I'm A Personal Stylist: Here's What I Would Actually Spend My Money On At Gap

As a personal stylist, it's amusing how shocked many of our clients are to discover that we often recommend more affordable retailers for certain wardrobe staples. "Gap?! Seriously, you shop there?!" is a question we often receive, to which my reply is always, "Yes, and proudly!"

There's an assumption that being a stylist means that I exclusively shop designer brands, but that couldn't be further from the truth. My role as a stylist isn't to dress my clients head-to-toe in luxury labels; rather, it's to empower them to make smart investments as they build out their wardrobes. We're looking to build thoughtful, functional wardrobes that align deeply with their authentic style and everyday rhythms. And we're making smart, intentional investments along the way.

A little industry secret? The women with the largest budgets still don't want to spend $450 on a tank top. They're strategic with their money. And more often than not, a high-low mix can read more chic than a high-high mix. We feel passionately that with a little extra effort and armed with a few simple tips, you can make smart selections at both affordable and high-end retailers.

There's an assumption that being a stylist means that I exclusively shop designer brands, but that couldn't be further from the truth.

Recently, Gap has caught my eye with their affordable and chic finds. I have a vivid childhood memory of begging my grandmother to take me to Gap to shop, but to be honest, I haven't given the brand much thought since. It wasn't until my little sister let me borrow a chic denim matching set from Gap a few weeks ago, and of course seeing the iconic Katseye ad, that I started to view the brand with fresh eyes. What I found makes me want to call my grandmother and beg her to take me back to the store. I'm feeling a little nostalgic and very excited to share 8 pieces that I'm certain will elevate your wardrobe as we move into Spring.

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Cinched White Denim Shirt + Matching Jeans

This is essentially the Spring version of the set my sister let me borrow. Matching sets are my secret weapon when building a capsule wardrobe for my clients. I love that you can wear this set a million different ways by switching up the accessories or wearing the pieces separately. I'm imagining the jeans with a romantic, Chloé-esque lacy top on a warm Spring day, or the denim shirt with a white poplin skirt.

Shop: Cinched Denim Shirt, $71

Shop: Mid Rise Relaxed Straight Jeans, $62

Lace-Trim Pintuck Top

This piece feels reminiscent of styles I've been seeing recently from brands like Zimmermann and Chloé. Thanks to Margot Robbie's viral Wuthering Heights press tour and Chemena Kamali's impeccable work at Chloé, I predict that these basics with romantic touches will be huge for Spring. This price point and the numerous ways you could style this top make it high on my list of Gap favorites.

Shop: Lace-Trim Pintuck Top, $63

Organic Cotton Poplin Fitted Shirt

Here's a pro tip I always share with my clients: when shopping at more affordable retailers, you want to check for the composition of the piece before buying. Try to reach for natural fibers: cotton, linen, cashmere, bamboo, silk, and leather are all going to look higher in quality than synthetic fibers. Of course there are caveats—there are some uber cool vegan leather pieces out there—but for the most part paying attention to natural fibers can help you weed out the pieces not worth investing in. This corset button down has been on my personal wishlist for weeks and I think it's high time I add to cart.

Shop: Organic Cotton Poplin Fitted Shirt, $63

UltraSoft Denim Oversized Ruched-Sleeve Shirt

I think a lot of people feel an internal sigh of dread when they're told to invest in their basics. It often comes across as uninspired and it can be overwhelming—not the best combo. There are so many options out there, how is one supposed to know what to buy? Something that narrows it down for me is looking for what I call basics with a twist. These pieces will be the foundation of your wardrobe, but they still feel special. This ruched sleeve denim button down checks all the boxes. It's soft, made of natural fibers, and the detail on the sleeves makes me excited to wear it.

Shop: UltraSoft Denim Oversized Ruched-Sleeve Shirt, $80

Poplin Drop Waist Maxi Skirt

I had a client reach out asking how to pack for a trip to Italy in a carry-on with pieces she can rewear and easily mix and match. My personal go-to? A white poplin maxi skirt. Hands down, this piece is one of the most versatile you can own. Wear it with a white ribbed top and minimal accessories during the day, and then dress it up at night with a black silk lace top and statement heels.

Shop: Poplin Drop-Waist Maxi Skirt, $90

Linen-Blend Lace-Hem Crop Shell Top

Ever since Sofia Richie wore a white linen set ahead of her iconic French wedding in 2023, I've been consistently recreating her look each Spring and Summer. There's something so chic about a monochromatic white linen look. Lately, I've been loving the contrast of styling an all-white look with black accessories. I would pair this Sofia-inspired set with black strappy sandals and a classic black bag for a chic and interesting look.

Shop: Linen-Blend Lace-Hem Crop Shell Top, $47

Sheer Parachute Joggers

If this trend feels out of left field, blame it on Wuthering Heights. Pantaloon-style pants are having a moment and I predict we'll see creators, influencers, and celebs adopting this trend for Spring and into Summer. I love this pair because it's an affordable way to try the trend. The built-in shorts will keep you from feeling too exposed, while still receiving all the benefits of these cool, flowy pant alternatives.

Shop: Sheer Parachute Joggers, $90

Contoured Longline Denim Jacket

On days when you feel you have zero brain cells to make a decision in your closet, I would reach for this unique denim jacket. And while you're at it, go ahead and get the matching jeans. The way this jacket cinches in at the waist gives it a more feminine take on your regular jean jacket, making it feel more interesting and fun to wear. And at less than $50 and 95% cotton, it's a no-brainer purchase.

Shop: Contoured Longline Denim Jacket, $49

As you're shopping, ask yourself: "Does this actually feel like me?" If the answer is no, skip the purchase. Just because I think these pieces are wise investments does not mean they are the right investments for your personal wardrobe. And if you're not sure how to answer the above question, then I would strongly encourage you to work with a personal stylist. Gone are the days where stylists were exclusively for the uber-wealthy and the A-listers. Now, the everyday woman can access these services to help her find confidence in her closet, and the ROI over time will be positive. Trust me.

Elson, Bradford, and Frances Stewart are three sisters and personal stylists united by a shared love of fashion and a deeper commitment to uplifting women through intentional style. Together, they've guided clients of all ages, body types, and budgets through every season of life. Known for their thoughtful, confidence-building approach, the sisters blend elevated investment pieces with well-curated affordable finds to create wardrobes that feel both refined and deeply personal.

To book a styling service, visit www.poemaclothiers.com.