J.Crew's Jenna Lyons to Appear with Martha Stewart {yes, that Martha Stewart!}

A big "thanks!" to RatsOnParade (in this post) & Stephanie who shared the following news (from WWD) about J.Crew's leading lady...

J.Crew Dresses Martha
By S.D.S.
November 25, 2009

J.Crew’s creative director, Jenna Lyons, will appear on “The Martha Stewart Show” on Black Friday, the biggest shopping day of the holiday season. Martha Stewart wore a look from J.Crew while interviewing Lyons on her inspirations for the winter 2009 collection and showed looks from the latest catalogue. The show also aired images of Lyons’ turn as model in the next catalogue, along with her brother and father. Stewart took a keen interest in Lyons’ attractive sibling, asking “Is he married? Girlfriend? Because we have so many women here looking for handsome guys like him. We’re always looking.”

Also, "thanks!" to Kristin (in this post) who let us know that there is a video preview available at Martha Stewart's website (click here to view) which shares with us a bit more about the show: "...We are going to treat you to some inspiration for your winter wardrobe. On the next Martha: fashion show. From sweater to sequins to jewels to jeans. Festive and affordable holiday gifts for everyone on your list...".

Jenna Lyons is all over the place! She is definitely becoming "the face" of J.Crew (not sure if that is good or bad). I also look forward to seeing the Martha Stewart Show this Friday (I will be TiVo-ing it) to see their J.Crew outfits.

What are your thoughts on Jenna Lyon's media exposure? Do you think her appearance on the Martha Stewart Show is a proper venue? Are you "loving the Jenna-Spotlight" or "feeling the Jenna-fatigue" when it comes to Jenna Lyon's press?

J.Crew Email: Holiday treat. Extra 20% off sale + FREE SHIPPING.

"Thanks!" to Marietta who let us know about an email J.Crew sent this morning.

As reported by several {wonderful} JCAs in yesterday's "J.Crew Offers 20% Off Holiday Sale {hazaah!}" post, J.Crew is offering 20% off (no minimum) their Holiday sale online (click here) and free shipping (on $150+ *after* the discount is applied– a bit sneaky here) using promotion code EXTRA20. This offer expires Sunday, 11/29/09.

J.Crew also updated their sale section this morning with more merchandise. From the looks of it, items are moving relatively quick.

Are you planning to take advantage of this promotion? Are there any sale item you are looking to get? If so, please share. :)

Happy Thanksgiving Day! {celebrating w/ J.Crew}?

First and foremost... Happy Thanksgiving Day everyone! It's the time of year where we can spend time with our loved ones and enjoy a fantastic meal. It also officially starts the Holiday season. :)

Per JCA tradition, this post is to find out what everyone is going to wear. I find it really interesting to see what other Aficionadas and Aficionados plan on wearing (and of course it gives me lots of wonderful ideas for future outfits). :) So for this post, what we are planning to wear on Thanksgiving Day? :)

For tomorrow, I plan on going casual but chic. I am going to go with my Double-faced Wool Lexington Jacket (in white with yellow trim) with the New Dream Griffin Crest Crewneck Sweater (in grey). This outfit is finished off with a pair of J.Crew's Trouser Jeans (in Dark Wash) and Lucia Suede Ballet Flats (in mustard yellow). [If the jacket/sweater combo looks a bit familiar, it is because I turned to a page of J.Crew's catalog for inspiration. That is right, I am semi-recreating one of the outfits featured in a catalog from 2007.] :)

What are you planning to wear this Thanksgiving Day? Are you planning to go "head to toe" J.Crew or parts J.Crew?

Product Review: Lexi Satchel

Lexi Satchel
Click here for product page
Item 18261
Regular: $425.00
Now: $249.99

According to J.Crew's item page:

Everyone is loving this bag and it's easy to see why: the stonewashed Italian leather has an incredibly soft handfeel. Carefully designed with special touches like a removable, convertible leather strap (you can wear it as a messenger bag, over your shoulder or carry it as a tote) and couture-inspired tassels to give it that can't-live-without-it status. Leather handles. Top flap with two hidden magnetic closures. Shiny gold-finish hardware. Removable exterior decorative tassel. Exterior front-wall pocket underneath flap, interior front-wall split-patch cell pocket, back-wall zip pocket. Cotton twill lining. Part of the J.Crew Collection. Import. Comes with a dust bag. Adjustable shoulder strap fully extends to 22". 6" handle drop. 8 5/8"H x 14"W x 4 3/4"D.

When this bag first made a sneak peek appearance back in June (refer to the "J.Crew's Fall '09 Look Book {thanks naomi!}" post), I knew we had to meet. I ended up ordering the "Shadow" version because I thought it might be a bit more versatile for my needs. (Although, it was a tough choice. The other shade, Fawn, is very lovely too.)

This bag is great because it offers me the option to carry it as either a handbag or a messenger bag thanks to the two removable straps. The length of both straps are just perfect too. The shoulder strap makes it very easy to carry the bag under my arm, while the messenger strap is just long enough to wear crossed my body (and not as long as the Campo Messenger Bag (click here for a review) either).

The bag is quite roomy, great for carrying quite a few things. There are also several compartments (exterior pocket, two inside pockets, one inside zippered pocket) making organization a breeze. The bag has only one zippered pocket (on the backside of the purse's interior) though. It would have been nice to have more zippered pockets- but that is just me.

Something worth mentioning is the magnetic closure. Love the concept but very difficult to execute. I find it very hard to actually get the darn magnetic closure to actually line-up and clasp together. I end up just letting the front flap fall where it may.

As for the leather, it is generally very soft and smooth to the touch. It is also prone to scratches. The bag I received already had a few scratches on the front. I am under the impression that this is normal and what to expect from this leather. (I provided a real-life image below, just click on it to view it larger).

I should also add that the leather on the front side appears to be a bit different than the other sides. The leather on the front flap and front exterior pocket is very smooth while the leather on the other sides is a bit more wrinkly. (I hope this makes sense.) The texture of the wrinkly leather allows some of the leather to flake off when rubbed against something. (I found this out the hard way when I was wearing the Wool-Cashmere Carrie Coat (Item 99071) in white.)

Overall, I am very pleased with the bag. I don't think I would have gotten it for the full retail price. However, for its current selling price, I would recommend it to a fellow JCA who is considering it.

Lastly, there is another fellow JCA who posted her review of the Lexi Satchel that you should check out if you are considering this bag: Amy Kelinda's "the j.crew lexi satchel" post over at her Kelinda Kelinda blog.

What are your thoughts on the Lexi Satchel? Are you a fan of the style & size? Would you consider getting this bag?

J. Crew Group, Inc. Announces 3rd Quarter Fiscal 2009 Results

J.Crew has announced its third quarter fiscal 2009 results. It is summed up quite nicely over at the Wall Street Journal (click here).

J.Crew 3Q Profit Surges On Higher Margins, Same-Store Sales
By John Kell
November 24, 2009

J.Crew Group Inc.'s (JCG) fiscal third-quarter profit more than doubled as the retailer posted higher margins and same-store sales, and results topped already rosy projections.

The retail industry has been hit by a sharp contraction in consumer spending and J.Crew, like its competitors, has spent the last year cutting costs, including reducing inventory, and trimming some corporate office positions. But the company's casual styles have been widely copied and creative director Jenna Lyons' design aesthetic has been credited for J.Crew's recent success.

Last month, Pali Research said the chain is well-positioned to increase market share as it courts luxury trade-down consumers, adding its "unique product at compelling price points is increasingly sought out by customers that are increasingly price and value conscious." The firm also touted the differentiated fashion and lower price points of J.Crew's growing Madewell division.

For the quarter ended Oct. 31, J.Crew reported a profit of $43.9 million, or 67 cents a share, up from $19 million, or 30 cents a share, a year earlier. Last month, the company drastically lifted its earnings projection to 54 cents to 59 cents, citing stronger-than-expected sales and margins.

Revenue grew 14% to $414.1 million. Analysts polled by Thomson Reuters most recently expected $408 million. Gross margin surged to 48.4% from 41.6%.

Retail and factory sales were up 20%, and direct sales increased 4%. Same-store sales jumped 8%, in line with the company's October estimate. Inventory per square foot was down 17% from a year ago. For the fiscal fourth quarter, the company expects earnings of 37 cents to 42 cents, while analysts were looking for 41 cents.

"Regardless of the economic environment our long-term mission does not change--it's all about product, it's about design, it's about service, it's about creativity," said Chairman and Chief Executive Millard Drexler.

Shares rose 0.5% to $41.06 in after-hours trading. The stock has more than tripled this year.

I am pleasantly pleased with the results. (Especially since I am a stock holder. Go J.Crew, go!) J.Crew's strategy to reduce inventory and keep price reductions at a minimum seem to be working quite well for them.

What are your thoughts on the news? Do you disagree or agree with J.Crew's strategy? Do you think Jenna Lyon's role has helped contribute to the success of J.Crew?

J.Crew Offers 20% Off Holiday Sale {hazaah!}

A big "thanks!" to many of you, including Kristi, lululady & Marisa (in this post), Sophie (in this post), as well as SC Crew & Athena, who let us know about the following offer.

J.Crew is offering 20% off (no minimum) their Holiday sale online (click here) and free shipping (on $150+ *after* the discount is applied– a bit sneaky here) using promotion code EXTRA20. This offer expires Sunday, 11/29/09.

The following are the actual terms for this promotion:

Just for our fans (we’re telling you early)… get an extra 20% off all items in our holiday sale plus free shipping on orders of $150 or more* when you use promo code EXTRA20 at checkout. http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Navigation/Sale.jsp

*Offer valid online only. Offer does not apply to previous purchases, alterations or to the purchase of gift cards. 20% discount applies to sale items only. Free shipping offer valid through Sunday, November 29, 2009 11:59pm ET on Internet orders shipped via regular shipping (4 to 7 business days). Free-shipping applies to online-only orders of $150 or more after 20% discount on sale items and before shipping, handling and taxes are added. Free ground shipping and online savings are applied at checkout with promo code EXTRA20. Offer not valid on telephone orders. This offer cannot be combined with any other promotion. Limit one promotional code per order.

This is just the offer that some of you JCAs (including myself!) have been waiting for. :)

Are you planning to take advantage of this promotion? Are there any sale item you are looking to get? If so, please share. :)

J.Crew Email: A private holiday Cardmember preview (exclusively yours)

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta & Missmasala, who shared with us the latest email from J.Crew to its card members.

The email above features the not-yet-officially-released-online Marché Tote (Item 21458; $278.00). J.Crew describes the the tote (which comes in either Fawn or Salmon) as:

Our designers were inspired by one of our favorite bracelets to create this elegant chain-link strap (we like wearing it both doubled up and as a single strap, depending on our mood). Perfect for every day and just dressed up enough for a night on the town. Leather. Chain-and-leather handle. Top interior hidden magnet closure. Shiny brass hardware. Exterior front pocket with hidden magnet closure under flap, back zip pocket. Interior front-wall split-patch cell pocket, back-wall zip pocket. Cotton twill lining.

Not sure what to make of the tote... I like the style of the tote's body and the Fawn shade is gorgeous. However, I am not sure if I like the chain-link strap. I guess I would have to see & try on in-person.

On a bright note, this email only confirms that new arrivals will be available online soon. {wahoo!}

What are your thoughts on the tote? Do you like the style- from the chain handle to the front pocket?

J.Crew Email: Our giftable, collectible art tees...plus FREE SHIPIPNG

"Thanks!" to Marietta who shared with us the following. J.Crew is showcasing their tees (click here to shop online) with the phrase "tees with all the trimmings... an artful gift ...in supersoft cotton". The email features the Beaded Marrakesh Tissue Tee (Item 20488; $39.50).

There has been a lot of discussion about whether the quality of J.Crew's tees are worth the retail price. Several JCAs have mentioned receiving defective tees or tees that develop holes after minimal wear. What's up quality control? On a bright note, J.Crew should take back any item that is defective (even if it's from "final sale").

As for my personal experience with J.Crew's tees (and this is just my opinion)... (1) they have some of the best designs & fit and (2) definitely not worth the full price tag. Often times, I do find that the tees are super thin making them vulnerable to damage. However, usually I buy them at a low price which makes it worth it for me. :)

J.Crew is also offering free shipping on orders of $150+ with promo code FS150. This offer expires 11/24/09.

What are your thoughts on J.Crew's tees? Are there any new tee arrivals that you are interested in? Do you think the quality and designs are worth it? :)

Darlings, is it time for a J.Crew coupon code?

Yes, it is that wonderful time!

J.Crew is offering free shipping on orders of $150+ with promo code FS150. This offer expires 11/24/09. :)

P.S. I have noticed that other blogs & websites post J.Crew codes & coupons *after* this blog does. If you happen to get codes & coupons from the JCA blog & post them at your site, could you please give give a "shout out" to the JCA blog? This way more JCAs are inclined to share. TIA! :)

Product Review: Metallic Lexi Clutch

Metallic Lexi Clutch
Click here for product page
Item 17545
Regular: $225.00
Now: $69.99

According to J.Crew's item page description:

Everyone is loving this oversize leather clutch and it's easy to see why: the reverse metallic finish gives it a matte, crackled texture and authentic vintage look. Carefully designed with special touches like a removable, convertible strap (you can wear it as a messenger bag, over your shoulder or carry it as a clutch) and a couture-inspired tassel pull-tab to give it that can't-live-without-it status. Tumbled leather. Hidden magnetic closure under foldover flap. Exterior front-wall zip pocket with a decorative tassel pull-tab. Cotton twill lining.

I have provided a few real life images of the bag (just click on any of them for a larger view). I *really* appreciate it when fellow JCAs post their real-life images of J.Crew items. It definitely helps me figure out whether the item looks like the catalog image or not.

When this bag first came out, I thought it was cute but I never really gave it any consideration. Of course, that was until it went on sale (& it wasn't final sale yet, those FB free shipping codes were around, so one thing led to another...) ;)

I ended up choosing the Turquoise metallic shade. This is a great color that will work quite nicely for most seasons: Spring, Summer, & Winter. (Probably not the best color for Fall.)

I must admit that I really like the bag. I should also add, I don't think this bag is for everyone as it does have some limitations (which I list out below).

The size. It is a bit on the small size for a messenger bag but it is a bit on the big size for a clutch. I plan on wearing it as a messenger bag, so I will definitely have to limit what I plan to carry (just wallet, cell phone, and small personal bag).

There is a convertible strap to wear it as a messenger bag. The straps can easily be removed by using the snap on buttons. The bag looks good crossed over the body or just off the shoulder (although it is a big long width-wise as shown in the image to the left).

There is a zippered pocket in the back of the bag, as well as one zippered pocket on the inside of the bag. I don't recommend putting anything in either pocket unless it is a small & flat item (like paper), as it will definitely bulge the bag.

The leather definitely has a crackled look to it. I love the look, as it has a vintage feel to it. However, I can see how some JCAs would not care for it at all. The leather is also very soft to the touch.

Lastly, there are two other fellow JCAs who have posted reviews on the Lexi Clutch that you should check out if you are considering this bag:

A Bigger Closet's post "Part 1: A Tale of Two Bags. The Lexi Clutch in Real Life Import." over at A Bigger Closet
Dinagideon's post "Boden + J. Crew=LOVE! (Oh, and a Special Bag Called the Lexi!!!)" over at My Superfluities

Up for tomorrow, my review on the Lexi Messenger bag...

What are your thoughts on the Lexi Clutch? Are you a fan of the style & size? Would you consider getting this bag?

Quick Poll: What do you think of the Metallic Lexi Clutch?