I bought cardigans from Old Navy, Gap, and Banana Republic. They were all nice, but I'll be wearing one all season long.

I purchased cardigans from Old Navy, Gap, and Banana Republic, and while all of them were nice, I believe I will be wearing the Banana Republic cardigan the most during this season. As someone who enjoys crisp fall mornings, I often reach for my favorite cardigan when I don't have time to put together an outfit. This versatile sweater can be dressed down with a T-shirt and jeans for a casual day, or layered over a dress for a more polished look.

After testing similar styles from the three stores I frequently shop at, I found the Old Navy cardigan to be the classic choice. It was made of 100% cotton and had a rich, fall-ready chocolate brown color. However, I found the fit to be a bit frumpy and the fabric sagged around my waist and shoulders, making me feel uncomfortable when buttoned up. I ended up wearing it unbuttoned and layered over a tank for a night out with friends, pairing it with capris and kitten heels for an elevated and on-trend look.

The Gap cardigan offered a more relaxed and versatile look. Made of a blend of 58% cotton, 38% modal, and 4% elastane, it felt more like a T-shirt than a sweater. While it was comfortable and breathable, I didn't think it was as durable as the Old Navy cardigan. It was also more expensive at $50. The Banana Republic cardigan, on the other hand, was worth the investment.

Made of a crinkle-knit material with an olive-green hue, it had an intricate ribbed-knit detailing that made it modern and flattering. I wore it with dark-wash jeans, a belt, and boots for a work event, feeling confident and stylish. Although it was thin and slightly rough on the skin, I loved the overall design and believed that the cost per wear justified the price.