I’m usually pretty brutal on Catalog Police, my weekly critique of retailers’ lookbooks and catalogs. (Did you see the scathing review I wrote about Shop Jeen last week?)
But I don’t always think everything is terrible. (I swear!) Sometimes, the things I like come from the most unexpected places — like the Fall 2015 Old Navy lookbook. You know I have some complex feelings about fast fashion. Mass market clothes are like Diet Coke — not great, but okay in small doses.
Let’s take a look at what’s cooking for fall.
Guys. This jumpsuit is a near-exact replica of an Isabel Marant version that’s currently going for +$500. This is a total and complete STEAL, and I’m dying to get my hands on it. PS: I can never resist a drawstring pant, especially in an upscale camel color.
Not every OUTFIT is successful — but all the pieces separately are quite promising. So when worn verbatim, this outfit is a little too sraight-laced. (The model reminds me of a bible salesman.) But picture the olive jacket with a black tank and jeans. Imagine the khakis with a slouchy white t-shirt, Provence sandals and an open linen blouse.
There are possibilities here — don’t let the blecch outfit blind you. Look how quickly this palette is utilized in a different outfit:
This outfit is remarkably similar to the one I critiqued directly above — the colors and shapes are similar — but this outfit has a layering twist that adds more sophisticaiton. Basically, I love everything — except the King Midas clown shoes.
Another cheapo outfit that looks extremely high-end. I have almost the exact same stuff in my closet, and I guarantee I spent a lot more — even from consignment shops.
So what did you think of the latest Old Navy lookbook? I’d love to hear your thoughts!