30 Fall Sale Finds From J.Crew, Gap, and Banana Republic to Shop Before Labor Day
Discover everything you could possibly need to stock up on before the end of summer.
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Although we’re currently schlepping (and sweating) through countless heat waves, cooler temperatures are finally on the horizon. However, before we arrive at our sweater weather destination, we must face that awkward phase in between seasons when fickle temperatures decide to swing back and forth. To prepare for this moment, I’m on a mission to fill my capsule wardrobe with a range of transitional basics that will carry me from summer to fall with ease.
For assistance, I’ve turned to a few of my go-to shopping spots—J.Crew, Banana Republic, and Gap. Much to my delight, not only do these retailers have everything I need to master transitional dressing, but they’re also hosting major sales. From now until Monday, August 12, J.Crew and Gap are both offering an extra 50 percent off sale items. Meanwhile at Banana Republic, you can score up to 40 percent off all sale styles from now until Thursday, August 15.
There are thousands of markdowns across each retailer, but don’t worry, I’ve gone ahead and perused their sale pages so that you don’t have to. Ahead, discover 30 transitional basics that you’re guaranteed to love—from a lightweight linen blazer that will layer nicely over a white T-shirt to a sweater vest that can be worn on its own or alongside a button-down shirt.
Shop On-Sale Transitional Basics at J.Crew
I have a penchant for neutral hues, so as soon as I saw this chocolate brown dress, I knew that it was only a matter of time before it made its way into my wardrobe. Aside from its color, I’m also captivated by the delicate ruching around the waist and the charming mock neck silhouette.
According to Marie Claire’s fall color trends guide, shades of green (from lime to olive) are rising in popularity. If you’re aiming to infuse your collection of clothes with a pop of color, look no further than this linen top to get the job done.
For a breezy evening out, opt for J.Crew’s slinky slip skirt. This piece is crafted with a roomy construction and an elastic waistband, so whether you’re dancing the night away at your favorite club or hopping from one cocktail bar to the next, you’ll be able to move around with ease.
Invest in J.Crew’s Capitaine top and watch how it seamlessly shifts from summer to fall. Team this shirt with tailored shorts for warmer days, and as temperatures begin to dip, hop into a pair of baggy jeans.
Whenever I’m in the market for new clothes, I always prioritize ease and comfort. So, it comes as no surprise that I instantly added J.Crew’s Bungalow dress to my shopping cart. Its streamlined shape makes it versatile enough to style with a range of other pieces in my closet and its linen blend is beyond soft.
If you haven’t heard the news already, capri pants have become a favorite among the fashion crowd. With a hemline that falls right below the knees, these bottoms are ideal for moments when it’s not warm enough for linen shorts, but not quite cool enough for floor-sweeping trousers.
A hybrid between a sweater and a blazer? I’ll take two, please. This polished style features a plush cotton exterior and a slightly structured shape that’s hard to resist. I plan to style it with a plain top, a flowy maxi skirt, and a pointy pair of kitten heels.
If you ask me about my favorite style of jeans, I’ll quickly tell you that I can’t live without a solid pair of wide-leg denim pants. What I love most about this straightforward design is that it’s timeless, so it’s guaranteed to stick around for the long haul.
As far as pants go, my closet is stacked with laid-back jeans and sophisticated tailored trousers, but I’m looking for a pair of bottoms that fall somewhere along the middle of the dress code spectrum. These semi-formal chino pants do just that, and I’m particularly drawn to the patch-pocket details, sculpted silhouette, and ankle-grazing hems.
If there’s one item that’s an absolute must-have for your lineup of transitional basics, it’s a sweater vest. You’ll appreciate this arm-baring style when you want the feel of a cozy sweater, but you don’t want to be burdened by heavy sleeves.
Shop On-Sale Transitional Basics at Gap
This summer, I’ve been wearing tailored vests on repeat and I plan to continue doing so as we move into fall. Gap’s version puts a unique twist on the style with a halter neckline that gives off an effortlessly cool vibe. I’ll be incorporating this piece into my roundup of going-out outfits.
This gauzy dress is stitched with cotton fabric, so it’s undeniably breathable. Wear it on balmy days, and cover your shoulders with a summer sweater if you get chilly.
Denim maxi skirts took over the trend cycles last year, and they’re poised to do the same once again. I can’t wait to wear this piece alongside a fall cardigan and a pair of knee-high black boots.
After seeing celebrities like Katie Holmes and Kendall Jenner take the overall trend for a spin, I’ve decided it’s time for me to follow suit. I’ll do so with Gap’s slouchy overalls layered over a basic T-shirt (or a tight-fitting turtleneck if I need extra warmth).
I don’t know about you but I love the way a sweater vest looks over a crisp button-down shirt. I’ll achieve this style with Gap’s Cotton Big Shirt, which is decorated with sharp point collars and subtle button cuffs.
If there’s one thing to know about me, it’s that I love ‘90s fashion. In addition to slip dresses, tube tops, and jelly sandals, high-rise jeans rank high on my list of favorite retro styles. These denim pants exude a vintage vibe that I’m swiftly falling for.
While transitioning into fall, you’ll want to add sweater pants to your shopping list. This pair from Gap is seemingly snug, thanks to its cloud-like cotton blend. Prepare to cuddle up on the couch all day long while wearing these pants.
No matter how warm it might be outside, my office is notoriously freezing. Given that I’m not a huge fan of bone-chilling temps, I’m looking for a cardigan that will easily pair with my work outfits. I think I just found my match.
There’s no such thing as too many tank tops. This barely-there style can function as a stand-alone piece for sweltering days or it can easily fit beneath a loose layer if the forecast calls for frigid air).
Gap’s belted blazer has a cinched look that perfectly sculpts the waist. I’ll be wearing this elegant layer with tailored trousers, my go-to work shoes, and of course I’ll carry my laptop bag over my shoulder.
Shop On-Sale Transitional Basics at Banana Republic
If you’re looking for a simple pair of pants that can cycle through your assortment of transitional outfits, choose these neutral-toned bottoms from Banana Republic. You can wear these pants with practically any top, but I would recommend a black T-shirt (and layer it beneath a neatly tied cardigan for extra style points).
I strongly believe that every wardrobe needs at least one black dress. This option demonstrates perfectly folded pleats that add a strong sense of movement and dimension.
Banana Republic's Janette top showcases an intricate stitched pattern that is bound to bring any outfit to life. Finish off the look with a pair of preppy loafers and white jeans (yes, you can wear white after Labor Day).
Want to take an elevated approach to a crop top outfit? Choose this cropped white tee. It boasts a heavy fabric blend and a boxy construction (i.e. it’s a bit more refined than flimsy and revealing alternatives).
Allow me to let you in on a little fashion secret—investing in a linen blazer is the easiest way to conquer transitional dressing. This style offers enough coverage, but it’s still breathable and airy.
These days, fashion folks are obsessing over tailored Bermuda shorts. If you’re eager to try out the style for yourself, snag these bottoms from Banana Republic before it’s too late (they’re already selling out quickly).
Is your transitional wardrobe even complete without a cashmere sweater? The short answer is no. Do yourself a favor and grab this polo-style version. You’ll find yourself constantly reaching for it—don’t say I didn’t warn you.
Look closely and you’ll notice that this mock neck top is enhanced with slightly padded shoulders that are extremely flattering. Take things up a notch with a sheer skirt that will command attention and a pair of ladylike kitten heels.
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Lauren is the Fashion Editor at Marie Claire, where she writes trend reports, shopping pieces, and celebrity news stories. Prior to Marie Claire, Lauren worked for Harper’s Bazaar and ELLE as a freelance editor with a specific focus on seasonal styles and coveted products. She also worked for Town & Country, where she developed a robust portfolio of fashion roundups and designer profiles.
Lauren graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree in communications and a minor in journalism. While attending Penn, Lauren contributed to the university's fashion magazine, The Walk, while also interning for Philadelphia Style Magazine and EveryStylishGirl.
When she’s not exploring the world of fashion, you can find Lauren sharpening her skills as DJ, discovering new restaurants in New York City (she’s a foodie), and spending quality time with friends and family. Follow her along at @laurenktappan.
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