Lately, my friend and I have been doing this thing where we snap quick (and lowkey) photos of New York City's most fashionable people to save as future outfit inspiration. "Outfit research," if you will. It's easy to assume the cool jackets, unique shoes, and well-tailored pants they're wearing must be expensive, but if you know where to look, you can actually find luxe-looking pieces for under $200. One of the first places I check every time? Banana Republic.
I've relied on the retailer for everything from shiny holiday party pieces to the latest trends, and they've never let me down. This is no different. In a recent deep-dive through its website, I discovered tons of elevated pieces that you'd never believe aren't double or triple their actual price tag. Want to see what I'm talking about? Keep reading. Ahead, I've rounded up 25 pieces that have deceivingly fair prices.
The crisp tone and unique silhouette of this JAPAN EXCLUSIVE Poplin Gathered-Waist Shirt ($99) makes it look like any high fashion-lover's dream.
This Satin Tie-Neck Sheath Dress ($149) features a flattering cut and unique knot details similar to what you'd see on items with much higher price tags.
With clean lines and a look that will never go out of style, this Double-Faced Topcoat ($199, originally $249) screams "elevated."
You don't have to wear this Slim Double-Breasted Plaid Blazer ($199) with matching pants to look totally put-together.
It's hard to believe this ultracool Vegan Suede Biker Jacket ($179) is under $200.
The coolest pants can often be some of the most pricey. Luckily, that's not the case with these JAPAN EXCLUSIVE Corduroy Paper-Bag Pants ($120).
This Silk Cashmere Crew-Neck Sweater ($80) features two of the fashion world's favourite luxe fabrics, so you already know it's a must have.
Get the ultrachic look all of your favourite fashion bloggers are wearing right now with the help of this Satin Midi Slip Skirt ($99).
Jumpsuits come in all cuts, colours, and styles, but this Tuxedo Jumpsuit ($149) looks particularly fancy — minus a bank-breaking price tag.
There's just something so luxe-looking about a well-cut pair of pants. This High-Rise Flare Tuxedo Pant ($110) totally fits the bill.
Western-inspired patterns, accessories, and silhouettes have been red hot in fashion for a few seasons now, and these Western Mules ($158) are some of the best examples of how to make the trend look totally stylish.
The Dillon Classic-Fit Washable Silk Shirt ($129) takes the hassle out of dry cleaning your silks, without jeopardizing the elevated look and feel.
This isn't your average sweater dress. The Metallic Stripe Sweater Dress ($159) is made from a stunning fabric, and the accordion-style skirt looks undeniably fashionable.
This Long and Lean-Fit Washable Wool-Blend Blazer ($199) masterfully marries simple and stylish.
The gorgeous silhouette on these Glitter Mule Pumps ($148) will be hard to miss when you're wearing them for all your holiday parties.
This Merino-Blend Funnel-Neck Sweater ($90) nails the chunky look but feels so much lighter.
There are countless ways to do a grey plaid blazer, and this Long and Lean-Fit Plaid Blazer ($179, originally $199) gets everything right.
No one will ever guess the under-$200 price tag on this croc-embossed Leather Saddle Bag ($198). It's the perfect small bag to carry all of your essentials.
This Hacking Jacket ($169) gets its name from the equestrian world, so you already know it has to feel a certain level of #fancy.
Treat your Winter accessories to a luxe upgrade with a little help from these Cashmere Long Gloves ($68).
If you're on the hunt for a simple statement piece, consider adding this Chunky Colour-Block Sweater ($110) to your closet.
There's just something about a hint of shine that takes an outfit from 0 to 100. This Washable Silk Cowl-Neck Camisole ($99) will do exactly that.
Want to feel instantly glamorous? Just wrap yourself in this Faux Fur Pull-Through Scarf ($68).
This Soft Satin Camp-Collar Blouse ($80) will make any outfit look more luxe the second you slip it on.
Equal parts versatile, neutral, and fun, you'll never run out of ways to style this Polka Dot Pleated Midi Skirt ($119).