Banana Republic has a new line of elevated essentials: BR Standard. They’ve created basics with luxe details and better fits that just feel…effortless (and perfect for every day). I immediately fell in love with their Scuba-Knit Hoodie, On the Go Leggings, and Essential Trainer Sneakers (ooh, I’m picturing each of them in that olive green color — how cute would that be??).
A Must-Have Button-Up & Go-To Pants: BR Standard Has My New Wardrobe Essentials
But then I remembered I don’t have a single white button-up. Oh, yeah. You know, that one essential shirt that everyone should own? The one you can style multiple ways and with all the things? That one. I can never find one because they’re always too tight around the bottom (hello hips & booty) or too big up top. I’m also picky because I want one that I can wear tucked in OR left out without it looking sloppy. So I decided to try the oversized tech stretch shirt from their new line — and guess what? I found my shirt.
shirt (xs) | pants (8s) | sandals (run small) | necklace
The Oversized Tech-Stretch Shirt: A BR Standard Must-Have
That oversized fit is perfect. It’s not sloppy-looking when I wear it untucked and I love that the hemline curves slightly and is just a touch longer in the back. It’s made to be breathable, quick-drying, moisture-wicking, and stretchy. Plus, it’s machine-washable and dryer-friendly — something I can’t do without. (And the fabric actually got softer after I washed and dried it!) There’s also a hidden side pocket for a mask, key, credit card, ID, etc., that’s super-convenient. The shirt also comes in black, as well as in regular, petite and tall sizes. I tried both the small and the extra-small, and ultimately liked the xs a bit better because of the shoulders — my shoulders are much narrower than my lower half, which is what usually makes finding a button-up that fits almost impossible. So I’m VERY happy to have found this one that looks good whether tucked in or left out.
High-Rise Skinny-Fit Luxe Sculpt Pant: A BR Standard Go-To
Now let’s talk about these wear-with-everything pants. They’re wrinkle-resistant, packable, stretchy and machine-washable. Based on the rave reviews, I had to try them. Since some reviewers said to size up, I ordered four different sizes to make sure I got the right fit. Ultimately the size 8, one size up from my typical size 6, was perfect — and the short length was perfect for my 5’4″ frame. And these pants? Really are as awesome as they say. My favorite part is that there’s no front closure…something that usually adds bulk exactly where I don’t want it. The pockets on the side are zippered, too, so they don’t stick out (another place that typically adds bulk where I don’t want it). There’s a center back seam with a 2.5″ vented hem that creates just a bit of space, so they’re not super-tight at the bottom and don’t ride up. You can easily dress them up or down, and they’d look just as good with a sporty jacket (see the pic of the model wearing that exact thing) as they would with a fancy top.
Add Accessories To Elevate Your Basics
I had a great time coming up with different ways to style my new favorite basics. I grabbed a necklace and popped the collar just a bit to show it off.
Then I buttoned the shirt all the way up and layered the necklace on top.
Zack helped me create a pocket square from the neckerchief I had…
And I’m kind of loving that whole vibe!
Of course I had to try the scarf in my hair — I just rolled it up, tied it at the top, and wrapped the ends under.
And then wrapped it around my ponytail and tied up the shirt at the waist…I love how versatile these pieces are!
Outfit Details
Shirt: Oversized Tech-Stretch Shirt (xs was perfect–oversized but not overwhelming, and not too tight in the body) — Also in black, this is such a good find for someone who has a hard time finding button-ups that fit. (Machine washable too!)
Pants:High-Rise Skinny-Fit Luxe Sculpt Pant (I sized up one to an 8S — available in regular, short and long lengths, as well as petite sizes)–These come in black, navy, olive green and beige, and there’s a matching blazer available that also comes in regular, petite and tall sizes!
Sandals: Bare High-Heel Sandal (I sized up to an 8–the 7.5 was sold out–and they’re perfect) — I’ve always loved Banana’s shoes because they’re such good quality. This pair comes in a number of different neutrals, and I love that the strap across the middle isn’t too tight–I have high arches and can almost never wear shoes like this.
Necklace: Triple Layer Round Pendant Necklace — Banana has a ton of awesome necklaces right now, perfect for creating that layered look without having to actually wear — and fasten — multiple strands. This one comes with a number of closures to get the length you’re looking for. (I’m also loving this chunky chain!)
Scarf: Heart Print Diamond Neckerchief — I’m into the pop of red (and little black hearts for Valentine’s Day 😍) but I’m also loving these prints, especially the abstract dot print.
Shop Banana Republic For More Favs From The BR Standard Line
XOXO,
Scotti
A HUGE thank you to Banana Republic and ShopStyle for sponsoring this post! Banana has been a go-to of mine for years now and I loved trying your new line. And thank you, Abby for the awesome pics–always such fun to work with you! And readers, thank you so much for your continued support. It is SO appreciated and does not go unnoticed!
