1. Banana Republic: Year after year, I realize my favorite classic pieces come from BR. The quality seems to be slipping a bit lately (my new wool cardigan is kind of scratchy), but overall it's the the asesethic and comfort for the cost that makes this one of my favorites.
2. Rebecca Taylor: Love the girly details that aren't too overwhelming. I typically adore everything she does, and even if I don't, I'd probably still wear the piece.
3. Theory: Makes my favorite wife beater tanks (Jimi) and they're a good place for solid basics, such as LBD and blazers. It sort of runs in the same category as BR for me in terms of classic looks, but the quality and cut of Theory is typically better.
4. Elie Tahari: Same as Theory but compensates with more unique details. This can be hit or miss, either too old bordering on grandma-y or exactly up my alley.
5. Furst Premium Denim: This is a brand only sold at LF stores but I swear they're the only brand of jean that fit my body perfectly without tailoring. Soft high quality fabric, great fit, they don't stretch out and best of all, the perfect inseam (no tailoring!). I love them better than 7s, Joes and TR. This is my holy grail of jean.
6. Anthropologie: I love all of Anthro's stuff since it's so unique and one-of-a-kind (as much as you can get with a chain store). They have the details that really draw me to certain pieces of clothes, and some of my favorite "statement" dresses and tops come from here.
7. Nine West: Shoes I can go back and forth on but in terms of pricing, trend and quality, I typically go with Nine West. If I want a funky shoe or follow a trend that's bound to go kaput in a year, Nine West has that with decent leather quality and comfort.
8. Alexander Wang, Philip Lim, Helmut Lang, Yoji Yamamoto: It's hilarious since they all have different looks and visions, but these designers all hit a certain niche for me: unique designs with interesting textures and details. They all put out pieces that makes me feel like it's made for me and exactly my style, even though I've never seen anything like it before (that makes no sense but I can't really describe it, haha).
9. Black Halo: For that bombshell over-the-top look that I can never find an opportunity to wear.
For my all around department store, I like
Nordstrom since their customer service and selection is always consistently great. For the higher end stores, I'm still on the fence about Bloomingdales, Saks or Neimans. The CS at these places is atrocious so I'm still hunting for that perfect department store sans snotty sales associates.