• I tried on similar blazers at two Gap Inc.-owned retailers: Old Navy and Banana Republic.
• The blazers were very different in terms of price and quality.
• Despite being $110 more expensive, I'd consider investing in the version from Banana Republic.

A chic blazer is a true wardrobe staple. Whether it's for professional settings, street style, or elevating casual outfits, a blazer is one of the most versatile pieces someone can have in their closet.

After years of wearing the same black blazer I found at a thrift store, I decided it was time for an upgrade. So, I turned to two trusted retailers for basics: Old Navy and Banana Republic, both owned by Gap Inc.

Here's how my search for the perfect blazer went.

I started at Old Navy because of the retailer's approachable prices.

Since opening its first store in 1994, Old Navy has become one of the world's largest apparel brands. Today, the company has over 1,200 stores around the world.

Although I'm not usually drawn to major corporations, I know I can always count on Old Navy to offer classic and trending pieces at an affordable price.

I wasn't blown away by the blazer I tried on at Old Navy.

When I arrived at the store, I browsed the racks and headed to the fitting room with the Taylor relaxed suit blazer in black. I liked the style and fit, but there were a few big turnoffs for me.

I thought the shoulder pads were stylish, but they were sticking out slightly to the point that there was a noticeable outline. This was a sign to me that the blazer lacked quality of construction.

I also appreciate a trendy oversize silhouette, but there was no shape or cinching at the waist, making me look boxy.

Plus, the blazer was made entirely of synthetic materials, including 91% polyester and 9% spandex.

Although these flaws were subtle, I wouldn't pay $50 for this blazer. I'd rather invest in one that's well-structured and flattering.

I continued my search for a new blazer at Banana Republic, Gap Inc.'s destination for attainable luxury.

Founded in 1978, Banana Republic is known for elevated and classic styles. Today, the brand has over 400 locations around the world.

The clothing at Banana Republic is typically more expensive than that of other Gap Inc. brands. However, the products and in-store shopping experience also feel more luxurious.

I thought the Banana Republic blazer would be worth the investment.

At Banana Republic, I tried on the sculpted suit blazer in black. I loved the fit and silhouette of this piece, and it was much more tailored than the one I tried on at Old Navy. It also provided a more shapely look with a slight cinch at the waistline.

The fabric felt higher quality, but seemed to only vary slightly from that of the Old Navy option. It was made with 49% polyester, 44% recycled polyester, and 7% elastane spandex.

The Banana Republic blazer, which cost $160, was more than three times the price of the Old Navy option. However, considering the significant improvement in overall quality and fit, I didn't think it was a completely outrageous price.

I walked out of both stores empty-handed, but I'd consider going back for the Banana Republic blazer once it goes on sale. After all, a blazer is an investment piece that's worth paying more for.

• Bassano del Grappa is a charming Italian city that's about an hour from Venice.
• I love visiting Bassano because it's less touristy than the major cities I've been to.
• Bassano also has lots of great restaurants, shopping opportunities, and stunning views.

I love the historic alleyways, picturesque canals, and gondolas of Venice.

If you want a true taste of Italy, however, you'll probably want to venture beyond the floating city's tourist-packed cobblestone streets. One of my favorite spots to visit is Bassano del Grappa, which is only an hour's train ride from Venice.

The enchanting city is located along the Brenta River at the base of the Dolomites. My family has nearly 200 years of history there, and every time I visit Bassano, I am left more in awe.

Although many tourists from around Italy and the surrounding countries make their way through Bassano, I've noticed it remains a hidden gem among American travelers.

The city is brimming with history, culture, art, outdoor adventure, and stunning scenery, making it a worthwhile stop on an Italian getaway. Here's why I love visiting this charming city.

In Bassano, I'm able to immerse myself in true Italian living — without the major crowds

I love visiting tourist hubs like Venice or Milan, but in my experience, I get a better idea of true Italian culture when I'm visiting Bassano.

For example, I've noticed that far fewer Bassano residents speak English, and most businesses are small or family-owned.

The city can get crowded with visitors in the summer, but it feels less curated for tourists' comfort than other popular spots. Visiting Bassano feels like being a guest observing everyday local life, which, to me, is what traveling is all about.

I love the food scene in Bassano

In general, I've found the food in Bassano is fresher and more authentic than in the heavily touristed cities throughout Italy.

Many operations are small, family-run businesses that take pride in providing the highest quality of cuisine and friendly service.

For example, my family has owned Ristorante Birraria Ottone for the past 150 years.

The fine-dining restaurant serves classic Italian dishes from a seasonal menu in an elegant and relaxed atmosphere — my favorite item is the white asparagus risotto in the springtime. I might be biased, but dining here is a must when visiting Bassano.

I also love visiting Danieli, a bar and restaurant in the center piazza, which is one of my favorite spots for an aperitif.

The gorgeous Ponte Vecchio offers a picture-perfect moment

One of Bassano del Grappa's main landmarks is Ponte Vecchio (meaning "Old Bridge"). This impressive wooden bridge spans across the Brenta River and connects each side of downtown.

The center of the bridge has the best view of the river, lined with yellow and pink townhouses and with a backdrop of the mountain range — it's like stepping into a fairytale.

There are plenty of opportunities to shop, from luxury goods to affordable market finds

Bassano is full of fashionable boutiques, luxurious leather goods, and ceramic shops with local artisan pieces.

My favorite shopping experience is the weekly market that happens every Thursday morning. Stretching across three large piazzas in the center of town, you'll find piles of affordable clothing, home decor, souvenirs, accessories, food items, and more.

The market is always bustling with bargaining shoppers, and it's a fun way to find unique gifts and special mementos to bring home.

There are lots of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors

Bassano's natural beauty alone makes it worth the visit, from the Alpine river to the surrounding mountains and lush greenery. It makes sense why this region is a hot spot for outdoor adventurers.

Those who want an adrenaline rush can paraglide off the nearby Monte Grappa. However, I like to enjoy a more slow-paced approach to the outdoors, which is why I love walking along the dirt paths that line the river.

In this area, I'll often pass by sunbathers sprawled out on rocks, dragonflies fluttering through willow trees, historic villas with luscious gardens, and views of the paragliders floating in the distance.

• Business Insider asked experts what red flags to look out for when hiring a personal trainer.
• A good trainer shouldn't force you to push through pain or attempt to diagnose it.
• Avoid choosing a professional that lacks empathy or has an ego-driven approach to training.

Hiring a personal trainer can be a transformative step toward achieving your fitness goals, but it's crucial to choose the right professional for your needs.

Although many trainers are dedicated and knowledgeable, some may not be the best fit or, even worse, hinder your progress. Recognizing red flags early in the hiring process can save you time, money, and frustration.

That's why Business Insider asked Dr. Susie Spirlock, a doctor of physical therapy and strength-training coach at Move Your Bones, and Ashley Hiben, a certified personal trainer at Future, what red flags to look for when hiring a personal trainer.

Here's what they said.

A trainer should have practical experience in the field

Practical experience provides personal trainers with invaluable opportunities to build relationships, hone communication skills, and translate technical expertise into accessible guidance, Hiben told BI.

"Time in the field sharpens a trainer's ability to read body language, adapt communication styles, and generate energy and engagement in various environments," she said. "Trainers who gain hands-on experience, whether at a small personal-training gym or in larger groups, learn critical skills beyond the textbook."

Hiben added that some of these skills include reading body language, identifying proper alignment in individual movement patterns, and responding in real time to verbal and non-verbal feedback.

"A robust field experience cultivates the balance between technical knowledge and the ability to connect effectively with clients," she said.

"No pain, no gain" isn't a mantra any trainer should have

It's best to avoid working with someone who encourages you to push through pain while exercising, Spirlock advised.

"Pain is essentially a smoke alarm in your body being set off because there is something going on that may not be right," she told BI.

Although pain doesn't automatically mean there's damage occurring, it does mean that the trainer may need to reassess the exercises and make them more comfortable for you.

"If trainers continually ignore these signals or tell clients to push through them, they may contribute to a longer-lasting issue over time," Spirlock added.

Beware of instructors who lack communication and relationship-building skills

"In the fitness industry, trainers must excel at reading clients' needs, offering constructive feedback, and even giving a dose of tough love when needed," Hiben said. "It's not enough to deliver knowledge alone."

Hiben told BI that the most successful trainers are adaptable communicators capable of engaging each client based on their unique personality, fitness level, and goals.

Before committing to a trainer, she recommended first requesting a consultation or assessment.

"This session allows you to gauge whether the trainer's communication style aligns with your needs and whether they will push you in a way that feels supportive rather than confusing or intimidating," Hiben said.

Trainers shouldn't try to diagnose or treat pain

Spirlock told BI that diagnosing and treating pain doesn't fall under a personal trainer's scope of practice.

"This should be left to the rehab professionals like physical therapists, chiropractors, and athletic trainers," she told BI.

If you have pain that's not improving after a few sessions with modifications, Spirlock said it's the trainer's responsibility to refer you to the appropriate provider.

She told BI that a highly qualified personal trainer will already have rehab professionals within their network, so they can work together to help you alleviate pain and meet your fitness goals.

Make sure your instructor can explain why they chose a certain exercise

The point of hiring a personal trainer is to get customized workouts that fit your long-term health goals. Therefore, every movement should have a purpose behind it.

"In the world of fitness, there should always be a reason as to why we choose exercises for a client," Spirlock said.

If a trainer can't explain to you the intent of an exercise, then they may not be considering your goals or have enough experience with designing personalized workouts.

A lack of empathy or an ego-driven approach are immediate red flags

"Empathy is non-negotiable," Hiben said. "Trainers who can't sense when to support a client during tough times risk losing the trust that underpins successful coaching."

Stress, for example, impacts the body's ability to function optimally. When trainers recognize signs of stress, they should adjust their workout plans accordingly and offer encouragement instead of push clients beyond their current capacity.

Similarly, a rigid, ego-driven approach can stifle both individual and team growth.

"Trainers with an inflated sense of expertise are often resistant to feedback, limiting their own development and potentially disrupting team dynamics," Hiben said. "Given that exercise science evolves, humility and openness are invaluable traits in a trainer."

Instead, Hiben said to look for trainers who are experienced, open to feedback, and empathetic.

• Business Insider asked interior designers about the bedroom trends that are in and out for 2025.
• Designers think hand-painted murals, wallpaper, and natural hues will likely be popular next year.
• However, they said trends like matching furniture and recessed lighting will be out.

The new year is a great time to refresh your personal spaces, and the bedroom is no exception.

So, Business Insider asked interior designers to share the bedroom trends they think will make a big impact next year — and which we'll likely see less of. Here's what they said.

One designer said hand-painted murals will be popular in 2025.

San Francisco Bay Area designer Jasmine Wang predicts people will start to embrace hand-painted murals in their bedrooms because they add artistry, warmth, and a deeply personal touch.

She said this trend will take shape with nature-inspired scenes, statement accent walls, personalized artistry, and vintage motifs.

Neutral, restorative hues will likely be popular.

Ali Burgoon Nolan, the owner and principal designer of Studio Burgoon, said restorative hues like sage, clay, and soft taupe will help ground bedrooms with calming energy in 2025.

"Drawn from nature, these colors create harmony, offering a tranquil retreat within the home," she said.

Jordan Miranda, the founder and principal designer of JM Living Concepts, also thinks we'll see more muted-terracotta and warm-taupe tones. She also thinks natural materials like wood and linen will be popular.

Reading nooks are becoming trendy.

The bedroom is a place to unwind, which is why Nolan predicts more people will "transform the bedroom into a space for reflection, rest, and rejuvenation from daily life."

She said clients might do this by incorporating relaxing design features like reading nooks or meditation corners into their bedrooms.

Celeste Robbins, the founder of Robbins Architecture, also sees built-in nooks being popular next year.

"There is something intimate and grounding about a built-in nook in a bedroom," she said. "It's a place to curl up, read, or recharge that is not your bed."

Four-poster canopy beds will help create thoughtful separation in the bedroom.

In the age of at-home work and smaller spaces, Miranda acknowledges that the bedroom often becomes a multi-use environment.

By visually and physically defining the bed as its own cozy sanctuary, a canopy bed reinforces the boundary between work or activity zones and restful sleep areas.

"A canopy bed is a way to keep the sleeping space sacred, creating thoughtful separation between the rest of the room where a desk or exercise equipment might also live," she said.

Wallpaper is also making a comeback.

"One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to enhance a bedroom without major construction is using wallpaper to create a feature wall," Kristin Christensen, the owner and principal designer of Mod Earth Studio, said.

She said wallpaper is "in" again because it's an easy way to add personality and flair to a bedroom for much cheaper than construction or custom pieces.

On the other hand, all-white spaces are out for 2025.

Wang and Nolan both told BI they think all-white, minimalist spaces are on their way out.

Nolan said, they can have a "sterile" look and more people are leaning toward "richer, layered designs that invite relaxation."

"The all-white, ultra-minimalist look is making way for spaces with more warmth, color, and texture," Wang said. "In its place, expect to see more accent-wall colors, layered neutrals, and earthy tones that create a cozy, inviting atmosphere."

Matching furniture sets are on their way out.

Wang and Christensen predict the "bedroom in a box" look will be replaced with a more curated and eclectic approach.

"Designers are mixing and matching materials, finishes, and styles to create a unique, collected-over-time vibe," Wang said.

Christensen recognizes that matching furniture sets provide a convenient solution for creating a polished look, but individuality and self-expression are becoming highly valued by everyday consumers.

"People are increasingly seeking to create spaces that feel more authentic and lived-in," she told BI.

Industrial-heavy styles won't be as popular in 2025.

According to Wang, the ultra-industrial aesthetic will exit bedroom spaces next year.

"While industrial touches may still be popular in certain spaces, the overly rugged look with exposed brick, metal, and harsh edges is being traded for softer, nature-inspired designs," she said. "Organic textures, natural woods, and calming colors are now the go-to for a warmer feel."

Recessed lighting is also out.

Christensen predicts that recessed lighting, a round lighting fixture installed into the ceiling or wall, will be replaced for its lack of ambiance.

"For years, recessed lighting was the go-to choice for many bedrooms, promising a sleek, minimalist look and ample light without taking up visible space," she told BI. "However, in recent years, recessed lighting has started to feel outdated, especially in bedrooms."

Instead, she said, people may opt for alternative lighting solutions with things like smart ceiling lights and dimmable fixtures, table lamps, bedside lighting, wall sconces, or pendant lights.

• I tried on sweater dresses at Gap, Old Navy, and Banana Republic.
• As a petite woman, it's sometimes difficult to find bulky dresses that flatter my body.
• Unfortunately, I wasn't blown away by the options I tried on at any of the Gap Inc.-owned stores.

As someone who's under five-foot-two, finding bulky dresses that flatter my petite body type is a challenge. However, I'm on a mission to find the perfect sweater dress for the holiday season.

I can usually count on Gap Inc.'s collection of retailers to provide fashionable and high-quality basics, so I decided to try on sweater dresses at Gap, Banana Republic, and Old Navy to find the best fit.

Here's how it went.

I began my hunt for the perfect sweater dress at Gap.

I'm always impressed by Gap's mix of closet essentials and seasonal, on-trend pieces.

I also love that the brand, which has over 580 locations across North America and Asia, typically offers reasonable pricing on most items.

I visited my local Gap and grabbed the CashSoft cable-knit mini sweater dress in an extra small. I was drawn to this option because I loved how the neutral tan shade combined with the knitted pattern and ribbed hem.

Although I liked how the material felt, the fit and shape of the dress turned me off.

This dress comes in Gap's best-selling "CashSoft" fabric (as in cashmere soft), but it's actually a blend of 53% cotton and 47% nylon. Still, it felt incredibly smooth against my skin upon slipping it on in the dressing room — it was warm and cozy yet lightweight.

I liked the above-the-knee length, but the extra-long sleeves and square cut weren't flattering on my body type. This dress does have potential, though, and a little styling would go a long way. I think pairing it with a belt to cinch the waist would instantly elevate the overall look.

However, I also thought this dress was a bit pricey — unless it's actual cashmere, I'm not paying $90 for a sweater dress.

Next, I went to Old Navy.

Next, I took a trip to Old Navy, which has over 1,200 stores around the world.

Although I've found that the material and quality of most Old Navy clothing doesn't feel as high-end as its Gap Inc. counterparts, I appreciate that I can count on the retailer for budget-friendly seasonal styles.

After browsing the store, I grabbed the SoSoft mini sweater dress, made of a blend of 56% cotton, 25% recycled polyester, 16% nylon, and 3% spandex.

I was drawn to this option for its V-neckline and rib-knit trim material, offering a modern flair on a classic style. The fabric also felt decently soft yet lightweight, making it ideal for a mild winter in Southern California.

Once I put this dress on, though, I was disappointed.

I tried this dress on in an extra small, but the sizing seemed off. I thought the shape was frumpy and gave me no shape — it went straight down on the sides like a box.

The dress also fell to an awkward length right below the knee and would probably be better suited for someone taller. Although Old Navy offers petite sizes online, my local brick-and-mortar didn't have this option.

On a positive note, this dress was $45 — half the price of the Gap option. The style wasn't for me, but if it had fit nicely, I might choose this dress primarily for the cost-friendly price tag.

Finally, I went to Banana Republic to try on one more dress.

To end my trip, I stopped at Banana Republic, Gap Inc.'s higher-end store that has over 400 locations worldwide.

I love Banana Republic's collection of elevated styles, but every time I visit the store, I'm shocked at how expensive everything is.

I can't typically get behind boutique prices for mass-produced goods, but I figured I'd check to see if there was a sweater dress worth splurging on.

I grabbed the cable-knit mini sweater dress — made of a blend of 54% cotton, 24% nylon, 17% polyester, and 5% wool — to try on because I loved the color and the unique cable-stitch detailing across the front. The fabric felt durable and warm but was still soft and comfortable.

Unfortunately, I didn't think this dress flattered me.

I liked the details on this dress, but thought the overall fit was unflattering on me. Part of this is likely because the store didn't have my size in stock.

I liked the length, as it fell right above the knee, but the baggy shape was distracting. It might have styling potential with a belt at the waist, but I wouldn't spend $160 on it.

Although it was an unsuccessful shopping day, I still trust these retailers to provide everyday essentials. Sweater dresses may just not be in my outfit rotation this season.