WOMEN, where do you buy your business suits?

[Albuquerque101]

I second Ann Taylor and Banana Republic. Ann Taylor has the best sales, so if you aren't picky on style/color, you can get great starter suits there in your budget. They also have a good return policy, just don't buy their "final sale" items and make sure to return what doesn't fit within the timeframe allotted.

[Wry_Martini]

I haven't needed to wear business suits on a regular basis in about 10 years (although I keep 1-2 around for funerals). Talbots was always my go-to store. The styling tends to be a bit more conservative than my taste, but the quality is excellent and the clothing lasts. I think the prices are decent for the quality -- even better if you can pick stuff up on sale or on clearance.

[hellothereIN]

I am personal shopper for a management type/corporate/construction. She does not want to look like one of the guys. I pitched (donated) her grays/blacks for COLOR.

Found an amazingly tailored jacket on sale at Talbots. Of all places! Can be dressed up or down. Grabbed a necklace that enhanced the colors and a pretty white tee under - great fitting jeans or jacquard pant and she looked amazing.

FIT. Have them tailored if need be. Grab your usual size and then try going down a size. Should not be constrictive and you don't need to button those buttons!! Just an opinion.

I now have her in black skirt with lace overlay, reasonable black pump, a colorful shell with draped neck and a fitted short jacket in an amazing Cobalt blue.

(she has fallen in love with the wardrobe person for "Carrie Diaries" show, that dresses the "Carrie" actress.)

Go moto jacket, too! Be careful on the bomber jackets this season. Tends to make middles look well, fuller. So, go shorter with slim pants/skirts!

[Faith2187]

I love shopping for sales, and purchasing quality items for lower prices but I've learned that with business suits the best long-lasting suits are ones that cost a good amount to purchase. Some of the higher end stores like Banana Republic will result in suits that will last you for years if you take care of them. That being said, I always go to the clearance/sales rack in these stores, or go primarily when I KNOW there is a sale going on. Macy's is okay, but I like Limited, Banana Republic, and the Black and White Store. I also go to New York and Company if I'm looking for "okay" quality clothing for an affordable price(NYC also has good clearance racks). Going to outlet malls like NYC, Nordstrom Rack, etc is also a good idea if your really good at spotting trends and have a good sense of style.