Why I Prefer Banana Republic Factory

I have been a Banana Republic fan for decades. Fun fact, I almost worked for the company twice back when I worked in retail and apparel. Both times my current job countered to keep me but I wonder how different my life would have been if I made the switch. I have always loved the aesthetic, but the fit has been hit or miss over the years. But one place where the fit seems to work best for me as a grown woman is Banana Republic Factory.

Why I Prefer Banana Republic Factory for Grown Women

Factory clothing is a similar aesthetic to the parent brand, but designed to cost less. This can be by creating simpler patterns, using cheaper fabrics and notions, and/or more cost-effective manufacturing processes. This is often the same for the brand name items you find at stores like Marshall's and T.J.Maxx. But just like some really great pieces you find at Marshall's, not all outlet clothing is created equal. And I have found over the years that Banana Republic Factory offers great style, great quality, and more consistent of fit and that fit seems to work better with my grown woman body, which is a bit softer than my 20-something bod that almost worked for Banana.

My Favorite Items from Banana Republic Factory as a Grown Woman

You, the members of the Wardrobe Oxygen community, have shared you have the same love for Banana Republic Factory, finding great workwear, weekend wear, linen separates in the summer and sweaters in the winter. Right now Banana Republic Factory has 50-70% off the entire site and I thought it a good time to share some of my picks from one of my favorite places to shop as a woman over 40.

Forever Crewneck Sweater

Made from 60% cotton and 40% Birla Livaeco™ (a strong but silky eco-viscose), the Forever Crewneck Sweater is soft but durable, doesn't pill easily, has saturated color, keeps its shape, and if you treat it well, will give you years of stylish wear. Size up for a more relaxed fit; your regular size can also work as a shell under blazers and soft jackets. A bestseller for years, this sweater is a great buy especially during a BR Factory sale.

Merino Wool Johnny Collar Sweater

100% extrafine Merino wool that is machine washable, this lightweight drapey sweater is the perfect piece for the office when you want warmth but still the elegance of a blouse or shell. The Merino Wool Johnny Collar Sweater is also is a lovely piece to wear on weekends or everyday with jeans and more casual of trousers. Not heavy, but still warm, this is a classic piece that transcends trends and gets great ratings for quality and fit.

Sculpted Suiting Collection

Made from 35% recycled polyester, 32% polyester, 28% rayon, and 5% elastane spandex, the Sculpted Suiting Collection is a sturdy weight, wrinkle-resistant, versatile collection that can go from the mall to the boardroom to after-work drinks. Great everyday pants, they match with the blazers to create stylish suiting. And while the jacket should be dry cleaned, the pants are machine washable.

• The Sculpted Stretch Blazer is a timeless one-button blazer available in regular and petite that gets rave reviews for fit and quality.
• I'm a fan of the Sculpted High-Rise Bootcut Trouser, which isn't too tight and has the bit of flare that looks modern and cool. Available in Regular, Petite, and Tall, this is a great everyday pant especially in winter as the subtle bootcut balances chunky sweaters.
• The Wide-Leg High-Rise Sculpted Trouser is an elegant classic that isn't too wide but has gorgeous drape. The fit looks good with tucked-in tops as well as hip-length items untucked. These pants also come in Regular, Petite, and Tall.

Weekender Loungewear Collection

Pretty much every apparel retailer these days has some version of elevated sweats. The Weekender Loungewear Collection from Banana Republic is thick, refined, doesn't shrink, doesn't easily pill, and looks expensive. I also think some of the pieces are nice enough that if paired with more traditional separates, can be worn into the workplace. Made from 55% cotton and 45% polyester, I find it durable and appreciate the pockets!

• The Weekender High-Rise Wide-Leg Pant looks expensive with the double stitching around the pockets and the back darts. You can totally rock these with a sweater or knit blazer to the office on Fridays. Available in Regular and Tall.
• Better for us shorties, but the Weekender Twist Sweatshirt is so cool looking, I also like it over a fitted turtleneck so you can keep your stomach warm even if you raise your arms. This sweatshirt also looks cute with midi skirts.
• The Weekender Oversized Sweatshirt is so luxe and elegant; I love it even with a pair of leggings and slippers, and it's a great vacation sweatshirt to throw over shorts or jeans.

Honestly, there have been very few times I've shopped Banana Republic Factory over the years and been disappointed with my order. With this sale I stocked up on Weekender to stay cozy this winter and early spring. What are you going to get during this Banana Republic Factory sale?