I tried on jeans at Old Navy, Banana Republic, and Gap. It reminded me that a good pair is worth the investment.

Old Navy was founded in 1994 and now has over 1,200 stores around the world.

When I visited, I found floor-to-ceiling shelves stocked with various styles and sizes, as well as additional racks throughout the women's section.

It makes sense, considering the brand's public commitment to size inclusivity — all women's styles at Old Navy are available for the same price in every size.

I was excited about the potential of finding jeans that might fit my petite frame and ended up trying on a pair of high-waisted straight jeans.

I was drawn to the medium wash and promising silhouette of the jeans. They hugged my hips nicely and were flattering around the back. I can see why this style is a bestseller.

However, as soon as I slipped these on, I noticed they felt a bit stretchy — not sturdy like high-quality denim should be.

They reminded me of the "jeggings" I would wear in middle school. The lack of structure also caused the denim to bunch around the crotch and knees.

On the plus side, the flexible fabric made them comfortable and easy to move around in. I just didn't trust that they'd last long.

For only $35 (I later saw them on sale for $22), I'd consider buying these jeans for casual occasions — like painting, horseback riding, or outdoor activities — where I wouldn't be worried about tarnishing my outfit.

Since Old Navy didn't have the jeans I was looking for, I thought Gap Inc.'s more pricey counterpart might have the solution.

Founded in 1978, the elevated retailer now has over 400 stores around the world.

Although the Banana Republic location I visited didn't have as many denim options as Old Navy, it still offered a decent amount of sizes and styles. I appreciate that Banana Republic offers petite sizes, but unfortunately, I couldn't find this sizing option in-store.

Upon trying on Banana Republic's slim jean, I realized that the general sizing was quite inconsistent between the Gap Inc. brands.

The Banana Republic jeans were smaller than the ones I tried on at Old Navy, yet the fit was much looser, especially around the waist. They looked bulky and didn't work well with my body type.

Although this pair didn't fit me, I think the overall cut, medium wash, and durable fabric would work well as an everyday wardrobe staple. They'd be easy to dress up or down for semi-professional, daytime, and evening settings.

Now, are they worth spending $110 for? It's a no from me.

When I visited Gap, which was founded in 1969 and now has over 700 stores in North America and Asia, the store was busy with back-to-school shoppers.

Gap didn't offer as many jean options as Old Navy, but there were still plenty of pairs to choose from.

I sifted through the tall shelves full of denim, looking for a pair of classic straight jeans. Although Gap carries short, long, and extra-long sizes, I couldn't find a short or petite pair in the style I wanted.

However, I tried on the regular length to determine whether buying them in my size online would be worth it.

The Gap jeans were snug yet comfortable on my curves and looked flattering from all angles. The material was comfortable, but it still felt like it'd last for several years.

Although I'd probably order them in a darker wash, these jeans would be great for casual daytime events or errands.

This pair cost $60, which I think is a fair price. However, I did end up seeing the same pair on sale on the Gap website for $36.

Either way, I thought these jeans were worth the splurge. After all, a good pair of jeans is a worthwhile investment.