Recently, something dawned on me as I was online shopping: Gap, J.Crew, and Banana Republic feel like the trifecta for best cold-weather basics right now. Between the three, I've come across some of the strongest of the season.
At Gap, I know I can rely on them for wardrobe staples I'll wear over and over—making the cost per wear an obvious benefit. I tend to gravitate towards pieces that aren't branded, so I like that many of its designs are understated and nondescript.
For J.Crew, I always head straight for The Cashmere Shop—its devoted section for all things cashmere. Aside from that, my most-worn sweater currently is the new rollneck, and I can confirm at least four other editors on our team own it too (and there are probably more).
Banana Republic, on the other hand, is the retailer I stumbled into—literally—this year. On my first day at the office, I wasn't sure what to wear (that's when I realized much of my wardrobe during the spring was quite sheer). I happened to walk past one of its stores, wandered in, and left with the chicest black, knee-length boatneck dress. I've been a fan ever since.
If you're a minimalist looking to stay warm as the weather gets colder, I've rounded up what's currently in my cart from each brand.
Gap
I recommend looking through Gap's entire Cashsoft line.
How do I live in New York and not own a scarf? It's alarming.
I'd like to get this hood for the depths of winter.
This 100% Cotton Oversized Sweater keeps selling out in every color.
A cute cherry-red cardigan.
V-necks are back.
Mixing black with navy has been trending.
It's always nice to have a go-to zip-up hoodie to throw on under wool coats.
Speaking of wool coats, I saw fashion people layer them with lightweight quilted liner jackets to make them warmer.
Loose jeans to wear over thermals.
J.Crew
My most-worn sweater right now. It's so comfortable.
A classic cashmere crewneck.
This heavier-weight relaxed pullover.
I want this merino wool turtleneck that costs less than $60.
Wait, I had no idea there was a cashmere version of the J.Crew roll-neck I've been wearing on repeat.
I know I would wear this all the time.
This one is so good.
I like the high neckline on this one.
A classic.
Somewhere between a scarf and a wrap.
Tech-touch gloves…
…or the leather option.
Banana Republic
This viral sweater has been on my wish list.
The lighter-weight cashmere version.
A wool-blend turtleneck.
Charcoal-gray cashmere.
You can't go wrong with this.
A warm crewneck top.
Love this in the color Port Wine.
For a pop of color.
Another color-weather accessory.
Cashmere-lined gloves feel like such a luxury.