This year, Banana Republic's summer lookbook is bursting with style inspiration. It contains a palette of neutrals and earth tones rendered in luxe knits, linen, and silk — a testament to the sartorial power of playing with texture. The models are set against a rugged desert backdrop, carefree and bathed in golden-hour light, their tousled waves mingling with the red clay dust. In other words, the photos are the ultimate summer 2021 goals.
Ahead, we break down some outfits inspired by the lookbook that you can shop now — they're equal parts structured utilitarian pieces and breezy dresses. All that's left to do is grab your best pals and book that road trip through the American Southwest. You'll have an enviable, wanderlust-heavy Insta feed in no time.
Outfit 1
The earthy green color of the Banana Republic Ramie Balloon-Sleeve Dress [1] ($139) is totally on trend right now, but it's also dark enough to help you transition into your fall wardrobe come Labor Day. Basically, it's a must-have piece you'll wear all season and beyond. It's already cinched at the waist with a tie belt, but you can add some extra flair with a simple brown leather belt, like this one [2] ($68). For shoes, opt for a delicate gold sandal, like the Banana Republic Flip Flop Sandals [3] ($38, originally $48), or boots to match the long, voluminous sleeves of the dress.
Outfit 2
This look is all about looking and feeling cool in the arid desert heat. The key? A head-to-toe white outfit. The top is the Banana Republic UV Resistant Sweater Tank [4] ($60) in white — the cute and practical tank protects your skin from damaging UV rays. Next, play up the safari vibes with the Banana Republic TENCEL™-Linen Excursion Pants [5] ($90). If you plan to take this outfit from day to night and are anticipating a drop in temperature, finish the look with army-inspired outerwear, such as this utility jacket [6] ($149) in sage or olive green.
Outfit 3
A slip dress and cowboy boots is the ultimate It-girl summer uniform. You truly can't go wrong with the effortless combo. The Banana Republic Square-Neck Slip Dress [7] ($129) shown in the photo falls to a flattering midi length. In terms of accessories, stick to understated gold jewelry, like this pendant necklace [8] ($46, originally $58) and these hoop earrings [9] ($19, originally $28) from Banana Republic. All you need to complete the outfit is a pair of vintage-looking cowboy boots.
Outfit 4
There are a lot of looks to draw inspiration from here, but we like the short-sleeved sweater and jeans pairing for a dinner with friends. Tuck the cream-colored Banana Republic Organic Cotton Sweater Top [10] ($90) into a pair of light, wide-leg jeans, such as the Banana Republic High-Rise Wide-Leg Cropped Jeans [11] ($119). For a fancier dinner, throw on a pair of strappy sandals — the Bare High-Heel Sandals [12] ($94, originally $118) are on sale now at Banana Republic.