I tested straight-leg jeans from Old Navy, Banana Republic, and Gap. One pair really blew me away.

The recipe for most fall outfits starts with a good pair of jeans.

High quality denim will last for years and can be styled again and again with whatever the next season calls for. And while trends come and go, no fit is more versatile or reliable than a standard straight leg jeans.

I was overdue for a new pair, so I turned to Gap, Banana Republic, and Old Navy (all owned by Gap Inc.) to find my new wardrobe.

I ordered a similar style from all three retailers and wore each for a day on different outings. I then evaluated them based on design, fit, fabric, price and the overall online ordering experience.

After I put them to the test, there was one clear winner, one that was just okay, and one that I probably wouldn’t order again.

To be honest, I was disappointed by Old Navy’s straight leg jeans

I admire Old Navy for offering both classic and trendy pieces at affordable prices.

I originally ordered the slouchy straight jeans with mid-rise in my usual size, but when they arrived they were way too big for me. In fact, the pair was so loose that they were unwearable, so I had to return them.

Unfortunately the smaller size was out of stock so I ended up buying the size up Wow boyfriend straight jeans with mid-rise and reduce.

The new pair still fit a little awkwardly around the waist and thighs, but overall they were much better. I liked the versatile dark wash, which goes well with both casual and more dressy outfits.

I wore these on a weekday while working from a coffee shopand they felt at ease both when they walked there and when they sat for several hours at a time.

The fabric—made from 80% cotton, 13% recycled polyester, 5% recycled cotton, and 1% spandex—felt a little stretchier than I’d expect from denim. However, it made the pants feel soft and chafe-resistant.

While I probably wouldn’t order these again due to the unpredictable fit, at $40 they are a solid, inexpensive option (and I later saw them on sale for just $22).

I’m also excited to see how the brand’s offerings will evolve in the coming months, as Old Navy’s new president and CEO will take the helm in November.

The Banana Republic jeans were nice, but they came with a hefty price tag

Banana Republic is the “attainable luxury” brand of Gap Inc., and I’m always a little surprised by how expensive some of their styles are. Still, I was excited to give the denim a try.

I ordered the Classic jeans from the 90s, mid-riseand I immediately fell in love with the medium wash and shape of the pants.

These were a bit too big around the waist and length, and while I didn’t necessarily need to exchange them, I would probably have them custom made for a better fit for my body type.

The straight leg structure was incredibly flattering and would pair beautifully with any blouse or sweater in my closet. I also thought the construction around the zipper and pockets seemed high quality and durable.

When I wore these on a date night out for dinner and drinks, I felt both fashionable and comfortable all evening.

I could also feel the difference in fabric quality compared to the Old Navy pair. Made of 70% cotton, 28% Tencel lyocell and 2% elastane spandex, the fabric felt more structured and crisp.

However, that also meant a significant difference in cost: This pair cost me $130. I think they are worth the investment, but I would consider sizing down next time.

The Gap straight leg jeans really won me over

Gap has always been a hub for closet essentials. Of late, the brand’s denim marketing and advertising campaigns have been particularly notable, from the KATSEYE “Better in denim“commercial for the Hailey Bieber collaboration.

So I was excited to put the brand’s denim to the test and ordered the Straight taper jeans with medium waist and opening.

I ordered them in my usual size and they fit me perfectly. These were a slightly lighter medium wash, which is perfect for daytime and transitional looks from summer to fall. They hugged my curves well and the waist sat nicely on my hips.

I wore these jeans for coffee and shopping with a friend, paired with a simple blouse and kitten heels. I felt comfortable and confident wearing them, and the straight silhouette elongated my legs (which can be rare as a short person).

This pair is made from 100% cotton (95% cotton, 5% recycled cotton), so they were durable yet soft enough on my skin. They cost $90, but are well worth the price for a pair of jeans that I know I will wear for years to come. Plus, I later saw them on sale for $53.

Business Insider has contacted Old Navy, Banana Republic and Gap for comment.