Review: More On Banana Republic

I think when retailers send out coupons, when they reach a certain percentage (namely 40-50% off), I just can't seem to be able to resist!  That is, unless I've already tried on everything they have to offer... and it looks like I'm trying to approach this point with Banana Republic!  Here's my latest go-round with them.

First is the Pleated Watercolor Dress in 00P:

This one turned out not too bad!

Pros: Nice fully-lined silk material, neckline and armholes not too low (although straps could be taken up a little)
Cons: Color slightly more somber than expected, still pricey even after 40% off (~$75), slight poufing at the waist pleats, although that was easily corrected with a belt:

Verdict: Possible keeper, although likely return and hope that it goes on sale for cheaper.

Next is the Silk Bouquet Pleated Ruffle Top in XXSP:

Maybe it's because I haven't fully outgrown my purple phase but I actually kind of liked this one:

Pros: Nice silk material, pretty shoulder detailing, armholes were a good size
Cons: Neckline too low and probably needs a cami/tank underneath, also expensive (~$42), borderline baggy silhouette... which I tried to belt with questionable success:

Verdict: Not too sure... I do like the material and my wardrobe needs a punch of color.  But this may end up being a return because of the price.

Next is the Bellflower Shell in XXSP:

I knew this one was a return even before I tried it on:

Pros: Not too much
Cons: Big and baggy, neckline WAY too low, color boring and shoulder detailing unattractive, expensive ($70)

Verdict: Return!

Next is the the Raw Edge Ruffle Top in XXSP:

This had potential, but somehow I wasn't too excited:

Pros: Simple but probably versatile, interesting shoulder detail, fully lined
Cons: Neckline too low but looks odd when layered, overall size too large including armholes, expensive for what feels like cotton material ($70), especially since I recently got a somewhat similar top from LOFT for much cheaper:

Verdict: Return.

Last but not least is my surprise favorite item of the bunch, the Skinny Metallic Belt in XXS:

This is the same one I used to belt the dress and purple top in the earlier pictures.  I actually bought it with half a mind to test out the leather hole puncher... but this one actually came already fitting snugly around my waist!  This was a huge surprise since no other belt I've bought ever even came close to fitting this tightly.

One thing to note is that this is VERY skinny.  Here's how it compares to my old skinny leather belt, also from BR:

Even the buckle is teeny!  I'd say the belt is probably less than the width of a finger (and I have small fingers!):

One possible con is that because it's so skinny it might not be as durable.  But I definitely do recommend it if you're looking for a skinny belt that fits off the rack (especially since a super skinny belt like this may be hard to punch a hole in yourself).  With a 40% off coupon that BR seems to be sending out weekly these days, it's not too bad at $18 and can be even cheaper with various cash back programs.  The one I have is the pewter color but it also comes in bronze, which I almost want to get too!