Founded in 1978, Banana Republic is a luxury brand that offers apparel and accessories for men and women. Its stores provide jewelry, shoes and gift items. The store chain s range of women s products includes skirts, pants, tops and maternity dresses. Its stores offer casual shirts and pants, activewear, shorts and outerwear for men. The store chain s additional products feature handbags, hosiery items and socks. Banana Republic operates more than 570 stores in North America and Japan. Its stores provide various credit options and gift cards. The store chain also provides online shopping services. Banana Republic is a part of Gap Incorporated, which is one of the leading, international specialty retailers that offers clothing, accessories and personal care products for men, women and children.