I think I'm growing up. I went into H&M the other day, just to see what was on hand, and there were exactly two items that I would consider wearing: a leather shift dress that was really cool, and a split-pleat skirt that looked well-made. Otherwise everything left me cold. And Banana Republic was no better; the quality of clothing was so shoddy it might as well have been H&M.
I find that the three "affordable" retailers that really have me coveting their clothes are J.Crew, Zara, and Uniqlo. The clothing is well made, using (mostly) natural fibers and fabrics. Zara has a lot of runway-inspired stuff (some lovely Miu Miu-esque blouses and dresses, and another leather-sleeved coat that I want immediately and must have), as well as just amazing basics like silk blouses and well-tailored jackets. Lots of jewel tones, lots of deep color. Some gorgeous fur coats. I was very impressed:
And J.Crew isn't far behind, IMHO. I love this skirt:
And the slouchy, oversized Merino Boyfriend Sweatshirt in deep turquoise is definitely tempting:
I'm glad fall is gearing up to be about color. It'll be nice to get out of the grey and black.
As for Uniqlo, the +J collaboration with Jil Sander is seeing its end as of this fall, so I'd love to get at least a couple of pieces before it's over. I have such a weakness for the color green, and for down jackets in interesting shapes:
And for asymmetry:
I am so excited for fall, but you know, right after we get seemingly endless months of crappy winter, so... it's a tempered excitement.
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