Here's the deal... Coach's head designer moved from Coach to Banana Republic some time ago. So they designs, craftsmanship, etc. are all similar because the same person is producing the majority of the flat-patterns, fabrics, etc. I am guessing this why Coach and BR have some similar, but NOT IDENTICAL, qualities.
Rumor Control: Are Banana Republic Bags made by Coach?
- Thread starter sadaf
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I just picked up a fab BR clutch on sale and was really impressed with the style and quality not to mention the price I paid - I do see similarities between the BR styling and some Coach bags so hearing they have a former Coach designer on board at BR totally makes sense - also, a lot of similar products are manufactured at the same factories or source their materials from a lot of the same places. Many of the high end bags get their leathers from the same places in Italy and elsewhere.
Hmmmm knew there was a reason that I have also eyed and coveted BR bags. 
In Canada BR bags are nipping at the heels of Coach prices.
In Canada BR bags are nipping at the heels of Coach prices.
Interesting thread to revive. May I ask how you know? I'm confused by what "made by Coach" means in this context because I think Coach outsources bags to be made in private factories in China, Vietnam, and sometimes Italy. BR collaborates with brands like Hook & Albert, so it isn't it more likely for there to be involved?
Please post your source for that information, it seems contradicted by most of the other information here. I've been collecting and authenticating Coach for more than 20 years and I've NEVER heard any mention, much less any actual proof, of Coach making bags for Banana Republic. WHY would BR pay Coach prices when there are hundreds of handbag manufacturers all around the world who can make them for much less? And what's the point of Coach making them if BR can't advertise that?
Proof, please.
Agree with Hyacinth. It would be useful to see proof, because I was intrigued by this idea, so I went digging through both Gap's and Tapestry's 10-Ks. Neither has any indication of a relationship with the other.
In fact, in Tapestry's 10K, they state that " The global premium women's and men's handbag, accessories and footwear categories are highly competitive. The Company competes primarily with European and American luxury and accessible luxury brands as well as private label retailers." which could be interpreted as Tapestry saying Coach/Kate Spade compete against Banana Republic bags.
In fact, in Tapestry's 10K, they state that " The global premium women's and men's handbag, accessories and footwear categories are highly competitive. The Company competes primarily with European and American luxury and accessible luxury brands as well as private label retailers." which could be interpreted as Tapestry saying Coach/Kate Spade compete against Banana Republic bags.