The new Smocked Skirt from Banana Republic was slightly disappointing. I have the version from a couple seasons ago and it looks adorable and summery because it’s a full A-line skirt, which looks amazing with a tucked-in shirt or belted under a longer tank. I was hoping the ones from this season would be similar, only shorter and even cuter since they’re only 19 1/2 inches.

Black – It is really lacking the A-line shape. It kind of just drapes over your hips. It is also so wrinkly that the pleats have been overpowered by the wrinkles. Even after I ironed the skirt, it still looked a bit sloppy. Still, you can’t really tell with the black, and since it’s so comfortable due to the smocked waist, it’s a keeper. Plus I don’t have any casual black skirts. Love belting this – will really make the color of the belt pop.

I’m wearing: J.Crew Max and Molly Tee, J.Crew Equestrian belt, Gucci Grease Platform Sandals

Taupe Pearl – This one is not a keeper. All the flaws I’ve identified with the black version are impossible to hide with this color. I spent 10 minutes ironing this and it was still wrinkly. I don’t even want to sit down because I don’t want to get up with wrinkles up the wazoo. The shapelessness of the skirt also is impossible to hide here; that combined with the color makes the skirt look dreary. Could be considered okay I guess? But if I had $60 to spare, I’d put it towards all the J.Crew new arrivals I’ve been eyeing.

I’m wearing: J.Crew Slub Cotton Tee, Banana Republic Belt, Gucci Logo Wedges

Sizing wise, I got them in Small. I’m about a size 6 right now and since these are smocked, I figured Small was the way to go. I would probably not purchase these at full price, in black or taupe. Luckily, I scored these when there was a 25% promotion – which, along with Bing 25% cashback – made these quite appealing price-wise. Since Banana Republic is doing these promotions almost on a daily basis, I’d say wait until then and score this in the black. If you can’t wait, get this Smocked Skirt from Banana Republic now for $59.50 here.