BANANA REPUBLIC FALL 2011

In a season that’s beloved for its simple pleasures—changing leaves, abundant harvest, cinematic landscapes—a sense of palpable authenticity takes center stage. Placing Banana Republic’s versatile signatures against the season’s soulful backdrop, the result is a new crop of polished, tactile separates tailor-made for the modern hero and heroine.

A dramatic autumnal palette, sets a romantic mood. As in the season itself, the color gradient evolves naturally, shifting easily from vineyard tones of claret and plum to mustard, tomato and honeyed butterscotch. These vivid pops of rich saturation are grounded by cool, serene earth tones of barley, wheat and slate. Distinctly feminine shapes reinstate this picturesque vision including drape-front pencil skirts, airy silk blouses and coquettish cloches—Dunaway-esque, all. Meanwhile, this wingtip brogues, smart herringbone blazers and dapper suiting call to mind a charismatic rogue.

Effortlessly layered textures come into view as a strong focal point.  Elevated by plush finishes, simple separates—cable-knits, faux fur scarves, leopard-print pieces and the like—are transformed into everyday indulgences. With its delicate fine-gauge and silky finish, the slim-fitting turtleneck emerges as the leading lady’s layering essential. The season’s more streamlined silhouettes—the knife-pleat trouser, flared denim or the crisp A-line-skirt—are softened when juxtaposed with relaxed sweaters and cowl-neck knits.

Continuing this artful study in contrasts, his utilitarian classics—both easy to wear and to build upon—of stone khakis and slim flannel trousers serve as ideal foundation pieces for fall’s richly textured heritage knits, houndstooth blazers and rugged motorcycle jackets. Tailored menswear pieces relax when paired with plaid shirting and v-neck merino sweaters, topped off with a downtown fedora, driving cap or cashmere scarf. The resulting look is as crisp and refreshing as the fall air itself.

Subtle notes of equestrian elegance—another classic autumn paradigm—exist throughout, from the ladylike riding gloves to the faintly jodhpur-like slim pant. A wide range of sophisticated camel hues surface on double-face felted wood jackets, stacked heel loafers, and the season’s indispensible flat leather boots. Cross-body bags and roomy shoulder-strap satchels complement this sense of unencumbered ease. Hunting tweeds and double-breasted menswear exteriors—from the rugged leather bomber to the trim trench—would look at home in both the frost-tipped fields and leaf-strewn sidewalks.      

For more information please visit www.bananarepublic.com.ph.