Tag: Banana Republic

It’s Pants Weather

Sadie1 Comment

I have many friends who really enjoy wearing tights in the winter. I do not. I will do it on occasion, when they outfit and the weather requires it, but when the temperature drops- it’s pants time for me.

To my credit, however, I do my best to keep the pants interesting. I have many of the standard navy and black options, but I try to broaden the typical pant color pallet. I have not one, but three pair of pink pants, all in different shades. It can be tough finding pants that flatter your figure. I’ve been sticking to a slimmer leg lately, but I throw in the occasional trouser when needed. Here are a few that have worked well for me this winter.

JCrew’s Cameron Slim Crop

The inseam is a little short (hence the “crop” label), but these are a good standard pencil pant that come in some cute colors. I have a bright blue (so hot right now), and kind of dark chambray. I waited until they were on sale. I would imagine (or hope) they’ll keep the silhouette and bring in some new colors this spring. Also, they are machine wash!!!

Loft’s Pencil Pant in Marisa Fit

These are one of the shades of pink I have. Muted pink tones are really trendy right now, and The Loft is perfect for trend shopping because I spent less than $50 on them. And once again, machine washable!

JCrew’s Martie Slim Crop

These are a little closer to what I would call a pixie pant than the Cameron above. They have a side zip instead of a fly for a sleeker silhouette. They’re basically a more structured legging that’s not quite as clingy as a true legging. I got them in navy. Also, machine washable (do you see a trend)!

Banana Republic’s Devin Fit Legging

Though these are called a legging, their fabric is a little more work appropriate. The fabric is thicker, and therefor leaves a little more to the imagination than a typical cotton/spandex legging. These are a Friday pant for me. I have them in black and light gray. Machine washable!!!

Ann Taylor’s Double Cloth Devin Fit Ankle Pant

These are slightly less body conscious than the other options even though it’s a similar fit. For whatever reason, I wear these pants when I’m out of ideas and I just need pants and a blouse that I can be comfortable in all day at work. I like that I can tuck a blouse into them or wear a sweater that does tuck in, and both options look good. Ann Taylor is always on sale, so it’s easy to find them at 50% off. I have them in black and olive. Again, no dry cleaning needed.

Did you notice that they’re all machine washable? Most similar styles used to be dry clean only at these retailers. I think retailers took a hint that people are tired of paying to dry clean every last thing. I’m happy they caught on, and I hope that all of these hold up in the wash!

Fall Staples: My Sweater Wardrobe Standbys

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So I’m just going to pretend that the high today isn’t 89 degrees, because I’m ready for sweater weather. Here are the basics that I need in my sweater wardrobe every year.

  1. Chunky White Sweater– I would wear one everyday if I could. The cable look is so classic and it goes with everything. By everything, I mean all of my jeans.

2. Fine Knit Black Turtleneck– My go-to when I’m out of ideas. I throw this on with pretty much any skirt or dress pants for work. Not everyone likes wearing a traditional turtleneck but I think it’s so flattering.

3. Jewel Tone Long Cardigan– A basic for work. I love a long cardigan with basic black dress or a white blouse and dress pants. It’s good for days when a blazer just seems like too much. I like to have a couple lightweight, washable cardigans on hand in jewel tones that go well with black and navy.

4. Cowl Neck Tunic– this is every winter weekend with jeans or leggings. I love a cowl neck because it’s warm, comfy, and still put together if you’re heading out of the house.

5. Camel Fine Knit V-Neck/Crew Neck– I love a camel sweater with navy dress pants. It’s old school preppy which is not usually my style but it’s so easy, I’ll take it.

6. Something trendy– I need at least one or two trendier sweaters that I can throw on for brunch with friends when I’m trying to look a little more “with it.” There are so many sweater trends this year, you can take your pick: chenille, off the shoulder, eyelash, bell sleeves, ruffles, rib knit…

What are your go-to sweaters every year?

Where I Got That

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I’ve noticed that I tend to go to the same stores for the same items. Do you do that too? There are always exceptions, but often when I need a blouse I go here, when I want a new jacket I go there. You know what I mean?

Gap: I think I’m a little old for the Gap but I love it for tees, tanks, shorts, and sometimes jeans. Basically weekend wear. They usually have some cute but comfortable casual shirts, and they’re always on sale.

Ann Taylor: I buy a lot of blouses for work from Ann Taylor. I like them because they’re work appropriate but usually machine washable. It doesn’t hurt that they often have sales. I also buy an assortment of pencil skirts and the occasional sheath dress or dress pant.

Loft: I’ll buy inexpensive, washable sweaters and tops from Loft. Sometimes I’ll get a pair of pants, but their shorts don’t fit me. The sweaters aren’t the best quality but if I get them on sale I’m ok if they only last a season or two. They have solid good looking long cardigans this season! I also like their Lou and Grey line for comfy attire.

Banana Republic: Banana is my spot for dress pants. I also get a bunch of dresses and the occasional blazer or blouse there as well. It’s mainly work attire for me. I’m not really into their jeans, and their sweaters are often too pricey or too fussy.

JCrew: I have four pairs of the same jeans in different washes from JCrew. I also love a JCrew suit and the occasional work dress. I try to wait for the 30% off sales.

JCrew Factory: This is my go to for shorts and washable summer sweaters and cardigans. I’m buying less and less from Factory these days because I don’t think the quality is that great, but sometimes you don’t need the fanciest version.

Anthropologie: I’ll get the occasional statement piece from Anthro, but I often only get earrings and scarves there. I think it’s more my style to wear a really classic neutral outfit with interesting accessories.

Nordstrom: Coats are my favorite thing. I usually buy them from Nordstrom along with shoes and a special occasion dress from time to time.

Lands End: Lands End is great option for sweaters and sporty outerwear. As chic as the new athleisure brands are, Lands End athletic outerwear options are a lot more affordable and functional. An oldie, but a goodie.

So those are the heavy hitters, but you know I’m always keeping my eyes open on all the department stores, some newer places like South Moon Under, shoes spots like DSW and Nine West, and all of the athletic apparel spots!

What are your standby brands/ stores?