Over here Gap is for middle age or slightly older men or women (but mostly women) and children....teens and young adults, hipster or not, don't typically go near it. Is it that different in the US?

Assuming its anything like here in Canada, then yup. The Gap here is a very preppy and conservative (and ridiculously overpriced) store for young adults. Lots of polo shirts and khakis. I don't know anyone who would actually buy something there. And then there's Gap Kids, which is basically the same, but for toddlers.

#45, I dunno, I had a problem with the gap about 20 years ago and have never set foot in one since. From what I see in the window, I don't see any reason to break my streak.

Not saying op's mom didn't go a bit overboard, but parents can't seem to win either. If they don't trust their kid or check up on them they are too controlling, and if they do the opposite and the kid makes a mistake they are bad parents. It's not a bad thing to ask questions of your kids. It usually means that a parent cares. A good answer from op would be along the lines as a surprise or gift like many others have already said. Communication is a good thing.

actually there is nothing wrong with kids making mistakes! its even worse if they never experience failure

I'm really confused as to how in the hell this sounds like op trying to start something with her mother, to you?