Banana Republic Factory is what Banana Republic used to be, just a few years ago.
It is infinitely better, offering shockingly chic and a hundred times more affordable merchandise.
I said it last season, and it’s true going into spring, Banana Republic has gone off the rails. Their website is impossible to navigate and their prices even make me pause.
They still offer classic wardrobe-building pieces, but you’ll spend hours digging through their website. So don’t bother, I do that for you when they finally offer a rare sale.
But after only a minute on the Banana Republic Factory website, I had a dozen items saved.
I’ve been in retail for 20 years, starting my career as a buyer and eventually running my own businesses, so it takes a lot to get me excited.
But between their styles, size range, and price points, I am genuinely thrilled to share these options.
What to Buy at Banana Republic Factory
So what’s the difference between the Banana Republic and Banana Republic Factory?
Well, Gap Inc owns both.
Banana Republic is their mainstream brand, marketed as a low-end luxury retailer, while Factory is the less expensive version.
And their Factory store is NOT an outlet. Just like J.Crew Factory, the clothing is specifically designed and manufactured for the store.
Here’s where I think they are messing up.
In the case of J.Crew / J. Crew Factory, the merchandise is entirely different.
J.Crew is more sophisticated and elegant, while their Factory store is generally more casual. So it’s easy to shop at both because they each fill a different void.
But with Banana Republic / Banana Republic Factory, I think they look the same.
Maybe this is just because I’m staring down the barrel of having to pay for three college tuitions sooner rather than later, but I’m tired of everythingunder the sun being so expensive.
And at the end of the day, this is still a Gap brand, so they need to calm down.
So let’s go shopping because there are SO MANY good finds at great prices, and you can take an extra 15% off of your order of over $125 (no code needed).
Sizing
They offer a nice range in both regular and petite sizes in XXS – XXL.
Their XXS is a 00 and their XXL is a 20. I tend to wear either a medium or a large, but note everything I have bought in a large I have had altered down. So I basically buy the large if the medium is just a little too small.
Volume-Sleeve Blouse
Need a blouse for work?
Look no further than this updated split neck blouse with gathered shoulders and full cuffed sleeve.
Available in several gorgeous colors, including black and white in regular and petite, in XXS – XXL.
Melton Utility Jacket
It’s not easy to find fresh, new looking layers, so I JUMPED on this short, modern jacket available in grey or tan (below) in regular and petite sizes, XXS – XXL.
Note: Because of the beautiful banded detail, you want to keep your under piece simple. The neckline of the under piece in the product picture is perfect.
Pair with your favorite cut dark jeans (I’ll use a pair of bootcut).
Classic Cotton Shirt
When I think of a springtime basic, a classic cotton, button down shirt is top of mind.
I just ordered this one, in “crescent navy” in a wider stripe. You can also pick up a traditional tight blue stripe or a camel and blue combo.
Available in regular and petite in XXS – XXL.
Pair with any-legged jean in a dark or light wash, white bottoms, twill pants or, my favorite, shorts.
Cowl-Neck Top
Years ago when I dressed private clients, Nordstrom sold a similar style, cowl-neck sleeveless top, and I sold hundred of them.
This is the closest I’ve found since then.
It’s the perfect layering piece for under a blazer, if you want something other than a basic tank. You can put it under any cardigan, or wear it alone.
The cowl-neck drape gives it dimension and, while it’s sleeveless, your shoulders are still covered.
Available in XXS – XXL, in six easy to wear, and mix colors.
Long Faux Leather Jacket
Are you KIDDING me?
This looks like a major splurge, but it’s only $100. I don’t where I’m going, but I’ll look chic getting there.
Available in XXS – XXL, I ordered the large.
In a timeless cognac color, this piece has lasting power in your closet.
Cotton Blazer
We regularly receive requests for natural fabric pieces, so I always have my eye out for good options.
One is this tailored cotton blazer, available in navy or white in regular and petite in 0 – 20.
Just a lovely year round wardrobe staple.
Please note, this is priced at $98 and is excluded from the promotion.
Johnny-Collar Sweater
When you want something that’s more than a tee shirt but not a bulky sweater, this lightweight collared knit is it.
Featured below in a trend-right blue, also available in cream, black or camel in XXS – XXL.
Forever Stripe Sweater
If you love the look of a striped top but feel like they may make you look wide, consider it in a v-neck.
Like this one in charcoal or neutral stripe.
Available in XXS – XXL for $42.
Sloan Slim Plaid Pant
We don’t feature many print or patterned bottoms, but in a neutral color combo they can be a fantastic option in your closet.
Available in blue plaid (below) or in a brown combination in regular and petite, in 0 -20.
Keep your top simple, like a Quince sweater or the popular Amazon Turtleneck.
Curvy Highrise Bootcut Jeans
These are as close to a trouser jean as I’ve found in the last several years.
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