Thank you to Banana Republic and ShopStyle for partnering on this post.
Banana Republic‘s Friends & Family event just kicked off with 40% off your full-priced purchase (their biggest sitewide discount in months!), plus free expedited 2-3 day shipping on orders over $175. This striking maxi dress caught my eye for a special event, but they have a number of pieces for everyday wear like tailored blazers, petite jeans and dresses worth checking out. Scroll down to see how this dress looks belted versus unbelted, and for my other recommendations from this sale!
Other Sale Recommendations
- Wrap-Front Sweater dress – As seen in this post. The knit fabric on this one is very soft and smooth against the skin, and the sleeves have a chic dolman shape. I sized up to XSP so that it’s less fitted against my midsection. This also comes in a top only version that I tried on – if you like a more relaxed fit like I do, I’d suggest sizing up on the top too.
- Racerback ribbed tanks – I have the striped one and would also love the solid black and white as staples! They’re comfortable and look simply chic tucked into straight jeans or trousers. I wore mine just yesterday paired with black cropped pants and sneakers.
- Captain’s Blazer – See the navy on me below and read my review. This tailored blazer is TTS, beautiful quality and has been restocked in camel, herringbone and black.
- Classic straight jeans – These are a great medium blue wash and the inseam measures 25 inches, hitting right below my ankles. Waist fit was TTS for me and a 24 petite fits great.
Radiant Maxi Dress
In petite, standard and tall sizes
This is a striking, elegant piece in a petite-friendly length that works on me (5 feet tall) even with very low heels. You can wear it unbelted for an ethereal, floaty look, belt it for more shape or even pair it with a cream moto jacket or blazer. Due to it’s flowy cut it is very bump-friendly and would look so cute with a skinny belt above the bump for maternity photos! I found it to fit true to size with a full lining, zipper entry at the upper back and a clasp closure behind the neck.
If you don’t have much occasion for a dress like this but love the look, it also comes in a radiant halter top that would be beautiful paired with ankle pants/jeans or a wider full length bottom, like styled on the website!
Do you like this dress better belted or unbelted? I’m usually most comfortable with belting flowy pieces at the waist, but am also loving the more dramatic full length flow here!
So excited to find you!
You’re beautiful and I love your style.
I’ve struggled my entire life to find flattering, classy clothes that actually
fit correctly.
I’m about to turn 51 this month. I am 4’11& 3/4”
I am interested in following you, to be able to actually order some of the clothes you model.
THANK YOU!!
-Deseray
Thank you so much, Deseray. I’m so glad you found your way to Fashion Tips Blog! xx
you are such a vision in that maxi dress, Jean! beautiful! Now I’m off to try to catch that blazer in camel
You’re so sweet, thank you!
the flowy dress looks amazing! what are your thoughts about the black version of the dress for a black tie wedding or party?
That would be fabulous!
Love these reviews, thank you! Did you by chance try the herringbone captain’s blazer on? I don’t see it in petite, and am wondering if I’d be totally swallowed if I size down.
No, I’ve only tried the camel and navy in petite. If you normally always wear petite in BR then I would probably recommend sticking with the colors offered in petite sizing for the best fit
Hi Jean! Hope you and your family are doing well especially your grandparents? Love the maxi dress belted or unbelted. You always pull your outfits together so elegant and classy. Too bad is sold out,
What color is your Abrecrombie wide leg pants with the sweetheart top? Its taupe or beige?
Thanks so much for all your hard work!
Thank you so much, Lisa! I have the Abercrombie pants in beige, though I like the look of the taupe – they were just out of my size when I ordered.
Gorgeous!! I got on this post late, and the my Jean size is out. I love your belt!! I also, love wearing a belt with my dresses. I looked but couldn’t find it. Where did you get your belt from?
Sorry to hear your size has already sold out! And thank you! This is our Edited Pieces belt, which will be restocking soon xx
The white dress is so lovely and flowy! I love how you pull off styles I would’ve thought petites just can’t wear.
Question—I just realized I almost always see you wear light wash jeans. Is it just your preference or is there a style reason?
Thank you, Beth! I have been gravitating towards more light and medium wash spring – fall, but might revert back to darker washes in the winter to pair with black and darker boots and shoes.
The dress looks absolutely beautiful both belted and unbelted! I really cannot pick a favorite!
Thank you, Grace!
I like the long maxi dress.
how can I buy
Hi Jean!
Omg that maxi dress is to die for!!! I’ve been eyeing that dress from BR seen in silk in the spring line, and it’s so amazing to see it on you! A great look! I love it long and unbelted, it is SO elegant! But not having anywhere formal to wear it, I’d probably have to go with the belted look. I picked up the jeans as they look perfect and I love the wash. Thanks so much Jean, you look absolutely gorgeous as usual!!!
Thank you April, your notes always brighten my day I love the wash of these jeans, they’ll look fabulous on you!