What to Buy at

Our What to Buy at series continues with a roundup of some incredibly wearable, size-inclusive pieces from one of our favorite retailers, Banana Republic.

Hopefully, you are enjoying a long weekend, so pour yourself another cup of coffee and let’s shop Banana Republic’s New Arrivals, where you can take 40% your purchase at check out. 

What to Buy at Banana Republic 

 

Banana Republic has long been a Well Dressed Life Community favorite. With their mix of easy to wear pieces, for work and weekend, along with their full-size range (including petite, plus, and tall), it’s hard not to love. In many ways, they are a rare retailer that figured out a way to grow with their target market, always evolving but never steering too far away from what makes them work.

So let’s talk about what to focus on. There’s no category I would tell you to avoid. Right now, there are some fantastic options for the season ahead. Whether you’ll be home-based for the foreseeable future, are going back to the office, or simply need to refresh some basics, there is something here for everyone.

Wide Leg Pant

Wide-Leg Pants, $110 

These wide-leg pants are a work-from-home dream. They are high-waisted, with a subtle side elastic, and oh so comfortable. Skip the cream option (totally see-through) and go instead with basic black.

Remember, when wearing anything wide-legged, keep your top fitted to your body to create a balanced shape.

Available in short, regular, and long from sizes 0 – 20.

 

Trench Coat

Trench Coat, $229 

Need a trench? With 40% off this classic trench coat is under $140. That is a tremendous deal considering how often you’ll pull this out of your closet. If tan isn’t your best color, opt for the black, or go with the non-traditional but still neutral sage. 

Available in XXS – XXL. 

Terry Joggers

Terry Jogger, $70 

These Reader Favorite joggers are worth the hype. If you want a casual pant somewhere between a sweatpant and a legging, these are for you. Available in black, green, and light grey in XXS – XXL and petite (here).

Pick up the coordinating top to create a sophisticated matching “set.”

High-Low Shirt

High-Low shirt, $80

This slightly oversized high-low shirt will pair perfectly with any bottom, from a pair of black joggers, to faux leather leggings, to your go-to black work pants. Half tuck in the front and let the back drape to create a casual but polished look for work or weekends. 

Available in regular and tall sizes from XXS – XXL. 

Flannel Shirt

Flannel Shirt, $80 

I love this pink flannel Dillon Classic Fit Shirt. It has a slimmer, more feminine cut and would look lovely with dark or grey jeans.
Available in several patterns, in regular, tall, and petite sizes.

Peplum Top

Peplum Top, $80

Peplum tops can be incredibly flattering, especially if you are trying to minimize your midsection. Just be sure to pair it with a bottom that has a flat and smooth waistline. This top would be great for work, zoom, or a night out for drinks and dinner.

Available in regular and tall sizes, XXS – XXL in a neutral floral, olive green or berry (above). 

Jumpsuits

Terry Jumpsuit, $120 

The first of two jumpsuit options on the list is this long-sleeve option.

Would I spend $120 on what is essentially a terry cloth onesie? No.

But with 40% off, you can make a case for it being the simplest form of one step dressing.

Pair either of these with a fresh pair of sneakers and a denim jacket for a cute and sporty, leggings-alternative outfit.

With FIVE STAR reviews, it comes  in black, light grey, and oatmeal, in regular and tall sizes from an XXS – XXL.

I’m going with the black.

 

Knit Jumpsuit, $120

Your second option is this short sleeve version, in a slightly lighter-weight fabric. I like it here in the green, and I love how they style it with a leather moto jacket and sneakers. So cool.

Available in regular and tall sizes, XXS – XXL.

12-Hour Pump

12-Hour Pump, $97 

A few years ago, we asked our readers to tell us their favorite comfortable heel to wear to work, and the Banana Republic Madison 12-Hour Pump was at the top of the list.

This simple yet timeless and gorgeous heel is available in a ton of colors, textures, and patterns.

Right now, with the additional 40% off, they are around $50 (depending on the style). Take advantage of the savings if you need to replace a black pump or add a fun and poppy color for springtime.

Inclusive Cami

Camisole, $22 

Size inclusive underpinnings for all skin tones at affordable prices. What a novel idea!

When I worked with private clients, the market lacked simple layering camis. On the rare occasion, I found something decent, it was often too dark for me and way too light for my darker-skinned clients. So my delight over these $22 (plus an additional 40% off) cannot be overstated.

Available in 11 nude-to-you colors, in regular and petite, up to a size XXL. Go stock up for the spring, when tops become see-through whether we like it or not.

What to Buy at Banana Republic 

Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers. 

Recommendations are based on my experience as a personal stylist and wardrobe consultant for over a decade. I worked with busy, down-to-earth women who wanted to look chic and feel confident but were often confused by so much of retail. 

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please  follow on Instagram and join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.

Learn about our mission to help women look and feel their very best, every day, here. 

Sign Up for Daily Content and Receive Our Free Classic Wardrobe Checklist

 

Second only to Nordstrom, Old Navy was our most popular retailer of 2020. No surprise since work wardrobes as we know them went on indefinite pause, and on the rare day we wore jeans our kids asked us why we were so “dressed up.”

I’ve long been a fan of Old Navy. As a content creator committed to size-inclusivity, they are one of the only retailers that make my job a little easier. They truly offer all sizes, including regular (or missy), tall, petite, and women (or plus).

When shopping at Old Navy, it’s important to know what you are looking for, otherwise, the sheer volume of options, whether you are in the store or online, will feel overwhelming. I focus on casual basics, loungewear, jeans  and sweaters in the cooler months. 

My best advice is to layers these with your better quality pieces to create a timeless, classic look. For example, wear the black check flannel below with your Spanx “Perfect” Pants, or the Rockstar jeans with the Sam Edelman Penny boots.  

What to Buy at Old Navy: January 2021

 

Our What to Buy at Series has become our most popular post. Here, I round up the best of the new arrivals at popular mainstream retailers to make shopping easier. And because the goal here at The Well Dressed Life is to help you create a chic and functional wardrobe, I use many of these pieces throughout the season, so you have multiple, mix and match options for any occasion. 

Plush-Knit Lounge Set

Plush Knit Jogger, $35 and Plush Knit Pullover, $25 

Let’s start with the obvious, since, so far, 2021 looks exactly like 2020. There is something about wearing a matching loungewear “set” that makes me feel like I have my life in order. (Oh, how the mighty have fallen.) I scooped this cozy set up in the light heather grey. Together the set is about $40 on sale. It’s nice to wear on a chilly day working from home, or to hang out in on the weekends at home. 

Details: Available in regular and tall in sizes XS – XXL, each piece sold separately, 30% discount taken at checkout. Jogger here, pullover here. 

 

Waffle-Knit Cowl-Neck Sweater

Waffle-Knit Cowl-Neck Sweater, $40 

If you are looking for a few updated sweaters to pair with jeans as we ride out the colder months at home, grab this beauty. It looks like something you would see at a better department store, for a fraction of the price. I went with the color above, called “Moonstone Green.” The muted color is sophisticated, and pairs well with black or dark denim bottoms. 

Details: Available in regular, tall and petite in sizes XS – XXL in a variety of colors for under $30 with the discount at checkout. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Rockstar Jeans

Rockstar Jeans, $40 

If you haven’t given their Rockstar Jeans a try, do it now. These are a long-time reader favorite and make it on our Best Jeans list every year. 

Details: Available in regular, tall and petite up to a size 20. Right now they are on sale for $28!

Oversized Boyfriend Flannel Shirt

Flannel Shirt, $25 

If you rock a flannel shirt with boots and jeans, then grab this oversized boyfriend flannel. I’m featuring it in the black check, but I also LOVE it in the navy plaid. 

Details: Available in regular, tall and petite in XS – XXL, several color options, currently marked down to $17!

Long Sleeve White Tee

Long-Sleeve Tee, $8 

This tee shirt is $8. EIGHT DOLLARS! And guess what, that’s how much a white tee shirt should be. This works as a stand-alone piece or as a layer. I sized up because I wanted a more relaxed fit to wear with light wash jeans and sneakers.

Details: Available in regular and tall, in XS – XXL, scoop it up in black and white. 

Olive Cargo Pants

Skinny Cargo Pants, $35 

Olive color bottoms are a bit of a staple around here, especially in the spring and early fall. But they are not always easy to find in all sizes.

Now, they are not for everyone. Pass on these if you carry weight in your thighs since the cargo detail will only highlight that. However, if you are straight up and down or have skinny leggings and want to create some shape, these would be great.

Details: With the additional 30% off, you can grab these for under $25 right now.  Available in regular, tall and petite up to a size 20. 

French Terry Hoodie

French-Terry Hoodie, $28 (see FIVE star reviews here)

I’ve tried all the fancy-pants athleisure brands, from Lululemon to Fabletics. They all have their good points, but no one beats Old Navy, which balances updated styles, quality, and affordable price points.

Their new arrivals always have several gems, like this cross-front, french terry hoodie in this gorgeous dark ivy. Throw it over a sports bra or tank and pair it with your workout leggings or their rockstar jeans.

Details: Available in XS – XXL in two colors. 

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Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers. 

Recommendations are based on my experience as a personal stylist and wardrobe consultant for over a decade. I worked with busy, down-to-earth women who wanted to look chic and feel confident but were often confused by so much of retail. 

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please  follow on Instagram and join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.

Learn about our mission to help women look and feel their very best, every day, here. 

Sign Up for Daily Content and Receive Our Free Classic Wardrobe Checklist

 

 

Our last stop in our What to Buy at series, is Banana Republic. For their Black Friday sale everything is 50% off so you can stock up on some readers favorites like this silk and cashmere sweater that’s under $30. or these always popular cargo joggers in regular and petite sizes.

Today, I gathered up a few items that feel different. Not the same old basic but rather pieces that will elevated the simplest moment without busting your budget this holiday. 

 

What to Buy at Banana Republics Black Friday Sale

Once again, sale items this year are flying off the shelf because they started with limited inventory.

Ombre Sweater

Ombre Sweater, $55  

You have a choice of two gorgeous colors options for this sweater, the Ivory (above) and Black. For the Ivory pair with dark jeans or grey bottoms, and wear the Black ombre with your favorite black pants for an elegant look. Available in XXS – XXL. You’ll be able to wear this during the holidays and all winter long. 

Pajama Set

Pajama Set, $55 

If you plan on spending a day, or a few days, hanging around your house over the holidays, why not make it glamorous? Turn on the fire and sip a mimosa while the kids run wild around you and imagine you’re someplace actually relaxing. I ordered these in the Zebra (above); there is also a pretty navy option in XXS – XXL. These would make a lovely gift too. 

Scuba-Knit Set

 

Scuba Knit Set: Sweatshirt, $29.75 and Pants, $34.75 

In recent weeks my loungewear has taken a nosedive. To say I need a few fresh pieces is putting it kindly. (What I need a spa day to get plucked, waxed, and painted back to my usual self). For now, an updated sweatsuit will have to do and I love this polished set. It’s available in regular and petite, in XXS – XXL. Buy each piece separately,Sweatshirt, $29.75 and Pants, $34.75 , but wear together or mix and match with other casual pieces.

Waffle-Knit Sweatshirt

Waffle-Knit Sweatshirt, $29.75

One thing I learned about our readership this year is that anytime I can highlight an updated sweatshirt, it’s a winner. This one is so, so pretty with a waffle-knit texture, oversized turtleneck and full sleeves. You can wear it with everything from joggers to jeans to straight-lined pants. Comes in Blush, Ecru and Navy (above) in XXS -XXL. 

Coccoon Coat

Cocoon Coat, $124.50

Sales are also a fantastic time to pick up a statement piece, like a coat. I LOVE coats. L.O.V.E.  This Coccoon coat reminds me of something from Eileen Fisher: simple, elegant with a gorgeous drape. It’s available in Grey (above) and a Cherry Red. But unlike EF, this version is about a quarter of the price. In sizes regular and petite from an XXS – XXL. 

Missed a Post?

Be sure to check out the top  sale picks from all our favorite stores below: 

What to Buy at : J. Crew Factory, Boden, LOFT, and Nordstrom 

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Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers. 

Recommendations are based on my experience as a personal stylist and wardrobe consultant for over a decade. I worked with busy, down-to-earth women who wanted to look chic and feel confident but were often confused by so much of retail. 

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please consider following on Instagram and join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.

We’re heading to Nordstrom for today’s What to Buy at.

Nordstrom starts their Holiday sales early this year, with a week-long Cyber event featuring discounts up to 50%. I spent a few hours going through their inventory. There are hundreds of pages of things you truly don’t need, like a spaghetti strap party dress or another floor-length cardigan.

Even I was getting bored, so I started searching specifically for pieces I know you’re looking for, like winter layers, coats and cold weather shoes. 

What I found is a short list of  some of our favorite brands that will help you get out the door if you live in an area already in a wintery mix. 

What to Buy at Nordstrom for Cyber Week

 

Please keep in mind because these are deeply discounted, they will sell out quickly. 

Novelty Sweater

 

Bobble Ribbed Sweater, $50  

Typically, I pick up a few seasonal sweaters this time of year to perk up my standard jean and ankle boot outfits. So I ordered this sweet sweater (in Kelly Green, above) to wear either the night we pile in the car to buy the tree or the night at home we decorate it. It’s under $50, and comes in six colors in sizes XXS – XXL. 

Winter Coat

Down & Feather Jacket, $113 (Marked Down from $225)

This is a fantastic price on a high-quality, stylish coat that will keep you warm and dry by Cole Haan. You’re not going skiing in this, but you are running to the grocery store or taking the dog for a walk. Available in Black (above), Forrest and Mauve, in regular and petite sizes. Runs small, so size up. 

Wool Blend Coat

Wool Blend Coat, $150 

I have a similar classic, wool-blend coat in Camel and wear it all the time. It perfectly finishes an outfit, whether you’re wearing a sheath or jeans and sneakers. This option from Sam Edelman is timeless and well priced, available in sizes 2 – 16 in four colors, including “Cayenne Orange” (above), Black, Ink, and my favorite, Camel.

Waterproof Booties

Booties, $90

Over in our Facebook Private Group, I’ve received many requests for cold, wet weather boots, so I’m sharing two options today. First, this pair is from one of our favorite brands, Blondo. They are comfortable and look great with jeans or other casual bottoms.  They are available in Camel (above), Grey, and Black. These are waterproof boots you can wear all day, marked down by 40%. Sizes are getting limited.

Rain Jacket, $250

Another popular question I get asked is if Barbour Jackets are worth the investment, to which I say, “absolutely.” I adore them. These classic jackets are one of the few items you could have “forever.” Especially this rain jacket, available in their classic olive or navy. It’s also waterproof, lined, with a removable hood and a flattering straight length that keeps you warm and dry. Sizes are European, so they run small.

Hiking Boots

Hiking Boot, $150

Finally, the last pair of boots are by Cole Haan. These boots are waterproof, shearling-lined, and have a heavy-duty rubber sole to give you traction in bad weather. Tuck your jeans into them, or wear them with your fleece leggings. I’m featuring them in White (above) because they are adorable. More practically, you can pick them up in Black or Brown. These are also selling out quickly.

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Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers. 

Recommendations are based on my experience as a personal stylist and wardrobe consultant for over a decade. I worked with busy, down-to-earth women who wanted to look chic and feel confident but were often confused by so much of retail. 

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please consider following on Instagram and join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.

 

 

To create an interesting, classic, and modern look, it’s important to avoid one brand dressing. Instead, mix a combination of affordable items with splurge-worthy basics and add some personal accessories while focusing on fit.

Boden is one of those retailers with a look so specific you can spot it a mile away. If you wear it head to toe, you will look like a walking catalog.

When I shop Boden for myself and my readers, I focus on what they do best: dresses, basics, and lush novelty fabrics. (Also coats, but I’m featuring them in a coat round up later this week!) 

What to Buy at Boden

 

If you’re scrolling through the Boden website, it can be overwhelming and a little confusing. The prints aren’t for everyone, and the way the outfits are styled may feel outside your wheelhouse. So much so I think many women skip right over the retailer entirely.

But underneath all the over-styled photos and excessively preppy mix and match prints are some fantastic, workhorse pieces you can wear to work, weekends and holidays.

Price-wise, they are a little more expensive and haven’t offered the kind of 2020 discounts we’ve become accustomed to. However, they have a few items right now that are worth checking out.

What to Buy at Boden

Shift Dress

 

Shift Dress, $130  

I love everything about this dress, from its long sleeves to its pockets, the fact that it’s lined, and it’s inclusive size range. It’s SO GOOD. You can take this to the office with a pair of pumps or pair it with knee-high boots for Thanksgiving. However you wear it, it’s incredibly versatile, travels well and will hold up for season after season. 

Available in three colors, all with a subtle jacquard texture, in missy, petite, and long sizes up to a size 20/22.

Long-Sleeve Breton 

Long-Sleeve Breton, $45 

One of the most popular tops on the blog is this Boden Long-Sleeve Breton. It sells out constantly, especially in the Spring.

I feature it all the time because of its timeless classic style. Wear it in the summer with a pair of shorts and sandals or dark jeans and a blazer in the winter. 

You have many color/print options here, but I suggest sticking to either the navy and ivory or the black and ivory traditional stripe. Available in sizes 2 -22.

Black Blouse

Black Blouse, $130

Even though this Holiday season isn’t going to have all the big parties and gatherings we’re used to, we’re still dressing up to celebrate. This blouse is currently sitting in my shopping cart, waiting to check out. It’s gorgeous. I’m going to wear it pretty much like in the image above, right down to the bold red lip and with these Birdie velvet loafers. 

Another timeless piece you can wear casually with a pair with jeans, or dress up with black pants or a faux leather skirt. Available in sizes 2 – 22. 

Velvet Dress

 

Velvet Dress, $140

If you prefer a festive dress, this velvet option is perfect for entertaining at home. It has great stretch and pockets! (Who doesn’t love a dress with pockets??)  Available in four holiday-right colors, in regular, petite, and plus up to a size 20/22.

Velvet Top 

Velvet Top, $170 

Another velvet top option, this one has a more relaxed body and bell-shaped sleeves. Instead of wearing it with a special occasion skirt, like in the image above, I would keep it super simple and wear with your favorite slim-lined black pants and some fun statement jewelry.

Available in two colors: navy (above) and ruby (also stunning) in sizes 2 – 20/22. 

Velvet Blazer

 

Velvet Blazer, $198

Finally, I couldn’t resist including this velvet blazer. How fun!? I don’t know where we’re going, but at this point in a year that feels like 10, maybe we just get dressed up for absolutely no reason. Pair with jeans, black pants, or a black skirt. It will elevate pretty much anything you already have in your closet. 

Available in three colors: green (above), purple and black in petite and missy, sizes 2 – 20/22.

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Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers. 

Recommendations are based on my experience as a personal stylist and wardrobe consultant for over a decade. I worked with busy, down-to-earth women who wanted to look chic and feel confident but were often confused by so much of retail. 

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please consider following on Instagram and join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.

 

 

This time of year, when we naturally cozy-up at home more, it’s nice to have relaxed options in your wardrobe that maintain some polish. That’s why J. Crew Factory is one of my go-to stores for casual and fill-in pieces. Not only do they always have what I’m looking for, but their sizing is inclusive, and you can’t beat their prices. So when they have a storewide sale, like right now, where everything is 60% off, I stock up.

Here’s the deal, I don’t recommend wardrobing yourself from any one store. You’ll look like a walking catalog. There’s a lot I like here, and there’s a lot I skip. For example, I don’t buy jeans or dress bottoms from Factory; there are better options elsewhere.

I also avoid their seasonal prints and graphic tees because you’ll see yourself coming and going and their dresses are hit or miss.

What I always buy are their pajamas, layering pieces, loungewear, and sweaters. And, if you have littles, their children’s department always has some sweet options.

What to Buy at J.Crew Factory 

Right now, in addition to the site being 60% off, use the code YAYEXTRA for an additional 10% off. 

Mockneck Top

Mockneck Top, $24.50 

This mockneck blouse is gorgeous. It’s done in ivory and has delicate gold flecks scattered across. You can wear it for work, date night, or a small holiday cocktail party. All sizes available up to a 3X.  Runs slightly small so go up if between sizes. 

Velvet Pants

Velvet Pants, $29 

Technically, these are simple velvet pull-on pants, but the casual drape and tapered leg remind me of a jogger. I picked them up to wear all season long since so much of the holidays will revolve around entertaining at home. Pair it with a silk blouse or turtleneck and these velvet loafers (highly recommend). Available in regular and petite up to a size 24.

Pullover Sweatshirt

Pullover Sweatshirt, $22.50 

This Reader Fave is just under $20 with the additional 10% off. I featured this in September, and it quickly became a best seller. Any time you can upgrade a sweatshirt, we tend to love it around here. You can wear this on its own, or layered over a collared shirt or long sleeve tee shirt. Pair it with jeans or joggers, and you can do pretty much anything, from Zoom calls to Target runs. Available in XXS – 3X in three colors.

Sweatpants

Sweatpants, $19.50

Could there be a shopping round up in 2020 without featuring pair of joggers? For under $20, these are a steal. They’re ideal for lounging at home or staying with family. Skip the pink and grey options, and go for this black bottom; they are more versatile. You can pair it with this popular long sleeve tee and a jacket and sneakers for when you’re ready to run out the door. 

Available in XXS – 3X

Pajama Pants

Pajama Pants, $18 

It’s a well documented fact that I love pajamas, especially this time of year, and I always buy some from Factory. These are well under $20, come in 2 prints (red and black and white plaid) and have all sizes. Easy peasy. 

Funnelneck Pullover

Funnelneck Pullover, $26.50

By far, one of my favorite pieces is this funnelneck pullover. It’s like wearing a blanket as a top. So it’s great if you are in super cold weather, but a big pass if you get easily overheated.
I fall into the category of “always freezing,” so this guy is delightful. It’s also ideal for wearing on a snow day or changing into after a day of skiing.
Size up because it runs small and shrinks a bit after a few washes. Available in XXS – 3X.

Crewneck Sweater

Crewneck Sweater, $26.50

I am always featuring a crewneck sweater in outfit inspiration posts. So this one, done in a soft yarn, and under $25 is a nice option to have to help recreate some of those looks. You can use it as as a stand alone piece or a layer. Available in nine colors, including camel (above) and black, in all sizes up to a 3X. 

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Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers. 

Recommendations are based on my experience as a personal stylist View Post and wardrobe consultant for over a decade. I worked with busy, down-to-earth women who wanted to look chic and feel confident but were often confused by so much of retail. 

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please consider following on Instagram and join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.

When I stopped working with private styling clients to focus entirely on The Well Dressed Life, my idea was to offer the same advice and recommendations, just to a broader audience. One of the ways I do that is in our series, What to Buy at.

Here, I review every new arrival from some of your favorite retailers and highlight the best of the best. I consider price, fit, size range, quality, and, most important, the conversations we have in the comment section and our Private Facebook Group.

Because our goal is to create not only a classic, timeless wardrobe but also one that is versatile, you’ll see these items throughout the season, with the ideas to wear them several different ways. Think of this site as daily access to your own personal stylist. 

So to kick off the fall shopping season, let’s round up the best of the best at Banana Republic. 

What to Buy at Banana Republic

 

Banana Republic has become one of my most favorite retailers. They offer an incredible selection of modern classic wardrobe staples at reasonable prices, in an inclusive size scale. I can always count on them to have precisely what I am looking for in styles cut for grown-ups without looking frumpy.

For September, I’m highlighting pieces you’ll wear now and throughout the season, perfect for work-from-home, in the office, and a casual weekend, that all mix and match together.

Joggers

 

Jogger, $55 

If there is one thing we can all probably agree on, it’s that 2020 is the year of the jogger pant. I ordered this super soft version last week in black and green. They are $55, in missy and petite sizes up to a XXL. Pair them with basic tees, cozy sweaters, slim lined sneakers or flats. 

Silk and Cashmere Sweater

Silk Cashmere Sweater, $38

This silk and cashmere blend sweater has been a long time reader fave, and is currently on sale for under $40. It’s a fantastic work-from-home basic that pairs beautifully with jeans or the joggers above. They are calling it “relaxed fit” which basically means it fits the way you want a sweater to fit, not too tight, with just enough room to move. 

Sizes are generous and the colors are perfect for the season. In addition to the red, I love the burgundy and dark green options. 

Wrinkle-Resistant Wrap

Wrap Dress, $78 

 

We love a few things around here: a leopard print, a wrap, and low maintenance dressing. This under $100 dress has it all. You have your choice of black, floral, or the above print, available in missy and tall sizes up to XXL. 

The fabric is wrinkle-resistant, so whether you have to travel to work or have long days on your feet, you’ll look pressed all day. 

And, props to BR for actually featuring models of all sizes; you can see this on a fuller figured model. 

Sweater Blazer

Sweater Blazer, $97 

Readers are always searching for a piece like this. It’s not a blazer; it’s not a cardigan, it’s somewhere in between.
But once again, they are using a term that may turn you off. They are referring to it as “cropped,” but it’s not, at all. It merely hits at your waist.
Wear this over your favorite layering tank and a classic pair of trousers to the office, or add a scarf and some pretty jewelry for religious services on the weekend.

It’s available in missy and petite up to a size XXL in black, grey, and burgundy (above).

Short Sleeve Cable-Knit

Cable Sweater, $62

I scooped this gorgeous sweater up in camel (above). It will be gorgeous with white jeans, dark jeans and boots, black pants, or even a faux leather skirt. 
Available in camel and red, in missy and petite up to a XXL. 

Utility Shirt

Utility Shirt, $55 

With the classic elements of a crisp collar shirt, this “utility shirt” ups the style factor by adding a high-low hem, tie waist, and front pocket detail. Another Zoom meeting option pair it with dark jeans or the Spanx Perfect Pants.

Available in missy, petite, and tall up to an XXL in four colors, including black and white.

Flight Jacket

 

Flight Jacket, $77 

I’ve been searching for a classic olive fall jacket to feature here for weeks with not luck. Sizes, or the style itself, were too limited on everything I found. Leave it to BR to create exactly what I wanted, in sizes missy and petite up to an XXL. 

The color goes with everything, the waist is pulled in to create a shape, and the price is right. You can wear it with everything, including with white jeans like I featured last week. 

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Recommendations are based on my experience as a personal stylist and wardrobe consultant for over a decade. I worked with busy, down-to-earth women who wanted to look chic and feel confident but were often confused by so much of retail. 

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