Banana Republic
Eco-Friendly Banana Republic Line On Sale Now
What: Banana Republic has just launched a green/eco-friendly/(insert buzz word here) line at its factory stores. The collection features cardigans, tank tops, polo shirts, graphic tees, and other apparel - all made with “sustainable fibers,” or organic and recycled cotton, and all featuring a new Green Elephant logo.
What We Say: We’re not terribly impressed with the BR’s first take at this. The tanks pictured here will go for about $16.99 each (ouch) and they’re as simple as it gets. Like, Wal-Mart been doing an organic/eco friendly line for years now. There are some other slightly more interesting options, especially for guys who like pictures of random stuff on their shirts. But really, this is for the hardcore tree huggers - no problem with that - and for those who want to be able to literally point to evidence that they care about the environment ( “Look at me; I’m wearing a Green Elephant logo!”). We hope it takes off, though, because we’d love to see a major retailer like BR get really creative about eco-friendly clothes. And hey, one step at a time, right? If you’re using fashion to promote good old Mother Earth, you’re probably on the right track.
If you’ve been to a Banana Republic factory store of late, let us know your thoughts on this new line.
50% off Banana Republic Factory, Chicago Fashion Event, Twelve by Twelve dress, BlogFashion’s Closet
We love a good party! Second City Style has rockin’ photos from the Real Taste of Chicago Fashion event. Check out designs by Lara Miller, Dollybird, Objects d’Envy, and more.
Omiru hunts down an adorable one-piece that gives the illusion of a chic, WASP-y three-piece outfit; all for just $36 from Twelve by Twelve.
BlogFashion is a ridiculously stylish fashionista with a closet to die for… and now she’s giving us a peek!
FabSugar gives us a fantastic heads up: you can get up to 50% off your entire purchase if you buy 3+ items at a Banana Republic factory outlet store! (The sale ends April 16th, 2009.)
Storewide Sale (sorta) at Banana Republic Factory Stores
What: Between April 3rd and April 16th, you can shop “guilt-free” at all Banana Republic factory stores. Save 30% on single-item purchases, 40% on two items, and a nifty 50% on three items. Simple and straightforward storewide sale - just the way we like it.
What We Say: If only we all lived near a Banana Republic Factory Store. While we’re pretty enthused about this sale - it’s hard to hate BR and it’s time to shop for summer clothes - we wonder what kind of savings we’ll get if we buy more than three items?
If you’ve taken advantage of these deals, let us know how well you cleaned up.
Banana Republic Puts Accessories to the Test
What: You may recall that Banana Republic launched a concept store, BR Monogram, featuring an exclusive collection of high-end apparel. The store didn’t last more than nine months, but that wasn’t really the point. It was just a “test.” Well, Banana Republic is trying a similar thing with Edition, which will offer shoppers limited-edition accessories, most costing less than $100. None of the pieces will be sold online.
What They Say:
“Edition by Banana Republic - featuring limited-edition handbags and jewelry, along with some shoes, sunglasses and personal-care products from Banana Republic
- will open exclusively in Gap’s hometown Westfield San Francisco Centre in May.”
What We Say: Shouldn’t most accessories cost less than $100, anyways? Isn’t that what makes them so great - dress up an old dress with a stylish, but sensibly priced belt? We’re not sure we can really afford “$79 jasmine chandelier earrings” right now. If this is Banana Republic’s attempt at appealing to budget shoppers, we’re not sure the retailer’s gonna start improving any time soon; the store’s been struggling like everyone else.
Are you crossing your fingers for this store, in hopes that its limited-edition accessories will end up in a Banana Republic near you?
30% off at Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic
THIS COUPON HAS EXPIRED
The Deal:Get 30% off at Gap, Old Navy
, and Banana Republic’s
Friends & Family event.
If you need to pick up some basics, like say a basic white t-shirt or a pair of jeans, then this is the sale to shop. From March 12-15th, receive and additional 30% off purchases at Gap, Old Navy
, and Banana Republic
, and their outlets and their sites. In addition, Gap Inc, will donate an extra 5% to your favorite charity. Just click here for the Friends & Family Coupon or use the code BCKRH9CN8VDB to shop online.
Some of Our Picks
Get 20% Off $100 or More at Banana Republic
The Deal: Get 20% off any purchase of $100 or more through Feb 25th at Banana Republic.
The Lowdown: February is almost history, and that means our long wait for Spring fashion is nearly over. It also means it’s time to take a long hard look in our closets to figure out just what we’re going to wear between now and May—the dreaded “transitional” dressing. Once we’ve taken stock, we’ll head for a sale like this one at Banana Republic (particularly because we love a “20 percent off” sale way more than the “$20 off” variety) and then hit the already-discounted sale items to get the best price.
Our top strategy (for maximum value) is to pick up pieces that you can layer under things you already have, and then wear alone later. And a pop of color is seriously in order. For petite girls, this silk cap-sleeve trapeze dress in rich green does the trick for $74.99. And tall girls, BR has your back too, with picks like this silk twill pleated blouse
, on sale for $39.99. Oh, and these both come in average sizes too, so everybody’s happy.
Shop: Banana Republic
Save Extra 30% on Sale Items at Banana Republic
The Deal: Last day to get an extra 30% off already reduced sale items at Banana Republic with code: SAVE30
The Lowdown: We would have loved sales like this during the holiday season, but now that we’re extra broke, we guess we should be grateful for an additional 30% off sale prices at Banana Republic.
We first headed for handbags, jewelry, and accessories, but the pickings were woefully slim (seriously, three pieces of jewelry and one handbag? Why bother?). Next stop? Apparel, with better results. Since we’re looking forward to Spring, we’re looking for pieces we can put to work for a few months to come. A bright and shiny blouse will do the trick, and bring a little spring your way in the meantime.
Our picks? This Silk Printed Top on sale for $34.99, this Silk Basketweave Blouse for $32.99, or this Silk Tie Sleeve Blouse for $34.99. Wear under suiting separates for now, and later just leave the jacket at home . . .
Shop: Banana Republic
Shop Banana Republic’s Workwear Event
The Deal: Save up to 30% off select styles during the Modern Workwear Event at Banana Republic
The Lowdown: We talk a lot about sprucing up the basics you already have as way to stay up-to-date on a budget, but let’s face it—every now and again, those basics need replacing too. So with 30% off workwear at Banana Republic, now is the time to evaluate what you’re ready to update (and don’t forget to donate your old pieces to someplace like Goodwill).
The key—stick with needs and not wants. You might gravitate towards that cool mandarin-collar jacket (and it is pretty chic) but if what you really need is a basic black blazer, the more classic choice would be this black jacket for $138.50. Pair it with this lightweight wool A-line skirt for $55.30, add a great colored blouse that you already own, and you’re set for a couple seasons to come ...
Shop: Banana Republic
Save More at Banana Republic with Code
The Deal: Spend more, save more at Banana Republic with code SAVEMORE. Offer ends today.
The Lowdown: Of course, retailers always want you to spend more, but in this case there’s an actual benefit of sorts—the more you spend at Banana Republic through today, the higher percentage discount you’ll get. Take 15% off when you spend $125; 20% off when you spend $200; and a full 25% off when you spend $250. Our advice? Don’t spend more than you normally would just to get the 25% (or if you’re going to, take a moment and do the math to see where you’ll get you’re best deal).
The winter sales, of course, have been on for awhile, so size and selection is limited but we always start there anyway—particularly for those hard-to-find sizes (petite and tall). Tall girls might consider some sale dresses (since you know the hems will actually reach your knees instead of making you look like a preschooler)—we like this gorgeous silk georgette dress, on sale for $89.99, and this versatile button tab knit dress, $39.99. Petite’s might consider a pair of properly-proportioned pants, like these jackson flannel wide leg pant (yes, petite girls can wear wide-leg as long as they’re cut right!) for $44.99.
Save an Extra 15% at Banana Republic with Exclusive Coupon
The Deal: Take an extra 15% off at Banana Republic with code EXTRA15
The Lowdown: Today’s the last day to save an extra 15% at Banana Republic with this coupon code. Make the most of the deal by picking up something that’s already on sale, so the “extra” 15% truly is the hot deal it should be.
We talk a lot about workwear at BR, but as we’re scanning the sales, we’re thinking that this time around picking up a dress or two might be your best bet—after the holiday dress season, there are some big markdowns worth looking at on timeless styles, like this Belted Asymmetrical Dress for $54.99 (regularly $175), this BR Monogram Silk Tiered Dress
for $94.99 (regularly $225), and this Starburst Dress,
$74.99 (regularly $150). Pick one up with an extra 15% off now, and stash it for next year’s holiday party circuit . . .
Shop: Banana Republic with code EXTRA15
Save Up to 70% at Banana Republic
The Deal: Save as much as 70% at Banana Republic with new Winter Sale reductions
The Lowdown: Any sale better than 50% is hard to pass up, particularly if it’s a retailer with quality we trust (but might not be able to shop at their regular prices). Yeah, Banana Republic is one of those.
Our pick for this sale? The sweater dress, which is still hot for the season, and is on sale now for prices we can actually justify. We like this Pocket sweater dress, regularly $110 (!) and on sale now for a far more reasonable $54.99, and also this Long-Sleeved Cowl Neck Sweater Dress, on sale for $59.99. Another option? A standout top, like this Silk Cowl Neck Top
, for $34.99.
Shop: Banana Republic
Michelle Obama Fashion: A Budget Style Retrospective
“SOME PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
One day you walk into your local Gap store to pick up a pair of size (insert your size here) jeans. After smiling at the overtly cheery folder/greeter/loss prevention associate, you head over to the denim wall to find your jeans. All of a sudden, 10 large men, wearing tailored dark suits accessorized by white ear plugs, rush into the store, causing a tower of cherry red wool/cashmere blend ribbed turtleneck sweaters to tumble to the floor (they also block the fitting room). Unaware of what is going on, you start to shake so hard that a pair of your (insert size again) jeans fall to the floor. As you bend over to pick it up you glance at a fabulous pair of Lanvin wedge ballet flats and the hem of an amazing pink and black floral printed swing skirt that you recognize from the Summer 2008 sales rack of your local J.Crew. You quickly grab the jeans from the floor and stand up to find yourself face to face with our new first lady, Michelle Obama.
Michelle Obama Fashion: A Budget Style Retrospective
At any other point in US History the likelihood of the above scenario happening to you would be, well, zero. However, unlike other stylish first ladies, Michelle Obama actually wears items from lower-priced, mall-based stores like J.Crew and Gap. She even wears them more than once Michelle’s love for the mall based store is so profound that her 6 year old daughter Sasha, unaware of the political filters put on her parents and telling it like only a six year old can, exclaimed “Mommy buys everything from the Gap”.
Regardless of your political stripes, there’s something quite comforting about a first lady who knows her way around an H&M (and has had to wait in those crazy long fitting room lines). In light of our current economic situation, this knowledge is even more valuable.
Michelle Obama Fashion: White House Worthy Style For Less
- 1. Victoria Ruffle Cami, $88 at J.Crew
- 2. Silk Cowlneck Top, $69 at Banana Republic
- 3. Striped Victoria Ruffle Shirt, $98 at J. Crew
- 4.Women's Crew-Neck Tees
, $15.00 at OldNavy.com
- 5. Alison LS Cardigan, $24.80 at Forever21.com
- 6. Pearlized-Button Cardigans, $26.50 at OldNavy.com
- 7. Alfani Capelet Jacket, $149.00 at Macys
- 8. Women's Ruffle Neck Cardigan
, $26.50 at OldNavy.com
- 9. The Wintersoft Cardigan, $48.00 at Gap
- 10. Lauren by Ralph Lauren Silk Geometric-Print Full Skirt, $71.55 at Macys
- 11. Double-serge Pencil Skirt, $128.00 at J Crew
- 12. Curvy Welt-pocket Pants, $54.50 at Gap
- 13. Silver-sand Jacquard pant, $228 at J Crew
- 14. City-fit Herringbone Cropped Pant, $138.00 at J Crew
- 15. MICHAEL Michael Kors Strapless Belted Jumpsuit, $142.12 at Macys
- 16. Lauren by Ralph Lauren Jessie Two-Tone Ruffled Dress, $142.50 at Macys
- 17. Wool flannel Golden Roses dress, $139.99- $195 at J Crew
- 18.Diane Von Furstenberg Colorblock Dress, $398 at NeimanMarcus
- 19. Color-Block Sweater Dress, $130 at Banana Republic
- 20. Cashmere Peyton dress, $99.99-$218
- 21. Moschino Printed Sheath Dress, $598 at NeimanMarcus.com
- 22. Ruffle Neck Shift Dress, $42.99 at Gap
- 23. Crew Neck Satin Dress, $34.50 at Old Navy
- 24. Isabella Paisley Halter Dress, $250 at J Crew
- 25. Animal Print Tafetta Dress, $175 at Banana Republic
- 26. Cashmere Asymmetrical Gown, $275 at Banana Republic
- 27. Lauren by Ralph Lauren Donnie One-Shoulder Dress with Ruffle, $135 at Macys
- 28. JS Boutique Single-Shoulder Ombre Gown, $200 at Dillards
Special Shout Out to some of favorite blogs and media outlets for images: Mrs.O, AOL Black Voices, Michelle Obama Watch, Associated Press
Banana Republic Summer Sale
The Deal: Their summer sale is going on right now—get up to 50% off!
What We Say: We head to Banana Republic for lots of our classic, basic wardrobe pieces. Now is a great time to ignore the trends and head to Banana Republic for pieces that you’ll be wearing for years. Their elegant pieces are good for the office or dinner parties. Plus, they have a solid collection for petite and talls, something that some of you are grateful for.
Check out these classic pieces:
The linen blend fabric on these pants are great for the office because they’re appropriate while still hugging your curves—and the material keeps you cool. Now $39.99.
This short sleeve swing cardigan is great pair with a camisole and chinos. Now $44.99.
Pictured: This solid color cowlneck top will never be cast to the back of your closet because of its draping and timeless quality. Now $49.99.
Banana Republic Launches BR Monogram Collection
Banana Republic recently launched a new concept called “BR Monogram”. The collection features apparel and accessories in “better” fabrics and tailoring for women (and men) at prices 30-40% higher than regular Banana Republic
merchandise. The line follows in the footsteps of competitors, J Crew and Ann Taylor, both of whom have higher-priced collections with the word, uhhhh, “Collections” in the title.
Currently the collection is available online and at it’s 3,000 sq ft concept store on Bleecker and 6th Ave in Manhattan.
Trendy Deal: T-shirt Dresses
“THIS PRODUCT IS NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
What: The striped t-shirt dress continues to be a cool and comfy summer trend, and hot deals are to be had all over.
What the fashion heads say: This from “Off the Rack” at people.com:
We love the ease of dresses and the comfort of jersey, so … black and white striped t-shirt dresses are just the answer!”
What I say: Okay, so a T-shirt dress and horizontal stripes sound like a recipe for disaster, but … the look is as cool, fresh, and as comfortable as it gets. For accessories, less is more, so just throw on with a headband and a pair of cute sandals and go. And remember, attitude is everything. Pull it off with a great deal like this one, on sale now for just $19.99 from Banana Republic.
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