Banana Republic
The safari-themed retailer turned Gap-owned upscale-casual brand. The whimsical travel-themed early logo, then the minimalist 'BR', date the tag.
- Origin
- USA
- Founded
- 1978
- Category
- Designer & Casual
- Documented eras
- 4
How Banana Republic labels evolved over time. Match the markers below against the tag in hand to place a garment in its era.
1980–1989
'Safari & Travel' Tags
Bold design elements, tags sometimes reading 'Safari & Travel Clothing Co.' from the adventure-themed roots, square or rectangular with size and material below.
- Transition to simpler, yet still bold, design elements.
- Tags might include “Safari & Travel Clothing Co.” indicating the brand’s adventure-themed roots.
- Square or rectangular tags, with size and material details often printed below the main label.
How to spot it
'Safari & Travel Clothing Co.' wording.
Value signal
Strong; the original safari-era Banana Republic is sought.
1990–1999
Refined Minimalist Tags
More refined minimalist tags, frequently 'Made in Hong Kong'-type locations, rectangular with clean lines and bold serif lettering.
- Introduction of more refined and minimalist tag designs.
- Tags frequently display “Made in Hong Kong” or similar locations, reflecting outsourcing trends.
- Rectangular tags with clean lines and bold serif lettering, often paired with size information.
How to spot it
A refined minimalist tag with bold serif.
Value signal
Solid 90s vintage; value tracks the garment.
2000–2009
Dark Loop Tags
Further simplified, modernised designs — more loop tags and darker colours, with make info like 'Made in China' or 'Made in India'.
- Further simplification and modernization of tag designs.
- Increased use of loop tags and darker colors, emphasizing a modern look.
- Tags often include production information such as “Made in China” or “Made in India.”
How to spot it
A dark-coloured loop tag.
Value signal
Common; modest resale.
2010–2019
Contemporary Layout Tags
Contemporary designs keeping the classic logo, varied layouts and materials, made in China, India or Vietnam.
- Tags feature contemporary designs while retaining the classic Banana Republic logo.
- Various layouts and materials used for tags, reflecting diverse product lines.
- Production information frequently includes countries like China, India, and Vietnam.
How to spot it
Contemporary tags with the classic logo.
Value signal
Modern; priced on the piece.