Banana Republic Reviews
- We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
- Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.
- We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
About Banana Republic
This profile has not been claimed by the company. See reviews below to learn more or submit your own review.
Banana Republic sells clothing, jewelry, shoes and accessories for men and women. Banana Republic is available to almost anyone — it has stores in 46 U.S. states and a website that serves customers across the world. Customers with the Banana Republic credit card receive discounts and reward points. Customers can return any item within 45 days of purchase.
Banana Republic Reviews
Filter by Rating
- (10)
- (3)
- (5)
- (13)
- (169)
Popular Mentions
- 4,874,223 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
- We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
- We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
- Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.
Recent
- Recent
- Oldest
- Most helpful
A link has directed you to this review. Its location on this page may change next time you visit.
- 4,874,223 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
- We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
- We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
- Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.
Reviewed June 15, 2023
Purchased a suit (matching jacket and pants) on sale. After some weird emails about how the shipped jacket (shipped separately for some reason) is out of stock. The problem is that they won’t take the pants back. The deal was the suit. Who buys just suit pants? When I explained that I don’t want half a suit they just said check back in a few days. It may come back in stock. Just refund the order BR. C'mon. So I’ll just never shop them anymore. Don’t wanna deal with their robot/off shore customer service. If they couldn’t care less, I won’t either. I hope they get a class action lawsuit for their coding practices that allow them to get rid of inventory that no one will want. BR projects this above average status, yet the practices are shady and basically wrong doing.
Reviewed June 14, 2023
I'm so done with this store. Their customer service is the worst I've ever encountered in my over 70 years on this planet. They should just start over or close down. I've literally spent hours on the phone over a minor issue. Their supervisors are just as clueless. Each one reads, not well, from a script that often doesn't even address the issue at hand. What a shame. They used to be great.
Reviewed March 9, 2023
I was a loyal customer for many years. Not any longer. I’m disappointed in their major price increase, the looks and ease of their website, and the fact you can’t return sale items. The website is dark and gloomy and you can’t tell what it is the picture of the model is advertising because they take long shots and show the entire outfit and they’re standing in a position that you can’t actually see how the pants or shirt or sweater fit OR a coat is covering what is advertised! They have increased prices DRASTICALLY. Not just a little, but most items are double or triple what you would have paid before they revamped. It’s absolutely atrocious that they don’t allow returns on sale items. I don’t know of a single store that does this. I don’t see them being around a lot longer because they have zero concerns for the consumer.
Reviewed Jan. 26, 2023
I bought a Jacket in 2 different sizes, I received both jackets, the Small fit better and when I tried returning the Medium I was told it's final sale, so now I'm stuck with 2 of the same jackets. Final sale for online items should be illegal, because how do you know if the item will fit properly? This just means Banana Republic does not back their back their product, because when you trust that you are selling a good product, you don't need to make such ridiculous return policies. I'm truly disappointed, after over 10 years of shopping at Banana Republic and thousands of $ spent on this company, I can't believe they are doing this to their customers...
Reviewed Jan. 9, 2023
While I was out of the country, they switched banks, and then doing so it locked me out of my account. I was not able to resume access without physical possession of a card that I was unable to reach until I returned home. During this time $30 went past due, and they assessed late fees and charges, despite knowing that I, and I’m sure MANY others, were locked out of our accounts by their doing. Out of our control. I called customer service, and they said they couldn’t locate my account… Transferred me to another department, which could. They collected my full payment through an automated system, before transferring me to a very rude customer service rep, who kept interrupting me and challenging my statements. They made it incredibly difficult to reactivate my account. I had been an active customer for 20 years. Today they lost me. Barclay’s sucks. And Banana Republic Corporate sucks. Retail workers are great. But after 20 years - I’m out.
Reviewed Dec. 28, 2022
I'm 6'5" and look for nice T-shirts that are tall and extra large. BR t-shirts seemed to fit the bill. However, their Luxe Touch Performance t-shirts shrank after one wash and the collars are wrinkled. I do not recommend buying these shirts. I do like their Premium Wash shirts as they seem to hold up fine after washing.
Reviewed Dec. 1, 2022
I ordered three items to be expedited overnight for a very important business trip. I paid a very high fee for expedited shipping. The company kept showing the same date for three days for when the items will be delivered. The package was lost by Banana Republic, and they never updated shipping date. UPS never received it. I never had time to buy new clothing, and they offered no explanation and no apology. Extremely disappointed.
Reviewed Aug. 24, 2022
Placed an order and realized it was not the fit I wanted. I tried to cancel and they refuse to cancel my order after 1 hour of placing. Definitely won't buy from them again. Spoke to Shannon ** and rudely laughed and when I asked to speak to someone else she hung up.
Reviewed Aug. 24, 2022
Purchased a brand new utility jacket that was to be mailed out to me. I was not given a receipt nor was I informed of a new exchange policy that occurred days before. When I had to exchange it, I was not allowed to because of a few days difference despite that they had record of my purchase. Apparently the package it arrived in was the receipt. Called customer service and even contacted BBB. They simply did not care. Jacket is brand new with tags, unworn, it didn’t fit. Having been a loyal customer of 20 years I was greatly disappointed. I froze my credit cards and will definitely take my business elsewhere, it’s apparent they just don’t care.
Reviewed July 6, 2022
I placed an order for items. Received notice 3 had shipped and one scheduled for later shipment. First, I received notice my order had been delivered. I was at home, and it was not delivered. I called BR customer service. The person with whom I spoke could not understand me nor I her. I told her my package had not been received. She kept saying, "So, you received your package?" After a few times of this, she put me on hold and told me to wait until tomorrow and call back if not received. I asked what time should I call. She responded, "Yes, call tomorrow." I gave up after each of us had said the same thing 4 times. In checking on all this I noticed the delayed item had been canceled. When I asked why I had not been notified of it not being available. She responded, "Yes, the item is not available." Once again, I gave up after we each repeated this interchange 4 times.
Reviewed June 20, 2022
Banana Republic is now using Lasership to ship packages and the experience is beyond frustrating. My expectation is not of next day or even 2 day delivery, but Lasership has the most random updates on their tracking and in general, packages will have no status updates for days. You can do better than this.
Reviewed April 25, 2022
Recently I have noticed that unless you call multiple times you will not be issued a refund for your return. They got my return delivered 4 weeks ago. Multiple calls to very polite customer service and still no refund. They are "transferred the issue" to another department. I have their credit card and have been a good client with Luxe status for over a decade. And is the second time this year. Don't waste your time ordering from them. Shop in stores. Feel very disappointed. Shame on them.
Reviewed Dec. 13, 2021
I ordered a shirt that was too large and returned it via mail. The tracking page told me it could take about 10 days for the refund to be issued. After 10 days I contacted an agent and they told me it could take up to 15 days. After 15 days I contacted customer service again and a different agent said it would take 20 days, "per their return policy". This policy is nowhere on their website, and when I asked why it would take so long, the agent kept copy/pasting "please be advised, per our return policy, your refund could take 15-20 days" and refused to answer my questions. Horrible customer service, and I now need to get my credit card company involved since they keep adding bogus days to the time it takes to issue a refund.
Reviewed Nov. 4, 2021
Let me start off by writing that Banana Republic & Gap have the worst customer service and I have FACED IT RECENTLY. They have no idea how to resolve the issues and twice in two weeks customer service has promised that MANAGER will back within 24-48hrs and no one has called. Why would someone give a timeline and not call, IT IS SO RUDE. When you ask to speak to Manager they say one is not available now and will schedule a call back. All customer service does is, "Let me put you on list so they can call you back." They do not honor what they say and just brush it off by saying misinformation was provided.
I cannot understand how can someone just say that misinformation was provided and ignore previous representative words. They just keep you waiting for a long time. I have been a customer for 10 years with BR credit card but regretting about my decision, GAP and BR both forwarded me to each other saying, "This is not our responsibility" and just transfer you over. You are redirected to different people without any result. If I could give negative stars I would, I can go on about the recent few experiences I faced, WORST WORST WORST CUSTOMER SERVICE.
Reviewed Aug. 2, 2021
I traveled to Washington DC. I shopped at Banana Republic. The store was crowded and I didn't have much time. I didn't try on the items and a few things did not fit. I called to find out an address I could return the items. The policy is you have to return to the store. That's fine, but Banana Republic does not have any stores within 4 hours of me. If I hold them until I travel again they won't take them. This is policy makes no sense. Stores are closing all the time. I will not purchase their clothing on vacation anymore. I also signed up for their rental program Style Passport. It is the worst. Once you get on it the clothes look nothing like the website. I don't know where they get the cloths for this thing but the style and quality are really bad. Total waste of money! I won't be shopping here or their other companies anymore.
Reviewed Jan. 3, 2021
On November 8th, 2020 I placed an order for this cape. It stated online it would ship around the 27th of the month. Also, it was on sale when the order was placed. November 27th came and went. On December 24th received an email stating my order was cancelled. I go on the website January 2, 2021 to find the cape was being offered at full price and already sold out. I confused because how could orders not be fulfilled on an item that is being offered in a previous month. So disappointed because I purchase a lot of my pieces from here. The customer service has really went down.
Reviewed Aug. 20, 2020
Very, very bad experience. Never in my life will buy from Banana again. They should learn from Amazon service. I returned the package for refund. Called, was told twice that money was refunded to my credit card. Also received an email that money will be refunded within 10 days. A month later, no money refunded. Spend more than an hour with them and the bank, but still dont have the refund. Good by Banana.
Reviewed June 16, 2020
I have been a die hard fan of BR but the brand has gone completely downhill. The styles for the most part are drab and no longer geared to the professional woman. The fabric is cheap and the fit is horrible. The Sloan pants that were my go to pants have changed and the size is way off and no longer fits my body, no matter what size. If you do find something that is work appropriate it’s close to $100 for a blouse made of poor quality. I am so disappointed and I will no longer be shopping at any BR store.
Reviewed June 10, 2020
What an ABSOLUTE waste of my time and energy. A company like this should have out of stock items for online shopping updated as it happens instead of taking my order and keeping me waiting more than 24hrs just to tell me they don't have both items I ordered. They offered 10% off future purchases, but it is absolutely unlikely I will EVER shop with this company online again. Who’s to say the same thing won’t happen time after time? I just wasted 24hrs when I could have been shopping elsewhere. PATHETIC - this is part of their message: "We're sorry, but while processing your order, we found that the item(s) below are no longer available. We value your business and apologize for any inconvenience."
Reviewed April 9, 2020
I had a few rewards from previous purchases and a merchandise credit voucher. I was told by a store employee that the rewards are expired, but I can call the company and they will reissue them. He closed my account and reopened a new one so I could buy my items chosen that day. Fast forward...when I called Banana Republic I was told I have lost the rewards and they don’t recognize the merchandise credit (total $130-150). I am disappointed because the company could have made a decision to reissue the rewards and the credit, but chose to do nothing. I just closed my new BR account due to not honoring their rewards and credits within own company. Be aware if you are not using your rewards in a timely matter they will be lost and not reissued as said by employees. They need to get on the same page in regards to passing info to customers.
Reviewed March 18, 2020
My husband and I shop at Carolina Premium Outlet location from time to time. Our last visit there was a bit annoying. I noticed older woman at register when we walked in and younger lady on floor, when I asked for dressing room, she opened one that was in plain view of others, I should have asked for another one at the time. But I figured, store is not busy at all, this will do. I tried on 2 Jean skirts. I left skirts in dressing room, hung them neatly. The younger female pushed opened, that I left slightly open, took skirts and approached area I had got them from.
I was speaking to husband and letting him know they didn't fit properly, the Lady from register, was right in my face when I turned around and asked if she could help us find anything. I didn't respond. "Where did you come from and why are you asking?" I thought. I found another (rayon) skirt and went to register, older woman was still at back of store. I waited about one minute and she checked me out. This is not the shopping experience I'm used to having at Banana Republic. I don't know if I will be visiting this location anytime in the future.
Lesa
Reviewed March 15, 2020
Went to return an item bought in Michigan at the outlet mall in Windsor. This is a North American Company. They would not accommodate me. Also, to have a different size shipped to the store was a $5 charge. Maurices at the same mall quickly and happily returns U.S. items even providing the relevant U.S. exchange and bends over backwards to help the customer. Not so at Banana. Extremely disappointing from a customer service perspective. I will take my business to Maurices where I am appreciated as a customer!
Reviewed Dec. 6, 2019
Banana Republic is a rip off. People who shop there think it's a high quality brand. It is the same brand as the lower end of the part of their company. Old Navy (Gap Inc). They just sew a different label in them in Indonesia.
Reviewed Dec. 4, 2019
I used to really like Banana Republic and bought a lot of their clothing but their variety and quality has gone down over the last couple of years and that may be why some of their stores have closed.
Reviewed Dec. 1, 2019
This review is for Banana Republic online customer service, especially their middle-managers. If you love couture, live in a small town with no Banana Republic store nearby, and make a lot of online purchases that would involve a great deal of exchanges, the company’s middle managers, and a select handful of their agents will be rude to you. What are they there for, if not exchanging your clothes for you? They call it “easy exchange” policy but they will discriminate against you based on what you paid. You will be anxious about being given attitude and being transferred to some “leadership” who would have you explain what promotions you have had to get to a certain price. Then they would lie to you about their policy and would tell you that you have to return your clothes first, wait up to three weeks for them to process it, and then they can match the price of the new size or color with the original order.
Another agent would say, your so-called exchange order would be full price and three weeks after you have returned the original one, you could call and they would see into adjusting the price. That is while, their price-adjustment policy itself is within 7 days of placing an order. So, they have agents and middle-managers who just make up discriminatory rules and contradict themselves. Some agents are nice. I am, in part, sad to see that their overall convenient customer service is ruined because of certain middle-managers. If you just love clothing, at some point you would end up with clothes that don’t fit, find yourself so uncomfortable every time you want to pick up the phone, so that your true fit would end up going out of stuck, and your time would be for nothing. I wish the company would have at least respectful to customers who have a passion for clothing, and that it would have stayed true to its policy instead of rewarding those agents with upfront rudeness toward frequent online shoppers.
Reviewed Nov. 30, 2019
The Clothes look good and are stylish but fabric and construction is not quality, like paying over $100 dollars for an item that looks bad after first wash, also sizes are not accurate and change from one season to another. Same size jeans and brand not the same.
Reviewed Nov. 29, 2019
Good quality and clothes wash well, but the prices, if not on sale, are too high! I purchased from the outlet stores and I was able to buy, otherwise I would not be able to. There is variety for smaller sizes, but since I wear a 14-16 it was a bit difficult to find too many options!
Reviewed Nov. 28, 2019
I like Banana Rep. Clothing because it normally fits me well. Good Quality and Value. I also like the variety they have in styles. I recommend them when asked for a recommendation. The materials they use seem to wear and last longer. I purchase mostly pants and sweaters from Banana Rep. I live about 30 miles from a Banana Rep. outlet store in Vero Beach so that’s where I normally shop for the before mentioned products. I appreciate you requesting my opinion on this matter. Thank you!
Reviewed Nov. 27, 2019
This brand fits true to size, the texture of the clothes is amazing. You buy it and last forever - is a good investment. I received compliments every time I wear this brand. I buy my clothes online and they have an excellent customer service.
Reviewed Nov. 26, 2019
I love this store. They carry cool styles and they are helpful and have good sales. The prices are better than other brand name stores and The quality is good. I enjoy shopping at Banana Republic and some of my favorite clothes are from this store.
Reviewed Nov. 23, 2019
I like that I can come into the store and find a piece that I gravitate towards. The store itself is very welcoming, regardless of location, and feels like I have stepped into a high-end luxury retailer. The variety in the collections is perfect for different occasions or when buying gifts for others. I especially love their outerwear and warm winter collections. There is something that makes it feel like home and yet still feel elegant. The accessories for men are also great! I like that I can walk in with no intention of purchasing anything and come out with a couple of bags of merchandise!
Reviewed Nov. 22, 2019
Banana Republic is one of my favorite clothing store. I love it because of the sale prices and quality of the clothing. I love the variety of styles. Their jeans is a perfect fit for my shape. I love the idea that there’s always an opportunity to use coupons and get added discounts.
Reviewed Nov. 21, 2019
Service fair to bad! Shirts were very small fitted and pants as well. Not much in the way of great savings but the quality is pretty good. Guess you gotta take the good with the bad.
Reviewed Nov. 19, 2019
After two washings, 4 out of 4 pull-over Henley T-Shirts have moth-like holes (we do not have moths). These were washed exactly as recommended and they are falling apart. I cannot return and am stuck with them. Two wears in (and now unwearable). Maybe expensive wash rags? Just awful.
Reviewed Oct. 26, 2019
Banana Republic online returns policy states something to the effect of "returns are processed as soon as the item is returned." When I inquired as to where my return was, customer service online stated to "please allow three weeks to process a return." There is no reason a return should take three weeks once tracking shows it has been received. If it's going to take this long, then give the customer the option of returning an item in store instead of a "mail only" returns policy. I will update my review upon receipt of my return. This store used to have great service, but sadly no longer.
Reviewed Sept. 7, 2019
I ordered a skirt using my phone. When I received the confirmation a minute later, I realized that I mistyped my address by mistake. I called customer service immediately and they told me that 1. They can’t fix my address and 2. They can’t cancel my order. Instead, they are going to send my order out intentionally to the wrong address and I’m stuck paying! They did offer to just order another one and make me pay twice. I am appalled that they could not help me. Their customer service essentially provides no service if they can’t fix my order nor cancel it. I will never do business with them again.
Reviewed July 31, 2019
In today's environment, unfortunately there are criminals, and they are known to hack and steal people's credit card information. I was a victim to such a crime, and to my SHOCK BANANA REPUBLIC DOES NOT HAVE A FRAUD DEPT!!!! I called immediately once I was notified of the fraudulent activity. I notified Banana Republic. After remaining on the phone for almost 30 minutes and being passed to one person to the next I finally was sent to the corporate security who managed the building. The gentleman was very nice, but unfortunately he could not do anything, and apologized. However, he stated due to the reorg they have no fraud dept.
I called the next morning, again I was passed around for 20 minutes, and eventually was sent to another customer service representative. Again, I was informed that they have no fraud dept, and they could not do anything. IT IS HIGHLY IRRESPONSIBLE & UNINTELLIGENT THAT SUCH A LARGE COMPANY SUCH AS BANANA REPUBLIC DOES NOT HAVE A FRAUD DEPT!!!!
Reviewed July 16, 2019
I ordered an item online but I took it back to the store and they won't give me the full amount back for it even though I have the receipt and there is nothing wrong with the item. They are ripping me off and I wasted an hour in the store arguing about it. Still not resolved. This is one of the reasons I hate BR.
Reviewed June 30, 2019
Ordered a pair of leather sneakers. Received an order confirmation and 5 days later a shipping status to confirm I would receive them within a couple of days. Today I receive another email that they are out of stock and cannot fulfill the order. This is not the first time this has happened. Customer service online are as clueless as they are in-store. When a place creates more frustration than they do a pleasant shopping experience, it's time to move on. BR never keeps up with trends and thus, the need to constantly have sales to get rid of stock. I rarely shop there anymore and even when I find a couple of items, they manage to screw up the order. Worst run operation ever.
Reviewed June 7, 2019
(This is an email I sent to BR's customer service address yesterday. No response yet though the site says it could be up to five days.) I really hate writing this email. I happen to love Banana Republic; it was an aspirational brand for me as a young adult, and as a fully grown one, it represents quality clothing and enjoyable shopping. That ended for me today.
I visited the 59th and Lexington Avenue location in New York City. This morning, I had a wardrobe malfunction, so on my lunch hour, I figured I would make my way to that store and easily find a new option that would both solve my woes and make its way into my everyday wardrobe. What I found in this store was humiliating. I am not a small woman. This has never mattered before. I am zaftig, but I am stylish and confidently aware of my size as a working woman and mother. BR has always been my go-to as a well-fitting, classic, stylish staple.
Today, for the first time in this store, I found nothing — nothing! — in a size 16; one or two items in a size 14 or XL; almost nothing in a 12 or L; very rarely a 10; and 8s galore. And not one salesperson found me worthy of a greeting. I have never in this store been treated in such a way. No, I am not slim, but I have the money to spend. But not today. I left after 20 minutes, bewildered that my favorite brand had abandoned me. Next door to my office is Bloomingdale's. I skip that store in favor of yours, or online shopping. Today I was... ashamed of myself. Instead of finding my size — or anything close! — Today, I found mostly 8s and 2s. This was new in my experience at your stores. Is this a new approach? Because in an age of inclusion and other options, I am more than willing to take my money — and my taste — elsewhere while canceling my Banana Republic card.
Reviewed June 6, 2019
I earned rewards so I used them to buy 8 dresses. Four of the dresses were too tight in the chest so I needed to exchange up one size. They said I would owe $99 to exchange the dresses and one was out of stock. I used my rewards when I bought the dresses so they said they would not honor them on the exchange. One of the dresses was out of stock so I would owe them money to return it!! Those are rewards I earned from spending on their card!! I will never shop with this company again and I am going to share the with everyone I can possibly reach. What a terrible customer experience. Who does this in this day and time. My money will be worth more at their direct competitor!! I ended up keeping the items, I will have to sell them online to get my money back.
Reviewed May 29, 2019
I bought this garment (https://bananarepublic.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=444970002&cid=1132003&pcid=1051540) (and a super cute bikini) and was super excited to take it on a couple of upcoming sunny destination vacations. The first day of the first vacation, I brought it out to wear around the pool. Within two hours, a seam on the front of the garment had come completely undone, leaving a gaping hole in the front. I was without a wrap for the rest of the trip. The worst part of this was the experience I had when returning it to the store. The clerks told me right away that they would not refund my money, first telling me that the garment wasn't made by Banana Republic (until I showed them my receipt) then explaining that because I had worn it (even for two hours) that it looked worn and had no tags on it, so they would not return it.
I admitted I had worn it briefly by the pool (that I was excited to wear it!) but that I really had just purchased it and that it seemed to be decomposing. The second clerk went to the general manager who was in the back office somewhere - this person never came to speak with me or to look at the garment - and returned to repeat that they were not going to refund my money. A third clerk, hearing my upset, came to actually look at the garment. She picked it up and looked at the seam on the other side of the hole. One light tug and the whole thing fell apart. That third clerk insisted they refund my money. I am grateful to that woman. That would have been $200 thrown away. But I am exceptionally disappointed with Banana Republic at this point. Poor poor quality clothing and exceptionally poor service, which hasn't always been my experience. I've spent a lot of money at this company over the years, and I am now considering whether I will shop at Banana Republic ever again.
Reviewed April 28, 2019
I ordered a matching pants and jacket suit. I received the jacket and a few days later received an e-mail stating the pants were no long available. I have no use for the jacket without the pants, so I asked if they could just substitute a regular length pant instead of the long length pant. The regular length pant was available on their website, but they were not able to substitute. They gave me a code to save 20% on the regular pant and order it myself, but with the code the regular length pant cost $25 more than the long pant I ordered. The sale price had expired and the code only saved me 20%, but when I ordered the pants they were on sale for 50% off. I refuse to pay an extra $25 because they aren't willing to fill my order with a different length pant. I'm returning the jacket. I'm really disappointed and will never shop there again.
Reviewed April 19, 2019
The people I have spoke with thus far have been very nice, and totally unhelpful. I made a two online purchases (which both were delayed in shipping) and returned two of the items. Six weeks after I have sent my returns I am still making calls for them to credit my account. I have sent them screenshots of the parcels shipment confirmation and they simply say sorry. I have yet to receive any refund and have spent many hours on phone calls and being disconnected. I will not be ordering online from this company again.
Reviewed April 16, 2019
Banana Republic double processed and then cancelled my order—taking longer than 5 days to drop the charge from Athleta's Synchrony credit card company. As a result, hours were spent with confused and poorly communication phone support people who could not answer why it was charged twice, then cancelled, and still reflecting on my credit card activity!!! Don’t bother getting Banana Republic’s people to call Synchrony for authorization to release the charge, they’ll just drop the call 20 minutes after you’ve waited for a 3-way phone conference. And they think a 20% discount code is going to make up for the lost time and frustration. Time to close this account.
Reviewed March 30, 2019
Ordered two things. One cancelled while on phone with Louis. Promised refund cancelled order. But instead he double charged my credit card! Promised me email reflecting this. When I called back Jenny could not help and when asked for her manager she hung up. Katie said "Too much for me". Could not answer simple questions about her own company. I urge anyone ordering from this company online to be very careful as they will double charge and make empty promises. Kinda like fraud!
Reviewed March 11, 2019
Donna went above and beyond with helping me find my sizes and type of garment I was looking for. She made shopping a very enjoyable experience for me. I will definitely go back to the Bayview Village Banana Republic.
Reviewed March 9, 2019
I applied for Banana Republic credit card. At the store they promise to give an extra percent off but you never get the amount they promise. From the moment I used it has been two months I have never gotten a bill. You have to constantly call them so I can send you a bill then they say that they sent you the bill through another bank which is synchrony Bank. They refused to send you a bill either by mail or email so they could charge you a late fee. I do not recommend this card. It does not have any benefits for it. Even the awards that they promise you get a hard time for you to get them and they only give it to you towards Banana Republic and it's not like other credit cards. I do not recommend this credit card.
Reviewed March 5, 2019
I wish I had read the online reviews before I placed an order with Banana Republic. I thought I could trust a company that is owned by The Gap. I have been waiting a month for a refund of the items I returned. Every time I call in, I get the same runaround. I will not be ordering online from this company ever again much less shopping there.
Reviewed Feb. 15, 2019
I used this card exclusively for 5 years and had no problems until it got stolen and the thieves started making payments larger than my account balance from some strange bank which I have never done and then would turn around within 5 minutes and spend that 17K at an Apple store in AZ. This went on for over a week with 3 fraudulent payments made that never cleared and my bal ended up being 32K!!!! I had to call them and tell them about it and they were surprise... WOW. They have now closed my new account due to bounced payments on the card that was stolen!! I have impeccable credit or had. I have no idea what is going to happen now. I spoke to someone yesterday who said, "We will look it and you should have an answer from us in 3 months." WTH!! Worst credit card ever!!
Reviewed Jan. 27, 2019
I bought a dress online using Rewards dollars from Banana Republic credit card. I had to return the dress and I was told that it would take a couple of billing cycles for the Rewards $ to be credited to my account. I waited three billing cycles, but the Rewards were never credited. I spent 2 hours on the phone today with six different people from Comenity Bank. In the end Laura, the manager, told me that the research department will look into this and I should hear from them in two months. The lack of ability for Comenity Bank to "see" the mistake is unacceptable. I hold Banana Republic responsible for a "rewards" system that doesn't follow through with returns. Funny - the salesman at the Banana store told me I might have problems getting my rewards $ back.
Reviewed Jan. 26, 2019
I have returned 3 items 2 weeks ago and their customer service doesn't acknowledge the returns at all. They haven't processed my returns and do not answer my e-mails even after I sent them the proof of the post office stating the items have arrived in their facility centre 15 days ago. I don't know if I will ever get my money back. Do not recommend ordering in Europe at all.
Reviewed Jan. 11, 2019
I purchased a 9 items of Jewelry. Suddenly only 1 item delivered. Communicating to their customers service representative who are not friendly and treated you as all favors are with them. They are 100% unaccommodated customers service. For almost 3 weeks of waiting all the items you expect to deliver you got shock for cancellation. No emails you will receive that they will cancel your orders. Don't believe with their shipping free too. Those are lies. I felt totally upset of what I experienced in Banana Republic.
Reviewed Dec. 24, 2018
I recently did all of my holiday shopping online with BR and was very happy with most of time items I received, however the jeans I ordered didn't fit and needed to be returned. So I went in store to return them and they were able to return them no problem. HOWEVER, I input my email for them to send me a receipt of my transaction. Now, 6 days later I do not have a receipt and the return was never deposited. Now I am completely helpless and I have no evidence for what happened and no way to get my money back. The cashier at BR was being careless and didn't fully make sure the transaction went through. I'm not sure what happened but from now on I will always be asking for a receipt. PS: If anyone has any suggestions on what I can do to get my money back, that would be helpful.
Reviewed Dec. 12, 2018
I purchased an item from BR and accidentally forgot to put in my apartment unit #. It was dumb mistake on my part so I take blame for that but I was hoping to somehow retrieve my item in the mail at a later date. I loved BR and their company so I trusted them to try to at least resend the item once they received the one that got resent. Once I explained the situation to the lady and when I asked if there is any way I can get the item, she just laughed it off and talked to me in a tone as if I were in grade school. Truly disappointing, and I'm glad it's being resent because I will never buy a product from them again.
Reviewed Nov. 21, 2018
Banana Republic is by far my #1 clothing store! The prices are competitive and the quality of their clothing is top notch! The staff here is great as well, always there to help! Would highly recommend to anyone who wants classy clothing and great service!
Reviewed Nov. 12, 2018
I shopped at Gap and was falsely charged repeatedly, they kept starting over. 6 pages worth of false transactions. When I call I get the automated runaround, hours of my time to keep getting "disconnected" with the excuse of technical difficulties. I have been working on this for 3 months and they continue to have technical difficulties. Now they say it was resolved and I owe the false charges, but I am not told how they come to that. Watch out for this scamming business.
Reviewed Sept. 20, 2018
Online it is not clear if you are at the factory store or regular store. I took an item back and they said “it’s not from our store”. All owners by the same company. I will not be shopping with Banana Republic again. Their customer service stinks.
Reviewed Sept. 18, 2018
I ordered some clothes online and they never arrived, so I called customer service. It turns out I had accidentally shipped them to an old address. The packages had been delivered and signed for, but I couldn't get them. It was completely my fault and I was ready to take the loss, but they very generously offered to ship me a new order to right address!! I was so happily surprised! And the best part is that there was almost no hold time on the phone at all. :)
Reviewed Sept. 16, 2018
I bought a couple of clothes from this store. After I paid with my credit card the cashier and her friend who was also checking my credit card information chased after me to sign up with Godaddy.com. I refused to do so. A few days later, an unauthorized charge showed up on my credit card and I ended up cancelling the card. It appeared to me that they pass your credit card information to their friends. Never use a credit card at this store!
Reviewed Aug. 30, 2018
I placed an order for a pair of boots on August 19th. A few days later I checked in on the item, and it has not shipped yet. I emailed to inquire and was told that my item will arrive on the 30th regardless. Earlier this week I checked again, and the item no longest exists. I emailed to inquire and was told again to be patient, and wait for August 30th. Yesterday night I received an email that said the item may or may not exist, and will be shipped to me as soon as possible. Today, I found out that my order is cancelled without my knowledge. No email was sent. The only reason I knew was because I saw the return charge on my credit card.
WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU GUYS? Why are you selling items that don't even exist, and waste customers' time by not telling us right away when you knew all along that we will never get the item at all? I could have used these last two weeks to find another pair of boots - that actually exist - instead of waiting for an order that was never going to arrive at all.
I called customer service and they apologized and offered a 50% discount and a further 10% discount on whatever I wanted from the website, even if it was more expensive. But here's the other problem: THERE IS NOTHING I FOUND REMOTELY APPEALING FROM THE STYLES YOU ARE CURRENTLY OFFERING. I haven't bought anything from Banana Republic in the last few years because at some point you stopped designing for and appealing to young professional women.
What happened? The last time I ordered something and didn't return it was back in 2014. Remember the Anna Karenina capsule collection back in 2012? The Mad Men capsule collection in 2013? You guys were actually paying attention to trend inspirations from popular culture, and offered the styles that were about to explode.
Now, it looks like you're designing in a detached bubble and are churning out the same things over and over again. The most daring thing to come out recently was a snake-effect leather coat for $1240. If you knew anything about your customers, you would know that no self-respecting woman would purchase anything larger than an accessory in animal print, let alone a faux one, for $1240.
I don't know who that coat was meant for (Cruella de Vil?) but it looked like you knew anything about current values. For starters - animal skins belong to their living owners not humans, quality materials not faux prints, and reasonably priced merchandise. Not to mention, the first time in years I actually see something I liked, you guys pull this nonsense. You may have offered a refund, but not everything is about money - you've wasted my time as well. I really hope things turn around for you guys because I've seen what you're capable of, but it doesn't look like it.
Reviewed July 24, 2018
I was forced into getting a Banana Republic credit card and I did end up spending a lot of money on it. We did receive coupons which I never can seem to use online. I always have to call in to read the product numbers to the customer service for over 10-15 items which takes a LONG TIME. On top of that, they send you a new credit card without any notification via email and since it never arrived, I called customer service to go through all the products I needed (again because I was unable to order it) and then find out that the new card was not activated. My rewards almost runs out and they can only expedite it for 3-4 business days (no weekends). The main issue here is that they are unapologetic and make us feel like we are making an absurd claim when they should have notified us that they sent us a new card and that we will not be able to use it. What if I had gone to the store to buy their stuff. NOT RECOMMENDED. TERRIBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE. MOST LIKELY NOT EVEN HANDLED IN THE US.
Reviewed July 23, 2018
On a Friday, I made separate merchandise returns to Express, Ann Taylor and Banana Republic. Both Express and Ann Taylor credited my credit card for the returned amount on the same day, which was reflected on my credit card statement. However, I still haven't seen the Banana Republic credit amount of $192 on Monday. When I called Banana Republic, I was told that it takes 3 to 5 business days for my account to be credited. I pointed out that 2 stores have already credited my account on the same day of the return.
Banana Republic wants to hold on to people's money for 3 to 5 business days. She said, it's their policy, which is written on my return receipt ---- which it isn't! Then she said, it could take the credit card company 3 to 5 business days to apply the credit. But it's not up to my credit card company. I think, Banana Republic is quick to make the sale (take the money), but slow to give it back. I'm so disappointed with them. It used to be my favorite store, but I've learned my lesson. Buyers Beware!!!
Reviewed July 23, 2018
Last fall (2017) I bought a jeans skirt. After a few uses, one button dropped out. The skirt didn't come with a spare button. Yesterday I looked for a replacement at the Banana Republic and the manager told me it was an old model and after the sale, they don't have any responsibility. I asked for some help and all I heard was: ”Sorry there is nothing I can do”.
Reviewed June 5, 2018
I feel discriminated. The quality of the WOMEN'S clothing in this store keeps going down. The last season light 100% wool pant/skirt suit now is 50% polyester for the same price. Why can't you make a proper (not light) wool pant/skirt suit (and a large variety of them) as you make it for men? The men's store has a greater selection of items made from higher quality fabrics. This goes for all seasons. Why do you treat men differently? Why do you think that I am not going to want to buy quality products? So disappointed.
Reviewed March 28, 2018
A great experience today. Was able to get 40% off plus my 10% for using my card and was able to use two of my rewards. Lydia, a fresh new face working there told me I could order a larger size online and another salesperson helped me do it. This store at Oxmoor Center in Louisville is always looking great and all the people working there are always very helpful.
Reviewed March 12, 2018
I need to change my mobile number for my Banana Republic credit card. The website would not allow me to change it on-line so I called customer service. The first girl I talked to said it was impossible to update my phone number over the phone or on-line. She stated it's the only way BR can maintain their clients' identity so I would receive a letter in the mail (7-10 days) and then I would have to call them (?? What??) to change it. She cut me off at least 6 times and when I asked to speak with a Supervisor she said "Sure" and hung up on me. I called customer service and spoke with someone else. After 20 minutes of being on the phone he finally changed my number for me. I asked to speak with a Supervisor and he said "Supervisors do not speak with customers." Well then... I guess I will be cancelling my credit card and finding new places to shop other than The Gap, Banana Republic and Athleta. So disappointed!!!
Reviewed Jan. 26, 2018
From December 2017 to end of January 2018, I have placed 13 orders on their website. 6 of them had canceled items!! 6 of them! When you put items in the basket they should be available. You place your order and then, two weeks after, you receive an email saying the items were canceled. In the meantime you call and call and are told that their items are preparing for shipment... What kind of service is that. That is the WORST online shopping site I've seen. It is simply a lottery, you never know what you're gonna get.
Reviewed Jan. 17, 2018
I have shopped at Banana Republic sporadically due to the fact that the store nearest me closed but there is a store in another state that I visit when I am visiting my daughter. When I tried to use My Banana Republic credit card, it was denied. I was informed I had zero balance and it had lapsed due to inactivity. When I asked to reopen or reapply, I was then denied. I requested a letter why my husband and I were denied. I received their letter claiming “prior unsatisfactory obligation with us” which is TOTALLY false.
The credit card holder, Synchrony Bank, was totally inept in giving any answers to my situation. I spoke to 3 different people continually being transferred from department to department. I tried to contact Banana Republic but all attempts only linked me to Synchrony. If you don’t use your credit card enough or carry a balance, they deny you their card so you can’t use it for additional percent off your purchase which is one of their big sales promotionals on all their signage in their store. I will not shop there or any other Synchrony Bank “store” such as Gap and Old Navy. Could this be a class action suit for false business practices?
Reviewed Dec. 26, 2017
I ordered a clothing item on December 16. I received an email on December 18 saying, "Your item has shipped!" When I called UPS on December 24 UPS had no record and said the item must have never left the store. I reached Banana Republic customer service on Dec 26 and they casually commented that while the shirt was in stock when I ordered it, it "may have been lost somewhere between the store or warehouse and UPS". I was asked if I wanted a refund. Um, yes please. No other compensation was offered. I had to ask and was offered a 10% coupon. This amounts to misleading customers. Be very wary. I will never order from Banana Republic again.
Reviewed Dec. 12, 2017
Ordered a blazer in November and yet; I am still waiting for the delivery. This company has gone down the drain. Also, their "seasonal collection" is a repeat of the same crap year after year, the only difference would be new colors or a new button here and there. This has been going on for over 2 decades now. No wonder their businesses are falling apart.
Reviewed Nov. 26, 2017
I purchased a large number of items for Christmas gifts. They arrived with no boxes and one gift receipt. When I called customer service they said they only can do one gift receipt per order and in the future I would have to place a separate order for each item to receive a gift receipt. As to boxes - they said they couldn't tell me why no boxes were shipped but now that the order had already been shipped they couldn't do anything about it.
Reviewed July 22, 2017
Tried to reach Customer service robot reply password not working. Finally got it. Needed to purchase gift. At first attempt the promo code worked. When I went back to add an item, promo code not working on the previous item. This website is a total sham with the promo code works five mins then nothing. Waste of people's time. Don't get stressed with this bs website. There is a reason that Old Navy, Banana Republic, Gap, and Athleta all use same site. BS customer service and lame ** promo bs codes.
Reviewed July 6, 2017
I used to shop with them a lot, but that was 15 years ago when they still had some integrity. The clothing used to be quite decent quality. Despite of polyester and nylon everywhere at sky-high prices, I still go on their website to hunt for rare items made of wool or silk and even sometimes buy something. Lately I have purchased a second pair of light wool pants. I thought since the first pair was wool and a nice fit, I would get a second pair just to have a backup in my closet. To my surprise the pair that arrived in the mail didn't even come close to the pants I have purchased 2 months ago.
The fabric was flimsy and you could tell bad quality and the fit was totally off! I have even compared the item number on the tags to make sure I've ordered the same pair of pants. Yup, they matched but the pants I have received were different. I went ahead and wrote a bad review describing my experience and to my astonishment when I went online today the review was gone! This wasn't the first time when they have not allowed/deleted my review just because it was a one star one. Shame! Shame! Shame!
Reviewed June 24, 2017
I opened a credit card 5 months ago with Banana Republic, that can be used at Old Navy and Gap as well. I have paid my balance and do not currently owe anything on the card. I tried to charge on it yesterday and was informed my account had been closed without my knowledge. I called Customer Service to inquire about the reason for this and was told they will close accounts if they feel individual credit scores are not to their liking! Even though they approved me for a credit card 5 months ago and I have paid any and all balances off... how is that good company policy? Instead, now Banana Republic and Old Navy will no longer receive any of my business!

Reviewed June 11, 2017
My wife went shopping at Banana Republic today. They refused to accept her money. They insisted that she use a credit card even though she was trying to pay with American dollars! On the U.S. currency it states " THIS NOTE IS LEGAL TENDER FOR ALL DEBTS, PUBLIC AND PRIVATE". What has the Banana Republic become??? Is it really a Banana Republic that won't accept American currency? I told my wife to return the item purchased and not to shop there anymore. I truly believe that their actions are unAmerican. The refusal to accept American currency is not just stupid but, I am hoping it will affect their sales and bottom line. What a horrible way to treat loyal customers. Perhaps the Banana Republic is trying to live up to its name.
Reviewed May 18, 2017
I was happy with Banana Republic and remained a BR Luxe credit card owner until a recent change with their online payment portal. Starting February 2017, the online payment portal was suddenly unavailable for login. In March, they issued new credit cards and updated the interface of their payment portal, thus wiping out all my saved account payment information as well as pieces of my mailing address. They automatically associated my account to my login email address instead of the updated email address it has been using.
From a purchase I made in March through mid-April, interest fees racked up because I was unable to log in online and never received the statements. Not to mention no emails were sent to me because somehow, the emails were sent to an old email address. The new credit card and statements were sent to an incomplete address and therefore returned to sender, who never notified me until one day, I saw a delinquent charge on my 750+ credit report, which dropped my score slightly and somehow BR claimed to have closed my account.
I made a call to an extremely rude account rep, who told me my account is alive but they've changed my account information. It was a nightmare. I rushed to make a payment (Including late payment and fees) and magically discovered this month (May) that it was not posted and I was charged late fees and interest fees again. This is outrageous. They need to step up their game.
Reviewed April 3, 2017
I had this card as well as Gap & Old Navy. I never miss a payment and have paid in full multiple times. This company has no appreciation for loyal customers. As a reward for my timely payment history and continued business, they first lowered all three account limits as a result of an annual credit review they use to screen already open accounts. Last month I paid all of my accounts off and this month they cancelled the banana republic card stating that the annual review of my credit report showed a high credit usage.
First of all, I am an educated and capable individual. I know exactly how much credit I have and how much of it is used. My payments on every single account that I have are always on time and often paid in full. The fact that they take no consideration of your history on their accounts and judge you only by what they think they see on a credit report is appalling. Great way to lose customers!
Reviewed March 23, 2017
They send statements late to get late fees. They won't allow online access unless you give up paper. You get your bill notice along with hundreds of shopping emails. Customer service reads scripts and just doesn't care at all -- they know we use the card for the points. I have so much Hate for the Card Service that I can no longer buy the clothes.
Reviewed Feb. 9, 2017
I have been a loyal and longstanding customer of Banana Republic, Gap and Athleta for years now. I finally took advantage of (or should I say, was taken advantage of) signing up for their credit card. I was lured into opening up the credit card because of the enticing rewards that would be received as a result. I figured since I already shopped so much at their establishments anyways, that this would be a great incentive.
WHAT A SCAM! First, I realized I wasn't receiving my billing statements in the mail, so I finally called, only to be told that I was charged a late payment because a payment had not been received. After explaining I never received any of my statements in the mail, the customer service representative assured me the late fee would be reversed. He also assured me that my billing cycle occurred on the 9th of every month. We both repeated this several times just so I was extremely clear. I even set a calendar notification in my phone, while I was still on the phone with the representative so that I would never be late on my payment again.
Not only was I lied to about my late fee being reversed but he also lied about the date my payment was due and I was charged another late fee!!! They scam their clients by not sending them their credit card billing statements and giving them false feedback as to when their payments are due! That way they continue to collect late fees from them. I have never been more upset or felt so cheated by a company before! NEVER AGAIN!
Reviewed Feb. 2, 2017
Their customer service is all outsourced and everyone I have spoken to has been incompetent and not able to do their job. I have paid my bill on time through my personal banking. Bill pay to them electronically. They say they haven't received payments. Every time I call about it and have my bank fax them the information they require they say they didn't get it. This has been ongoing for 3 months! I have called multiple times about and had the information faxed multiple times. Do not get their credit card!!! They are obviously unable to handle basic tasks and just give you the runaround and just want to charge late fees!
Reviewed Jan. 26, 2017
I bought a $250 gift card for my son for his birthday in early December, using my new Banana Republic charge, which I mailed to him. He never got it but someone used the gift card. When I called Banana Republic, I was led to believe that this would be covered, particularly since I had never had a claim of any kind previously. However, their card holder, Synchrony Bank, would not cover any portion of the stolen gift card. They invited me to call their dispute center, but it's a recorded message and their promise to call back within 2 business days is bogus.
I went through the procedure more than once. I did call Banana Republic customer service to let them know my experience, and though they listened to me, they had no constructive ideas for getting me any portion of my money back. I will pay the bill since I don't want to be hounded and to have my credit rating affected. Needless to say, the credit card is already cut up and in the trash. Be aware that if you have trouble with a gift card purchased at Banana Republic, you're out the whole thing. I was surprised, but know who NOT to do business with!
Reviewed Jan. 5, 2017
These days, customer service at Banana Republic is absolutely horrible. I used two gift cards and a credit card to pay for a recent order with Banana Republic. One of the items was cancelled; this was the second item that I ordered this holiday season that was cancelled due to being out of stock. I had emailed customer service to make sure that the amount would be refunded to my credit card as opposed to a gift card. AFTER I sent the email, I received a notification that a gift card was being sent, followed by an email from customer service with the following message: "As your credit card payment had already been applied to items that were already shipped, we issued a refund of $15.63 in the form of a new gift card, that you should receive in the mail by January 9th." How does it make any sense to issue a completely new gift card in this small amount instead of refunding my credit card, and weren't the gift cards already charged as well.
This is an unethical business practice clearly designed to cause the consumer to spend more money. It's an insignificant amount of money, but it is the principle of the matter. How am I supposed to trust a company that not only has such poor inventory control, but employs these type of business policies? I used to shop at Banana Republic all the time, but it has steadily gone downhill since the early 2000s.
Reviewed Dec. 21, 2016
I ordered some work clothes at Banana Republic. ca on November 25th and never received the package. According to Canada Post, the package was delivered on Dec 09th and there's nothing further they can do. In fact, Canada post advises to have the sender fill out a claim. I contacted Banana Republic customer service (2 emails and a phone call) and I was told because they have done a refund for me in the past, for another lost package, they can't do anything!!! That I should contact my credit card company instead.
I am going to contact my credit card company to request a charge back, but I am just so frustrated because I feel as if Banana Republic just doesn't want to bother contacting Canada Post to fill out a claim and investigate this issue further. It's not even really about the money but the principle of it all. They are essentially saying, if your packages are not delivered, you are own your own. It's really a shame because I really liked shopping at Banana Republic for work clothes, but I am done with them. Frustrated shopper.
Reviewed Dec. 14, 2016
First let me say if I could rate less than one star I would. On November 28th I ordered 9 pairs of socks for Christmas gifts, paid and received confirmation of shipment to be delivered in 2 separate packages. The first package was received and missing a pair which was listed on the packing slip with the order. I called customer service, was on hold waiting for a representative for 24 minutes, and then greeted by a rude and pretentious representative who proceeded to tell me I must wait until the second package arrives before calling back and resolving the issue with the first package even though the missing pair was listed on the packing slip for the first order I had already received. What an utter waste of time.
I then sent an email to customer service to ensure that the missing pair would come in time with the second order. I received my second order yesterday (12/13/16) and it did not include the missing item. A second email was sent yesterday and it has been nearly 24 hours with no response. Also gift boxes were requested and confirmed but not sent. Sorry Banana Republic, you missed the mark on this one and a loyal customer, as I will not step foot into another location (or online) due to their lack of response and rude handling for my online order.
Reviewed Dec. 6, 2016
I had a BR account for 30 years--since 1985. Spent a fortune there. About 18 months ago we moved and there was not a store close by. Checked my credit report the other day and discovered they had closed the account! Only it was not BR, it was Synchrony Bank and basically BR = Synchrony Bank. You think you are dealing with a store you have frequented for years and have a relationship with, but you are not. You are dealing with a bank. You are not a loyal customer. You are a number. Even if you call or write customer service--you get the bank.
I was told if I want an account, I must reapply. We all know what that means. Ding on your credit report. Just to reopen an account that was closed for no reason (except they aren't making any money off of you). Well--forget that. Stores offering no loyalty receive none back. I will no longer shop at Banana Republic and they don't care. Neither do I. And I will deal with two banks and their cards. That's it. Though, there are still store cards I have that have not 'dropped' me due to not shopping often enough.
Reviewed Oct. 9, 2016
While surfing the net, came across Banana Republic 50% off online sale. As noted on the big first page screen, it advertised "EXTRA 50% off SALE Discount Automatically Applied at Checkout!" I kept searching for the disclaimer that would say otherwise. It took me an hour and a phone call to Banana Republic to see the tiny link, which was barely visible that stated the REAL deal, which wasn't a deal nearly as big as they advertised. SOOOOO deceiving. Even the Customer Rep sent 20% discount, I felt cheated in some big way.
Reviewed Sept. 26, 2016
I've been shopping with Banana Republic for more than 3 years and the last time I placed an order for my mom it got cancelled. As I called Customer Service they refused to talk to me because the person on the billing address was my mom, however, prior to that all the orders were placed by me. I was about to get my mom on the phone to confirm that it was her that's when I started getting questioned why I'm calling and not my mom. I felt like I was in court and before I could answer these multiple questions they hung up on me. I called back and they hung up on me again. In the end we sent 2 follow up emails trying to get clarification, however, there is no reply as of now. It's been 2 week since the order got canceled and the money was not returned.
Reviewed Aug. 24, 2016
I ordered a pair of shoes online Aug 2. Total $102.89, I tracked my order (which shipped and delivered two weeks later) and when it arrived, I had 2 sweaters (size xs which I am not). NOT what I ordered. No receipt, nothing else in the package aside poorly wrapped sweaters. I called customer service and spoke with a VERY RUDE representative. His response, "Find your email where it says shipped and send it back if you got the wrong order." Then I proceed to ask how will I be able to exchange. He responds "If we have any left by the time we receive your package back, call us". Ummm... So, I proceed to send back the package. The order has been delivered (I tracked it), but still no refund.
I called customer service and spoke to yet ANOTHER rude representative. I read her my order number. She mentions an item I NEVER made before. I proceed to tell her the CORRECT item I ordered and she says, "Well - I can't find that in the system, and just because you tracked it and it says delivered doesn't mean that we have it yet in our department and you need to wait 5-7 more business days." I have dealt with rude customer reps before but not to the extent of what I am dealing with here at BR. I've been a loyal customer for 10+ years and a long time card member. I believe that BR needs to enhance their training to their employees because customer service is everything. Brands may sell, but good - quality customer service will forever trump a nice blazer. There are plenty competitors with better, quality service that will gladly take BR's customers if they don't fix the major face of their business... Customer Service Reps!!!
Reviewed Aug. 22, 2016
In the past week I made a store purchase which was a 40% markdown off from a regularly priced item, only to go online the SAME DAY and find that it was on sale marked down with an additional 40% off. I did receive an adjustment in the store but it required me making an additional visit plus I noticed that this top was still full price in the store. I additionally wanted another top that I saw marked down online with the additional 40% off promo so I asked if I could purchase in the store with the adjustment. It took me 20 minutes of showing the store employee my phone with the price & promo because even the store online system had a different price. What a scam!
Then the employee was arguing with me that the price was already 40% off so that was the final price so I had to go through my phone and check out to show that they were indeed incorrect. Overall I am disappointed that all the prices are different depending upon the store or online. This should never happen. Why shop in the store ever? Secondly, staff should know your promotions and how your sales work. NEVER buy anything in the store full price!!! It is probably already on sale or will be the next day.
Reviewed July 23, 2016
Banana has a horrible credit card system. I did not receive any statements through the mail or via email. I called customer service to explain my circumstance and request to have a late fee waived, however, the representative's response was rude and unhelpful. She insisted that I check my email on a regular basis. As a loyal customer to Banana Republic, I expect better service and notification systems. I get regular email regarding events from BR, but when it comes to finances I barely get any (or it goes to spam!). Very disappointed and will re-evaluate shopping there again.
Reviewed July 13, 2016
I have been a loyal customer of BR for some time. In June, 2016 I ordered my husband to-be suit because of a deal. Final cost is 441.00, BR shipped this item via regular mail. When tracked it says delivered, but we never received it. I rang them to do an investigation. The agent promised 48hrs. However the next day I received an email stating they will not reship or refund, because when they tracked it says delivered! What? Really? So they did not do their due diligence, no investigation, they just can't be bothered. So now I am without the suit we need for our wedding and out of pocket of stated amount. I called the post office. They are investigating. They were also baffled that something of that value was shipped via regular mail and not priority. I find the neolithic incompetence of BR and its services to be appalling! To be quite frank I am shocked by the mediocrity of this company! Never again!!!
Reviewed June 2, 2016
I purchased a women's white cotton shirt last fall. I wore it a few times and tried to wash it myself, following the manufacturer's directions. It didn't clean well, so I took it to the laundry to be cleaned and pressed. When the laundry washed and pressed it, the band at the hem literally dissolved and fell off, and the edges of the cuffs and collar turned black. Both the laundry and Banana Republic determined the shirt was defective. I took the shirt back to the Banana Republic store. They refused to refund more than $18 of the nearly $80 price, claiming the shirt was more than a year old. It wasn't. They also refused to replace it without charging me for shipping and a replacement cost. I'm appalled by the terrible quality of the garment, by the total indifference of the company, and by Banana Republic's unwillingness to stand behind their product. I do not expect to shop at Banana Republic in the future.
Reviewed May 22, 2016
Found on sale rack - price looked as if it was marked 19.99. Cashier told me my final total was around 59.99. I almost has a heart attack. It was just a simple cotton top. I asked her to check it out and after around 4 tries 4 different prices were quoted. Finally with tax I paid 35.00. I still think I was overcharged. Guess I paid for the name Banana Republic! Also the cashiers in this store are never friendly, no one greets or comes to help you. If you are working in retail how can you be snobbish. You need sales to keep you in business and to have a job. People like me who keep you in business. Anyhow your merchandise is overpriced and not even locally made.
Reviewed May 20, 2016
My purchase experience was most hateful and totally embarrassing and put me in a position where I would never want to walk into the store again. Everyone in the store could hear the content with the salesperson, who said she was the highest level employee in the store (her cashier no. ** on 5/19/16). She proceeded to request a driver's license which I do not carry, then if not that a government ID (and who has that) and refused to take 2 different work IDs from the business center in which Banana was located and I was purchasing, or my American Express Card and told me she would not give me the full discount without this ID but would sell it to me at a higher price.
She would sell it to me without full discount because I don't carry this ID, and why I would like to know when I have Banana's credit card, I insisted and said I wanted to purchase this merchandise which had a full purchase price of $49.99! I would like Banana Republic to know of this experience. Retail is continually having a hard time selling. And this kind of an experience selling to authentic people, not thieves, which she was basically claiming I was, caused me anger, frustration and a real dislike for even wanting to attempt to enjoy myself making a purchase in this horrible store. She claimed it was for my own protection. I have protection of my credit cards and pay for it. This makes no sense. Because others steal, I am to be made a spectacle of, and accused of stealing? I have seen people walk into a store and grab whatever and just leave and we who pay must be scrutinized in this disgusting manner.
Reviewed April 8, 2016
I have always like Banana Republic's clothing, however I have had less than pleasant experiences shopping in their stores. I have found many employees to be rude, not knowledgeable about the products and generally not helpful. Many times I have felt like they acted like they were doing me a favor by ringing me up or answering a question I asked. Well, today I have had it. I was in the store on 66th & Broadway in Manhattan a few weeks ago and saw a green shirt I loved. I didn't see my size and I hunted around for a sales associate. After combing the store and not finding one, I went to the register's and asked if they could find someone to help me. The woman said "Can't you see I'm busy". I'm sorry if it was late and she had a line. I asked my question politely and received a rude, unwarranted response. Finally, I saw a man on the floor and asked if they had anymore of this green shirt in my size.
He said "Whatever is out there, is out there, it's on the sale rack". I said "do you think that any other stores might have my size?" He said "I don't know, check online." He was abrupt and had a lot more attitude than I care for. I did buy a sweater, however I left the store annoyed. Not only did I not get to buy the shirt I wanted, I encountered two people who should not work in retail. I went online and found the green shirt I wanted in my size. I was happy .The day it came, it was NAVY and it clearly said NAVY on the tag. The shirt was NAVY and the order says GREEN. I called to lodge my complaint and find out what happened. I spoke to the woman and she apologized and was mostly pleasant. She tried to talk me into keeping the shirt and maybe I ordered the wrong thing. She said "Things look different online". I explained to her I saw and touched the GREEN shirt in the store and I know what I want and what I ordered.
I was tired and frustrated because this is wasting my time. She said I could ship the wrong shirt back. I said , "Oh ,I'll just keep the blue one, and now that we got this settled I'll reorder the GREEN one." I place the order with her. Three days later, I get a package and it's another NAVY shirt. I am just appalled at the carelessness of this company and their employees. I call again, ask for a supervisor , she assures me she will take care of it. There was a mix up in the labeling at the Factory or something, and she even told me others have had this same issue. She calls stores, finds the Green shirt and says call the BR number the next day and they will confirm it and get this squared away.
I call today, I have to give all my info over again. The woman I am speaking to tells me that the store is closed and that they don't have the shirt anyway. Then she calls another store. They don't have it either. So now I have two NAVY shirts I don't want and have paid twice for and I can't get the GREEN shirt I wanted. And I have wasted time, energy and money to be treated poorly. If I conducted my business with the inaccuracy and incompetence that I have experienced with BR, I would not have a business. I will not shop at their stores or online with them and I warn you to be cautious if you do.
Reviewed Feb. 7, 2016
Do not use their credit card. They will cancel your card even though you have paid in full and have no balance. They will send a letter stating you have poor credit compared to others which is totally unfounded. I had the card for 2 years but had paid off all balances but didn't use the card for 6 months. Instead of closing for inactivity a lie is created to justify closing the account. Use another card to make purchases. The interest rate is too high anyways compared to other store credit cards.
Reviewed Feb. 6, 2016
On Dec 10, I was buying a Dell computer and had to cancel the first transaction. When I tried to buy the new computer again after the cancellation, I was told my card was declined and had to use a different card. That's where the nightmare started. I called the number on the back of the Banana card, was told that they could not verify my phone number and I would have to send in a copy of my state ID for them to unlock the account, so I followed the instruction and sent in the copy. I called back to check on the status couple weeks later and was told that due to the holidays, my document may get delayed -- ok that's understandable.
Now fast forward to Jan 01 7:02 AM PST / 9 AM CST (still have that in the call log), I got a phone call from the same lady (very distinctive voice and accent) from Banana Republic, telling me that I need to send in a copy of my state ID. I told her I already did, and if there was any other updates/progress on the case, she said no. Ok so why call me at such an hour on the New Year's Day? Just to tell me to do something I already did 20 days ago?
Now fast forward to Jan 23, since I haven't heard from the Banana/Synchrony Bank since that early morning call on the New year's Day, and I have a 25$ reward that's about to expire. I called again, and was told that they have processed my mailed-in state ID copy on Jan 13. Now that it's in the system, it will take about 2 weeks to process it and unlock my account, and I can NOT use that 25$ reward before the account was unlocked. The lady suggested me to call back in February to check if the account is unlocked and ask them to re-issue the reward that I could not use (I have yet to try that). Please note, up until this point, they have only mentioned about the copy of state ID, and did not say anything at all about any other documents I had to send in.
Today, Feb 05, I called again in the afternoon to see if it's unlocked yet. Some girl with an accent I could barely understand answered the phone, and guess what? She tells me the account is not unlocked yet BECAUSE I DID NOT SEND IN SUFFICIENT DOCUMENTS. So now I have to send in my bank statement and utility bills - which is all news to me since no one during all the previous phone calls had mentioned any of these. Isn't that just great? It's been 2 months, now they tell me there were other documents I had to send in. I wonder if they will wait 'til my other 50 and 65$ reward expires to tell me there were other documents they needed?
This whole experience clearly shows 2 things: 1. Miscommunication inside the Synchrony Bank, where information of the customer/cases are not updated or not accessible for customer service personnel on the same job, so they end up doing redundant work. 2. Customer Service location is most likely not even inside the US, that would explain the early morning phone call, the accents etc. 3. They DON'T care about the cardholders, since they have not showed any initiative to fix this issue, and it's up to the customer to keep calling back to check on the status--I doubt they would have called me to tell me they needed more documents had I not called and checked. 4. Possible shady/dishonest practice about their reward program - once you have accumulated certain amount $$$ of reward, they'd make it difficult for you to use them.
To be honest, if I can do without the card for 2 months during the holiday shopping season, I probably don't need this card anyways. But I don't want to let them win because if I give up and close the account now, I'd also be giving up the hundreds of dollars of reward I have earned. Or perhaps that's precisely why the bank/credit card company Synchrony Bank had showed NO initiative to unlock my account, who knows. If you are undecided on whether to open an account with them, be warned that you may not be able to use the rewards you have earned .
Reviewed Jan. 26, 2016
Received a gift card in December... seriously, it's cardboard. Put it in my wallet where it came in contact with something slightly sticky (I have a toddler). Part of the magnetic strip is gone and same with half the card's identifying number. According to the customer service rep (who was friendly/polite) it's now my burden to get the receipt from the giver, call Banana Republic customer service, etc., etc. They're simply sorry... And just repeat that over and over. They know what store it was purchased at, know it was mid December, can see the last 5 digits of the number plus some other identifiers -- but it's my problem now.
It was absolutely BR's fault for issuing a foolish card with no plans to mitigate the obvious problems it would cause. I have zero free time to do this, but am doing it because I'm angry that they care that little about my experience with their products. I'm tempted to just give the card back to the sender, have her return it for cash they can keep, and simply warn others to go elsewhere when giving gift cards. Way to ruin a birthday gift with preventable irritation. Thank you.
Reviewed Jan. 7, 2016
My Bank disbursed funds for payoff to PO Box (because no physical address was given) so they were not able send the check via registered mail. Three weeks later, they still claim they do not have the payment. Was told that Credit Cards are notorious for holding mail to collect more interest which appears to be the case here. When I called and spoke to Supervisor, after being told by Rep that they do not have a physical address to receive FedEx mail, I was told they DO HAVE an address but don't give it out. Sadly, there is no way to get hard proof that they hold payments. What a scam and no amount of BR cash will offset the distaste for this practice. Time to close this one out.
Reviewed Nov. 9, 2015
For two days, I've been calling the customer service line and waiting over an hour with no answer. WORST CUSTOMER SERVICE EVER! They blocked my card and I tried to call and solve the problem, so I can order online at Banana Republic. But they just kept me on hold for hour. If I don't receive a call back I will cancel my card.
Reviewed Nov. 7, 2015
This is the worst credit card of all time. I have been a credit card holder for numerous years, and have never not paid a payment in full every month. This credit card is notorious for blocking transactions that they feel are high (obviously not counting BR themselves!!) without any reason other than the amount. Because of them, I might not receive some of my wedding attire in time. The only reason I knew was because I was calling them about a separate translation and learned my former transaction did not go through. They literally have the worst customer service I have ever received. I really believe they must prey on the poor, because otherwise why would they cut off normal transactions because they seem "too high?" Do yourself a favor and ditch this card and get a United Chase card. Way better service and you don't have to worry about being cut off for no reason. I lost my Chase card and they expedited it to me in two days.
Reviewed Nov. 3, 2015
Banana Republic has a 'Friends and Family' event going on, which states that the discount excludes leather. However, they are honoring the discount online. So, they are selling these lovely jackets at 1/2 price to some customers but not to others. Stores are not honoring the discount. A BR Associate in my local store was kind enough to check for me with customer service, and a gentleman said they are honoring it. None of the stores are honoring it, and now I see that the online shopping cart has stopped honoring it. I'm seeing more and more negative comments about this company online. I won't be doing any of my holiday shopping with them, but CONGRATULATIONS to all of those shoppers who got a quality leather jacket for half-price. Hello Nordstrom!
Reviewed Oct. 23, 2015
I never had such a bad experience like this one at store, especially Banana Republic. I got their credit because I loved this store in San Marcos Texas #06356. First of all the reps in the floor seemed angry and didn't care! One rep that I asked for help was dressed like she worked at Walmart! I asked for a size and she told me, "Lady look around you what you see is what you get!" The only nice guy was the guy in the fitting room, so nice I enjoyed going in there just for his kindness. I finished my shopping and went to check out, waited 10 min, this was not a busy time by the way besides me and my son waiting, there was no one else around us.
The cashier was talking to someone (come to find out the girl worked there and was shopping on her day off!). Yes, that's how long they took! The manager was busy counting money and not so much nice words told me to "Wait"! Nice! Then the manager finally came around and checked us, with a loud bang rude voice as if we were interrupting her, "Ok come on over here!" Really I can get better service at Walmart! Got to the cash register, really apprehended even told my son she doesn't seem so nice! Then it just went downhill! I ask this manager if the blouse reflected the sale price because their signs confused me somewhat!
Before I was through trying to explain she exclaimed, "That's the sale price what do you expect!" WOW! I thought I will just check out and get out! But I had a coupon which did not work and she made it a point to tell me the coupon was worthless! Literally! I told her there was another one online for using my credit card from Banana Republic and she said, "Well you look it up!" Great! I had to pause and ask her if she was having a good day or if she had a long day! At that point she said, "Well you want me to put coupons that don't work, and I can't override the system." I asked her at that point to let me talk to her manager and she said she was is it but that I wasn't being helpful!! Really I'm the customer I'm not being helpful! On top of it, she was lecturing me and she was LOUD. She acted like I was begging her for handouts and money!
I finally told her after her lecture that I have never had a bad experience at Banana Republic, but this one cut it! I told her that is why I got a card here. Then instead of apologizing she said, "I can't give you something on a expired coupon!" First off rude manager I didn't ask for you to use an expired coupon. Second off you have no customer skills, you were loud and lecturing instead of being apologetic which explains why the rest of the staff looked miserable. Next, I told her I didn't want the stuff and only purchased the things for my son, she yanked the stuff from the bag and said, "I'm taking out what you said!" Again with the screaming that manager looked miserable and she was dressed just as bad as the rest of her group she looked like she belong in a hot dog stand.
I guess she forgot about the survey and informing me of the rest of the sales or looking at my credit card to see my excellent credit and outstanding limit! That didn't matter! What matter is that she had to cash me out because her sales rep was visiting with an employer that felt like shopping on her time off. There was no apology or even a sympathy. In times past at this store, I can get a coupon for next time a 10.00 off something. I could ask questions and even have sizes looked for in the back. Not this time, everybody seemed miserable and based on how the manager treated me as customer I can see why. I can only imagine the way she treats her employees.
Reviewed Oct. 16, 2015
This credit card sucks! The first issue was when the credit services called me to tell me my card appears to be compromised. They wanted to verify my information. OK I work in the computer industry and this just screams scam! I told the lady I would not give them any information to someone calling me. I called the number on my card to verify. Calling a card holder and requesting information is a bank no no and they should know that. It turns out it was compromised and I received a new card. With my next statement, I received a "free offer". I paid my bill as I did the previous month through my bank and started looking at their "free" offers. Well their "free" offers were for products that automatically sign you up for a subscription unless you return the used product within a certain time frame. That is not "free". That is misleading and deceptive! I did not get the product and sent them a nasty note telling them I did not appreciate the deceptive "free" offer.
So here it is October. My card was compromised in January. I had already paid my bill before my new card arrived in February. I received my new card in late February and paid my March bill in March with the same account number through my bank. Now BR has charged me a $21 fee for no payment. My bank says I paid it on time. They are requesting ME to prove I paid it! The representatives would do nothing to help me. I have to FAX it in. I started looking at my accounts and they happily paid it back in March with the old account number. Now 6 months later they can't seem to find my payment and I have to prove I paid it? Don't get a credit card from them! Nothing but trouble. They obviously do not value their customers.
Reviewed Oct. 9, 2015
This is my first and last time shopping at Banana Republic. In this modern day of computers, I order a coat from their website, went to the store to exchange the size and that's where the nightmare began. I am exchanging for the exact coat. First they tell me that because the receipt from the website didn't contain a barcode that they can swipe I had to mail it back in (this is the year 2015). Why can't they punch in the item number??? Then they tell me I can exchange the coat but because I paid more from the website and the store had it on sale, I have to wait until they mail me a refund check and then come back and purchase the coat. What kind of mess is this??? I haven't heard of such a mess in years.
First of all that explains why their prices are so high. Can you imagine how much it cost just to process this kind of refund. They have a clerk keying in the information for the refund, then they have someone at their corporate office processing a check and then someone else mailing it to the customer. Wow! Someone needs to go in and revamp this antiquated system. Mind you they have my order receipt right in front of them and all I was trying to do was exchange a coat. Never again.
Reviewed Oct. 5, 2015
I have returned an item in Banana store that was purchased using Gap visa credit card, however, amount for returned item never showed up on my account. Unfortunately I didn't preserve the return receipt and when contacted Banana store I was told they cannot go back 15-20 back in ledger to track the item. I also reached out to Gap visa card to help me with this as they are responsible for the merchant relationship, however, they are not ready to help me either unless I have return receipt. They did nothing to follow-up with Banana store/Merchant. I have called banana and gap multiple times, however, their customer service is so bad that they just want to hang up call on you. I seriously doubt some of these small time merchant card companies that promise big rewards but not able to maintain your account transactions.
Reviewed Sept. 14, 2015
I bought two gift cards ($200 each) as Birthday presents. The next day BOTH cards had a $0 balance on them but there were NO purchases on either of them. Banana Republic would not refund my money (even though their system showed no purchases were made) and now I've been battling my credit card company for 5 months. They have TERRIBLE customer service and they steal customers' money.
Reviewed Aug. 27, 2015
BR sent me a new card earlier this year and I did not realize they had changed my card # until I got a collection call from them 3 months later. Seems that although they had received all my payments on the old account they never transferred them to the new account. The rep said they would correct the error. Well they partially corrected the error and then when I asked them to fix the rest of it I was faced with horribly rude and ignorant reps who blamed me and told me it was my responsibility. Um last I checked good customer service didn't include blaming them for your errors. They have obviously changed their service reps to low rate ghetto trash with zero integrity or customer service skills. There's nothing Luxe about this crap company. I hope Margaret Keane gets to experience the horrible service her very own employees are providing!
Reviewed July 25, 2015
The interest rate on the BR card is ridiculous. I will never walk into another BR store.. as long as I live. On the bill, on the right side, under payment there is a box that indicates if you pay $120 per month (not your minimum payment) you could have your bill paid off in 3 years. What is NOT factored in is the interest on that. When I make a $120 payment every month exactly $8.00 is applied to the balance, the rest is eaten up by interest. I'm no accountant, but that's going to take a hell of a lot longer than 3 years.
When I called to point out this obvious misleading information on the bill, I was told by the customer rep on the phone that A LOT of people complain about the interest rate and that they were "working on it". I was also told that you can't transfer a balance. I don't know whether that is true or not. I received a new card which I will not activate, and probably send back to BR. It's really a shame because I love the clothes. But .. no way am I ever going in another BR store or purchasing anything from BR or the GAP ever again.
Reviewed July 12, 2015
Absolutely horrible customer service from Banana Republic. We ordered 7 men's suits for a wedding party 4 months ago, and just heard today that one of the suits won't be available. The wedding is in five days. Got very little support from customer support - they suggested the one of seven groomsmen choose a different suit. They sent a bigger size, but with no time for alterations. For a store that advertises itself as a wedding attire business, they are sorely lacking. I would never recommend Banana Republic with the experience we have had.
Reviewed June 30, 2015
I received a notice online that my bill was due. I know I had not used my Banana Republic Credit card since December 2014. And after verifying in my records that I had already paid the bill, I called the number on the back of my card and was asking what this new notice was. The gal asked me what the website it was sent from was, and I told her.
Now, this website had the last 4 of my credit card number listed, plus the exact amount that I paid in full in January.... So they have the information off this card, somehow. The gal told me I would have to contact them and ask them who they were. What???? I told the gal, "No, you need to contact someone because apparently, the account had been compromised somehow. They have my detailed information!" The customer service rep hung up on me!!! WHHAAATTTTT??? Now that is great service. Thanks Banana Republic. I will now have the satisfaction of knowing that you are on the list of "Tell everyone, DO NOT SHOP HERE".
Reviewed June 23, 2015
I tried to make a purchase on Banana Republic's website when the system wouldn't let me due to an invalid security code. I called Banana Republic and they said that they had mailed me a card with a new card 3 days prior with the new code but said that my current card was locked out. They said I would have to wait until I get the new card before I can make any purchases. Even though I verified every security questions, they still refused to take my order. In the meantime I tried to use another card and all of the items in my saved box was deleted and now is sold out. The credit card company they use are straight up ghetto. They could barely read from a script instructing them how to handle these situations.
Reviewed June 13, 2015
I bought sometime early May from Banana Republic in the amount of only $95.27. When I am about to pay for my purchases the cashiers offered me some forms to fill up telling me that because I am a Vietnam Veteran I would be given some discount and a visa card from Banana Republic. Few days after that purchase I got a Summary of Accounts from Banana Republic (Synchrony Bank) saying that my new balance is $122.38. I immediately contest the statement because I had send a payment of $25.00 under check number ** dated May 17, 2015. Synchrony Bank said they cannot credit my payment because I placed the check inside an envelope with a correspondent to the bank (BR) and said that my check will just be destroyed for using the wrong P.O. Box Number.
So, on May 21, 2015, I mailed another check no. ** to Synchrony Bank also in the amount of $25.00 as a replacement of my rejected check earlier. Finally my payment was credited on 17 May 2015. However to my surprised I was charged late payment fee of $25.00 for May 27, 2015 and a new total minimum payment of $54.00 due on June 27, 2015. I wrote a letter of consideration to the CEO of Synchrony Bank on June 10, 2015, but to no avail. So I was forced to write this review that way other buyers in Banana Republic may have some ideas of how difficult it is to lodge an appeal with this company/bank.
Reviewed May 26, 2015
My family and I are big spending at BR...In the last few years BR is a joke. We have held our anger for sometime now but everyday both quality of products and service are going downhill. I even confront with the GM at the Barton Creek Mall a/b my recent error that they mess up my $118 new jean. Nothing but wasting my time. GM is pretty much lack of knowledge of take care of customer and fix their own error. I am hoping someone at the upper management can actually get to the root cause and not allow the store GM make mistake repeating. We are glad no longer to support BR any more.
Reviewed May 25, 2015
I must start off with that I worked as xmas help in 2014-2015 and have been a customer for many years. The top managers are lovely but they really have problem with stock managers and some of their floor people. I've been in a few times over that last couple of weeks and again noticed that their staff has little to no regard for the clients that are there looking to purchase. Actually there was one girl who kept responding that she was too busy to help as she was working alone but feel that this person uses the same excuse on every occasion. Meanwhile there were three - five people behind that cash who were oblivious to everything except their conversations. I'm only writing that I really like BR and their products but feel let down with their total lack of customer service. I did my own search as I know what I was looking for and had to tell them that their shelf stock was once again not updated for size and styles.
Reviewed April 2, 2015
I have never written a negative review for a business online before no matter how dissatisfied I was with the service. This includes experiences with the usual suspects like Comcast. That said, I was so disappointed and angry this time with Banana Republic, I had to say something. Part 1 - Online Shopping. First of all, Banana Republic bombards me with emails every single day with "exclusive promotions." I needed some new business attire and I thought BR would have great options. BIG MISTAKE. When they tell you they have a "promotion" there's always a small inconspicuous link at the bottom. If you click on this link, a box will pop up with a load of fine print that means nothing to you because when you are browsing their products on the website the NAMES OF THE PRODUCTS WILL NOT SPECIFY things like "BR monogram" or "BR pick. "
Part 2: Customer Service. I called their customer service to ask why when I tried to apply their "promo code" to my purchase it didn't work. I was on hold for at least 20 minutes before someone answered. They then told me to read the fine print in the most condescending tone of voice, as if I'm dumb enough to have read it already. I told her yes, I read it, and it is not immediately obvious on the website which items are excluded because they are not adequately labeled. She just argued with me and then rudely told me to look again.
Basically BR just wants to spam you with daily emails, then when you actually shop at their store, they want you to waste your time browsing for things you want only to find at the checkout that nothing you actually want is included in the promotion that got you there in the first place. See, normally, I would've just ended there, called it a day and never shop there again. However, the very rude customer service representative I dealt with is really adding insult to injury. There are plenty of places to buy business attire and Banana Republic is not only concentrating on gimmicks instead of offering good products at good prices, they have a very unpleasant and rude customer service team.
Reviewed Jan. 27, 2015
They have the worst credit card system. So do not ever sign up with them! Online system for seeing your expenses and your statements barely works and it's super inconvenient.
Reviewed Jan. 26, 2015
I bought two pairs of jeans that were really low quality. I paid $85 for both. One pair of jeans was dark blue, when I wore it my white sweater turned blue at the bottom. The second pair was black color and collected everything. I came to return both items and was told that they can't be returned because I wore them. The representative talked to me like in was restarted, and told me how to wash my jeans so they wouldn't release paint. On the other hand, if that won't work then I still wouldn't be able to return it, because if you wash something you have to take the tag off. She told me that I've should have read more about the material before purchasing it. This is my first and my last time shopping at Banana Republic, because I don't see a point of wasting my money on jeans that I won't wear again.
Reviewed Jan. 2, 2015
At the Banana Republic at Fashion Valley Mall in San Diego CA, I literally stepped into the store to ask a question when a clerk told me she couldn't even answer me due to the fact they were closing. All the while the other 20 people in the store were still trying on shoes and browsing around. I explained I was from 1500 miles away and "**" told me to come back tomorrow, they would answer it. Rude, just rude.
Reviewed Dec. 30, 2014
Ordered with Banana Republic on Dec 9th and the parcel was to arrive by Dec 19th. They messed up the order and only I realized something was up since it still wasn't here on the 22nd. They apologized and sent me overnight delivery to arrive on the 24th. Called three times on the 24th, each time with a shady CSR telling me to wait patiently at home to sign the parcel. They wouldn't give me the tracking number and just wanted to get off the phone with me asap, ensuring that the parcel was being delivered to my doorstep that night. Not only did I find the tracking number on the 29th (after asking repeatedly), but the parcel was NEVER EVEN IN MY PROVINCE, let alone, IN THE TRUCK CLOSE TO MY HOUSE. Not only did their CSR lie to me countless times over the phone, telling me it was already on the delivery truck heading to my house, but the parcel was all the way in New Brunswick! I live in BC! What the f? ** banana republic, I really do hope you go out of business with your pos service.
Reviewed Dec. 27, 2014
I wish there were an option of zero star, which is too many for Banana Republic. Based on the following facts, I cannot but conclude it is a rogue company. I wouldn't recommend this credit card to my worst enemy. I applied for their credit card because the retailer said there would be discounts for our purchase. The retailer assured that there would be no annual fee. They approved my application but I never received a card. Of course, I did not activate it. A few months later, I started receiving calls from their debt collecting department. I was told there was a $100 balance. They called me twice a day. I spoke with their customer service representative and they insisted that there was an initial transaction and late fees and interests. I spent 90 minutes with them on the phone. We finally agreed that I only pay the $45 initial transaction and the remaining balance was removed. The representative verbally confirmed that my account was closed and my balance was zero. I continue to receive debt collecting calls twice a day. I called the customer service again. The representative said they would fix the error and call me back. They never called me back. I did not get their debt collecting calls since and falsely thought the error was fixed. But I was wrong.
A month later, I got their bill with 23 dollars outstanding balance on it. I called them again today. The representative said there was a late fee that wasn't visible to the first representative I called. The second representative removed all my balance and verbally confirmed that I would not receive their bills or calls. I pray that this be final. I usually do not write reviews online, but this time I was compelled to write one. Decide for yourselves whether to use Banana Republic Credit Card.
Reviewed Dec. 9, 2014
The customer service representatives themselves are not terrible, but rather the system under which they have to work. I found a coat online that I wanted to buy for my mom for Christmas but they are completely out of stock. The find a store option for that particular item was not working so I called a bunch of local stores. One of them connected me with a store in San Antonio which had the coat in stock. They currently have a 30% off deal for cardmembers so I decided to open a card since it is a rather pricey coat and I was hoping to get the extra 15% off on top of that for opening the card. I call the store in San Antonio and am told I have to open the card online or in person. I open a card online and a screen pops up with the temporary card info.
After a minute, this screen disappears and reverts to a different page even though I don't touch anything on my computer. I call the San Antonio store and they cannot find my temporary card number, even with my social security number. They tell me to call customer service. I call customer service and after speaking to a machine for 5 minutes and getting hung up on once, I finally talk to a person. I give her my social security number, my driver's license expiration, and my full name and she tells me that she is not allowed to give me my temporary account number. She says that she has it in front of her but is not allowed to give it to me even though I can provide her with any personal information she could possibly need. She says that I have to go to a store and show ID.
This makes zero sense since I opened the account online and did not have to show any ID and can provide her with any information that I just provided the company online. I ask to speak to a supervisor and go through the same process with him and he tells me that he is not able to access my temporary account number and that I have to go to a store. This is obviously a lie since the woman I just spoke with said she had access to it but just wasn't allowed to tell me. I cannot wait 7 days to receive the credit card in the mail because this coat is out of stock. The customer service reps were courteous and I don't blame them for having to work in this terrible system. I don't understand why BR can't just email you the temporary account number after you open your account or provide some way of accessing your account (If I try to log into my account using the user name and password I made they ask me for my CVV which I obviously can't provide since the card hasn't shipped yet.) Seriously mind-boggling how inefficient and nonsensical this system is.
Reviewed Dec. 6, 2014
I recently made an online purchase of clothes using a fairly new credit card. I subsequently closed the credit card account because they were denying all of the transactions I was trying to do. I have since received my order from Banana Republic and want to return a few items that do not fit. When I called to tell them the card I used to make the purchase has been closed and asked them to credit a different card of mine they refused. They also will not refund with a check. The only thing they will do is send a gift card in the amount of the return. This is not consistent with their refund policy, and I believe it is unethical and unfair. And possibly illegal.
Reviewed Dec. 4, 2014
I applied at a store 2 years ago, and got a 1000 credit line, since I didn't use often and paid off balance, my credit line was rapidly increased. I had a few emergency charges for medical services and when my balance increased, I was unable to pay off in full. I was paying over the minimum, but interest was almost $100 a month. Recently, my credit limit was lowered to nearly the balance with no reason given. I called to request a lower interest rated (it’s around 26% now) and the customer service person told me to stop using the card and pay off. Told me there was no other way. I’m retired and sole income in social security and have medical issues making it hard to get a job. This is the WORST card to have if you use like a regular credit card and carry a balance.
Reviewed Dec. 3, 2014
I had made an order from Banana Republic website on Black Friday sales and my order was cancelled. I didn't receive any e-mail or communication or refund whatever about the order from Banana Republic at time to fix or send documents to complete the order... In this Black Friday I bought from Amazon, BarProducts, WebstaurantStore and RoadRunners without any problem!!!
The order was charged from my credit card so I was think that was ok. I already had bought from Banana Republic and don't have any problem. It's really bad! I spend two hours measuring and choosing products that was available and fit on me and we wait for Black Friday sales to shop with some discount is these happens... It's very frustrating!!! Follow image showing that the order was charged and even wasn't refund so I don't know what's happened to try to fix and give my order until I enter on the website today December 3 to see the ship situation and know that the order was cancelled without any contact! Waiting for reply.
Reviewed Nov. 22, 2014
The website happened to crash when I submitted a payment. No problem, right? I checked to see if the payment went through. It didn't. So I resubmitted it. It was not a small amount. Turns out, both payments went through, and I had a huge negative balance on my card. I called them to get reimbursed and they offered to send me a check in the mail. That sounds like a super reliable way to give me back my thousands of dollars. I asked if instead they could simply do a cash advance and waive the fee. The manager proceeded to assure me that there was no way she could do that because in her 13 years there she had never done something that required intelligence. So, no, don't get this card. Get Barclays, the rewards are much better, as is the customer service.
The resolution for this problem, obviously, is to check for payments that are for the exact same amount and/or check to make sure the user wants to pay more than the balance of the card. They know perfectly well how to do this. They also have the technology to reimburse me immediately. Of course, they don't do this because they profit from the website crashing and my overpayment and their slow reimbursement. Don't let them profit from this anymore!
Reviewed Nov. 19, 2014
I was on the phone for way too long trying to cancel my Banana Republic credit card. He kept changing the subject or telling me perks, dancing around the whole thing. I asked if I have to put it in writing. That question was ignored. Then after asking for his supervisor more than once, he finally canceled. Even getting him to confirm he canceled card was like pulling teeth. Unacceptable. Unnecessary. If I tell you I want to cancel my card, I don't need to give a reason nor do I need the run-around. It's my card. Cancel it. It's very simple. Thank you.
Reviewed Oct. 20, 2014
I has a lux Banana visa credit card. All my reward I earned been used by someone else. I report the problem, they put you to different department and they hold it up to 2 hours. They said change it to paperless but I still have the same problem. They knew the person used my reward but they didn't do anything to protect their customer. For my safety I has to cancel my credit and lose on my reward. I hope they can do better to protect their customer.
Reviewed Oct. 8, 2014
I ordered a UK 6, EUR 39 Ashley Bow Flats online only to receive EUR 38. I called up and asked for an exchange only to be told that I would have to return these, wait to get refunded and make a new order and payment for the 'correct' sized shoes. I returned these only to receive another pair of EUR 38 one week later. I phoned up again and specified that I wanted the EUR 39 again but this time to deliver to my home address. Again the same process, return the incorrect ones, give my credit card details to reorder the correct ones.
I received an email confirmation but noted they had put the incorrect address (wrong number flat). Within half an hour, I used the online chat (since I thought it would be easier to type out the correct address) to ask if they could change it to the correct address. The customer representative Nick ** said that it was too late and he couldn't ensure the request would be honoured. He advised that they would attempt to contact Yodel but he wasn't sure if it would work and that I should wait until the 15 October and if I did not receive the shoes, to contact BR again.
I did not want to go through this hassle so after getting no assurance from him, I decided to cancel the order. Only to be told that he put the request through but he wasn't sure if it would be successful again. So he advised that I wait until the 15 October in case either the shoes were shipped to me by then or they might go missing because of the wrong address and to contact them then. I honestly cannot believe a simple request to just change the small inaccuracy in the address could result in such a complicated process and the waste of an hour online chatting (and getting nowhere). Surely all that was needed was for the customer service team to call the distribution centre and make a small rectification. Such a frustrating experience, will never shop with BR again.
Reviewed Sept. 7, 2014
I was a customer for many years in the same store. Not anymore. I was discriminated again, because of my disability. Shame on you Banana Republic.
Reviewed July 1, 2014
Last fall I have purchased 3 different lined skirts for the total of over $400. While wearing them during winter I have noticed that the lining in ALL of them started to shred and fall apart. One of them stretched to the point that it became unwearable. This have never happened with any of my purchase at BR before. I contacted the CS with my concern and was emailed back a template letter they probably use for all customer complaints that didn't even acknowledge or addressed my problem. I have responded to that and was offered a store gift card for $25.
The quality of clothing at BR went downhill in the past few years and it makes me sad because it used to be my favorite store. They started to use low quality cheap fabrics that don't hold up with the normal wear (but still charge a customer high prices) and their design of styles is not as good or desirable as it used to be. I stopped shopping there and go to other stores that offer clothing made in Europe or US.
Reviewed June 21, 2014
I have bought about $700 worth of clothing there this year and I have 1 T-shirt I'm not happy with. The hem is curly all around. See images below. I've washed it as I always do before wearing in cold water and low heat drier. My drier has a moisture sensor so it doesn't over dry. I put the shirt on and went out and then noticed that my hem kept curling up. I'd straighten it and it would roll up again. I've washed it and I've tried to iron it out but it won't stop curling. I'm sure it's a defect or a mistake in the hem stitching somewhere as it roles up on front and back in opposite sides. Unfortunately, I don't have my receipt because I tried everything on before I washed them. Now I must say I bought many T-shirts and only this one in grey v-neck is the problem.
I took it back today to the Banana Republic store at Bayshore Shopping Centre in Ottawa Ontario. The manager was called to take a look. His only question was did you wear it? I explained as up above that yes I put it on and noticed it later. His reply was that because I had worn it he couldn't take it back. Now, I can understand not taking worn clothing back because it's not salable goods, however, this wasn't salable in any case. It's defective. It's not like I expect him to take it back and put it on the shelf and resell it. If it was wearable I'd keep it. I expressed my dissatisfaction with his management of his shop and customers and told him in no uncertain terms that I would not return to his shop in the future.
Reviewed May 23, 2014
I went to the register with a couple of items I wanted to purchase and there were two employees there, one that decided on waiting on me and the other one that decided to stick around and chat. I wanted to use a debit card but it wouldn't go through. Instead of trying to help me, the one waiting on me was rolling her eyes at the eye employee and they were laughing at me. This person who waited on me has a horrible personality and I can see why this B.R is never busy. Shame on you, Banana Republic (1) because your clothes are expensive (2) the horrible people you hire that you like hell when they go to work and (3) that gift card was probably more than she makes in a month.
Reviewed April 13, 2014
Made in purchase in February for $56 and a few cents. Paid March 13th for the sum of $50 to account ending **. Received a bill showing the a credit of $50 on that same account. Received an email from BR stating non payment to account ending **. Called to inform them my actual account and payment. I was told that a request will be put in to the payment transferred and that I should also pay an additional $25 to cover late fees which I feel I am not responsible for. Needless to say, I only have one account.
Reviewed April 8, 2014
Just read a complaint of a consumer which was exactly what happened to me. I scheduled a bill pay but forgot and made another payment online. Boy was I shocked when my bank account was debited twice putting me in the red. I was so furious that I called them to rectify the situation. I requested that the overdraft fee of $25 be paid and a check of the overpayment sent to me. They immediately reimbursed the $25 but I would have to go through hoops to get a check so I decided to have that overpayment as credit to the account for future purchases. I am now extra cautious when I pay my Banana Republic bill. They should invest on software that prevents this kind of inconvenience to their customer! Another thing with BR, because I window shop there a lot. I have learnt when not to purchase anything from them because of price discrepancies in their stores and online!! That is not very honest in my book!
Reviewed Dec. 5, 2013
I have been a loyal customer to Banana Republic and the Gap for years and years. I chose to never get one of their credit cards simply because I like to have few of them and I keep a tight reign on my finances. Finally a couple of months ago I was in Banana Republic making a large purchase so I decided to get a card to save a little. The first time I used it, I paid it off in full within twelve days. The second time I paid it in full within sixteen days. I made a mistake though. Some time before I had made the second payment, I forgot I had already prescheduled it with Banana Republic.
Yesterday Banana Republic pulled an additional payment out of my bank account. My balance due was 0 because I had already made a payment but because I made the mistake of forgetting that I prescheduled it, the full amount came out again. This overdrew my bank account. Both my bank account and Banana Republic's status were still "Pending" but Banana Republic would not stop the removal of the money from my bank account. Now I have a $509.84 credit on my Banana Republic account. They say they cannot write me a check without proof of funds... but they have overdrawn my account. It's Christmas. I don't have any desire to get all of my presents at Banana Republic or Gap. I just want my money back NOW - RIGHT NOW.
Reviewed Oct. 31, 2013
They have a new policy that differentiates between a payment vs. refund that is designed to charge you interest even if you pay off your balance each month. I made purchases during the September billing period. I received a refund for one item before the October payment due date. I then paid the remaining balance before the October due date. My balance was paid off in full before the payment due date. However, GE Money is now ignoring refunds and charging interest on the amount that was refunded under the premise that it's not a "payment."
The only way to get around this is if you receive your refund within the same billing cycle you purchased the item. If you shop their online stores, it is difficult to get this done within one cycle. I am therefore closing my account with them as this new policy is clearly just an attempt to charge interest even from responsible cardholders who pay their balance off each month.
Whether it it's in the form of a payment or refund from a retailer, if the credit card balance is zero before the due date, the credit card company should not have the right to charge you interest. If you only shop their brick & mortar stores and don't ever have to return items, this may not be an issue. But if you are an online shopper that makes returns by mail, I do not recommend this card.
Reviewed Aug. 13, 2013
My husband loves shopping at Banana Republic which annoys me because their items are overpriced. They also give their card members Rewards... Recently my husband bought me some things from GAP using the rewards which I ended up returning. I was hoping that I would get my rewards at the store itself but their cashier told me I would get it in the mail in 2 billing cycles. It's been 6 billing cycles I haven't received my rewards. When I called their customer care, they told me that I might not even get them. This has left me fuming. We don't shop from this store anymore and I am also planning to discontinue their card... P.S. There was a young lady at the store who had the same issue. Even she didn't receive her rewards after 4 billing cycles!!!
Reviewed Aug. 1, 2013
Overpriced crap. I don't shop BR but my wife does and buys me pullover shirts as gifts. They shrink. I have two expensive shirts that I gave to my kid who is about 2/3 my size. He washed them twice and they shrank even more. We wash in cold water and dry on medium. No matter. Cheap fabric. I have $15.00 shirts from Target that I throw in on warm and dry on high and they last forever. Okay, the dye is not as good, but they still fit after years of wearing. BR, overpriced crap.
Reviewed June 15, 2013
I was in Banana Republic in Willow Grove, PA. I found a pair of shorts I wanted to try on. There was nobody in the dressing room, nobody at the cash register, and I could not find anybody anywhere to help me. I was ready to spend money. The entire store was 30% off, with the sale ending in two days. When I called Banana Republic customer service to complain, I asked if the sale could be extended until I had time to get to another Banana Republic since I tried to spend money. I was told NO, NO extensions. They did offer me a $15 gift card, which would have been less than the 30% savings. No way am I going to pay full price when there was nobody to take my money during the sale. They lost a good customer.
Reviewed April 29, 2013
I used to buy all of my clothes at Banana Republic. It was my go to store. I had their credit card. My husband and I bought all of our professional clothes there. When someone asked us what to get us for Christmas/birthday, I always requested a gift card to this store. Then the credit card switched their payment scheme. I stopped getting any bill, despite registering multiple times for electronic bills. They wouldn't accept electronic payments from my bank - a first for me. I have USAA. They do everything electronically. I've never had a problem. After continued failures of them to bill me or accept payment any way other than through their brand new online system, I canceled my card.
Then in the last month, I have gone to two separate stores to shop. The first one I couldn't find a salesperson to help me. None to take my clothes to a room, none to unlock a dressing room. Nothing. I even found an open dressing room and put my clothes in and hung my own marker on the door. When I returned with a couple more items, my clothes had been removed. I had gotten a sitter to shop and recently had a baby, and needed work clothes that could accommodate nursing and pumping. I was ready to buy a nearly new wardrobe, but I left without trying on a thing. I emailed them my complaint through customer service and they graciously responded and sent me a $10 gift card.
So yesterday, I gave a different shop a try. Same problem. No one ever offered to take my clothes from me and start a room. After bringing back two separate armfuls of clothes on my own, I began trying on. I needed different sizes in a few things. I couldn't find a customer service person to get me the right size, so I left with my two items. I waited over 15 minutes in line to pay for two items because the checkers were both on the phone with customer service. When I did get up to pay, that $10 gift card that customer service sent me in the mail didn't even work! They spent a good 3-4 minutes putting the info in about ten different ways. I finally just paid for my items and left.
I will not be going back. I will be finding a different store to buy all of my clothes in. After nearly a decade of buying everything at BR, it's sad to have to move, but I won't be wasting my time or money there again.
Reviewed April 22, 2013
My wife and I occasionally shop at Banana Republic, and have their consumer credit card to take advantage of the few perks. We don't use the card for anything else; when we do use it, we immediately pay it off. In late January, my wife made a $41 purchase and forgot to tell me about it. BR didn't send me a bill, either electronically or in the mail. In February, they charged me a $25 late fee. Then in March, they charged me $35. So I was a little miffed that they charged me without ever notifying me about the initial charge or sending me a bill, but hey - I should have known.
What put me over the edge was that when I did check in on it and tried to pay, the entire system stunk of fraud. First of all, the website appears to be third party and most of the links are either broken or, if you're trying to use their help screens, don't exist. Second, when I tried to pay the full amount, it flipped me through a few screens and then dumped me back at my account home page, still saying I owed the same amount. I went through the process a couple times, looking for some verification or evidence that I had, indeed, tried to pay my balance - no luck. So (third), I called their customer support. After 20 minutes, I wasn't able to speak to a human being and the robot lady had nothing useful to say. I didn't even get into a queue for a live human being; I just got turned away.
So basically, screw BR. Charging me $60 without ever sending a note, then making it impossible to verify a payment, and having literally nothing more than a robot recording for "customer service"- screw them. I'm canceling the worthless card and likely not shopping at BR again, and God knows this story will get plenty of mileage in whatever circles I roam.
Reviewed Feb. 5, 2013
My children bought me a pair of Jackson Fit Trousers from Banana Republic on December 2, 2012 for a whopping $124.00. My children are young teenagers and saved up money to buy them for me as they know I like the clothing. As a single mom, with a very busy agenda with my kids and work, I finally was able to go to a Banana Republic store on Monday, February 4, 2013, with my gift receipt and price tag with me. They refused to give me full value of what my children spent on me. They only wanted to give me $39.97 for the pants even with the gift receipt! After I tried on many different pants and wasted my precious time trying on other pants that fit me properly, I went to the cash register and they told me that this is their policy and they can't do anything for me. So I lost $84.03 of my children's and my money over a policy that is completely unethical.
The salesperson in the store had a big smile on his face and had no empathy whatsoever for my situation! They wanted me to pay an extra $71.03 for the new pants I just tried on, on top of losing the $84.03! So in essence, I lose $155.06 of my hard earned money to a huge conglomerate that has the poorest customer service and customer policies ever! I used to enjoy shopping at Banana Republic when they had a bit of sale as they are completely unaffordable otherwise and to be honest, the quality is not the greatest! They will never see me in their store again. When I called their customer service toll-free number, they told me again that they can't do anything for me. I asked to speak to a higher up and they still said the higher up won't be able to do anything for me. I guess these people think as a person, I have no life and I have all the time in the world to return things.
As a consumer, they must lose customers daily over this type of policy. If I knew this, I would have returned it much sooner and found the time to do it. Now they have lost a customer and the media will be hearing about this! I may even call my lawyer! I am so dismayed with the policies and the people at Banana Republic that I will never even walk into one of their stores ever again. There is plenty of competitors out there that have better prices and better customer relations than this poorly run, money-hungry company called Banana Republic! What does that name mean anyway! It doesn't even sound like a viable name for an industrialized world. Banana Republic, Old Navy and The Gap, you just lost a customer. My friends and family will also hear about this. So will the media. Completely unimpressed and disappointed by this.
Reviewed Jan. 28, 2013
I went with my husband to purchase an outfit for a party. We settled on a snap up sweater and slacks, which totaled about $240. When we got home, my husband put on the sweater and tried to undo the snap with his fingers so that it was loose around the collar. The sweater pulled away from the snap which was still snapped together. Three days later, I took the sweater back to the store with the receipt and I tried to explain what had happened. The manager told me it was obviously the wearer's fault that the sweater had torn away from the snap. I patiently explained that my husband simply tried to unsnap the collar and it had torn away the first time he tried the snap. She said that since she had not had any other returns of this nature, it was not a defect of the sweater and would not exchange it. My husband went in to explain the situation to the manager in his own words and she had the same response for him. No item of clothing should tear the first time you put it on, and the customer service could have been better in understanding this. We will not be recommending Banana Republic. That's for sure.
Reviewed Jan. 3, 2013
I opened a BR card about 5 months ago and feel this was the worst mistake ever! I pay all my bills online, receive email alerts, and pay my bills immediately as soon as I receive the alerts using the link provided in the email. My statement balance is wrong. I made a payment on Dec. 23rd and their system says I haven't made a payment since Nov 1st! Their two customer service numbers are of absolutely no use. One is an electronic voice telling me exactly what I see in my online statement and the other is a person five continents away that has the personality of a parrot repeating the script over and over again and understands absolutely nothing of issue I am presenting. Wow, what a letdown. If I don't settle this, Banana Republic/Gap/Athleta can say goodbye to my business. What a scam!
Reviewed Nov. 21, 2012
On November 13, 2012, I'd purchased a cashmere sweater from Banana Republic online shopping center. Delivery was prompt, but when I took it out of the box and looked at it, I saw that the sweater had been used! The garment had a noticeable 'pilling' along all of the sleeves, the neckline and back of the garment, and appeared to have been worn or tried on a number of times. I returned it to a local store the following day. They did return my money but said they could do little to help otherwise. They gave me the online customer service department telephone number, so I could discuss the matter further.
I called that same evening and spoke to their complaints department. The staff member I spoke to was polite, apologized, and said she would report the situation. But she offered nothing else to compensate me for my time and trouble. Just to let you know, Banana Republic online shopping center, if you're selling high priced 'quality' items, it looks pretty bad when you deliver a product that has been worn or tried on. I will never shop online or at their store again. If you can't deliver your advertised goods or at least try to make amends for such a situation, you really do need some help with your customer service agenda.
Reviewed Oct. 1, 2012
Banana card - I feel every time I go in, they try to convince me to sign up for the credit card. It's pretty annoying. I feel I would want to pay with whatever I'd like to use. Do not get sucked into signing up for another credit card.
Reviewed Aug. 9, 2012
Yesterday, I bought a pair of jeans at BR outlet in Potomac Mills, VA. After trying them out, I realized the zipper didn't lock, so I went to return them today. After waiting for someone to come to the register, a short, frumpy 26-something girl finally appeared. I told her the problem. She fumbled with the zipper without saying a word. I asked her if she knew what I meant in my explanation of the zipper by saying, “Do you know what I mean?" No response. I waited about 30 seconds and again I asked, "Do you know what I mean?” There’s still no response. I waited again for a reply - nothing. I asked again, "Are you understanding what I am trying to say?" She finally spoke and said, "No.” Then, she asked me if I wore the jeans. I answered, "Yes, how else would I know that the zipper didn't lock?" She then told me I didn't have to be so rude. Rude? She ignored my attempts to communicate the zipper issue. I told her I thought it was a silly question. She then put down the jeans and as she walked away, told me someone would help me at the other end of the counter.
Another nightmare employee, a middle-aged African American woman, approached me with a nasty attitude. I explained the problem again and went to see if there was another pair of jeans equally as dark in my size - without anyone's help, I might add. I returned the jeans, bought a top and was given no apology like, "Thank you, I'm sorry." Nothing! I then went next door to Calvin Klein and bought my jeans there. They are very nice and helpful. Tomorrow, I will return the top as it now represents a horrible experience at Banana Republic and I won’t be back and I will make sure my friends won’t either.
Reviewed July 31, 2012
Worst experience. They really did not help at all after two phone calls. I tried to pay my bills, but no one sincerely tried to help. Worst call center service! Be aware of it. They waste your time!
Reviewed July 25, 2012
I waited and waited for a statement. They had a $30 credit if you use their card before a certain date and I was charged less than two dollars. When no statement came, I thought they deducted the charge from the $30 credit. A statement finally came the next month with a $25 fee plus interest. When I called and wasted twenty minutes on the phone, they removed it. It seems like a scam to me. A lot of people won't bother or will give up having to wait for the computer to put you through 200 options until you can speak to a person in El Salvador.
Reviewed May 11, 2012
I would not get the price as marked on the ticket. I'm a little bit upset with the way the manager talked to me. I'm not sure if I'll come back to this store.
Reviewed April 14, 2012
I wanted to buy a pair of pants that were marked at $35. The computer was reading them at $44. The manager would not override it. This has happened at other stores and those managers have been helpful and have charged me for the items as marked. This manager had a smirk on her face and said she just could not do anything about it. I am so dissatisfied with this situation that I will not return to Banana Republic again.
Reviewed April 12, 2012
Banana Republic Credit Card - I received a call from a collection agency regarding my past due bills with Banana Republic. This was the first I was aware of any past due payments. I explained to this agency (which was extremely rude) that I never received a bill, and then magically (about three days later), I received a bill. I settled with Banana (over a $50 bill), but this whole mess destroyed my credit. It dropped my score by 120 points! I hate Banana and will never do business with them again. I was a very loyal customer for over 10 years!
Reviewed March 28, 2012
I received a top from Banana Republic as a gift from a friend. I didn't like the way it fit so wanted to exchange it for something else of the same price or something more expensive and pay the difference. The item was now on the sale rack but I was okay with taking the current value as was the stated policy on the posted return policy at the store desk. The reduced price on the tags of the same tops on the rack was $25.98. The person in charge stated she could only give me $12.98. I pointed out the policy and the current tag price of the item and she said she would sell the item for $12.98. Why then was it tagged $25.98? I feel like I have been forced into complying with Banana Republic in ripping off my friend. I will never shop there and I will tell all my friends what a rip off I experienced!
Reviewed Jan. 20, 2012
Rude service, uneducated customer service, wasted over 2 hours of my time with no resolution- giving me wrong numbers to contact and discrimination: Open account, use store often and opened account finally (Spend over $1000.00 there, at least, annually).
Paid bill on Bill Pay. Received call that account was delinquent. Checked Bill Pay, money cleared. A month later, get a check back to my girlfriend with my account number on it, her name, and a letter saying they are returning check because wrong account. We have a joint account with both of our names. I explain this, pay in the meantime with my credit card to bring my account up to date. Have to negotiate to not get charged for using the processing credit card fee. Have to negotiate to have late fees removed as the error was not mine. Ask how to prevent this as we move forward. Send me to other representatives, who continue to give me run around.
Tell me there is nothing they can do, pay bill differently. I state this is how I pay my bills, I am not changing, or paying to have it processed via credit card. Further and most insulting, I am told its "possibly" because of two women's names on account and that if it was reported to the credit agency it is "in the past and we cannot do anything about the past ma'am." My credit is bad enough after my divorce. This was not my error and no one was empathetic or helpful at a resolution. Except that I need to do something different or call and check after I pay, for which they gave me an incorrect number to call and check. Frustrated beyond belief and really do not to ever buy from there again, which sucks for me because I love their clothes.
Reviewed Oct. 12, 2011
I purchased an expensive Banana Republic trench coat, and after one dry cleaning, it was severely damaged. The medal buckles and clasps were broken. I returned to the store, thinking they would repair the buckles. What a joke! This store and brand have absolutely no customer service. I called the customer service number at head office and they said I was SOL. No more Banana Republic in our house!
Reviewed Oct. 11, 2011
This store needs to just go under already. They act too cool for people trying to spend money in this economy. If I was the lady that left my wallet in the store before Christmas, I would have called the cops.
Anyway, went there and asked a lady for a different size and she rudely told me that it was out there. I hate rude customer service. I wish my wife was with me, she is the snapper. She would have snapped at her, but I let it go. Send a review in and they obviously don't care about things like that.
I'll keep buying their polos until they become crap! I bet it'd be soon!
Reviewed Sept. 26, 2011
Purchased an item from an outlet in Osage Beach. The quality was horrific and I plan to return it. I will never purchase from an outlet again.
Reviewed July 29, 2011
I called last month to have late fee and interest fee waived, the representative stated she would waive it. I received my bill this month. I spoke to three people. The only thing they would waive was the late fee but not the interest fee of a dollar. I am going to closing out my account and will go to a better credit card company that will give me better service.
Reviewed May 10, 2011
I attempted to return dress shirts to a Banana Republic store in Indianapolis, IN within two weeks of purchasing them. The shirts had never been worn and had the original tags on them. The CSR at the store refused to accept the return, saying that the shirts were too wrinkled for him to resell. This was shocking since the shirts had not even been removed once from the bag; the CSR on the original date of sale had crammed them into the bag which resulted in the wrinkling.
In writing to Banana Republic's complaint email, they said my only option was to go to another Banana Republic store and have another manager evaluate the merchandise. Considering that option would mean I would have to drive 150 miles each way, that is not feasible. They have offered no apology and simply keep repeating their return policy in their responses. It has become clear that they have no intention of remedying the issue, thus forcing me to keep the merchandise that I have the rightful and legal right to return per their published return policy.
Needless to say, I have canceled my BR Luxe credit card (which means I have purchased a lot of clothing from them in the past) and will never again buy any merchandise from any of their affiliated retailers.
Reviewed Feb. 10, 2011
On 02/09/11, I bought one belt priced as $55 and one dress priced as $150 on one receipt. I used my $25 coupon for this as well. On 09/10/11, the dress's price went down 40%. So I went to the Banana Republic store for a price adjustment. However, price adjustment doesn't take consideration of my coupon anymore. I could understand that if I return the item, the coupon value won't be refunded. But for price adjustment, why did they revoke my coupon value? This is like a ripoff.
Reviewed Dec. 23, 2010
On Dec. 22 at 9:50 right before the store was about to close, I enter with the intentions of purchase a couple of items that was need for a Christmas gift. Unable to find the correct size, I left the store. And 5 minutes later, realize that I had left my wallet in the store, I run back to the store as quickly as I could. Despite the fact that there was still people in, shopping, doors were closed for new shoppers. I tried to explained to the manager the situation, she explained the policies; understanding that the policies are not letting new people in. I was giving her a couple of choices that could help my situation. And calm my agony of losing my money, credit cards and important documents, 2 days before Christmas.
The manager solution was a phone call whenever found! I begged her for compassion in putting some of the staff that was just staring at the discussion like if there's not job to get done. Where is the good customer service? The good attitude and the Christmas spirit? What kind of world we live in? And those are the people that we spend the money at.
I have been a loyal banana republic's shopper over 15 years. In fact, I could say that is my favorite line. With managers like that, that are only proud to follow the "policies" without helping whose really important. With a little consideration from her part, I would have run first thing in the morning to the closest Banana Republic store to locate the correct size of the items needed. I won't be spending my money in a Banana republic due to their inconsiderate managers.
Reviewed Nov. 25, 2010
I had a very dissatisfying and negative customer service experience this evening at the Banana Republic Forum Shops here in Las Vegas. I tried to return an item, and then buy a similar item so that I could obtain a 25% discount. I found a similar item that I would like to buy and then returned the item that I bought ten days ago so that I could get a discount. I have never used the item that I bought ten days ago. It was a wallet.
The item that I bought ten days ago did not have an applied promotional discount. One of the sales personnel approved price adjustment so that I do not have to return the item and buy a similar item only to get a 25% discount. When I was ready to pay the items I bought that cost several hundreds of dollars, I was referred to one of the store managers. His name is Jason *******.
This manager has been very inconsiderate to me since the last time I went to the store to purchase items. He said that I could not do it because it is against the store's policy doing it this way. He also told me that I am abusing the sales promotions. I was shocked that a store manager could say this to a customer. I was also infuriated but I answered back by telling him and the other sales rep. that that was unacceptable and I would like to talk to a higher manager to complain but he referred me to another manager that seemed to be his buddy working side by side with him. By the way, I have been a loyal BR customer for about five years now, and have probably spent tens of thousands of dollars for BR items.
This manager was very hard to please, and tried to negate almost all requests that I asked for. For instance, in my last visit to the store ten days ago, he lied about the availability of an item that I asked about when in reality there were four items left in the store for that same item when I inquired the 1888BRSTYLE customer service yesterday. Another instance was when he denied my request to provide me a full discount for a damaged sweater.
I come to buy things from BR almost every week because I like their items very much but customer service experiences like these are very discouraging. I hope that they should be more considerate of customers especially to the loyal customers in these times of economic recession. I work very hard for my money but I would not want to spend them for more items if I would have a negative customer service that would just make my day(s) miserable. I am very ashamed to recommend this store to my friends, or other people.
Reviewed Sept. 16, 2010
While I would have once classified myself as a loyal Banana Republic customer, my recent experience with your account services department has caused a dramatic change in my relationship with your company. In June, I visited a Banana Republic store, eventually purchasing several hundred dollars worth of merchandise. Upon checkout, I was solicited by the clerk to open a Banana Republic card, an offer which came with the incentive of a 20% discount to be applied to my total purchase price. This seemed like a satisfactory deal. After verbally verifying with the clerk that I would be opening a store card, I filled out the paperwork and completed my purchase.
Three weeks later, I received a letter in the mail containing not a store card, but rather a Visa credit card designed to be spent anywhere credit cards are accepted. Immediately, I contacted Banana Republic account services to rectify the situation. The customer service representative guaranteed that my account would be converted from a Visa card to a store card. Appeased, I thanked the representative and hung up the phone.
Several weeks later, after not receiving a store card in the mail, I followed up with a phone call to Banana Republic card services. The customer service representative with whom I spoke could not explain to me why my account had not been converted to a store account, however, he assured me that the change would occur. A little taken aback, but overall trusting in Banana Republic's core values, I believed the representative.
Again, after a couple weeks, I still had not received a store card, so I followed up with card services again. To my surprise at the time, my request had still not been processed. I was assured, for the third time, that my account would be downgraded to a store card. Finally, today, September 15th, 2010, three long months after opening an account with Banana Republic, I again contacted card services. This time, the customer service representative told me that because the request to convert my account to a store card was submitted more than 60 days after I opened the initial account, the request was denied. I told him this was completely ridiculous because I had been trying to have my conversion request processed for the last 3 months, essentially from the day I had received the card.
I asked to be transferred to a supervisor. This is where the plot thickens. Whereas before, perhaps, I was a victim of poor customer service, now I began to become aware that, truly, I am a victim of fraud. The supervisor informed me that because I opened the card before my 21st birthday, Banana Republic is unable to downgrade my account to a store card. Needless to say, I have been swindled and lied to. I have now contacted Banana Republic card services at least 4 times. Each time, up until today, I have been assured that Banana Republic would take care of my request. Today, however, your supervisor told me that there was nothing he could do and allowed me to close my account as a very dissatisfied customer.
I find your company's lack of concern for its relationship with a loyal and paying customer appalling. Currently, I hold no balance with Banana Republic. Over my lifetime, I have spent several thousand dollars through a combination of store and online shopping. However, after today, I can say with unwavering confidence, that I will never again shop with your company or any of its sister companies. An organization that ignores requests, lies, swindles its customers and shows disregard for the production of a poor corporate image is not somewhere where I can deign to spend even one dollar.
Especially during financial times such as these, it seems that Banana Republic would hold the value of its promises in higher esteem. I am thoroughly disgusted with my experience with your company and I will be sure to circulate my disgust among my social circles, networking websites and customer satisfaction forums. No one should be forced to endure the complete lack of concern and integrity that I have suffered at the hands of Banana Republic.
Reviewed Aug. 26, 2010
I made a large purchase of clothing at the Banana Republic store in downtown Minneapolis in the IDS tower on 6/24/2010. There was one item that I ended up never wearing and decided to return it on 8/26/2010. The sweater had never been worn, still had the tags on it and I had my receipt. I was rudely told by the store associate that I couldn't return it because they have a 30-day return policy. I politely asked for a store credit instead and was told, no.
Don't retail stores realize what a huge mistake they are making by being rude and inflexible to consumers, especially in this economic downturn? I would think right now they would try very hard to treat us with respect and go above and beyond to guarantee our continued loyalty. Banana Republic has now lost a customer for life! I will never shop at that store again and may even consider boycotting the entire GAP portfolio of stores.
Reviewed Aug. 12, 2010
Today, I had a horrible experience with Banana Republic. I went to go return items that I had bought 45 days ago. Not only did they refuse to take it for a full refund but I could not get even a store credit. Then I was mad. These people made me speak to 2 customer service agents on the phone and ultimately I got my refund. It took 45 minutes. I was furious and embarrassed to be standing there. They were strict about being 15 days over policy. I come home to find out that the new refund receipt I got showed a 60 day return policy. I called the store after getting so much hell to explain how is this possible. And they told me they changed the policy 2 weeks after I bought the items. I hate Banana Republic and will never shop there again. By the way, I shopped at the Broadway store on the UWS and the managers name is Howard. What a j**k!
Reviewed July 23, 2010
Same as Barbara of Santa Barbara, CA on April 5, 2010 and the others who have filed complaints about Banana Republic that couldn't get what they paid with a receipt. The store and corporate, Lindsey, only offered lowest sale price and rhetoric. No customer service! I will never shop there again! I want what I paid for, the brand new items with price tags on them with a receipt. BR called security and asked me to leave and were going to call the police if I didn't leave.
Reviewed June 18, 2010
I have shopped at Banana Republic for several years and spent quite a lot of money here, one of their luxe customers. Over the past few years the return policy and how the BR Corporation treats their "valued customers" is horrid! I have had several aggravating experiences but yesterday the BR bag I purchased less than 2 months ago broke--the leather strap came off. I looked at the other one and it was coming off, too! Knowing how difficult they are about returning anything, I took it back with the receipt and she said, "Well, how many times have you used it?” Excuse me? I just bought it!
At that point she attempted to look up the current price instead of the price I paid. Isn't this morally wrong? Is the company in such bad financial shape that they need every penny they can get at the expense of me ever shopping there again? Does this make any sense? Let's see, I could give them roughly $2,000 year in purchases or nothing at all. I now choose nothing (except for the stupid store credit for the bag).
Reviewed May 23, 2010
I will never shop again at Banana Republic. I had a horrible experience. I went to return two skirts that I bought 1 month and 2 days ago. They did not give me what I paid for and tried to return half the price I paid. To me, this is very unprofessional. It looks like they are going to lose lots of customers. Good luck with their business!
Reviewed May 8, 2010
I am a long time customer and many dollar customer of Banana Republic. I really like their styles in clothing and they fit me will. However, the fabric pulled away at the pocket of my third pair of jeans from BR after the second or third time I wore them. Unfortunately for me, I did not wear these jeans too often and the defect was only visible at the 5 month mark since purchase.
The time element for me to run around to the store, then to be told to call the toll-free customer service number for support; where then the toll-free service rep said to go to the store. Then at the store to be rejected again for being past the 30 day mark. Then, call the toll-free again who said "any workmanship issue over any time is replaced;" then go to the store to be told it wasn't a defect by the store (after an previous subtle acknowledgement that it was indeed). Took a long time! Wasn't a defect, huh. I am not overweight, the fabric is obviously pulling away on its own while wearing normally (a.k.a. not torn), the label tag strings are still attached, no wear and tear, they look nearly new...huh. Not a defect.
In the end, I was blown off big time. BR showed zero interest in supporting. The toll-free guy told me to go to other stores until one of them helped me. Nice. I like driving around complaining about jeans, because I have nothing better to do with my life! I just want to quickly buy something from a company that stands behind their work. Not one that let's my behind be unwillingly exposed. I don't even care if I get this pair replaced anymore, nor do I want a credit. Keep your scammed dollars BR! I have several jeans and life will go on. But, this pair of jeans was crap. I am angry and insulted at the inference that somehow I'm responsible.
If I could stand in front of the store for days showing every customer my jeans, so they could at least be warned and make up their own mind by seeing my pair that would be a good thing. I probably won't be wearing them in front of the store, but that would make a great point. It's fine if you purchase poor quality jeans from a major discount store. There are expectations. I paid, what I consider, a higher dollar for the look and quality of these jeans and I expected more. My kids wreak havoc for years in cheap discount store jeans, but these, you can't sit down in for fear of separating the fabric! I am shocked at the support and I'm too busy in life to spend any more time whining about jeans to this blog, but more so to wasting time with a useless dance with Banana Republic.
I have a credit card from BR that I will soon cancel. I will take my clothing shopping elsewhere. I am done whining. Please heed my advice. If you like the look of BR clothes, buy that look elsewhere unless you are getting a deal! It's your risk...that guarantee is at the mercy of one person's opinion and you are not that person, nor will that person listen to you, because "That's policy!" lost ~$100, one pair of jeans, and hours of wasted time
Reviewed April 17, 2010
There is a dispute on a double charge from Banana Republic from a 10/30/09 transaction. I have sent a letter and made numerous phone calls, but they keep sending me a statement with late charges and interest. I called them today (4/17/10) to complain it, but they told me that the case is closed and I am responsible to pay the bill. Please help me or give me an advise. Thank you.
Reviewed April 10, 2010
I saw a pair of boots I wanted and the Raleigh store did not have my size. I asked the young lady behind the counter to try to locate these boots in my size at another location. She gave me a print out for me to call. Later on, I called the list of stores; one of them had my size. The problem is that they were prized a lot more than they were at the Raleigh store.
I was shocked to know that the prices vary from store to store. I brought it up then the young lady on the telephone stated that this is the way it is. I proceeded to call customer service and received the same answer. I am just a little disappointed that BR would not go the extra mile to satisfy and keep their loyal customers coming back.
Reviewed April 9, 2010
I went to Banana Republic return a dress that I had never worn. I did not try on the dress in the store or inspect it thoroughly inside and out. When I went back to return it, the cashier told me that it was damaged and could not be returned. The snap on the inside of the dress was coming undone. I told him that I had bought it that way because I had never worn it and that I don't inspect things that I buy new with a fine toothed comb.
They basically told me that I had worn the dress and that I had even got spots on it! This was an absolute lie! I was never so humiliated. They told me to keep my voice down because I was disturbing other customers and that I needed to leave. I have never been treated like this at any store and will never shop at Banana Republic again. By their actions, they have proved themselves to have inferior customer service and poor quality merchandise. I am filing a suit with small claims court, not to mention the fact that the dress was on sale for $54 and they would rather humiliate a longtime customer than deal fairly with me! I'm out $54.99 + tax and very emotionally upset over the humiliation I received while at the store.
Reviewed April 5, 2010
I purchased a jacket for my husband's birthday. I asked about the return policy and was told that I can get a refund within 30 days and store credit after 30 days as long as all the tags are on and I have the receipt. If I didn't have the receipt, I would have to accept any price reductions that may have incurred. I returned the jacket 32 days later and was told the receipt will not be honored and I can only have store credit for half the price I paid (a loss of $30). The manager said that the computer would not accept my receipt any longer. The manager suggested that I call consumers department and surely they could help me.
The woman in the consumers department said that is their policy and there was nothing she could do (her name Lindsey W). She said that she was the only one in charge of this department for the entire United States and that no one else was above her. I said that as a customer, I was misinformed. It was only two days over the 30 days and I was only asking for store credit for the price I paid. I said that we wanted to shop in your store but not when customers are treated so poorly. What happened to respect and honor? Why do they change their policy and not inform customers? I was honest and sincere and was treated like a criminal.
Reviewed March 24, 2010
For the most part I've had nothing but good experiences shopping at Banana Republic until I opened up a Banana Republic credit card. And now I've had nothing but problems. It all started around the holiday season, when I received a post card in the mail from them in December saying I only needed to spend $250 to qualify for Luxe status and, if I did, I'd also get $20 as an added bonus. About two weeks into the month, I went into a BR store and purchased $250 worth of clothes so I'd make Luxe status. When I hadn't heard anything from them by mid-January I called up customer support to find out what was happening with my Luxe account. I was on hold for about 15 minutes while the woman went through all of my statements and manually added up all of my BR purchases to see if I qualified.
She assured me that I qualified for Luxe and that I'd be receiving my new Luxe card in about a month. About a month later, I still hadn't received my card. I was tired of waiting and wanted to use the perks (free hemming and free shipping) and so I went to the store and explained the situation. A very nice saleswoman tried calling customer support to confirm my Luxe status, but they had no record of my prior conversations despite being assured that a note was put on my account. Customer service took so long and was so unhelpful. The nice saleswoman gave up and said she would override the system so I wouldn't be charged. It took about an hour, but at least I got what I wanted.
I didn't understand why I kept having problems so I tried calling customer support again. I got a very rude woman who couldn't have been less helpful or nasty. Once again I had to wait on hold for 15 minutes while she manually added up all my charges and, by her count, I was $250 short. She told me that my purchases midway through December actually counted for January (even though they're on my December statement) despite everything else reading "Spend $800 within a calendar year", including the postcard. She even confirmed there was a note on my account that read something like "Assured customer of Luxe status" but somehow she said she took that to mean I was assured of what the qualifications were and nothing more. When I told her she was misunderstanding the note she laughed at me.
I had had enough and immediately asked to speak to a manager. When I finally got a manager they had obviously been given a one-sided version of the story. I asked to file a complaint against whoever I had just spoken to, but I have no clue if that ever happened. After a long conversation with a manager they finally agreed to grant me Luxe status. I only lost out on about 2 months of my 12-month membership in the process. I later realized I never received the $20 bonus and had to call up once again to get that figured out. Luckily, I got a helpful agent and it didn't become a big problem.
Shortly after receiving my Luxe card, I reviewed my statement and noticed they had changed my billing cycle without notifying me. I also noticed $185 on my balance that simply wasn't adding up. After a decently long phone conversation and constantly being told the balance was correct, I discovered that I was being double charged for everything between my old billing cycle and my new one. I was told there was nothing anyone could do because it’s an automated system and I need to keep an eye on it and hope it fixes itself. In the meantime, I had to front the $185 until my balance was corrected. I have had a couple of issues in store, but for the most part, I enjoy shopping at Banana Republic and usually get decent customer service.
However, the credit card is a whole different monster. I lost out on 2 of the 12 months of my membership, several hours of my times, and tons of stress over the situation. They're sneaky and care nothing for customer service. I had a Gap card in the past and they cancelled my account without even notifying me because I wasn't using the card enough. If you're considering signing up for a BR credit card, my advice to you is stay away! They're awful!
Reviewed March 22, 2010
I have been shopping at Banana Republic for many years, have a BR card and spend at least $100 a month there. Well, not any more. I am furious with my experience today and will never shop there again.
I tried returning 2 gifts that were given to me for my birthday. Tags were attached, had the receipt, and my mom who purchased the gifts was with me, but we were 5 days late on the 30 day return policy. I didn't even realize that they had changed it to 30 days and was irate when the manager first told me that I couldn't return or exchange the merchandise because we were past the 30 days. I explained that it was a gift and that my birthday was just last week, but they still wouldn't accept that and they were impossible to deal with.
After several minutes of arguing, the manager finally did us a favor by taking the merchandise back, but we won't receive a store credit until 7-10 days, which is totally inconvenient. This policy is ridiculous and they have just lost a very loyal customer.
Reviewed Feb. 1, 2010
I have had a Banana Republic Visa for 2 years. I pay every single month on time and in full. My limit started at about $2,500. I went into a store in Pitt Pa, Shadyside area on Walnut Street to make a purchase with 2 B'day vouchers that were about to expire. I had to use my card to use them. I drove about 30 miles to get to the store so I could use these coupons. When I used the card, I found that it was declined. The rude and very inconsiderate girls in the store laughed about it, and gave me their deceitful and ruthless smiles.
I found that my limit had been taken down to $120. It had been taken down through out the year, but I had never known it had gone under $800. I was extremely embarrassed and upset. I had wasted 3 hours on this day. This store hires extremely rude and disrespectful employees. I am irate about this. Now I call, and you cannot get hold of a human being to get your answers. This is uncalled for and extremely unprofessional. I will never shop there again, and make sure that anybody I know, will hear about this experience. My friend had warned me about shopping there, now that I think about it.
Reviewed Dec. 29, 2009
I am a 62-year-old, African American professor emeriti. I have taught over 25,000 young people and college students in my forty one years of teaching. I have always treated each and every one fairly and equitably. When I entered Banana Republic at the Circle Center Mall in Indianapolis at approximately 2:00PM on December 28, 2009, I approached a young blond sales clerk. She quickly turned and walked in the other direction without speaking to me or asking me if she could help me. The store manager, Tony, did not open his mouth to welcome me to the store either. The store was not crowded nor were they busy. It appeared to me that they either had poor manners, extremely poor training in customer service or were doing everything in their power to discourage my business. I was particularly offended when three white women entered the store and the same young woman quickly approached them, gave them a friendly greeting and asked if she could be of help.
I feel that Tony and this young woman were intentionally discriminating against me. I was with other witnesses who had the same experience and who share this opinion. Shouldn't all customers be extended the same courtesy when entering Banana Republic? When retail sales are low, outstanding customer service can make a difference. Of all of the stores we visited, the sales staff at Banana Republic had the worst customer service etiquette.
Reviewed Dec. 16, 2009
I charged $43.18 in August 2009 and didn't receive a statement. So in October, I called to ask where my statement was, and they had the wrong zip code. That is why I didn't receive the bill. They had added $60.00 in late fee, which they promised they will waive this time, and I paid the balance they told me to pay, which was $43.00. A month later, I get another bill showing I owe $63.18, which is more than what I originally charged. When I called them, they were rude and said that I didn't pay the full balance and that they only took 1 late fee off and I should have paid $43.18 instead of $43.00. So they charged me $30.00 late fee because of 18 cents. That is outrageous. Not only did I close my account and I will never shop Banana Republic and its partners again, but I am sending my story to everyone and encourage them not to shop at any of their store. Horrible customer service and very rude customer service. I warn everyone not to charge anything with them. That was my first and last charge with Banana Republic. Thanks.
Reviewed Dec. 3, 2009
Reviewed Nov. 2, 2009
Reviewed Oct. 1, 2009
Reviewed Sept. 16, 2009
Reviewed Sept. 8, 2009
Reviewed Sept. 4, 2009
For months, I had paid my bills weeks before the due date and Banana Republic had posted my checks late to my account then blamed me! The next month, I only owed $32.00 but ended up paying. Weeks before the due date, the whole bill was paid off. I still received a letter from their credit department saying I was late with my payment! The letter even came before the payment was due! I had talked to a supervisor named Abby, who wouldn't listen to my problem then hung up on me. I called back to talk to someone else and had to explain it to her 4 times before she understood the problem. Then, she said there was nothing she could do! They're never admitting that it's Banana Republic's fault and that they weren't doing their jobs correctly!
Reviewed Aug. 15, 2009
Today, I received a recorded telephone message from Banana Republic informing me of upcoming store specials. I then needed to take time out of my busy morning to listen to the message telling me how I could get off their call list. Then, I had to take my time dialing numbers. What gall this store has! What would it be like to have every company & store that I deal with call me to try to drum up business? I am on a "Do not call list".
Reviewed July 5, 2009
I returned an item bought online six weeks ago with original tags and I presented my original sales receipt. There is a new return policy in place that I was not aware of. They refunded me a new lower reduced price instead of what I paid for the item. They essentially stole $34.63 from me. Probably hundreds of customers are in my same position. Gap Inc. owns Banana Republic, Gap, Old Navy, Piperlime, and Athleta. They said it was my fault for not reading the fine print on the website. The receipt does not show a new (or any) return policy. This is ripping people off unfairly.
Reviewed Nov. 23, 2008
Reviewed March 28, 2008
I purchased some clothing items at Banana Republic on September 3, 2007 and tried to return them on December 2, 2007. The items were unworn, unwashed, and still had all original tags on them. The assistant store manager (Andrea) told me that I could not get a refund because 90 days had passed and that I would have to settle for store credit certificate to be mailed to me. My girlfriend pulled out her pocket calendar in the store and we counted how many days it had been. It was on the 90th day exactly since the items had been purchased. Furthermore it was also an hour earlier than the exact time of day that we purchased the items, so I'm not sure how their computer could calculate that the 90 day window had closed. After being treated very rudely by the manager at the store (who told me that there was nothing she could do), I processed the return and was told that I would receive a store credit in the mail. She also told me that I could call the corporate headquarters to complain about the situation.
After calling their customer relations department at (888) BR-STYLE and talking to Scott, the relations manager, I was told again that I would have to accept the store credit voucher in the mail as compensation for the items returned. When I asked him to get a calendar out to count the days himself, he refused and said that there was nothing that he could since the certificate was issued by another department. When I asked him if I could mail the certificate back to him in return for customer service authorizing a check being cut and mailed to me, he said no.
Reviewed Sept. 25, 2007
I returned goods on two separate occassions to Banana Republic totaling approximately $200. The goods were accepted for return and I was informed by Banana Republic clerks that the company will issue me merchandise certificates through the mail. However, it is now withholding two of my merchandise certificates, totaling around $200, citing a divorce letter sent in December of 2006 and the more than 10 returns without receipts I made in July-August of 2007.
I called in January of 2007 to appeal the divorce letter with their Customer Service. I was told by a Customer Service Agent that the divorce letter was cleared. From January - August of 2007, I made returns without receipts without incident and assumed that the divorce letter was no longer in effect. However, randomly, two of my mail-in merchandise certificates are being upheld citing that letter. They have no record of my appeal call. Nowhere does Banana Republic stipulate how many returns a customer can make and to cite perfectly legal actions on my part as a reason for not giving me money back is unlawful. Furthermore, I only gave back the goods with the promise that I will be issued a merchandise certificate with the value of the goods. For them to take back the goods and then to not give me back the money is also unlawful in my opinion.
I spoke with a corporate customer relations representative as well a loss prevention agent. I am very interested in pursuing legal action against them.
Reviewed Sept. 25, 2007
I returned goods to Banana Republic totaling approximately $200. The goods were accepted and I was informed by Banana Republic that it will issue me merchandise certificates through the mail. However, it is withholding two of my merchandise certificates, totaling around $200, citing a divorce letter sent in December of 2006 and the more than 10 returns I made in July-August of 2007. I called in January of 2007 to appeal the divorce letter with their Customer Service. From January - August of 2007, I still made returns without receipts without incident and assumed that the divorce letter was no longer in effect. However, randomly, two of my mail-in merchandise certificates are being upheld citing that letter. Nowhere does Banana Republic stipulate how many returns a customer can make and to cite perfectly legal actions on my part as a reason for not giving me money back is unlawful. I am very interested in pursuing legal action against them. I have asked for the goods back or the value of the goods back in some form of credit but they did not oblige.
Reviewed July 20, 2003
The Manager looked at the cloths and said:
- The cloths that, I was returning had not been purchased at his store and seemed to have been brought form a wear house.
- The cloths were more than four years old
I called in their (Banana Republic) Corporate Office (888-277-8953) and try to lodge my grievance. The customer service specialist listened to my complain and called the Manager of the store in question. She came back and told me that the Manager side of the story, which was:
The customer tried to return cloth which was not purchased from Banana Republic
NOTE: All cloths have company sticker on them.
I informed the representative that the cloth in question had a sticker and a proper identification number of Banana Republic.
She said that at this stage that she could do nothing about this and that she had taken down my complaint. I requested to given some reference number, to the complain that I had filed. But was not furnished with any. She said she was sorry about the incident and based on here company policies there is nothing that she or the store in question could do anything about my grievance.
Reviewed Jan. 2, 2003
On the 20th of December, I purchace a pair of leather pants from the store located in the King of Prussia Mall. In the process of trying them on, I noticed that there was a slight scratch and and upon checkout, asked if they could do better on the price and the girl at the counter told me that she could take 10% of of the total price. The pants were originally on sale for $130.00. I agreed on this and she rung me up. Apparently , there is a clause which I was not told about before buying the pants. This cluase states that the pants with the 10% of are final sale.Had I know that this was the case, I would have bought them for the original price.So not knowing about this clause, I went to return them today the 2nd of January, I could not return them due to this clause which was not mentioned to me. Now this does not seem right to me.. I was not told that I would not be able to exchange or return them at the counter by any one. So what to do??? I like to shop at your store, but this is not right! I have been a loyal shoper at your store for many years and even have a credit card with your store. Is this any way to handle your customers??
Reviewed Nov. 19, 2001
In October '99 I purchased a ladies suede jacket, and suede skirt from two different Banana Republic stores. The jacket was purchased from their Duluth, Georgia store, and the skirt from their Costa Mesa store in Ca. Both items are defective, due to the excessive shedding, which have destroyed a suit and sweater set i wore with these items. I was told by the local associates of Banana Republic to have the items dry cleaned, which I have done, and the the items still shed. I decided to take the matter to Customer Relations, I spoke with Kris, who was advised me to send the merchandise to his attention. I sent both items as requested, Kris and another Customer relations employee advised me the merchandise was deffective, however, since I am not able to find my receipt, they are not willing to give me more that what the merchandise would be currently sold for. I asked if my bank statement showing the draft for the various amount would be sufficient for proof of amount paid for the items and was told NO. I paid $298.00 plus 6% tax for the skirt, and $249.00 plus 6% tax for the Jacket. They are offering me $150.00 for both items. I think this if a criminal act, since it is very clear that the merchandise is deffective.
Reviewed Feb. 22, 2001
I returned a suit to this store without an original receipt. They issued me a receipt of a mail check when I only wanted to exchange the item. Now the mail check was denied by their corporate offices because other people living in my house had received mail checks in the past. This is not my fault. Furthermore, I returned my purchased item which I paid $512 cash for, and I am not allowed to receive a check because of other people receiving checks. What does this have to do with me? I want either a store credit or a refund, preferably a refund.
Reviewed Jan. 17, 2001
I returned some merchandise. Two weeks later my girlfriend gives me a gift, i wasn't really satisfied so i returned it to banana republic. I waould have not minded if they issued me store credit but they found it weird that 2 returns were done withing 2 weeks time. i always shop at banana, and i have never had any problems. The man i spoke with said he will not issue me store credit or give me my money back without any receipts. I feel if i returned something they cannot hold my money or store credit when i gave them my merchandise. I cannot find the original receipt which is what they want.
Banana Republic Company Information
- Company Name:
- Banana Republic
- Website:
- bananarepublic.gap.com