Style Admirer » Banana Republic

Mad for Mad Men Fashion

editor — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 03:44:17 +0000

From left to right: Louis Vuitton, Prada, Rochas and Marc Jacobs

Drama and scandal aren’t the only captivating things about Mad Men. Betty’s, Joan’s and Don’s wardrobes are leading characters themselves, attracting viewers with body con silhouettes and perfectly polished style. Now the clothes that have been driving us mad for three seasons are taking a starring role on the runway as well. For Fall 2010, the 60’s era is revisited via designs by Louis Vuitton, Prada, Nina Ricci and Rochas. Even stores like Banana Republic are taking cue from the Sunday night hit. Shapes such as structured bodices and full skirts in luxe fabrics put sexy, ladylike fashion back in the spotlight when menswear-inspired collections have become the norm. As we transition into a new season, we welcome this cinematic reference, trip back in time and return of womanly fashion. Thank you, Sterling Cooper Draper Price.

By Meghan Turner

Images courtesy of Louis Vuitton, Prada, Rochas and Marc Jacobs

Style Admirer Spring Picks: City Girl

editor — Mon, 24 May 2010 21:38:06 +0000

I was raised a suburban girl, but I was born to live in the city. From the shopping to the nightlife, Chicago has as many places to see as Sarah Jessica Parker has Manolos. These places—boutiques, festivals, parties, fashion shows, and more—beg for my attention, and I’m more than willing to oblige. Whether I’m heading to work or a wine bar, I’m a city girl on the go, so it’s important that my wardrobe keeps up with wherever the day and night takes me. Incorporating a sense of urban sophistication, comfortable silhouettes, and au courant trends, my spring must-haves are built around a day planner brimming with meetings, parties and, of course, shopping. Here’s how I’m able to look great all day without an unnecessary wardrobe change.

Clockwise from upper left:

1. Racerback tank in “Imperia Beige” ($50; Banana Republic). A basic that’s essential for summer layering.

2. White fitted button-up shirt ($44; Gap). A true classic that’s polished enough for day and easily accessorized for night.

3. Aviators by Gucci ($275; Nordstrom). Aviators add a slight edge to an otherwise understated outfit.

4. “Christine” black pump by Calvin Klein ($98; zappos.com). The cutout designs adds interest to a timeless heel.

5. Ankle Cigarette Jean by BDG ($40; Urban Outfitters). This skinny jean goes with everything, and the price is just right.

6. “Kali Tank” by Zamrie ($78; Zamrie; 1213 W Diversey Avenue, by appointment only). The hand-painted print on this silk top is breathtaking.

7. Fold-over bag by Marc by Marc Jacobs ($466; farfetch.com). When going from work to play, this bag has the storage room to carry everything I need.

8. Scalloped zipper cardigan in black ($98; J.Crew). This ladylike cardigan adds the finishing touch to a sundress or tank.

9. “Spring Break Scarf” ($18; Francesca’s Collections). This scarf adds a touch of color and is perfect for those breezy Chicago days.

10. Leather “Bailey” jacket by Cynthia Steffe ($525; Perchance; 3512 N. Southport Avenue). This lightweight yet luxurious jacket is my alternative to the omnipresent blazer.

By Danielle Parker

Images courtesy of Banana Republic, Gap, Nordstrom, zappos.com, Urban Outfitters, Zamrie, farfetch.com, J.Crew, Francesca’s Collections, and Perchance

Eternal Trend: The Trench Coat

editor — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 20:04:01 +0000

Fashion is fleeting and ever evolving, but there are some staples that remain in vogue season after season. The trench coat is one of those. A classic go-to for spring and fall, this jacket was invented during WWI to keep soldiers warm and dry, and now we wear it for the same reasons—but mostly for its undeniable style, of course. Even in its timelessness, the trench has been reconstructed in a variety of ways this season. From ruching to ruffles, the designs may not be totally traditional in form, but they’re no less fabulous. Whether you’re looking for your first trench, an upgrade, or a new style for your collection, spring 2010 is bringing us loads of options that pack wearability and flair, with all the chic connotations the trench implies.

Clockwise from upper left:

1. Classic trench in khaki from Banana Republic ($198)

2. Gray linen-blend trench coat from Old Navy ($50)

3. Mike & Chris “Marlton” trench with detachable hood ($341; Fix; 1101 W Fulton Street)

4. White trench with full skirt by Contrarian ($538; SHE Boutique)

5. Purple “Duchesse Silk Knotted Epaulette” trench coat by Burberry ($2,795)

6. “Ink Trench Coat” by ASOS ($111)

7. J.Crew‘s “Icon Trench” in light khaki ($298)

By Meghan Turner

Images courtesy of Banana Republic, Old Navy, Fix Boutique, SHE Boutique, Burberry, ASOS, and J.Crew

Hats Off to Fedoras

editor — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 17:02:51 +0000

During our cold and snowy Chicago winters, a hat must equate warmth. But as the temperatures climb, we look for headwear that packs more personality. Enter: the fedora. Traditionally worn by men, women can pull off this trendy accessory with ease and rock it better than many of their male counterparts. This hat was big for fall 2009 and will remain a hot topper for spring as well. As the fedora grows in popularity, the styles are getting more daring, giving this traditional accessory more individuality and flair. The straw style is both laid back and hip, while maintaining its distinct summer-time vibe. Whether you go with a style that has glitzy or classic accents, the choices are vast. Check out these straw fedoras that will surely earn a place on your spring shopping list.

Clockwise from upper left:

Nordstrom straw fedora ($38; Nordstrom)

Eugenia Kim “Max” fedora with crystal band ($248; shopbop.com)

Express fedora with short brim and stripped ribbon trim ($35; Express)

Banana Republic straw fedora ($35; Banana Republic)

Eugenia Kim “Toyo” straw fedora with crystal mesh band ($234; singer22.com)

By Danielle Parker

Images courtesy of Nordstrom, shopbop.com, Express, Banana Republic, and singer22.com

Trending: Statement Rings

editor — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 19:31:31 +0000

Forget dainty and classically pretty rings. These days there’s an influx of statement and costume styles, and the idea is to go big and go bold. With no prerequisite for a special occasion, you can wear these chunky pieces day or night, instantly upping the edge and individuality of your look. Here’s some statement rings bound to attract serious attention to your digits.

Clockwise from upper left:

Jeffrey Alters rose gold and diamond skull ring ($2,350; jeffreyalters.com)
Homeroom 18k gold two-finger bar ring ($106; tobi.com)
Express rhinestone burst ring ($30; express.com)
Noir Jewelry “Owen the Owl” ring ($135; noirjewelry.com)
Banana Republic “Knots n’ Chains” ring ($40; bananarepublic.com)
Marcia Moran druzy stone ring ($239; shopharmonylane.com)

By Danielle Parker