When we first received the Look Book for Banana Republic’s current collection, I was ecstatic to get the new product in-store. Although it wasn’t a huge departure from seasons past, Marissa Webb’s influence as the new Creative Director was most def on display (her new stuff will be in for Spring). All of the classic pieces are still there, but they’ve been injected with a little modernity. More texture, slimmer silhouettes, and an aesthetic that’s a little more street style makes it covetable: you can easily weave items from the collection into your current wardrobe so that you can stay true to your style, but update it a bit.

I got to play dress-up with my co-worker Nikki and style 3 different looks featuring some of our favorite pieces from the new collection (note: a few items are sold out ONLINE, so I linked to similar pieces in those instances. Check with your local BR bc they may still have items in stock):

LOOK ONE: Elevated Denim
Floral Scroll Blouse  + Coated Twill Skinny Ankle Pant

I love patterned silk blouses. They go with just about everything, and they’re a quick way to add some interest to your outfit without going too outside the box. The Coated Twill Pants are similar to denim, but the coating gives them a little more structure, making them a piece that will transition easily during the week for work (just top with a blazer) to weekend cocktails.

To get more wear out of the pieces, wear the blouse w/a suit, and pair the pants w/a slouchy sweater like this + riding boots once it starts to cool.

LOOK TWO: Sneaky Brights + Mixed Textures
Faux leather shell + Silk Popover Blouse + Patterned Sloan Pant

If you’re afraid to mix prints, another way to get a similar effect is by mixing textures. This cream faux leather shell is a strong piece on its own bc of the textured detail, but when fitted over a silky blouse (instead of the de rigueur crisp button down) and paired w/a small houndstooth print + lean cardie, the look is less classic prep and more new school chic. A large quilted tote seals the deal!

To get more wear out of the pieces, wear the long and lean cardigan with boyfriend jeans + Superga® , and keep the texture party going by wearing the popover blouse under a leather moto jacket with leggings + booties.

LOOK THREE: Quintessential LBD
Roland Mouret Lace-Sleeve Dress

Life comes at you fast, so it’s a must that every woman have a LBD (little black dress) in her arsenal. Dinner parties, work meetings, funerals, you name it, there WILL come a time that you will need a LBD, so one in a fitted silhouette with lace detail keeps you from blending in with the crowd.

To get more wear out of the pieces: a no-brainer is to mix up your baubles, but a styling tip I learned a few summers ago is to top slim fitting dresses with a tee or pullover sweater + a thin belt to the give the illusion of wearing 2 pieces instead of 1. No one will ever be the wiser!

To see #thenewBR and all that the collection has to offer (seriously, there are tons), visit www.bananarepublic.com. All Shoes + Accessories are from Banana Republic as well.

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