You know how sometimes you can go on a break from a brand? Okay maybe not. That’s probably only something people with shopping addictions do. I think that may be one of the signs that you have a problem – referring to a relationship with a store. Hey, admitting the problem is the first step.

Anyways, I’ve been a longtime fan of Banana Republic. When I got my first job in a very corporate atmosphere, I stalked the Banana sale wall. Give me all the dress pants and silk blouses at an additional 40% off. When my work wardrobe became a little less formal, I’d still hit them up for those silky basic tees, jeans (their skinny jeans may be my favorite) and still, all the silk blouses. But about a year or so ago I kind of fell out of love with Banana. I’d still stop in, like a needy girlfriend who couldn’t quite give up, but would walk out empty handed. The basics were still great but there was nothing to get me excited about shopping there. No must-haves.

Things have changed. I was wooed back in a week or so ago on a mission to find a shirt for Drew but left with way more things than I intended (which involved sneaking my overstuffed shopping bag in slowly like I was trying to smuggle drugs through my living room). Things started slowly – with this mini skirt and vest – but on my last stop in I ended up grabbing a new pair of jeans (#7), the cutest detailed tank (#5 – that is seriously on sale) and a new necklace. I may have also ordered these heels (still waiting on their arrival).

Here’s the thing, nothing is overly trendy (save maybe the heels) so I know I’ll be able to wear and re-wear them. The other bonus is everything works really well for mixing-and-matching. The stripe tee with the mini and sneakers for a football game (throw on #1 if it’s a little chilly). The printed sweatshirt (#2) with the boyfriend jeans (#7) and heels for a casual dinner with friends. The tee (#4) and pants (#9) for work, toss on the vest (#10) to really dress it up. I could go on and on with the combos (it gets a little out of control – see below).

Moral of the story: it’s time to stop back in Banana on your next trip to the mall (or just when you’re browsing online). You will not regret it. You may want to head there stat too because everything on sale is an additional 50% off AND a bunch of stuff that rarely goes on sale is marked down 40%. Yes please. Oh and it’s worth mentioning this post is not sponsored, I’m just really that into Banana. #letsstaytogether

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10

Combos to try:

#3 + #7 + sneakers = Movie Matinee

#5 + #9 + #8 = A Day of Meetings at the Office

#5 + #7 +  heels = Drinks with Friends

#5 + #6 + black heels: Cocktail Hour Attire

#2 + #7 + #8 = Dinner Date

#1 + #3 + #7 = Football Tailgate

#10 + #4 + #6 = Networking Event

#1 + #3 + #9 = Casual Friday

#1 + #4 + #7 = Brunch

See I told you. It’s a little out of control.