This East Coast City Is Secretly Ultra Chic

We’ve already seen how Olivia Palermo, Banana Republic’s new ambassador, flawlessly styled her looks in the retailer’s new campaign with NYC in mind. But this versatile spring collection is clearly ready to take us from coast to coast, and we bet there’s a must-have to be found no matter where you live or #WhatMovesYou. To prove our theory, we’re launching a new series, Style by City, where three fashion bloggers from around the country share the perfect weekend essentials for their hometown. Next up: Jean Wang of Extra Petite.

Jean Wang is the first to acknowledge that her adopted hometown isn’t typically considered a style destination. “Boston doesn’t get a lot of love for being fashionable,” she admits, despite the fact that supermodel Gisele Bündchen now calls it home. But among the college hoodies and Patriots jerseys, Wang says there’s plenty of great style to be found on the streets.

One of her favorite places for style-watching is along the notorious Newbury Street, where both local fashion boutiques and international retailers like Banana Republic reside alongside galleries and bookstores in beautiful historic buildings. From there, wander to South End and Beacon Hill, where you’ll find cute eateries and quaint boutiques on every corner. “Beacon Hill encompasses so much of the history and charm that I love about the city,” says Wang. If you’re thinking a weekend in Boston sounds like it might involve an awful lot of walking, you’re right. Naturally, functional fashion has become an important part of Wang’s personal style as she moves about her city. “Packing versatile layers for a visit here is key. You never know what the weather will be like!” she adds.

If you’re planning a visit, Wang suggests hitting up Banana Republic for some Boston-perfect pieces like the ones below. It just might change your mind about Boston’s style IQ.

First up, you’ll need light, layerable outerwear. “A tailored trench coat, updated in a fresh color like this soft blush, is a timeless piece that can be worn throughout the year,” Wang tells us.

“Scarves are one of my favorite accessories year-round,” Wang shares. “A silky one like this can serve either as a purse accent or a faux turtleneck to keep your neck warm.”

“Mid-heel pumps that aren’t too high are also a staple in every Boston woman’s wardrobe,” says Wang. 

“These knotted sandals show that stylish heels don’t have to be uncomfortable.”

Wang tells us she looks for easy to wear pieces in classic colors, like this navy dress with flared sleeves. “Feminine sleeve details, which I adore, continue to be big this year,” Wang says.

Tell us the must-have pieces for your hometown in the comments below!