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What to Buy at Banana Republic FACTORY

Banana Republic Factory has become one of our readers most favorite brands for years now. BFR as I refer to it is what Banana Republic use to be – only better. Their collection is shockingly chic, and the prices are far more affordable, making it a go-to for stylish finds without the sticker shock.

So, what’s the difference between Banana Republic and Banana Republic Factory?

Both are owned by Gap Inc.

Banana Republic is positioned as a mainstream, low-end luxury brand, while Banana Republic Factory offers more budget-friendly options.

And here’s the key: Banana Republic Factory is not an outlet. Similar to J.Crew Factory, the clothing is specifically designed and produced for the store.

Now, here’s where I see things going sideways.

With J.Crew and J.Crew Factory, the merchandise is distinctly different. J.Crew leans more sophisticated and polished, while the Factory store offers a more casual vibe. It’s easy to shop both because they each serve a different purpose in your wardrobe.

But with Banana Republic and Banana Republic Factory, the lines blur. The styles are so similar that I often wonder if it’s worth paying the premium for Banana Republic when Factory offers nearly the same look at a fraction of the cost.

For example, take a look at these two blazers currently for sale:

Banana Republic Boyfriend Leather Blazer, $500 vs. Banana Republic Factory Vegan Leather Blazer, $85

On the left, we have a leather boyfriend blazer from Banana Republic priced at $500. Yes, it’s leather, so the higher price is expected. But when you head over to Banana Republic Factory, you’ll find an incredibly similar style in vegan leather for under $100.

Honestly, how many times are you going to wear a $500 leather blazer to justify the price?

Plus, the BRF vegan blazer offers a more flattering, timeless cut, compared to the oversized boyfriend fit of the Banana Republic version.

Ladies, I’m feeling some serious price fatigue, and my priorities have shifted. I’d love to retire someday, but with three kids’ college tuition looming, the vegan blazer makes so much more sense.

Now, let’s get to the fun part!

There are so many great finds at Banana Republic Factory right now, new arrivals are 50% off and you can take an extra 20% our order.

What to Buy at Banana Republic Factory

Soft Luxe Turtleneck Top

Soft Luxe Turtleneck Top is a versatile and gorgeous base layer that also allows you to comfortably take off your jacket and still feel dressed.

I love the color options, available in ten colors, in sizes XXS – XXL for $30 with an extra 20% off at checkout.

1

Soft Luxe Turtleneck Top

Banana Republic Factory

$30.00

Double Twill Polo Sweatshirt

I always get excited when I find an elevated sweatshirt for this time of year, and this double twill polo is absolutely perfect.

It comes in gray, ivory, and navy, with sizes ranging from XXS to XXL, all for just $45 (plus an extra 20% off at checkout!). Pair it effortlessly with straight-leg jeans and your go-to fall sneakers for an instant, chic and casual look.

2

Double Twill Polo Sweatshirt

Banana Republic Factory

$45.00

Vegan Leather Quilted Jacket

I have never added something to my cart so fast! This vegan leather quilted jacket is absolutely stunning.

Available in both regular and petite sizes, from XXS to XXL, priced at $120 plus an extra 20% off at checkout.

This piece is bound to sell out quickly. Don’t miss out!

3

Vegan Leather Quilted Jacket

Banana Republic Factory

$120.00

Vegan Leather Bootcut Trouser

These vegan leather bootcut trousers are another piece that’s sure to sell out. If you’ve worn your coated jeans to death over the past few seasons, this is the perfect update to keep your look fresh while maintaining that same cool vibe.

And at just $50, plus an extra 20% off at checkout, available in regular and petite sizes 24–35, they’re an absolute steal!

4

Vegan Leather Bootcut Pants

Banana Republic Factory

$50.00

Silky Relaxed Trousers

Priced like a pair of Amazon pants, these silky relaxed trousers are a fun and unique way to refresh your wardrobe. They could easily become a standout piece in your holiday capsule, especially in this gorgeous burgundy shade.

With ten additional colors to choose from, they’re available in regular and petite sizes 0–20 for just $36, plus an extra 20% off at checkout!

5

Silky Relaxed Trouser

Banana Republic Factory

$36.00

Off the Shoulder Sweater

To complement the trousers above, this off-the-shoulder sweater is a perfect match. The stunning pink shade pairs beautifully with either the vegan leather trousers or the burgundy bottoms for a chic, pulled-together look.

It’s also available in black and wine, with sizes ranging from XXS to XXL.

6

Off the Shoulder Sweater

Banana Republic Factory

$50.00

Vegan Leather Blazer

This vegan leather blazer is the perfect choice if you’re looking to refresh your wardrobe, elevate your workwear, or try something new—without the hefty price tag of a car payment.

Pair it with your favorite jeans or trousers for a luxurious, rich look that adds instant depth to any outfit.

Available in taupe (featured) or black, in both regular and petite sizes 0–18 for $85 plus 20% off at check out.

7

Vegan Leather Blazer

Banana Republic Factory

$85.00

Scuba Fitted Tee

Finally, their scuba-fitted tee is a true standout. It’s one of those elevated basics I’m always on the hunt for but are surprisingly hard to find.

The fabric is thick and stretchy, with sleek seam detailing that looks high-end, and the sleeves are perfectly cut for a flattering fit.

Available in four colors, in sizes XXS to XXL for $30, with an additional 20% off at checkout.

8

Scuba Fitted Tee

Banana Republic Factory

$30.00

What to Buy at Banana Republic FACTORY
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MEET THE AUTHOR

Megan Kristel

Megan Kristel is an entrepreneur, working mom, and former personal stylist. Tired of the one-dimensional portrayal of women online, she founded The Well Dressed Life as a resource for other professional women.

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Sherry

Tuesday 14th of November 2023

Hi, I love your fashion expertise. Are you able to provide any CANADIAN recommendations? Thank you very much!

NelliRose

Sunday 26th of March 2023

SO agree - I miss BR years ago. Thank you for sharing!

Julia

Tuesday 7th of February 2023

That jacket is stunning! I wear a petite side in jackets because my arms are short, but I ordered it anyway, hoping I’ll be able to get it altered. Fingers crossed!

Rebecca

Tuesday 7th of February 2023

I LOVE those plaid pants and just got a pair for work. The Sloan style is a perfect work pant WITH WORKING POCKET!!!

And I totally agree - I have bought a ton of stuff from BRF and almost nothing from BR lately - the styles are matter and the prices are reasonable for the quality. I don't mind paying more for amazing quality, bit just don't see the difference with BR as enough to justify the price hike!

Tammy Stokan

Tuesday 7th of February 2023

I loved this post -it checked several boxes for items I needed to update or add to my closet. Thank you for investing the time to find these selections for all of us! I really do like Banana Republic and BR Factory so always appreciate a round-up from either, but do agree that BR has lost touch with their customer base in terms of price-point. I ordered the both jackets and the striped button down - can't wait for them to arrive!

Teresa

Tuesday 7th of February 2023

Thank you for providing affordable options! I've completed your wardrobe challenge as well as I could. NOTHING in my closet matched my style board so I HAD to leave some things in my closet to wear. I lost myself as far as style when I turned 50. I felt like I was trying to dress like a teen or an 80-year-old frump. After retirement I resorted to worn out tees and shorts or jeans. For the couple of times a week I'm out and about I have a few dated/worn outfits that are on rotation. I'm trying to be better dressed but also finding that I need an entire wardrobe refresh.

Tracy

Tuesday 11th of October 2022

I agree 100% about BRF! I've been shopping there for over 2 years now after my local BR closed in Chadds Ford, PA area. I love their Forever Sweaters - in both crew neck and V neck - great layering sweaters with or without blazers (I just bought 4 - at $35 each). I also love Wide leg pants - and I got their flannel Wide leg pants in black - dress up or down - and the Parc Wide Leg plaid pants. I can't say enough about how great BRF is! The bonus is that by being a GAP Mastercard holder, I never 'pay' for any of the items since I have so many Reward $ to spend. It is a win-win.

Dana

Monday 10th of October 2022

I agree wholeheartedly. I love BR but I also believe their prices are unrealistic for their customer base. I find BR Factory to provide a nice alternative and great for adding interesting or textured pieces for reasonable prices. That being said, I have found sizing to be really off and inconsistent. So, it means a lot more trial and error. I loved the faux suede tops this season and honestly tried them all in different styles and sizes. None of them fit me well enough to keep. And while I like the double breasted blazer in photos, in person it looked a bit cheap and the fit was also off. Because they closed my nearest BR Factory store, I am a bit more wary of ordering as returning isn't as easy. And I hate to pay for return shipping. Anyway, thanks for your recommendations! I always appreciate your recommendations.

Kelly

Monday 10th of October 2022

Spot on Megan! I have noticed a decided shift toward more functional clothing at the Factory. I continue to agree with you on the “over-styling” situation that permeates both sites!

Pam

Monday 10th of October 2022

I happened to be at the Banana Republic Factory store this weekend, and I tried on that double-breasted blazer. I really wanted to like it; but the fit was a little off (tight through the shoulders; a little shorter than I wanted, and the sleeves were too long) and the buttons were distractingly nautical. With some tailoring and new buttons, I probably would like it but it was not enough to make me buy it. I did however pick up a pair of their coated jeans, which they still have in sporadic sizes in both "barn red" (which is actually brown) and black; and they were only $40. I also got some of their vintage stretch skinny jeans because yes, I still like them; which were under $40 and the dark wash is so nice and they wear well all day without the knees stretching out. I do love having this store nearby because the nearest Nordstrom from me is over an hour away and I like trying on my clothes before I buy them. I also stopped by the J Crew Factory store and got that plaid shirt you featured recently--thank you for that tip!