I shopped at Banana Republic and J. Crew to see which was having more success transforming its brand and winning over shoppers. The winner was clear.

• Banana Republic and J. Crew are brands from a bygone era.
• Both brands are in the midst of desperately needed reinventions.
• I visited both stores to find out which is winning its comeback era.

Banana Republic and J. Crew are brands from a bygone era when safari cargo dresses and jewel-adorned oxfords were smart, chic office wear.

Today, both brands are in the midst of desperately needed reinventions.