Texture And Mild Disappointment

For a while Gap was getting some serious play around these parts.  Patrick Robinson had taken over as Head Designer and was leading an admirable mall store revival reminiscent of J. Crew or Martin + Osa.  While "buy better, buy less" was always the mantra, not everyone could spend upwards of $150 on a single item.  Not to mention, Gap was slowly becoming a place where you could actually start buying "better".  Somewhere along the way Gap started being, well, Gap again.  New items were less "classic" and the good stuff, often seen in the pages of major magazines, wasn't making it into production or their American stores (read: duffel coats, Cowichan sweaters).  It was a shame, but I don't think anyone was losing sleep over it.  As of right now there are only a handful of new F/W 2010 items I would even consider buying from Gap.  One of which is their new textured shawl collar cardigan.  The 80% lambswool sweater is interesting thanks to its use of, you guessed it, texture.  I saw this sweater in person and was impressed with the waffle thermal like body and the overall fit.  Gap's knits have always fit me better than J. Crew's (higher armholes, etc.) so if you find yourself in a similar boat this may be something you want to check out.  I should also note that you'll probably be able to fit into two sizes, so depending on the look you're going for you may want to try this on in store if possible.  Also, if the pricepoint is a little to rich for your blood, this being a Gap sweater and all, you probably want to wait until this goes on sale in, say, a couple months - they always do.

-L.A.S