I'm not sure when I last set foot in Banana Republic, but I had a gift card and everything in the store was 40% off, and I am working on my professional capsule, so it seemed silly not to try. I was hoping to see some of the edgier items I have seen on line that reflect the Marissa Webb influence, but I didn't see what I had hoped for (like the high-low dark gray soft-looking turtleneck sweater that hangs out in the YLF banner ad, teasing me, and the light gray soft moto on the website).

Still, I came out with three pieces, and I am pretty sure I am keeping them all: a lightweight gray wool blazer (on my fall purchase list), a textured dark gray cropped sweater (on my fall purchase list), and a fun black and white graphic sleeveless knit top that I can wear on its own and also as a vest over a crisp shirt (was not able to find this last item on the website to collect). (I'll be posting WIWs from work travels, which begin this week.)

I also stopped at the Rack and picked up a gorgeous pale buff/honey heavyweight silk tee from Theory, which is going to be great for work and also fantastic with distressed denim for going out.

But the experience at BR reminded me not to eschew the old standbys.