CALIFORNIA WARDROBE GAP-FILLERS OF LAST RESORT

The Gap, Banana Republic, Athletica, And Old Navy:  I hesitate to promote the San Francisco-based Gap/Banana Republic/Athletica/Old Navy empire.  Their abysmal labor-practices record is well documented.  And their products are too inexpensive to have been produced ethically or sustainably.  In a pinch, however, I do rely on The Empire to fill voids that I cannot fill elsewhere.   Last season, The Gap was the only Californian company that made linen shirts that fit me.  When I spilled coffee down the front of my shirt 20 minutes before a client meeting, a nearby Banana Republic provided an immediate and well-made replacement.  And if I must pay alms to evil, then I want to pay Californian evil.