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.