Banana republic
Banana Republic is a chain of "affordable luxury" clothing stores owned by Gap Inc., which also operates The Gap and Old Navy stores. The Banana Republic stores features Gap Inc.'s luxury line, while The Gap stores sell mid-line clothes and Old Navy offers the bargain brand.
The original Banana Republic, which opened in 1978, was a two-store operation that was created in concert with the safari trend that occured in the late 1970s. Gap Inc. acquired Banana Republic in the early 1980s and is credited with saving it from obselescence and helping to re-position Banana Republic once the safari trend had ended.
In its heyday, Banana Republic was known for its striking window displays, often featuring authentic elements, such as real Jeeps, foliage and atmospheric elements such as fog and steam.
Today the company operates nearly 400 Banana Republic stores in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.
