This vintage crest brooch was waiting for me when I got home from New York, but thanks to some oddly warm weather at the moment, I haven’t been able to wear it on a blazer lapel like I’m itching to do. Finally, tired of just staring at it collecting dust, I put it on a chain and wore it as a pendant.
Also of note is Banana Republic has improved (in my opinion) the fit of their dress shirts and I’m loving it. Combined with their recent 40% off Wednesday promotions, I’ve been picking up a few here and there to improve my dress shirt collection.
This navy sateen shirt is part of their new “tailored” collection, which fits a little looser in the torso than the “fitted” shirts, so works for a more relaxed look. The “fitted” shirts have received a tweak in the fit at the bust, which can be distinguished by the addition of a button near the collar which wasn’t there in the last version of the shirt.
The old version of “fitted” shirts fit too tight in the bust on me, and had too low of an armhole, so arm movement felt restricted. These new extra-button versions are cut differently in the bust and arm hole, which fits me much better. I’ll be stocking up!
Outfit details – Banana Republic shirt :: J.Crew sequin shell :: Rag & Bone jeans :: Manolo Blahnik shoes :: Valentino handbag :: Ann Taylor belt:: Vintage brooch as pendant (bought from Vintage Sparkles on Etsy) :: Vintage turquoise ring :: Kate Spade watch :: Stella & Dot bracelet (c/o) (also in silver) :: pearl bracelet
Altered – Kate Spade watch has a shorter strap; pearl bracelet has been shortened
Dearest Kelly,
Glad to read that I’m not the only one for having to alter all my watches in order to make them fit my slender wrist! In my jewelry box there are lots of parts that have been taken out… saving them for just in case somebody else later might need to add them back.
Smart observation about the different fit. Yes, that button does make quite a difference and the other fit related differences too. At least you notice and you know what to look for in any garment.
Love this outfit and especially your crest brooch, changed into a pendant on a necklace. Looks very nice. You are a Queen of Details as is shown here in the ‘gold-tone’ accessories from belt buckle to bracelet and watch strap.
Hugs to you,
Mariette
Thank you!
Thanks for the recommendation on the Banana Republic shirts. I’ll definitely look into adding them into my wardrobe.
Good luck with them, and if you sign up for BR emails or ask a SA in store, I think you should be able to get your hands on some Wednesday 40% off coupons. I’ve been loving them. =)
Thanks for the heads up on the improved fit of BR shirts.
good to know about the shirts! i dont have any br shirts, they’ve never fit right. time to try again!
Definitely give them another try. They never fit me right either but the new fits are much better. Just dig for the “new button” fitted shirts, and then give the tailored shirts a try. =)
Oooh I love that shell! I saw a J.Crew SA wearing it and I really, really wanted it! Looking good as always Kelly!
Thanks! It’s been a sleeper hit for me. I bought it thinking I should have some sequin in my closest and it’s turned out to be pretty versatile. I hope they’ll bring them back around the holidays. =)
Love the little sparkly shell! I dont own many shirts coz of the gaping hole in the bust or the crazy wide sleeves. Thanks for the BR review! Im going to check them out.
Try their new “tailored” fits, since they’re supposed to be a little roomier in the bust than the “fitted” fits. I hope they work for you!
I adore the pop of bright blue against the darker colors in this outfit. The colors here are pretty much perfect!!
The heat here has been crazy. Thank for the info on the BR shirt. I think it may be time to add new button shirt to my wardrobe. Hopefully the weather will cool down so you can wear your beautiful brooch on a blazer.
I like the blouse. Cute outfit!
Love that your brooch is a necklace for now. :) That sequin top will be so much fun to style this fall/winter!
Absolutely obsessed with your bag it’s amazing!
– Gaby
From Rags to Glam
That’s interesting about the extra button, and how much it improves fit! I used to wear BR shirts many years ago but like you gave up because of the fit – maybe I should stop in and give them another try. Love the MBs as always!
Thanks for the info on the BR shirts! I have a bunch of their old ones but sometimes end up with unsightly gaps between buttons (hope no one standing to my left side can see my bra!)…. looking forward to going in and trying their new and improved dress shirts. :)
Love your bag and necklace… so clever of you to wear the brooch as a pendant!
Love, S
http://shamelesslyoverdressed.blogspot.com
Love the brooch and love it paired with button down shirt and sparkly top!
After working retail at BR, it’s sometimes hard for me to even walk into one of their stores. But this might be a reason to get me back in the door. Thanks!
lawmoda.blogspot.com
Love this outfit Kelly! I think the brooch looks awesome as a pendant! =)
A Little Piece of Fashion and Beauty
your outfit is classy, simple and fab. that purse is amazing love the Valentino stud collection.
xo
Rachelle
http://pinksole.com
I love this Valentino bag more and more everytime I see!!
So cute!!! I love the navy with the white sequins :)
I love your shoes, the colour is so bright, so gorgeous ^^
Love, Melanie ~ http://www.mlncrd.com