Banana Republic Opened its First Home Store With Olivia Wilde, Chris Appleton, and More in Attendance
‘Twas the night before the official grand opening of the first standalone Banana Republic Home store, and an impressive list of Hollywood’s who’s who turned up Thursday to support the now 45-year-old clothing brand’s official foray into home decor.
The store’s exterior, claiming a prime corner of the famed Melrose strip, strikes awe with as little as a quick drive-by. Guests were invited to frolic among the rich, 5,000-square-foot space for the evening. On the outside, a bronze-colored steel material backed with lights, the building is artfully illuminated, developed in collaboration with architect designer Stefano Casati, who pulled inspiration from an AI concept he created. Inside, attendees of the private event had a chance to experience the home collection up close.
Massive, clay and bronze pendant lights (such as the ones available to purchase) hung from the ceilings, the rose-petal clay pieces specifically handcrafted in such a way that you could see the artisans fingerprints if examined closely. There was, of course, ample seating room among the bright and airy space for exchanging banter as platters of champagne and more floated about throughout the night. Many took to a plush, curved sofa and sat underneath a vast, black and white wall painting. What felt like a hidden treasure was the store’s rooftop, reached by traveling first through a warmly lit, bronze-hued staircase. Outside, the night sky lit by Banana Republic’s wooden floor lamps and floating crocheted lights, guests could be found kicked back anywhere from among a section of sorts of daybeds, or one of the collection’s many fuzzy accent chairs, which created intimate nooks throughout the outdoor space.
As for who, the event brought out a sophisticated bunch of actors and interior enthusiasts. Olivia Wilde arrived with her interior designer Sarah Weichel of Swike, Chris Appleton and Lukas Gage were spotted close together on one of the store’s sofas, and Adrien Brody made a pit stop at the party before jetting off to Milan Fashion Week, while Riley Keough, Rashida Jones, Jesse Williams, Quincy Brown, and Ashley Park were among others who just had to get a sneak peek at the new space.