Gap, which has 575 locations in the US and Asia, is all about functional pieces and everyday essentials. My local Gap store has become my go-to for staple pieces.

I've also noticed the ongoing addition of on-trend and fashion-forward styles.

I tried on the 365 high-rise pleated trousers, which had a relaxed, wide-leg fit. Although the pants were much too long for me (petite sizing wasn't available in-store), I loved the overall shape.

They were flattering and stylish, and I'd feel confident wearing them in any work setting, from the office to a conference. I especially loved the pleating beneath the waistband and the lightweight and flowy material.

Now, would I pay $90 for pants that are 100% polyester? Let's just say I left the store empty-handed, but would jump at the opportunity to buy these on sale.

After walking out of Gap empty-handed, I took a trip to Old Navy, which has over 1,200 locations worldwide.

I've always appreciated Old Navy's commitment to fashionable pieces at approachable prices. However, although the brand offers good deals on closet staples and trending styles, I've found the lower pricing is sometimes reflected in the quality of materials and construction.

I tried on the Taylor wide-leg trouser pants ($50), which have a textured crepe fabric made with 39% recycled polyester, 36% polyester, 19% viscose-rayon, and 6% spandex.

This material felt a bit thicker than the Gap pair and was comfortable against my skin. I liked the wide-leg shape, but the overall fit seemed off. I thought the pants looked bulky on me, and the inseam seemed crooked.

These didn't flatter my body type, but at nearly half the price of the Gap style, they'd be worth trying on for those looking for a less expensive option. Plus, they come in a wide range of colors and patterns.

Finally, I stopped at Banana Republic, which has over 420 locations around the world.

As the most high-end brand in the Gap Inc. collection, Banana Republic delivers "attainable luxury" with classic, high-quality pieces.

I tried on the Hayden wide-leg pant ($100) at Banana Republic.

The length was several inches too long for me (again, there was a lack of petite sizing in-store), but I still loved the relaxed fit.

The lightweight material — made with 63% recycled polyester, 34% rayon, and 3% elastane spandex — was breezy and comfortable. However, there was no belt loop or even zipper, which limits the accessorizing and styling options.

However, if all you need is a standard pair of pants to wear with simple, corporate-appropriate outfits, these could be a good option.

Overall, my favorite pair of work pants was from Gap. I loved the flattering, stylish shape and lightweight material.

I'll return to shop for them (and more business casual clothing) during the store's next big sale.

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.

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.

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.

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.

My first stop was at Gap, which has over 580 stores in the US and Asia.

The solo storefront was relatively large and well-organized. While perusing, I found a cute puffer coat that was available in black, taupe, and red options.

I decided to try on the $168 cropped duvet-wrap puffer jacket, which is made of 100% nylon.

The coat ran a bit large, and as much as I like a more spacious fit, my normal size looked a little boxy on my body. It also seemed like it would let cold air in on the bottom.

However, I liked the shorter cropped silhouette, and the material felt lightweight yet durable. I also liked the versatile style: I could easily wear it to grab espresso martinis with friends or go shopping at HomeGoods.

However, I was concerned it wouldn't be warm enough for Chicago's extremely cold winters.

My next stop was Old Navy, which has over 1,200 stores around the world.

When I walked in, I was pleasantly surprised by the variety of styles I found, although there weren't a ton of size options left. However, I grabbed a warm, cropped puffer coat to try on.

In the fitting room, I tried on Old Navy's oversized cropped puffer jacket, which originally retailed for $55, but was on sale for about $27 during my trip.

Even without the sale, it was much cheaper than the Gap option I tried on. However, it appeared to be made out of a similar material, with a 100% nylon coating.

Like the Gap option, it was cropped and oversized, but this time, the bottom of the coat hugged my body with an elastic band.

Despite these similarities, though, this coat looked much more casual than the Gap version. The hoodless design and light-blue color made it feel more like an athletic bomber jacket versus something I'd wear to go out.

Overall, this coat was a steal, and with its warm and flattering design, I probably would've bought it if it was available in a different color.

Banana Republic, which has over 400 locations worldwide, had a much more upscale feel than Gap or Old Navy.

From the beautifully curated displays and wooden hangers to the hands-on salespeople, it definitely felt more in line with a designer boutique than a Gap Inc. destination — and its more expensive price tags and upscale merchandise reflected that.

However, the store had a very limited selection of short coats, and it took me a moment to find one to try on.

I tried on a short puffer coat in a dark-mocha color. Immediately, I noticed the $230 coat seemed higher quality than the others I'd tried on. It also looked really nice on me.

I loved the deep chocolate-brown color and the matte velvety sheen on the fabric — made of 50% polyester, 41% cotton, and 9% nylon — and the sturdy hardware made it look like it could be from an expensive designer brand. I also liked that the collar was removable, but I wished it came with a hood to make it more practical.

The puffer coat was light yet very warm. Seeing it had a water-resistant coating was another bonus, as I felt like it would keep me feeling warm and looking stylish through any cold weather situation.

I considered buying it, but at $230, I thought it was a little bit too expensive for a puffer coat — especially one without a hood. However, if it went on sale, I'd definitely consider purchasing it over the Gap or Old Navy options.

I began my journey on a Saturday morning at Gap, which has over 580 stores in the US and Asia.

The displays seemed well-organized, with an assortment of sweaters and pants, but I was disappointed by the small selection of fitness apparel.

I decided to try on the GapFit high-rise Power full-length leggings and headed to the fitting room.

When I pulled these leggings on, I noticed they were tight on my lower leg and bunched up around my ankles.

However, it was the rough, inelastic fabric (made of 79% recycled polyester and 21% spandex) that steered me away from buying this pair.

In my opinion, the poor fit and stiff-feeling fabric didn't justify the price tag at the time I shopped — a steep $60.

My next stop was Old Navy, which has over 1,200 stores around the world. The location in my mall was busy but tidy on a Saturday afternoon and had a vast selection of activewear.

After some browsing, I decided to try on a pair of black high-waisted PowerSoft leggings.

Old Navy's PowerSoft leggings (made of 77% polyester and 23% spandex) felt silky and stretchy. I liked that they were high-rise and made of a slimming light compression fabric. They fit to size, and stayed put at the waist as I moved around.

The leggings looked great and seemed like a steal for $24. However, I decided not to purchase them because the fabric felt a bit thin.

As a Pilates instructor, I wear and wash my athletic wear frequently, and I didn't think the leggings' flimsy material would withstand the overuse.

My last stop was at Athleta, which has over 250 stores in the US and Canada.

Athleta is one of my favorite places to shop for athletic apparel — my location is typically extremely organized, and there's always a salesperson ready to help.

The Elation ultra-high-rise leggings from Athleta fit perfectly, and I loved the soft but thick material (made from a blend of nylon, Lycra, recycled polyester, and elastane). The velvety garment also had a large waistband that supported and accentuated my midsection and stayed put as I moved.

The leggings cost $89, but during my visit, they were on sale for $50. Considering the high-quality fit and feel, I thought this was a great price, and I ended up buying them.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

I started my journey at Banana Republic, which has more than 400 stores worldwide and is known for its high-quality, expertly crafted collections.

Immediately after entering the store, I spotted a table set with perfectly folded sweaters.

As I was browsing for my size, an employee checked on me and asked if I was finding everything I needed — a question I only received once during my mall visit.

Although I feared Banana Republic would have pushy and overwhelming sales associates, I felt relaxed and comfortable while scanning the store.

After grabbing an $80 sweater, which was on sale for 40% off, I headed for the dressing room.

I instantly felt cozy wearing the classic crew-neck sweater, knitted from the company's signature all-season Italian Merino wool.

Although my usual medium size fit like a glove, a large also would've worked if I wanted a looser fit or to layer a shirt underneath.

I was quickly sold on the sweater, but I wanted to see what options were available at the other two stores.

With less than an hour until the mall closed, I headed to one of the world's largest apparel brands — Old Navy.

The chain, which has over 1,200 stores worldwide, offers a range of clothing options for the whole family.

Searching the store for a black sweater was a bit of a hunt, but I eventually found one row mixed in between pants and cardigans.

However, I appreciated the store's use of clothing-size stickers on its sweaters. As a result, I didn't have to pull out handfuls of clothing to see if my size was available.

I was also delighted to see Old Navy delivering on price. Normally sold for $35, the black sweater I grabbed was on sale for 50% off.

Once I tried on the crew-neck sweater in the fitting room, I feared its 60% cotton and 40% polyester material would easily pick up things like dust and cat hair.

The sweater also felt tighter around my neck, making me question if I wanted — and needed — to size up. As of now, this sweater was headed back to the rack.

Last but not least, I rushed into Gap before the mall closed. The retailer, which has over 580 locations across the US and Asia, has always felt like a midway point between Banana Republic and Old Navy in terms of price and quality.

Upon entering the store, I discovered that Gap had the fewest number of sweaters available. With less than a handful to choose from in various colors, I was relieved they still had my size ready to try on in black.

I was also delighted to see that Gap was having a sale. The sweaters were marked down to $19 from their original price of $50.

Made of 100% cotton, this sweater was the longest of the three I tried on.

The textured style also made me feel like this was a more versatile option, allowing me to dress up for an evening event or keep things casual for an afternoon running around town.

Although I came close to purchasing the Gap sweater at the end of the night — it was technically the best savings by far — I ultimately loved my Banana Republic shopping experience the best.

The customer service, store presentation, and comfort of the sweater I tried on left me wanting to return as soon as possible. Plus, the price was reasonable for my budget — not triple digits like I feared going into the store.

I'll admit I would be satisfied with Gap's sweater, and Old Navy's option would also do the job. Sometimes, however, you have to fork over a few extra bucks and do what looks — and feels — right.