I’ve tried out each of these pieces over the past few weeks, and fell in love and raved about them individually. They’re versatile standouts, but when paired together they’re even better than the sum of their parts – this is one of those instant “feel good” ensembles! Everything here fits well and checks off the boxes on some of my go-to tips for looking more long & lean: 1) rich neutral toned heels, 2) high waisted bottoms, 3) mock necklines (instead of full turtlenecks). I have loved partnering with Banana Republic on their size inclusive options and truly think this fall collection is one of their best yet!
Ankle strap pump (in camel, red, black, or leopard)
Fit: TTS
These remind me of an old, sold out pair of ankle strap pumps I have in taupe that I always get questions on, so definitely scoop these up while sizes are still in stock! The camel color is incredibly lengthening, but the other options would look very sharp. Considering these have a 3+ inch skinny heel, they are surprisingly comfortable with no breaking in needed for me.
Vegan suede moto jacket (also in black vegan leather)
Fit: TTS; slim fit.
This might be one of my all time favorite pieces from Banana Republic. The fit of my usual petite size is very good throughout with a nice, slim fit, although if I had to nitpick I’d prefer the sleeves an inch shorter. The fabric is a medium to heavier weight and is soft with a suede like “brushed” feel. BR also made a black vegan leather jacket in the same cut, which has great reviews and is still available starting in xxs petite!
Mock neck leopard tee
Fit: TTS with stretch; slim fit.
Very soft modal tee with a smooth finish that feels nice against the skin. The neck opening was slightly small on me but stretches to a more comfortable fit. I’ve been a big fan of these mid length sleeves since petite ladies don’t need alterations, and they can look a little more elevated than regular short sleeves. Tuck this into high waisted jeans for a night out or a pencil skirt + either black or camel blazer for the office!
Tie waist skirt
Fit: Waist runs small. Size 00 petite measures 12.25″ across the waist.
Most bottoms fit a little roomy on me off the rack, but this was a perfect fit and sat at my higher natural waist (ideal in my opinion, for visually elongating the legs)! Very chic trench-like design with a flattering tie waist. Hidden side pockets are a bonus – they come stitched up so you just need to take little scissors or a seam ripper to open them up. This skirt is a great candidate for pairing with chunky fall sweaters and ankle booties, and I like the other reviewer’s pairing with a bodysuit and loafers!
Other noteworthy pieces for fellow lovers of animal print:
Tailored leopard jacket
If you missed out on my leopard topcoat from years past, I like that this looks like a darker print scheme that should pair effortlessly with black outfits (basically my default all winter).
Animal print midi dress
Wore this to a speaking event this weekend with the aforementioned suede jacket and got so many compliments! I’ve also paired it with mules or neutral flats for the playground with Nori and will be wearing this with ankle booties and a black jacket when the weather cools. A long animal print dress may seem like too much to sport regularly, but trust me in that it’s a great one-and-done piece that looks chic with very minimal styling effort! One thing I do though is swap out the sash belt for a solid colored one that better defines my waist.
Fit of this dress is TTS and there are functional buttons down the front center so you can open up the bottom to show a little slit if desired. Note the wrist openings are narrow so I need to unbutton that area before putting the dress on & off! There is a flounce skirt at the bottom and the material is light to medium weight.
Thank you to Banana Republic for partnering on this post.
