Gap vs. Gap Outlet: Quality of Long and Lean Jeans

Anonymous

Knowing that clothes are specifically manufactured for the Gap Outlets, I'm wondering how the Long and Leans compare to the ones sold in the regular stores? They cost significantly less at the outlet, but are the quality and fit the same? My gut says no, but maybe someone has worn both and I'm wrong. Anyone?

(I'm asking because I'd like to buy another pair to cut off and roll for clamdiggers. I did this with a too-long pair I already own last night and they're perfect. I've solved my clamdigger problem, but am wondering what approach to take for the next pair. The outlet seems like a budget-friendly alternative, but not if the quality is subpar.)

11 years ago

Shopping

10 replies

Latest reply was from

Joy

Veteran

This is an interesting question and I'll be following this thread.

11 years ago

velvetychocolate

Veteran

I don't know the answer to this question, because I haven't tried GAP outlet, but wanted to say I'm glad you posted this because it hadn't occurred to me that I could make L & L's into clams. I've had a hard time finding denim clams that I like this year, and you've just given me a really good idea

11 years ago

modgrl

(website)

Veteran

If you sign up for the gap mailing list, they will send you discount emails. They run 30%-40% off promotions pretty regularly. This is the time to stock up on the things you wear all the time, like the L&L. If you know your size and brand, is ebay an option?

11 years ago

Anonymous

Modgrl: Ebay could be an option - I've looked. But I'm not sure if used LL's on eBay are 1) from the outlet and/or 2) what year they're from. I've heard the LL's changed a few years back. I like the ones they sell now ... would I like the style/models on eBay? I don't know.

VelvetyChocolate: Glad to have given you the idea! I was trying on denim bermudas at the mall last night and none were fitting in the butt and thigh like my LLs (which I was wearing). It suddenly occurred to me that I could cut them off below the knee and roll them and voila! Perfection. Not exactly saving any money, though, as LLs are about $70 and I'd need to replace the ones I cut, but dang! Finally! Some denim clams that fit everywhere!

(P.S. I rolled them to just above my knee, so I suppose they're technically bermudas, not clams.)

11 years ago

christieanne

Veteran

Not sure they are identical but if you like the fit equally at outlet and the price, wouldn't it be a good option for making into clams? I like the premium skinny jeans from the outlet better than the ones in store and they are less. Does not bother me that they are different since they don't claim to be the same. Does that make sense?

Only thing is, you can't order from the outlets online so you have to get there in person.

11 years ago

Anonymous

I understand what you're saying, Christieanne, and I definitely agree that the less expensive alternative is the better option for cutting. I've never tried on the jeans at the Gap Outlet and it would be a 45-minute drive to the nearest one to try them - that's why I'm wondering if it would be worth it. With "regular Gap" jeans, I know what I'm getting. I know what size to get, I know I like the fabrication, etc. If people tell me the jeans are basically the same at either place, I would make the trip. Does that make sense?

11 years ago

Kristin L

Veteran

From what I remember, the quality wasn't noticeably different. I may be going to a gap outlet tomorrow (my BF's parents are coming for a visit), so if we make it over I can take a look and let ya know.

11 years ago

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Maybe PM Claire on this, because she has some experience trying on the outlet jeans. You can check for the thread in the archives, too. I'm sorry I don't remember what it's called but maybe if you used "Gap outlet jeans" or something it would pop up?

One thing I'll say is that even the regular Gap jeans sizing and fabrication seems to change every month or two and within batches the fit can differ. So it only stands to reason that the outlet versions could be different again!

You could always wait for one of the regular store's 30% off sales; they're having one in Canada starting tomorrow (for "valued customers." ha!)

11 years ago

Kristin L

Veteran

I didn't see a noticeable quality difference when I was there yesterday, but I didn't get a chance to try anything on 9I was shopping with my BF's mom.) I'd suggest that you make a day for it and go to the outlet and try them on.

11 years ago

Anonymous

Thanks, Kristin, for your research!!

11 years ago

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