J. Crew Fall / Winter 2015
Let’s be honest: 9-to-5 office clothes don’t usually make for exciting runway presentations, especially when you’re competing with the likes of Luke Skywalker. But leave it to Jenna Lyons and Marissa Webb of J. Crew and Banana Republic, respectively, to make us look forward to work and fall. I was sitting at my cubicle during my lunch break when I audibly gasped at the J. Crew collection. Maybe it was the unexpected bright yellow accents, or the menswear-inspired coats that perfectly juxtapose feminine prints. The collection is smart and confident, as you would expect from J. Crew, with the added nod to the Seventies in keeping with the trends for fall and winter.
The Banana Republic debut show was a bit underwhelming (it didn’t make me gasp, for one) but there were a few looks that instantly caught my eye. Like the bright pink sweater dress layered over a gray turtleneck and a black and white leopard print statement coat. The collection looks more fashion-forward and youthful from what I remember of Banana Republic and I’m curious to see where the brand goes next.
Banana Republic Fall / Winter 2015
They each had their own all-gray ensembles, a major trend on the runway for fall and winter. I love the wide leg pants and cozy turtleneck from J. Crew. If there’s one thing that’s difficult to master during the winter, it’s how to look comfortable and put together for work; this outfit succeeds at both and could easily become a workplace staple. Can I please wear this to work tomorrow?
J. Crew Fall/Winter 2015
Banana Republic’s take on all gray incorporates black accents, and a sweater that’s indistinguishable from other sweaters you’d find at the mall. Are those cargo pants?! I can’t even… Surely, there are better styles to borrow from the boys. I don’t want to hate on Banana Republic, I just really want it develop its own voice and aesthetic that sets it apart from other mall brands, and that means taking more fashion risks.
Banana Republic Fall / Winter 2015
Which collection do you prefer?
