Christopher & Banks

One-of-A-Kind Women’s Clothing

By Deborah Daley

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When Dorothy arrives in Oz in The Wizard of Oz, she is struck by the beauty, style, and color. She says to her dog, Toto, “I have a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore!” The first time I walked into a Christopher & Banks store, I had a similar feeling, and I’m sure I’m not alone in this. From the moment you enter, you know you are not in a typical women’s clothing store. You are struck by the style, quality, and variety of the clothing as well as the friendly and knowledgeable sales associates. It is a one-of-a-kind shopping experience that everyone should enjoy.

Christopher & Banks opened its doors in 1956. The store’s apparel is designed in Minnesota, where the brand was born. As noted on the store’s website, the vision of founder Gil Braun was to design clothing and accessories for women who are “full of life and wisdom, confident in their beliefs, and in search of wardrobes to reflect their lifestyle.”

Things have changed over the years, but this commitment to customers has not. Their brand messaging says it all. “Because of you, we’ve grown. Because of you, we’re better than ever. We’re bringing you fresh new styles, improved quality, and an elevated shopping experience—all thanks to your support. Come see what’s new! #BetterBecauseOfYou”

The store prides itself on creating high-quality, original, affordable clothing that is trend-conscious and designed to flatter…and that has a consistent fit. All the prints and patterns are exclusive to Christopher & Banks, and their inclusive sizing fits women from size 4 to size 24, including petite sizing.

The clothing ranges from work to activewear, from special occasion to coats. The style is impeccable and has timeless appeal. In addition, the fabrics are easy-care and of high quality. I personally started shopping at this store in the 1980s, and I still wear some of the blazers, spring sweaters, and blouses that I purchased back then. Their styles were relevant then and are still relevant today! Fellow customer Myra of Yutan, Nebraska, agrees. “I love the wide variety of styles, colors, sizes, and jewelry. I continue to wear purchases I made in 2001.”

Another unique aspect of the clothing at Christopher & Banks is that they design their pieces with a women’s shape in mind—making sure to flatter all shapes and sizes. As a plus-size woman, I truly appreciate their efforts to ensure a good fit.

They are especially known for their Signature Slimming pant collection, which is designed with a flexible tummy-smoothing panel that creates a sleek silhouette and great fit. These pants are available in a variety of colors as well as denim washes and in lengths ranging from Bermuda shorts to skimmers to ankle-length and full-length pants. 

One thing I really love about this brand is not about the clothing at all—it’s their sales staff. They are there to help you. They reach out to you. If you are not quite sure what you need, they engage you in conversation, making sure they understand your lifestyle and what you want from your clothing. They will show you how to mix and match styles. They take pride in their inventory and will help you find just the right items.

Debbie, who has been shopping at Christopher & Banks for 24 years, says, “The service is wonderful and hard to find anywhere else.” Judith, who has also shopped at the store for more than two decades, echoes Debbie’s sentiments. “I like it because you have real people helping you on the floor. The fit and design of their clothing is great!”

This spring season, Christopher & Banks is featuring clothing with comfort and style! May ushers in visions of coastal escape with hints of heritage Americana. Look for all shades of blue—the always-popular skimmer in a variety of denim washes, the blue linen wide-leg pants, and many seasonal brights in tops and jackets. From capris and skimmers to novelty tops in assorted prints, Christopher & Banks will be your destination for great fit and function this spring and summer.

The Omaha store has a seasoned sales team standing ready to offer great service to their customers. They pride themselves on providing a personalized styling experience that is hard to find in today’s market. You can call them at 402-819-4539 to schedule your own complimentary styling session or to host a private shopping event (for groups of 10 or more people).

Christopher & Banks is located at 13029 West Center Road, in Omaha, and is open seven days a week (Monday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.; Sunday, 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.) Shop anytime online at christopherandbanks.com.

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