YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?

YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic? https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Sat, 25 Apr 2026 17:01:34 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php Carey on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic/page/2#post-1609956 Sun, 31 Jan 2016 21:10:39 +0000 Carey 1609956@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I didn't know stores were rated by size, but I must be in a small market. The websites for both stores have more options, and much more interesting ones. I've heard J Crew has problems with their sizing in the last few years; I hope they get their act together. Their prices have certainly sky-rocketed since I was last a customer, 10 or 15 years ago. UtahDesert on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic/page/2#post-1609928 Sun, 31 Jan 2016 19:42:23 +0000 UtahDesert 1609928@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I've been finding decent quality items at Ann Taylor, J. Crew, and BR, but I suspect it's because I pick through them (even stuff I order online I've usually checked out in the stores first) and only remember the good stuff I end up getting. Another store I don't see mentioned here often is Sundance. They only have five or six stores, but there's always the catalog. The clothing tends to be quirkier than AT or BR, but if you like to occasionally include some embroidery or lace or interesting textures, you may find something you like. (Think of Sundance as Free People's older, somewhat more settled sister.) Most of the clothing is Sundance brand, but yesterday I picked up (extremely marked down) a Kuhl jacket I'd been eyeing at REI previously--see the find. Laura (rhubarbgirl) on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic/page/2#post-1609915 Sun, 31 Jan 2016 18:49:11 +0000 Laura (rhubarbgirl) 1609915@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Annagybe, there used to be a Pendleton store near me - I wish there still was. It's like talbots in that you have to make sure you're not styling yourself twenty years older than you are, but the quality is fantastic. You can occasionally find Pendleton wool blazers when thrifting and they're always in good shape still. That's funny, Shiny, I always have great luck at the BR outlet. I mean, it's not the highest quality fabrics in the entire world, but it's on trend and a good deal for the price. But then I've been finding BR outlet fits me better than regular BR, which is odd but true. annagybe on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic/page/2#post-1609867 Sun, 31 Jan 2016 16:13:03 +0000 annagybe 1609867@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Pendleton. Very classic but they're adding some more modern stuff. I feel like I can make their stuff work. Excellent quality, fabrics are often made in the US. They're now doing some interesting wool blends. They do petite a & plus sizes as well. I have this blazer in ivory, it's fantastic. <a href="http://www.pendleton-usa.com/product/Women/Clothing/JACKETS-BLAZERS/SEASONLESS-WOOL-ONE-BUTTON-BLAZER/166801/sc/1692/c/2400/pc/1815.uts" rel="nofollow">http://www.pendleton-usa.com/p.....c/1815.uts</a> And yes you have to pay for shipping & returns. I realize people complain about this but they're a small company, you can't expect every company to eat those costs. I find their size chart accurate. Anonymous on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic/page/2#post-1609855 Sun, 31 Jan 2016 15:44:36 +0000 Anonymous 1609855@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Elizabeth P -- I will try the Sloan Fit pants (if I can find them in long).   Carla on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic/page/2#post-1609841 Sun, 31 Jan 2016 15:06:37 +0000 Carla 1609841@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Following this informative thread. I will agree with La Pedestrienne that J.Crew is a good place for men's wear. It has become one of my favourite destinations when shopping with my 20 something DS's. Decent quality, and good fit - in particular for hard to fit #1 who is very slim and very tall. And, BEST SA experience ever at the Toronto Eaton Centre J.Crew - Men. Land's end is DH's go to for chinos and button downs of all sorts. They carry a good selection in TALL, and their shirts fit him particularly well. I like Land's End too, but preferred when they were 'Made in America' - the quality was better. Their fit is still good for me, but with the low Canadian dollar, I'm not even opening the catalogue! shiny on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic/page/2#post-1609833 Sun, 31 Jan 2016 14:44:42 +0000 shiny 1609833@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Do you have a Club Monaco near you? I find their quality to be very good for sweaters. I don't fit so well in their pants or dresses and jackets (not tall enough), but I wish I did. Wish they made petites. The clothing is all very well made, at a decent price point, and it's fashion forward too. I find Eileen Fisher quality to be consistently excellent. Expensive, but you get what you pay for. I just added two sweaters purchased on sale and they are well made and feel very yummy! Only problem is that I'm barely in a PXS ... which is incentive to NOT lose weight or I will be sized out. Next in line for sweaters is Vince. Expensive but the quality is great. I have two Vince sweaters going on a couple of years, no pills. Oh and their leather jackets are to die for. I like their other items but they don't fit me so well since I'm a petite.  As for BR, their outlet store is horrible so make sure you're not shopping at one of them. I do not buy their handbags as I find the quality generally poor. You do have to sift but you can find some great things. In fact I own a lot of BR stuff. I hit BR in the Fall specifically for merino sweaters as they normally do a great job with those. I don't have much luck with their jeans, but their Sloans are good and if I needed a suit and dress slacks, this is where I'd go first. You also have to be choosy about their tops but yes you can find good quality. AT ...you have to be very careful, and if ordering online, be willing to return. I have found a lot of their "online exclusives" are hit or miss. I've received items that smell horrible, are unlined, cheap fabrics, poorly cut, bad seams, etc. Since more and more of their petites are online only, my strategy is to go to the store to feel the fabrics and check out the quality before ordering the petite version. That said, when AT gets it right, they get it right. Some lovely well made items. LOFT you have to be even more careful.... it's practically flash fashion. I do love their softened shirts though. Good deal for the money, and hold up well in the wash. And their pants and jeans fit me well, so that's now the first place I look.  I also love their denim jackets. They have a lot of cute blouses in general but they are polyester which just makes me sweat. I prefer natural fibers.  Talbots... yes, you can find good things at Talbot's too.  Madewell is ... made well! Unfortunately the fit is off for me, or I'd shop here often for basics.  I just found a shop yesterday called Francesca's. Unfortunately they don't make petites, but their clothes were super cute and in yummy fabrics. If only I was taller...  Anonymous on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic/page/2#post-1609832 Sun, 31 Jan 2016 14:39:35 +0000 Anonymous 1609832@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I've been happy with the sweaters I bought on sale from Ralph Lauren and Lands' End. My qualm with BR has to do with inconsistent sizing that makes online shopping a nightmare. I'm just now familiarizing myself with Chico's; will see how that goes. I shop at Nordstrom once in a while. Elizabeth P on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic/page/2#post-1609831 Sun, 31 Jan 2016 14:33:29 +0000 Elizabeth P 1609831@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I read your post when you first posted it, and didn't think I could be of much help as I'm in the land of no selection.  But the commentary on Banana Republic has brought me back.  I have to say, I'm surprised at people's experience.  Now, it wouldn't cross my mind to actually go to the store to shop there... we have a decent store near me, and I realize it must be bigger than the one LisaP has, based on her comments.  But the selection is still nothing compared to online.  I do all my shopping online then take advantage of the proximity of the store to return things.  So far I haven't had any issues with quality.  And have been VERY happy with many pieces.  Just to show you, I'm going to include recent finds, all pieces I got this winter.  The 5 pocket Sloan leggings are the best pants, ever... I got them in both black and blue. The rib v-neck tee  is a lovely heavy fabric with amazing drape, the Sloan fit black print pants are probably my favourite pants of the moment... Anyway, this stuff may not be your style, and that's fine.  But I hate to see people think the selection is poor, based on what may be in a local small store.  Check out the online selection!!! Style Fan on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic/page/2#post-1609802 Sun, 31 Jan 2016 11:22:11 +0000 Style Fan 1609802@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I love the pieces that Angie has from J Crew and BR.  I have never found anything in either of those stores.  When I read Lisa P's post I wondered if that was the reason.  It never occurred to me that there were different levels of stores.  I tend to find my clothes all over the place.  I do like premium denim because I find it wears better and fits me better.  Others have had different experiences.  I buy (in general) the best quality I can and hang on to clothes for a long time.  I like Theory but the colours are not that Fab on me.  Also the pants are too straight up and down for my curvy bottom half. I like Eileen Fisher.  Her quality is good. I like Sandwich and Stills but I have not seen much if any of those labels in the US. CocoLion on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic/page/2#post-1609641 Sat, 30 Jan 2016 21:31:49 +0000 CocoLion 1609641@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ The only purchased I've made from either J Crew or Banana this year was a citron coat and I am satisfied with the quality. Overall, the quality of knits is so much worse than 10-20 years ago.  Some cashmere and wool sweaters I got from that period, priced $200-400, are still free of pilling.  A few moth holes that's it (which I repair).  OTOH less than a quarter of my sweaters currently purchased, look as good.  All three of my old sweaters were made in Hong Kong.  All of the newer ones are from China.  What happened to those excellent factories in Hong Kong? I haven't tried many Uniqlo or Everlane knits, I should.  They put more emphasis on manufacturing than other retailers. But -- back on topic and to answer your question.  Have you taken a look at Land's End?  Low prices for the quality they deliver but you have to make an effort to style/add pizazz.  Or else I will look like my Mother who is 82. LaPed on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic#post-1609617 Sat, 30 Jan 2016 20:26:43 +0000 LaPed 1609617@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ One thought on J Crew -- at least from my local store, it looks like they're placing a real emphasis on menswear, surprisingly enough. More than half the shop is men's. They're my go-to when I need to buy trousers for my husband -- he's tough to fit and they are cut really well for him, and sizing is consistent in their men's pants at least (not the case with women's!). And they wash well -- I rarely have to iron them, which is nice and not the case with many cheaper khakis and chinos.  Their men's shirts -- not so much. Even the "slim" cuts look like balloons and the fabric is very thin. For men's button-downs I usually go to Land's End (actually, LE has pretty nice women's oxford shirts, too).  So yeah, hit or miss. And trial and error. Anonymous on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic#post-1609560 Sat, 30 Jan 2016 17:51:09 +0000 Anonymous 1609560@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I manage to find things I need by searching at a variety of stores. There's not one store in particular that gets me, if you know what I mean. catgirl on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic#post-1609555 Sat, 30 Jan 2016 17:40:12 +0000 catgirl 1609555@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I am another who is not finding anything at BR or J Crew. The rail thin models in their louche poses make everything look more appealing than it is IRL on me, and nothing fits my body type (IT). I meant to mention COS also - they have a lot of nice pieces. Angie on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic#post-1609528 Sat, 30 Jan 2016 16:24:32 +0000 Angie 1609528@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I just wrote this on Roxanna's thread:  I haven't been bemoaning BR & JC quality and cuts in the items I've bought at all. In fact quite the opposite. I bought these pieces last year and am in AWE of the quality and fit. Better than my Marc Jacobs stash! Also, you need to wait a while to replenish from the start. Mid Feb and Mar is a good place to start. Janet on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic#post-1609524 Sat, 30 Jan 2016 16:20:50 +0000 Janet 1609524@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Gradfashionista, thank you for noting your issues with Everlane. You just saved me an experiment. I get so annoyed with tight sleeves! Janet on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic#post-1609523 Sat, 30 Jan 2016 16:19:48 +0000 Janet 1609523@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ J Crew frustrates me so much sometimes. I'll see something that looks cute, but when I've bothered to try on lately, I've found fit problems getting worse the last couple of years. Their pants have never fit me -- they're too straight and too short -- but even tops have become problematic. It's been hard to even put my finger on what is off with the fit -- are they too long on short-waisted me? The armholes too deep? And the tees seem too thin and insubstantial, yet clingy. It's odd. gradfashionista on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic#post-1609516 Sat, 30 Jan 2016 16:12:40 +0000 gradfashionista 1609516@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I agree with you about J. Crew. I absolutely loved the line a few years ago, but became disenchanted by the quality of the fabric and workmanship. Buttons coming off within a few wears, holes in my t-shirts, split seams, fabric tears, etc. I'm not hard on my clothing and I don't wear tight clothing, so I was not at fault. When I visited a store recently, I was disappointed to see how the company has replaced many of its natural fibers with artificial ones in their sweaters and dresses. Their Collection items are nicer but are expensive for what they are. I have spent $50 on return shopping for Everlane. The fit is just so off. I imagine that if you have very slender arms, and a straight body with an average/short torso, their clothes will work for you. In my limited experience, I have found the quality of Eileen Fisher to be impeccable. Luxurious and durable fabrics, great workmanship. Not the place to visit if you seek a tailored look, though. Anonymous on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic#post-1609488 Sat, 30 Jan 2016 15:09:48 +0000 Anonymous 1609488@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ It's so dodgy out there, especially with knitwear. There is definitely a sense of needing to cross your fingers after buying just about anything at any price point. My best quality winter 'knits' are my sweatshirts (so sad!) and I often think, "maybe I should do the sporty luxe trend so I can wear sweatshirts all the time" (again, so sad!) I'm sorry I don't have great advice for brands. The only wool sweaters I feel confident about quality are Saint James, but the good styles are limited.  BrieN on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic#post-1609468 Sat, 30 Jan 2016 14:34:44 +0000 BrieN 1609468@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Over the last couple of seasons I found that J.Crew had some nice pieces, but that they are all cut for a very straight body type.  Each season I try on a few things from there and nothing suits my curvy self.   I actually noted this in a feedback form for JCrew and they wrote me back stating that they are making changes to their offerings. I understand they have been losing money over the last few years. I am interested to see what the future holds. The last catalogue however went right into the recycling.  I have had some luck at The Limited. While their quality is nothing to write home about, their price point makes it easier to try a new look.  Colette on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic#post-1609450 Sat, 30 Jan 2016 13:39:09 +0000 Colette 1609450@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I know what you mean about the quality not being what it used to at these stores, but I find it to also be true everywhere, across all price points and designers. TG made a good point about evaluating items piece by piece and not by the store or brand. When I got serious about updating my wardrobe and started doing initial reconnaissance a few years ago I had the same feeling as you and it took a loooong time for me to get used to shopping in the 'new world'. It just takes time. Helena on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic#post-1609442 Sat, 30 Jan 2016 13:08:55 +0000 Helena 1609442@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Following with interest; its hard to find nice age appropriate stuff on a mall budget! I find less and less I can rely on the store or brand, and more I have to evaluate piece by piece. Carla on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic#post-1609339 Sat, 30 Jan 2016 02:05:59 +0000 Carla 1609339@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ If it is work wear, Ann Taylor is quite lovely right now. If you are still changing weight and don't wish to over invest, check out Express. Their editor pant comes in a variety of fabrics and colours and in barely boot cut style and ankle pant. Reitman's (a Canadian brand) is marketing a mix and match 5 piece capsule that is very work appropriate and very affordable. (sample below) The Gap and BR in downtown Toronto is all about jeans this season. The windows are all jeans, striped shirts and Jean jackets, sweaters, or motos. Carla on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic#post-1609336 Sat, 30 Jan 2016 02:00:20 +0000 Carla 1609336@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ If it is work wear, Ann Taylor is quite lovely right now. If you are still changing weight and don't wish to over invest, check out Express. Their editor pant comes in a variety of fabrics and colours and in barely boot cut style and ankle pant. Reitman's (a Canadian brand) is marketing a mix and match 5 piece capsule that is very work appropriate and very affordable. The Gap and BR in downtown Toronto is all about jeans this season. The windows are all jeans, striped shirts and Jean jackets, sweaters, or motos. catgirl on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic#post-1609297 Sat, 30 Jan 2016 00:35:00 +0000 catgirl 1609297@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ The L.L. Bean signature collection has some nice items - I got two pairs of lined plaid wool pants there that I LOVE. LaPed on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic#post-1609295 Sat, 30 Jan 2016 00:32:28 +0000 LaPed 1609295@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Another thought -- Uniqlo! Especially the designer collections. The IDLF line reminds me a lot of what Gap/JCrew/etc were like ten-fifteen years ago. Crisp, classy, well-constructed, and not highway robbery.  gryffin on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic#post-1609191 Fri, 29 Jan 2016 21:25:32 +0000 gryffin 1609191@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I also love Theory for suits and jackets.  Eileen Fisher, Vince, Helmut Lang for jackets (but not this year, since they changed design teams), Nordstroms - you never know what you will find.  Kate Spade for light coats. I gave up on AT long ago and since I keep things for a much longer time than most, quality I don't usually buy much at the chains, although keep an open mind - I found an amazing leather moto jacket at Madewell.  Emerson Fry, expensive but very good quality knits, limited selection.  Have not tried the coats but, if you like men's wear, they looked very nice.  First Everlane order is in the mail.  Curious.  That's pretty much it for me.  Hope that helps!! Laura (rhubarbgirl) on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic#post-1609163 Fri, 29 Jan 2016 20:56:18 +0000 Laura (rhubarbgirl) 1609163@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Talbots can veer a little preppy-frumpy, but if you like Brooks Brothers it's a good, slightly cheaper alternative. I agree that Nordstrom's house lines can be a good bet as well - Classiques Entier if you need something more business formal, Caslon and Halogen if you don't. If you really want to watch your budget, JCPenney's house lines are surprisingly good - Liz Claiborne and Worthington primarily. The only other department store I bother with these days is Lord & Taylor - online for me, since I'm not near a store; their house brands are good and they carry a lot of brands and exclusive pieces that Nordstrom doesn't, always. I actually feel like more and more stores have much nicer stuff online than in person. I'm sure it depends on where you live and what stores you go to, but I almost always feel like I'm getting better value for money, and better quality fabrics, when I order online (even if I end up returning some things because of fit issues). You might want to try some of the newer direct-to-consumer companies, too - Everlane for tees and silk tops, ditto Grana, Nisolo and M Gemi for shoes, MM LaFleur for officewear. kkards on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic#post-1609092 Fri, 29 Jan 2016 18:03:21 +0000 kkards 1609092@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I just wanted to add that Jan is probably not a great time to judge any retailers offerings.....its usually the time of year when retailers try to have the lowest amount of inventory on hand, so the new stuff is often slim pickings, and the old stuff is, well, the stuff that didn't sell at Christmas. go back again in late feb early March, you may feel differently. also, if you like more classic styles, try Talbots, you have to be willing to shop, but you can find some good basics....again, if you are willing to shop, I've gotten high quality/good value at the Gap.   retailgirl on "Stores to replace J Crew and Banana Republic?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/stores-to-replace-j-crew-and-banana-republic#post-1609044 Fri, 29 Jan 2016 16:13:00 +0000 retailgirl 1609044@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I love brooks brothers but I agree with Angie, very classic. Their spring line, so far, has a little more oomph. Their 346 or outlet store line is nice quality, if you live near a BB outlet store. But there's no need to ever pay full price at BB, get a charge from them and they have 25 or 30 percent off events often. And you accrue rewards points.