Shop Banana Republic’s Workwear Event

January 29, 2009 07:00 AM | | Posted in daily deal, banana republic, suits, workwear, 30 percent off

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

The Boyfriend Blazer: British Style on a Budget

June 15, 2008 03:00 PM | Comments (1) | Posted in suits, boyfriend blazer, British style on a budget, british style on a budget

For crisp, classic tailoring, look no further than London’s Savile Row for sartorial perfection. If you think sharp suits are only for the boys, then think again. An oversized boyfriend blazer is a perfect cover up on those chilly summer nights, and adds an androgynous vibe to an otherwise girly outfit. Think Diane Keaton in Annie Hall, rocking vintage men’s Ralph Lauren, or the queen of power-dressing, SATC’s Samantha Jones. At the London premiere of the new movie, Daisy Lowe accessorised her harlequin-style Miu Miu mini dress with a super-long tuxedo jacket.

Fashion moguls have been singing the praises of the humble blazer for years, so you know you’ll be investing in a classic piece. Last Winter, Balenciaga’s take on the college blazer spurned hundreds of look-alikes on the high street, and Paul Smith has continued to re-invent the sharp suit jacket over the years: mannish shapes have evolved into cropped tuxes. Over at Yves Saint Laurent, Stefano Pilati perfected the androgynous look, with high-waisted, tapered pants and supersized suit jackets in contrasting colours, with sleeves and without.

If you want sexy tailoring without the Savile Row price tag, the high street is bursting with gorgeous alternatives. Unfortunately, THE Kate Moss for Topshop boyfriend blazer is well and truly sold out, but good old Topshop have sated our sartorial cravings with this oversized, double-breasted jacket, £65 ($128). Roll up the sleeves (a la Lloyd Dobler in eighties teen flick Say Anything) and pair with a bodycon dress, sky-scraping heels, mussed-up hair and a nonchalant expression for understated cool. For something more unique, head to Ebay, where you can find Ralph Lauren boys’ blazers at fabulous prices, or customise a simple, long-line black jacket, like this one from Oasis (£56/$111), with a brooch or corsage. Alternatively, just steal your boyfriend’s – after all, isn’t that the beauty of androgynous dressing?