Banana Republic is one of the most recognized clothing lines in name-brand fashion. Their first apparel was launched back in 1978 by Mel and Patricia Ziegler. Banana Republic offered a variety of colorful and unique clothes that had a safari or travel-like theme. They had few retail stores, and clothes were mostly purchased from high-end catalogs that highlighted these items’ features with a small background description of an exotic location. Banana Republic’s catalogs were certainly fun to browse through, and their stores kept up the theme. As more and more locations opened, Banana Republic stores were decorated with real Jeeps, smoke and foliage.
 
Banana Republic made a daring move by offering a fashion line that hadn’t been seen before in the US, and it worked; the travel-themed apparel was a popular sell. Banana Republic made an even bigger name for itself when it was bought by Gap in 1983. The exotic clothes were traded for a more traditional approach, one similar to the style that Gap offers. To set these two brands apart, however, Banana Republic today offers more upscale clothes, many of which are business and business-casual in style. To reinforce this upscale image, many modern Banana Republic stores are located in historic buildings that have been renovated.
 
From Banana Republic dresses to Banana Republic shoes, there is something for everyone with this classy clothing line. With a solid reputation of delivering the hottest fashion trends, Banana Republic clothes are equally appealing to both men and women. From chic career wear to high-end fashion, Banana Republic offers a variety of sizes, including petites and tall. Of course, you can’t forget the matching accessories, such as Banana Republic jewelry and handbags, that enhance any outfit.