Dressing the Part: Banana Republic

By: Catie Allard
Posted In: Shopping

Your handshake is firm, hair is in place, and teeth are brushed, but wait . your closet is empty?

Interviews and suits go hand-in-hand. But buying a suit is an investment.

Are you ready to make that investment but need a little help? If you walk into the bright white space of Banana Republic on Thames Street in Newport, R.I. your head might begin to spin at the wide array of options for women. But it won’t take long until your knight in shining linen swoops over to greet you.

The first question a retail associate at Banana Republic asks a person looking for the right suit is what the interview is for, and what kind of impression they’re looking to make. Banana Republic sells a wide array of snappy business suits for women ranging from very formal to casual. Pants come in three fits: the Martin, Jackson, and Ryan. In-store sizes range from zero to 14. The Martin is a classic fit that sits just below the waist. The Jackson is the curvy fit. The Ryan is the slim fit. Think you’re a Martin? A retail associate for the Newport store recommends customers try on everything. Grays, blacks, browns — wools, polyesters, cottons.

Still spinning? The store is split up by concepts. There is the casual concept, resort concept, and the suiting concept. The suiting concept contains a number of fashionable options. If you’re looking for a summer suit, head to the very back of the store, because a sharp linen suit is the way to go. Tan linen pants go for $89, the skirt $69, and the matching jacket for $175. For the summer feel without the danger of stains, linen suits are available brown and charcoal gray.

All CEO’s should turn to the left of the linen, where the most formal attire is displayed on mannequins and hangers. The two-button jackets with matching pants and skirts come in classic black, brown with subtle pinstripes, and gray. According to a retail associate, people tend to purchase these suits more towards the fall, after their summer fun is over. If you want to get ahead and save some cash, the 100 percent polyester black trouser is on sale for $54.59 with the matching jacket costs $139.99. The 96 percent wool black pencil skirt is $78.00.

You’ve got your suit. You’re relieved it’s over. It’s not over. If you have a longer neck, go for collared shirt underneath. The cotton button-down shirts are $69.00 available in bright red, blue, white, and a blue-white pattern. For a less crowded look, the cotton cap-sleeved wide ribbed tops are $44.99. They have a scoop neckline and are available in nine colors including lime green, purple, chocolate brown, and bright blue. Consider jazzing it up with a bright-colored polka-dotted scarf for $39. Who said suits were boring?

Mix-and-match and your suit will last you a lifetime. The retail associate for Banana Republic stresses that their suits are worth the money because of their quality – fabrics, blends, cuts, and a tailored look – comparable to Brooks Brothers, but cheaper.

Banana Republic stores come in levels, Newport is a lowest level. That means the Newport store doesn’t have as wide of a selection. However, if you can’t find something in the size, color, or shape you want, special orders can be made and returned at the store.

Think your new suit is going to guarantee interview success? “Bananacard” holders who spend more than $800 a year become Luxe cardmembers, receiving free alterations. With your first suit, you’re already a third of the way there.
124 Thames St., Newport, RI. 401- 848-2440, www.bananarepublic.com