I’m a Shopping Director and Live in Banana Republic—These Are the 40 Items I Think Are the Chicest Now
Welcome to Retail Therapy—Who What Wear Shopping Director Bobby Schuessler’s digest of everything that matters in shopping. He spends his days uncovering special gems to elevate a wardrobe, and it’s all curated right here for you, dear readers. Think of Bobby as your personal shopper, and this is the exclusive list of items that get a yes from him, period.
I could write 10 pages on my adoration for Banana Republic, but I’ll spare you and keep this tight because there’s shopping to do. To sum it up, BR is legit at the moment. Like, very legit. The collections continue to get stronger, featuring pieces that exude luxury thanks to directional designs and modern cuts. Take note of the green suit above paired with the ruched loafers I won’t stop talking about. (Literally—I speak about them weekly on my Instagram.) Below is an edit of my favorite Banana Republic pieces for both women and men, along with styling pieces to inspire your summer outfit game.
Oversize Linen Shirt
Banana Republic
The Oversized Linen Shirt
I highlight linen shirts weekly across the content I create at Who What Wear, and this under-$100 Banana Republic find is one I’m going to be screaming about for the next month. The silhouette is perfectly oversize without being too much, and it’s actually made from 100% certified European linen. I adore this vibrant pink, but it comes in other colors as well.
Styling Pieces
Banana Republic
The Everyday Wide-Leg Linen Pant
Sensi Studio
Mini Straw Picnic Bag
Banana Republic
Fisherman Sandal
Linen Dress
Banana Republic
Linen Mini Dress
Can you even with this adorable linen minidress? The details are particularly noteworthy. The empire waist and the pretty ties in the back give it an even more expensive-looking feel. It’s one of those throw-on-and-go pieces—add sandals and a bag, and you’re ready to go.
Styling Pieces
Le Specs
Outta Love Sunglasses
Banana Republic
Raffia Tote Bag
Banana Republic
Leather Slide Sandals
Halter Top
Banana Republic
Cotton Crochet Mesh Halter Top
Crochet is trending hard this summer. This halter top is made with mesh-like stitches that essentially mimic the look of crochet for an even more wearable and comfortable feel. Style this tank with your favorite shorts, or commit to the look with the coordinating skirt.
Styling Pieces
Banana Republic
Cotton Crochet Mesh Skirt
Banana Republic
Boxy Linen Short-Sleeve Shirt
Banana Republic
Italian Leather Strappy Kitten-Heel Sandal
Linen Maxi Skirt
Banana Republic
Linen Pull-On Maxi Skirt
Vacation vibes. I repeat, vacation vibes. Whether you’re actually heading out or want the feel of a getaway in your hometown, this vibrant linen skirt with the matching peplum top is exactly what you need to embody that tropical vacay aesthetic.
Styling Pieces
Banana Republic
Strapless Linen Peplum Top
Banana Republic
Terzo Leather Kitten-Heel Sandal
Banana Republic
Raffia Clutch
Linen Pants
Banana Republic
Linen Pull-On Ankle Pant
Okay, I talk about linen pants just as much as I rave about linen shirts. (See above.) This drawstring style is equal parts easy and stylish. It’s one of those silhouettes you’ll reach for multiple times per week to wear with your favorite tops. I’m all about yellow, but yes, there are so many other colors available.
Styling Pieces
Banana Republic
The Everyday Linen Shirt
Banana Republic
Refined Bralette
Banana Republic
Leather Knot Slide Sandal
Linen Vest
Banana Republic
Linen Button-Front Vest
A vest is synonymous with chicness. Whenever someone asks me for shopping advice, I recommend some sort of gilet for a modern and relevant look. Go for the vest alone or opt for the coordinating shorts for a sleek, monochromatic look this summer.
Styling Pieces
Banana Republic
High-Rise Linen 3-Inch Short
Sensi Studio
Two-Tone Straw Bucket Bag
K.Jacques
Epicure Flat Sandals
Linen Shorts
Banana Republic
High-Rise Linen Bermuda Short
In the market for great high-rise shorts? Here you go. This style comes in both the cream and brown. I paired them with this stunning high-low open-back tank to showcase how to dress up the shorts, but you could obviously style them with a tank or tee to keep it simple.
Styling Pieces
Banana Republic
Linen High-Low Open-Back Tank
Aureus + Argent
Elliptical Earrings
Banana Republic
Italian Leather Slingback Pump
Men’s Blazer
Banana Republic
Relaxed Double-Breasted Tencel-Linen Suit Jacket
This is the suit I’m wearing above. I actually did an unboxing video of this piece on my socials, and it hit. The color is divine, and the cut is forward and striking. I paired it with the ruched loafers I won’t shut up about because they look designer and are wildly comfortable.
Styling Pieces
Banana Republic
Authentic Supima T-Shirt
Banana Republic
Tencel-Linen Wide-Leg Suit Pant
Banana Republic
Leather Moc-Toe Loafer
Men’s Jeans
Banana Republic
Loose Jean
I own these jeans and get compliments on them regularly. They look and feel high-end. I adore the white as an alternative to regular blue jeans for summer. Styling them with a lightweight roll-neck sweater and a cool belt is fresh and fashionable.
Styling Pieces
Banana Republic
Linen Roll-Neck Sweater
Banana Republic
Tamalpais Braided Leather Belt
Banana Republic
Leather Slide Sandals
Men’s Polo
Banana Republic
Ribbed Terry Polo
Keep it comfy and cool with this terry polo. As you can see from many of the picks above, I’m all about a matching set, so the coordinating shorts are where it’s at. Also, can we please take a moment for the shoes and bag here? Bye.
Styling Pieces
Banana Republic
5-Inch Ribbed Terry Short
Banana Republic
Canvas & Suede Weekend Tote
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