’s (RED) line raised awareness for AIDS/HIV while being fashionable and socially conscious, leaving a lasting impact. - No Colored Denim
While not the pioneers of colorful jeans, Gap encouraged us to embrace bold colors like pastel pink. I owned a pair of Love’s Baby Soft pink jeans—an interesting choice for sure! - No Fragrances
Remember when Gap ventured into fragrances in the mid-’90s? I wanted to love those scents, but they never quite hit the mark. Still, points for trying!
After college, I nannied for a woman whose mother was a design executive at Gap. When her daughter would throw a tantrum about her leaving, she’d respond grandly, “I’m dressing America.” And indeed, she was!