Banana Republic posted positive comparable store sales (a modest 1% increase) in the final quarter of 2017, ending 11 consecutive quarters of decline. Barely positive comps are not usually cause for celebration, but in traditional retail, you have to celebrate every victory, however small, otherwise every day feels like doomsday.
Season by season (since mid-2016), I’ve found that Banana Republic’s collection has grown more dependable, both in interpreting trends and in styling. I like that, for the most part, the brand has stayed focused on practical workwear that incorporates some trendy elements. The Banana Republic Soft Pleated Long Trench seen in this post is one of my favorite pieces for early spring: the length (42″ long in XSP) might be challenging for those who are especially petite, but works well with both pants and skirts; and the material (100% Triacetate) drapes well but has enough weight to it to avoid being wrinkle-prone.
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| Banana Republic Flutter-Sleeve Mini Dress in White (size 0P) || Banana Republic Soft Pleated Long Trench in Blue Gray (size XSP) || Tory Burch Robinson Convertible Leather Shoulder Bag (current version here) || Unbranded Shoes |
Sale styles are currently an extra 50% off at Banana Republic, no code needed (discount automatically applies at checkout). BR cardholders get an extra 10% off with code BRCARD. Shipping is free on orders over $50.
Here are a few promising styles: (I am currently in possession of the Botanical Print Button-Back Top and Botanical Print Fit-and-Flare Maxi Dress, but haven’t decided if they are keepers yet; the former has a little too much sheen in material for casual wear, and the latter has deep-cut armscyes that are not the most flattering for those concerned about excess axillary skin and fat.)
Even more sale picks: Fireball Gems Bracelet, Italian Superloft Stripe Ribbed Tie-Sleeve Crew, Feather-Touch Rounded Sleeve Crew, Pave Link Bracelet, Flutter-Sleeve Jumpsuit, Parker Tunic-Fit Tie-Cuff Shirt, Geo Stone Pearl Bracelet, and Machine-Washable Merino Tee.
Happy shopping!
