What to Buy at

Many of us grew up with Ann Taylor as a cornerstone in our wardrobes. The brand generally makes getting dressed easy, coordinating pieces, colors, and prints to help busy women pull a look together quickly.

But when you dress head to toe from a brand or a single store, you start to lose your personality and authenticity. While I’m all for a system that helps you create a uniform of sorts, you run the risk of missing out on the opportunity to develop your own unique style.

Today, as part of our “What to Buy at” series, I rounded up my top picks from their new arrivals. These are the best, most practical, and polished pieces that, when paired with your other wardrobe staples, create a modern outfit that doesn’t look so “Ann Taylor-y.”

These posts are inspired by my years as a personal stylist. Before a client arrived at our shopping appointment, I would spend hours going through stores, selecting only the best pieces, and filling up her dressing room. It was such fun for me, and immensely helpful for our clients, who worked with us because they didn’t have the time or patience to shop independently.

Think of this series as just that; these are the pieces I would put in your dressing room, based on everything I know about our readers who are looking for help creating a timeless, classic, modern wardrobe on a realistic budget.

What to Buy at Ann Taylor

Currently, Ann Taylor has an overwhelming selection of new arrivals. I reviewed every single item, filtering each one down by considering price point, wearability, size range and styling options. 

Camp Shirt

Spotted Camp Shirt, $69 

I am absolutely crazy for this camp shirt style in a fresh blue and white print. It’s the easiest thing to throw on with your dark jeans to work from home or take it to the office under a navy suit. 

Available in missy, petite and tall sizes. 

Puff Sleeve Top

 

Puff Sleeve Top, $55 

Maybe you’re venturing out on your first night out in, oh, say six months 😉 and you want something that feels like the opposite of a sweatshirt. This sweet puff sleeve top is perfect to pair with a slim pair of black ankle pants and a manageable heel.

It’s fitted, feminine, and the polka dots are the palest shade of pink – so pretty. This top would be especially nice if you are narrow in the shoulders and looking to bring some balance to your waist and hips. Skip if you are broad-shouldered.

Available in missy and petite up to an XXL. 

Tie Waist Shell

Tie Waist Shell, $55 

I can never pass over a tie waist top, and this one is ideal for readers in warmer weather climates. The cut of the neck, along with the detail at the waist creates visual interest without adding layers. You can wear it with any bottom, from jeans to dress pants. Black bottoms of course will look timeless, but consider adding a color like a deep burgundy or green to lean into seasonal colors. 

Sizes are limited to small, medium and large. 

Leather Belt

Leather Belt, $50 

If you are looking for a classic trouser belt, in either black, cognac (above) or NAVY stop what you are doing and order this. It’s so hard to find a simple, stylish belt that looks expensive at a reasonable price. 

I ordered this in the cognac to pair with jeans and a white top. You can also wear this over a sweater dress or blazer – though you may considered sizing up if you are going to add it on top of a bulky piece. 

 

Tortoise Heels

Tortoise Pumps, $128

These were an incredibly popular pair of heels last year that are recently back in stock. I have these, and am always surprised how comfortable they are considering their height. The tortoise print works as an elevated neutral, so you can wear it with anything and they add a just a little extra kick of style. 

You can see me in them here. 

All sizes,  also available in a slingback style. 

Coatigan

Coatigan, $159 

These days, long cardigans look more like sloppy bathrobes that have seen better days. By mixing the softness of a cardigan with the structure of a coat and you get a “coatigan”. A genius solution to stay cozy but looking polished. I’m crazy for it. 

Pair with your black jeans for a busy day at home, or throw over a black dress for the office. So many options!

Available in missy and petite, up to an XXL in black and tan. 

Moto Jacket

 

Moto Jacket, $169 

Moto jackets have been a wardrobe staple around here for years, and for a good reason. It’s the perfect piece to add as a layer and bring some modern edge to your outfit. It elevates a tee shirt and jeans and tones down a feminine floral dress. This specific piece in a mushroom color will add structure and texture to any outfit combination.

Available in missy and petite up to an XXL. 

Boatneck Top

Boatneck Top, $90

If “tops to wear with jeans” are on your shopping list for fall, this elegant boatneck top in a navy and white print is a great option. Throw it on, give yourself a half tuck, add a pair of boots and call it a day. 

Available in XXS – XXL. 

Wrap Skirt

Wrap Skirt, $79

I couldn’t tell you the last time I wore a skirt, so I ordered this to shake things up a bit. I love the print and faux leather detailing. I’m going to keep it simple and pair it with an of my black fitted sweaters and a pair of boots. 

Available in missy and petite from 00 – 18. 

Mock Neck Sweater

Mock Neck Sweater, $79 

Finally, I’ve never met a turtleneck I didn’t love. It doesn’t matter the style, from fitted to oversized, I wear them all the time. And you don’t get more classic than a mock neck, ribbed sweater for the fall. Pair with your favorite jean, a pair of hoop earrings and ankle boots for the the easiest and chicest look possible. 

Available in XXS – XXL. 

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Our 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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Our 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.

Today, we’re landing the plane with the Nordstrom Sale and focusing on Work, Work, and more Work. Whether you’re in the office or juggling all the balls in the air at home this fall, there are few pieces worth considering.
I also include some workout wear, because nothing gets me motivated to kick my fitness routine back into full swing like new gear.

For these recommendations, I followed the same strategy as our previous posts covering Reader Favorites and Accessories and Beauty.

I looked at our analytics to determine what brands and styles historically work for readers, and I asked myself, “what would I put in a dressing room for some of my styling clients?”

This helped me curate a list of items that are both practical and stylish at the best possible price. 

As always, sizes are inclusive whenever possible.

What to Buy at the Nordstrom Sale: Work, Work and More Work 

 

 

For many of us, workwear looks different this year. Even if we are headed back into our offices, the vibe may feel a bit more casual. So this roundup includes options whether you’re home-based, hybrid, or back to the grind like nothing ever happened. 

 

 

 

 

Dresses

The dress has long been my go-to, to wear and recommend. Back when I traveled extensively for work, these dresses were in full rotation. They just make getting dressed so easy. If you need to look professionally polished but have zero time in the morning, you “zip up and go,” and you’ll look like you put in some major effort. 

Don’t miss these dresses – all well under $100

Tahari Cap Sleeve Dress, $76 – The color on this dress is gorgeous, while the length is better if you are on the tall side. 

Vince Camuto Cap Sleeve Dress, $76 – Don’t shy away from a peplum detail, if you are dressing a body type that needs some curves, it creates a lovely, feminine shape. 

Tahari Pleat Dress, $70 – I adore this option, you can’t beat a dress with a sleeve and flattering side detail. 

Tops and Layers

Leopard Blouse, $30 – A fantastic layer under a black cardigan or blazer, or wear it alone on hot days. 

Polka Dot Top, $49 – Would look beautiful with slim cut black pants, or jeans. 

Cece Tie Sleeve Top, $49 – In the poppy red option, this becomes the perfect blouse to throw on for non stop video calls. 

Barefoot Dreams Cardigan, $86 – Like a bathrobe you can wear to Target, this BD cardi is divine. I’ll be wearing mine with leggings and flats all season long. 

Treasure & Bond Blazer: $65 – If you want a blazer that works with jeans, this one button from Treasure & Bond is a fantastic choice. Wear with dark wash or black skinny or straight jeans, or pair with a simple white tee and light washed boyfriend jeans. 

Pants

Spanx Perfect Black Pants, $85 – I ordered these for myself and can’t wait to try them. They’re a more polished alternative to leggings. 

Vince Camuto Stretch Trousers, $56 – I recommend these trousers by Vince Camuto all the time. In petite and regular here for under $40, and plus size here. They run full so size down. 

 

 

 

 

 

Just a few pieces this year to feature, but they are so worth it!

ASICS GEL-Kayano, $100 – My all-time favorite gym sneakers are by ASICS. You can’t beat the comfort and support. You kind of feel more athletic in them ;). I scooped these up for under $100, which regularly retail starting at $160.

Adidas Edge Lux 4, $50 – Another fantastic sneaker option are these Adidas Edge. Also comfortable and super stylish for only $50. 

Zella Studio Crop Leggings, $36 – For as much as I spend on clothes, I have my limits, and one of those limits is $100+  leggings. No thank you. Zella’s are wonderful all round and during the sale, under $40. 

Patagonia Better Sweater Jacket, $84 – The perfect piece to throw on for early morning walks. If you’re in between sizes, go up one. I initially ordered a medium, and it just fit. I eventually ordered a large and gave the medium to my daughter.

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Our 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.

 

 

Over the past few years the Nordstrom Sale has been so-so. But this year, it’s pretty good and an opportunity to stock up on basics you love, fill in some wardrobe voids, and maybe pick up a splurge at a better price. Surprising, since 2020 has been a disappointing dumpster fire at every turn. 

The sale, however, is overwhelming and there’s a lot of stuff you don’t need. I spent the weekend combing through every single item in every single category, until my eyes hurt. 

Post Schedule

Typically, I only publish one post about the sale. This year, I decided to use the next three days to highlight specific categories. That might seem like overkill, but I think it will make this easier to navigate.

I wanted to do the work for you, so you can take advantage of the special pricing without spending a ton of time searching. 

Today’s post is broken down by: Reader Favorites, Jeans, Coats, and Shoes.

Want to try the Spanx Faux leather leggings? Got em. 

Need a new winter puffer? The North Face is at a can’t-beat price.

From must-have jeans to the best strapless bra – I found everything.

On Tuesday I’m sharing top Beauty products (only brands and products I already recommend), Home finds and Gifts to buy now and stash away for the holidays, a handful of awesome Accessories and I’ll share what I ended up buying. 

And for Wear to Work Wednesday, you’ll see my top picks for working in or out of the office this fall, and workout gear, because I know many of us are trying to get back on track with our fitness.

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 

If you’re new around here, welcome! What you’ll notice is that I don’t do a big try -on haul showing off my purchases. I don’t find those kind of posts helpful, and in the current climate they feel rather tone deaf. 

Instead, my recommendations are both data driven and based on all your requests. 

As always, all sizes are included when available. 

When Can You Shop

To over complicate things, Nordstrom restricts initial access. Cardholders are broken down by category. The more you spend, the earlier your access. I get to shop today; some got to shop as early as last Wednesday. Non-cardholders can start shopping on the 19th. 

If you can’t shop just yet, I recommend creating a “Wish List” on the Nordstrom site. This way, once you have access you can flip everything into your shopping cart. By design, the sale is meant to sell out, and it does, every year. 

Please remember, unlike some sites, I am not affiliated or sponsored by Nordstrom. I do, however, receive a very small commission if you purchase through one of the links below. All opinions are mine. 

Let’s get started. 

The following items have been featured countless times in our Reader Favorite Series. I cross referenced all your favorites with the sale inventory and listed them below. Now’s the time to scoop them up at a discount if you’ve had your eye on them. 

Simply click on the image to shop or reference the shopping list below. 

Shop Reader Favorites

Reader Favorites Shopping List:

Spanx Leather Legging, $65  – Many of you mention wanting to give these a try this fall. I absolutely love mine. Plus size available here.

Bralette, $29 – For small to mid size busts, this bralette is incredibly comfortable. I especially love it as we staying in and close to home, when you don’t want anything too constrictive but need some support. 

Gibson Blazer, $50  – This blazer fills the void between a cardigan and a proper blazer. Available in several colors in petite and regular, it’s been a long time top seller. 

Ugg Robe, $87 – My sister-in-law gave me this robe for Christmas last year and it’s like being wrapped in a hug. When I shared it in January, many of you picked it up and loved it too.

Barefoot Dreams Cardigan, $86 – Barefoot Dreams is expensive, but worth it. When you can grab one of their pieces for under $100 it’s a no brainer. It’s like a bathrobe you can wear to Target. Plus size available here. 

BlankNYC Moto Jacket, $112 – I’m thrilled to see this moto jacket included. It’s a great piece for when we get to go out and have fun again! (Please! Soon?!) 

Zella Leggings, $39 – Simply the best leggings. The waistband holds you in so nicely. Wear them at home this fall with cozy sweaters and booties. They wash up beautifully too. 

Strapless Bra, $40 – I learned about this bra from one of our readers a few years ago, tried it, and never turned back. It’s what I wear with all my strappy summer tops. 

Hanky Panky Thongs, $17 – No show and oh-so comfortable. 

We talk about jeans a lot around here. Below are my year-round top picks in all sizes. The savings are fantastic. Consider buying a size down since all of these options have a ton of stretch.  

Wit & Wisdom 

Shop Wit & Wisdom

Wit & Wisdom sell out all the time, and for good reason. They have “hold-and-mold” technology that keep you in place, and look like premium denim at a fraction of the price. 

Skinny in Dark Navy, $45 – My go-to’s for the brand. 

High-Waist Skinny in Gray, $50 – Pick up for the fall and see how to wear gray jeans here. 

Distressed High-Waist, $50 – Distressed jeans aren’t going anywhere. If you want to give them a try and not spend hundreds. this is a great option. 

High-Waist Straight Leg, $45 – Straight legs are an alternative to a skinny jean. They create the same long and lean look, but work better for certain body types. 

KUT from the Kluth

Shop KUT

High-Waist Skinny, $59 

High-Waist Bootcut, $59 

NYDJ

Shop NYDJ

Straight Leg in black, $70 

Straight leg in blue, $70

Premium Denim 

Shop Premium Denim

Joe’s Curvy Bootcut, $100

Paige Bootcut, $140 

If you are in the market for a new coat, this is one of the best categories in the sale.  The selection is a bit overwhelming on their site, so I picked the best of the best. 

Shop Coats

Coats Shopping List 

The North Face Parka, $225 – I picked up a version of this parka from The North Face during the sale a few years ago and it was one of the BEST purchases I ever made.  

Lauren Ralph Lauren Trench, $150 – If you need it, pick up this trench now so you have it in the spring. It’s timeless look will never go out of style. 

Barbour Raincoat, $200 – This is in my shopping cart. 

From new sneakers to classic fall booties, check these out before you look anywhere else.  

Shop Shoes

Shoes Shopping List

Marc Fisher Pump, $100 – I regularly feature these pumps is many of our wear-to-work posts. They are available in super-wearable colors, like black, and a light taupe suede called “glaze.”

Vince Camuto Bootie, $100 – By November I have a terrible time finding sizes in booties. If you need a new pair, give these a try. I love them in “Tuscan Taupe” or grab a black pair so you have them when you need them. 

Aquatalia Knee High Boot, $350 – These area splurge, for sure. However, if you live in an area that has brutal, wet winters, they are worth it. They’ll keep you warm and dry, and when you get to where you’re going all you have to do is quickly wipe them off and you’ll look good as new. 

Sam Edelman Knee High Boot, $150  – I love these in black or luggage, either one is a versatile addition to your wardrobe. Wear with leggings, jeans, sweater dresses or tights and skirts. You’ll save $100 if you buy these now versus later. 

Adidas Sneaker, $50 – To kick your fall fitness plan into high gear, grab a new pair of high quality sneakers for $50!

Check out Our Other Nordstrom Sale Posts

Accessories and Beauty 

Shop Accessories

Shop Beauty

Workwear and Workout

Shop Workwear

Shop Workout

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Our 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.

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Before COVID, J.Crew planned to take their Madewell brand public and pay down much of their long term debt. Then the world turned sideways, they shelved the IPO and filed for bankruptcy to restructure.

Since then, dozens of retail brands have followed suit, including Ann Taylor brands (insert sobbing emoji).

J.Crew and J.Crew Factory have long been a top seller here at The Well Dressed Life. Few American brands produce modern, fun, wearable pieces that feel both practical and special, go from work to the weekend, and serve all sizes.

When I say all sizes, I mean all sizes. From regular and petite to tall, and 00 – to 3X.

Happily, it seems like they are getting back on track, and their new arrivals are full of what they do best – preppy wardrobe must-haves, with some irreverent prints and gorgeous colors.

As for price points, it’s going to be interesting to see, post-pandemic, how retail in general levels out pricing. For the last four months, customers were inundated with nonstop sales.

Their biggest challenge will be finding a balance around prices feeling affordable to the consumer, room for a profit, and bandwidth to continue producing sizes at scale and investing in more ethical and environmentally responsible manufacturing.

We’ll see how that pans out soon rather than later. For now, lets go shopping, because they have some fantastic pieces at even better prices. 

What to Buy at J.Crew Mid Summer

 

 

 

Linen Tunic

Linen Tunic Originally $85, marked down to $34!

This simple tunic is perfect if you are looking for a lightweight top with some extra coverage. Available in white, sunset and black, from XXS -3X. pair it with slim lined summer weight bottoms, or, how I’ll wear it, with denim shorts. 

Slide Sandals

Slide Sandals Originally $128, marked down to $64!

These are the chicest flat sandals. They are also available in black and red, but the natural (above) is by far the most sophisticated. Pair them with wide leg linen pants in a neutral, or a crisp white sun dress.  All sizes are still available. 

 

Bow Tank

 

Bow Tank Originally $98, marked down to $49!

If you can pull this tank off, scoop it up! It’s so fun and fresh. Wear it with skinny white jeans and wedges or, if you are petite, a pair of white shorts for a hot summer night of hanging with friends. 

Midi Dress

Midi Dress Originally $118, marked down to $70!

I immediately added this to my cart. Dresses have quickly become my warm-weather work from home go-to. I love how they are comfortable, cool, and easy to maneuver in, especially since I’m up and down all day with the baby. They idea of “throw on and go” has become so popular, and pieces like this make it a breeze to feel pretty, be productive, and easily sneak out for a cocktail at the end of the day;) Sizes range for 00 – 16. 

V-Back Dress

V-Back Dress Originally $148, marked down to $88!

This is a GREAT dress for either work in the summer with a pair of comfortable pair of heels or travel. I scooped this up to keep for my now rescheduled trip to Greece NEXT summer. But it will be perfect with flat sandals for day of sightseeing and lunch. It’s a cotton/stretch, so you can pack it, live in it, and wash it with no worries. Size range includes regular, petite and tall. 

Summer Blazer

Blazer Originally $168, marked down to $67!

Remember blazers? It may be 100 degrees for many of us this week, but this stretch linen blazer is too good to pass over (you can read all of its 5-star reviews here). Available in sizes regular, petite and tall, from a 00 – 24, I’m featuring the pink, but it’s also in white and olive. I would skip the olive, the top stitch looks odd. 

Crewneck Sweater

Crewneck Sweater Originally $75, marked down to $34!

This is what you wear when you want a top that is slightly better than a tee shirt. Available in a dozen colors, up to a 3X, pair it with everything from shorts, to maxi skirts, jeans or ankle pants. It’s a year round basics, that works on its own or layered under a blazer in the fall. 

Silk Pants

Silk Pant Originally $148, marked down to $63!

Perhaps five months of staying close to home and limited social interaction is starting to get to me, but I am wild for these pants. They are ideal for hanging around the house or at the beach, having a glass of wine with a friend outside. They are like a pair of pajamas but better. Wear it with a simple white tank or tee and your favorite flip flops. 

Scrunchie

Scrunchie Under $20

In the summer, I love the look of a scarf in a ponytail. But I can never get it so it stays in place all day. That’s why I always buy these scrunchie-scarves whenever I see them in pretty patterns. 

Shift Dress

 

Shift Dress Originally $98, marked down to $68!

In the Philadelphia area we are in a code red heat advisory. It’s so hot outside you can barely breathe. This dress would be perfect for a day like today, when you don’t want anything touching your body.  And the picture doesn’t do the dress a service.

This dress is so summer perfect. It is a linen blend shift with a button back detail. You can dress it up with wedges or espadrilles or dress it down with flip flops. Available in four colors and sizes regular, petite, and tall up to a 3X.

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Our 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.

 

 

Everything at Old Navy is 50% off online right now. The sale ends tonight at midnight. So let’s stock up on basics, work-from-home essentials, and some warm weather pieces we can look forward to wearing in a few weeks.

The current state of our world rests heavily on all of us. My family is on our 10th day of social distancing, while the state of PA is shut down.  The world is full of bad news and fear, but I refuse to operate like that. What we need are optimism and hope.

Because what’s the point if you’re not hopeful? So as we move through this as a country, and as our own little community of women, I’m keeping business as usual, dreaming of everything from morning meetings in the office to the first big get together with all of our families and friends. 

Our What to Buy at Series was designed to help weed through all the stuff in stores to highlight the best options for our readers. So in the spirit of normalcy, let’s take advantage of some sales. 

So here are my top picks from Old Navy’s new arrivals.

What to Buy at Old Navy

(price reflect sale price)

Striped Shirt, $12.50  |   Embroidered Dress, $20  |  Yellow Tee, $10  |  Black Floral Dress, $20 |  Pull On Cargo Pants, $17.50  |  Ankle Chinos, $17.50  |  Sweatshirt, $17.50  |  Linen Pants, $20  |  Jumpsuit, $22.50  |  Jacket, $25  |  Jeans, $17.50  |  Sheath Dress, $17.50 

I like Old Navy

They have a size range that includes everyone, their styles are updated and their quality is nice considering their price point. 

But shopping in their store is like navigating a warehouse. I hate it. 

I hate their hangers and crowded racks, the snake-like check out line and their giant plastic shopping bags. 

Their online experience is better, easier to navigate. You can actually see the merchandise. 

Striped Shirt, $12.50 

Everyone needs a striped boatneck tee. This one is only $12.50, so scoop it up. I have a post planned in April to show you how to wear it three ways. 

Embroidered Dress, $20 

I love this little $20 dress. I would grab it for the beach as a throw-on-and-go piece. Just add a flat sandal and your set. You’ll also appreciate the sizes: regular, petite and tall up to an XXL and in plus size here. 

Yellow Tee, $10 

If you can wear yellow (I can’t but wish I could) this cheerful shade will brighten your day now and in the summer months. The twist detail at the sleeve elevates this just enough so you can wear it on it’s own without feeling like you need to add to it. 

Tip: Skip the stripped options, these look inexpensive, but the black, grey and yellow are fantastic. 

Black Floral Dress, $20

When this debacle ends, many of us will still be home-based. So I’m trying to find pieces that are even simpler then jeans and leggings (or pajamas) that feel dressed with little to no effort.

I ordered this black floral dress to wear in my office at home and will pair it with a fresh pair of white sneakers. So easy, so sweet. 

Pull On Cargo Pants, $17.50 

Boy do I love these. Kind of like a sweat pant mixed with a jogger, these pull on cargos come in four colors. 

I featured “panther” above because it’s a fresh neutral. Throw it on with a basic tee, add a denim jacket if your running out and a simple pair of flats and you are dressed in seconds. 

Ankle Chinos, $17.50 

An ankle chino in some preppy, cheerful colors seem so hopeful right now. These are a nice alternative to a capri. They come in a range of sizes including missy, petite and tall, and plus size here. 

Skip the white option – it’s too see through. 

Sweatshirt, $17.50 

You need to see this sweatshirt on the model because it’s ridiculously cute. I featured it in grey (above) but it’s also in a fun leopard, a white and navy stripe ideal for days at the beach, and basic black. 

Made of french terry, it’s cozy, and the draw string bottom gives it some shape. I’m buying it in stripe and grey. 

Linen Pants, $20 

Lightweight, easy to throw own, better alternative to capris, these linen cropped pants are only $20. 

Jumpsuit, $22.50 

There is no real practical reason to own this jumpsuit, I just think it’s sweat and prime for a warm weather vacation. In the gooseberry (above) it looks the sophisticated. Wear it with flat, neutral-to-you sandals, and small clutch for a summer date night local, or somewhere fantastic. 

Jacket, $25 

This jacket is selling out fast and for good reason. It’s another sorta-like-a-sweatshirt piece but better. Done in a brushed cotton, it feels tailored, so you can wear it with a pair of jeans and sneakers and loafers for a polished but still casual outfit. 

Jeans, $17.50 

I recommend Old Navy’s Rock Star Skinny Jeans all the time. At regular price they are $35, on sale for $17.50 they are a steal. They are perfect if you are on a smaller budget, or if you need a few pairs to hold you over. I wore these for a few months after I had my girls. It felt nice to be in a real pair of jeans, without spending a ton on pair I wasn’t going to need for long. 

Sheath Dress, $17.50 

This continues to be the best selling dress in the history of this site. It’s beauty is how basic it is. Done in a double knit, with a little stretch, you can wear it pretty much anywhere and for anything. I like it with flats like the model, or sneakers and a denim jacket. 

It comes in regular and tall, up to an XXL and a plus size version here. 

Sweatshirt, $17.50

This runs small, I’m wearing the large. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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🌸Having trouble being productive while working at home? . Me too. And I do this all the time. . Here’s a tip: put on shoes! . I know, I know, I love my slippers too. . But when we really need to get a lot done in a small window, there’s something about being fully dressed that sets a more serious mood. . So here’s today’s outfit, this pink tie dye sweatshirt, distressed jeans, ankle boots. . Easy-peasy . 👆🏼For outfit details follow the link in my profile and click ”Shop my Outfits” 💕

A post shared by The Well Dressed Life (@thewelldressedlife) on Mar 19, 2020 at 8:42am PDT

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