Melanie pointed out in the "J.Crew's Weddings & Parties Collection" post that J.Crew is offering up a new campaign called "Just Ask"- to make sure its customers are aware of their usual benefits like personal shoppers, monogramming, teacher/student discounts, etc. (Essentially there is nothing new, service wise, that the visitors haven't discussed in this blog before. I feel like it is just their way of saying, "Hey you! If you have a question, we can answer it.")They are also promoting a "Just ask concierge desk" at their Rockefeller Center store in NYC. (I have to admit, I am a bit curious as to what that means... Is it a real concierge desk with its own dedicated live customer service rep standing there, ready to answer my questions? Or, is it just a stool with a red phone on it for me to call their regular customer service line?)
First, I completely agree with Melanie's suggestion of emailing them and asking for "free shipping" (preferably with no minimums). ;)
Second, I often wonder if someone at J.Crew has taken note about this blog, its visitors, and its purpose. I mean, J.Crew's whole campaign is to ask them questions- on anything. Well, that is what this blog kind of does... this blog has (fantastic & insightful) visitors who ask & answer each others questions on just about everything J.Crew. (Probably not- I doubt J.Crew has taken notice of this site. However, if they did, then I think it is great that they are listening to their customers. And if they are reading this particular post... please bring back "free shipping with no minimums" and eliminate "final sales".)
Are you going to take them up on their offer and "just ask" them questions? What questions would you ask them?
I would probably ask them why benefits aren't better for card members!
ReplyDeleteAnonymous at 8:43 PM: Excellent question! I mean, after reading some of the comments posted on this blog from cardholders, there doesn't seem to be any really fantastic benefits associated with owning a card.
ReplyDeleteI mentioned this in an earlier post, but I really do believe that cardholders should get at least free shipping on all orders.
I would ask why is shipping so expensive. I have made several online purchases over the years but J. Crew's shipping charges are the worst I have come across. I will admit that the items get to me rather quickly but I don't mind waiting 3 to 5 five days if it saves me money in the end.
ReplyDeleteI would also ask why there stock is so limited on the more popular items. I guess the point is to force you to get it while it's hot--meaning paying full price?
i totally agree with free shipping for card holders. i have a jcrew card but don't use it. if they offered free shipping on all orders i would be much more inclined to use it. i have a gap silver card which offers free shipping on all orders/any amount. at the very least jcrew should offer free shipping on some reasonable minimum ammount ($50?).
ReplyDeleteAnonymous at 9:15 PM: I totally agree with you about the high rates for shipping. It really is much higher than its direct competitors. I wouldn't mind waiting a couple of days too, if I paid a lower rate.
ReplyDeleteI also never understood why popular items weren't in stock more often. :)
CcBMum: Great point about Gap offering its cardholders free shipping. Incidentally, I would get a J.Crew credit card tomorrow if I could get free shipping on all orders. :)
I would ask them about their waitlist policy. It seems like sometimes when I put a waitlist item order, before my waitlist is completed, that same item shows up online for sale. (I thought that they will give the waitlisted person the priority). I also have had something waitlisted for 4 months and then got cancelled. But in 2 months, it shows up again online, with the price raised from 19.99 (when I waitlisted it) to 59.99. That's almost like cheating. Do they hold things when it's cheap, then cancel the waitlisted item, and then raise the price and sale it again?!
ReplyDeleteI remember reading the article about the concierge desk. Found it here
ReplyDeleteSounds like it's a physical desk inside the store where people walk up to it and ask for information and can look at stuff like color swatches. I guess this is another step into the "high-end" market. Although I'm not sure who they're trying to pit themselves against (they're obviously trying to get away from "Gap")...Penguin? I really don't know my brands.
Crystal: What you have described has happened to me so many times! The last time this happen to me was for a stadium hood coat. I was waitlisted for months. The worst part was that I saw it in the sale section (in my size and color) 3 times during my wait! By the time I called Customer service to ask if my order was updated or to place a new order, the item was sold out (and hence out of stock again). I don't understand their waitlisted system at all.
ReplyDeleteSue.bee: Thanks for that great article. I guess this campaign of "Just ask" has been in the works for sometime.
I also read from Sue.Bee's link that "J. Crew's concierges also can help shoppers solve problems that aren't related to the store: They've provided directions, made restaurant reservations and given advice on Broadway shows, the company says." So J.Crew will do all this extra work (which is an expense in term of labor) but they won't provide more free shipping codes with reasonable minimums...
Great point about the labor Alexis! I'm sure free shipping would make customers MUCH happier than this wasteful service. But again, J.Crew is striving towards this extremely high end image, so maybe they're afraid free shipping will "cheapen" the expensive image they're trying so hard to convey?
ReplyDeleteI just sent the following email to contactus@jcrew.com:
ReplyDeleteCard holders should get free shipping. I would be buying stuff right now if that was the case. Pass it on to the decision makers. I think many JCrew Cardholders would love that... there is no "real" good perk with the card.
EVERYONE SEND ONE! haha.. hey maybe it will help.. it said say anything.
I hate final sales! I never buy anything, because my sizes vary too much, and I would hate to be stuck with something. I also agree with better perks for card holders...I have one, but don't always use it because the rewards on my Visa are better. I have a card for Banana Republic and get free shipping, and I tend to shop there more. I would have to really love something from J. Crew, and be worried that I couldn't get it later to order without a shipping deal.
ReplyDeleteFirst off, just wanted to say that I LOVE your blog! I just stumbled across it today, and I think it's great to have a place where J Crew fans can share tips on everything from how items fit to new coupon codes :)
ReplyDeleteThis isn't strictly relevant to the post, but I did want to share something that I do when I shop sales on the jcrew.com site, which I hope some others might find useful. This trick helps avoid the "no returns" policy on final sale items and can also get you surprisingly good deals on items that you thought were completely sold out.
If there's an item on sale that you want, instead of buying it from the final sale section and having to deal with the "no returns" policy, you can google "[item name] jcrew.com", and then click on a couple of the links that show up. Although the details vary depending on what you're looking for, I've found that one of the first few links will inevitably take you to an older version of the jcrew website--where the item is often available both at a very reduced price. Plus, if you add it to your shopping cart, you don't get the annoying "final sale items cannot be returned" message, so you can take it back to the store if it doesn't fit quite right! This even works for some items that are no longer in stock on the regular website, which is great when there's something you really wanted to buy but just missed out on.
For example, if you're looking for the liv metallic flats (which are no longer available on the jcrew regular site), you can google "liv jcrew.com" and then click the first link that pops up. It'll take you to an older version of the jcrew site: http://www.jcrew.com/catalog/product.jhtml?id=prod90724181&catId=cat301240 , where you can get this shoe for $39.99 marked down from $150.00, which I think was the lowest it ever went on the final sale page. Not all sizes are available, but it's pretty good if your size is :)
Another bonus is that once you stumble upon one of these "older version" sites, you can then use the sidebar links to see what else is on sale in the other sections... So if you're at the link for the liv shoes and hit "sweaters" on the sidebar, you can access items like the cashmere shell for $69.99--which i think is what it's going for in final sale right now--and buy it with the option of returning it.
This works best with items that are from the last season and either recently were on sale (and now appear sold out if you go through the regular jcrew site) or are still on sale in the final sale section. And of course, the item doesn't always come in all sizes/colors and can often be backordered (although in my experience, the backordered items have never been canceled). It does take a bit of digging around sometimes, but I hate not being able to return something if it doesn't fit properly, and this is a godsend for me because of that. Plus, it lets me nab seemingly sold-out items every once in a while, too!
Anyways, sorry this is so long--I was thinking of emailing it to you first to see if this has already come up on the blog before, but I couldn't figure out how. Maybe you could make a short (and more coherent, because I don't know if I explained it very well) post out of this? :)
er sorry, the link in my last comment got cut off. It's supposed to be:
ReplyDeletehere
Kristina - sneaky, sneaky! You're brilliant! :)
ReplyDeleteHi Kristina! Welcome to this blog...it is wonderful, and Alexis does such a FABULOUS job with it! :)I'm sure you will find alot of great information and tips here, too. BTW...I did indeed already comment in two previous posts about being able to purchase the Final Sale items through the different links, but the links are now giving Forbidden Codes, or just taking you to the final sale page, so I also explained to do the google search (that tip was on the Metallic Antonia dress)just yesterday. Only thing is...I think that J.Crew is now getting wise to the fact that so many of it's shoppers know the "little tricks" to shopping their website, that they are making changes regarding it.:(
ReplyDeleteAlexis: I have noticed that alot of the searches and links are not working anymore since we have been giving the tips on them...coincidence or intentional? What is your take on it all? I LOVE the fact that we swap the info, and I think it would be another unfair move on J.Crew's part (like no free shipping) to change things up, just because we know how to get a deal. I DO however, really think that they know about this blog, and I'm sure they are watching what we discuss...I hope, too, that they will take note on how many of us want the Free Shipping/no min. codes back.
As for the Concierge Desk...come on now...really? Paying J.Crew employees to help with non/J.Crew related issues...take all that extra money from paying for this service and put it into bringing back Free Shipping!
I will have to ask my husband who works in Rock Center to stop in the J. Crew "explore" this concierge desk! Also, I too am a "silver card" holder.... Is there a difference between the green and silver card? I had the green one and then I got the silver one in the mail with a letter that spoke of the "benefits" of being a cardmember.... I did not read too much into it at the time because it seemed as though the benefits were the same when I had the green card.... I do take advantage of the priority line for card members and find those answering the calls are super friendly and helpful. In my most recent purchase-- they honored both the "PRIVATE" code and a free ship code.... (I guess policy is that you can only use one code!
ReplyDeleteI would like to know why J.Crew seems to purposely be trying to alienate the normal shopper in order to cater to the "high-end" market...although I'm sure that is not a question they will answer if I "just ask".;) Alexis had a post on this in May :
ReplyDeleteThe J. Crew Collection: Is it for you? I personally love J.Crew clothing, but really don't feel that the quality of a majority of the items warrant the retail price, and that is why I tend to wait for them to go on sale, such as the Printed Elizabeth Halter seen Here . It retailed for $98, but I got it for $19.99 w/Free Shipping, and I'm glad I did...it is really pretty, but it is sheer and cannot be worn alone, plus one of the buttons is already loose and will need repaired. I don't mind that as much at the $20 price, but would have been really upset had I paid the $98 and had it happen.
Hi ladies!
ReplyDeleteI am a 'silver member' as well, and haven't really gotten anything reward-worthy... I find it annoying that our rewards cards have a time limit on them as well, it seems like you have to use them right before they change to new inventory. Boo! I usually feel like I have to just "use it up" on something I may not necessarily want, because I don't want to lose the reward.
A word on quality - I'd say that about 90-95% of my closet is JC at this time, I've paid full retail price on very few items, and have so much stuff that I only end up wearing most items once or twice. That being said, I have had to sew on loose/falling off buttons more times than I can count! I've rarely had to do this with other brands - JC seems to have that funny way of sewing the buttons on so that they're kind of rotating around a thread (I'm sorry if this is making NO sense), so I feel like I've got to keep an eye on them. This is especially the case with the sweater jackets - I just got the Candace, and one of the buttons was just hanging off when I took it out of the plastic bag. But! My Katie sweater jacket had the buttons sewn on so hard that I had to strain to button it up! (Ha!) I guess what I'm saying is that if I'd paid full retail I would be annoyed at having to do all this sewing maintenance to clothes, especially if the items are barely worn.
Carry on! I am absolutely LOVING this blog. :)
Oh, and PS to fabulousfloridamommy - I was in the exact same boat as you with the Dark Chambray Swing Skirt, I'd purchased it in a 2 and it was practically indecent! I sized up to a 6 and it looks so cute and just like the online pic. Thanks for the sizing advice! :)
kristina and fabulousfloridamommy and all:
ReplyDeleteyou can also just type an old catalog number in the "shop by item#" page...i've done this a lot in the past...for ex. try typing 91019u for the featherweight merino tunic and you'll get a non final sale one :) i think kristina's right...it works best for more recent items?...i want to comment more on final sale but my little one's waking up!...have a great day!
Here's what I'd ask:
ReplyDelete"hey, could I just merely borrow a few pieces, for now, such as that 3,000 dollar sequined jacket or the sea glass gown, from your 'collection' as I'm not sure I can really afford either but they're interesting enough."
Good Morning ccbmum! I recall that we devoted almost an entire post to talking about the "Shop By Item #" and the "putting the letter after it" to find a catalog item or item that isn't online on the regular search now, but I can't seem to find which blog post it was in...do you remember Alexis, ccbmum, or anyone else? I know that Alexis had mentioned the whole Google Search for finding "non current" items awhile back, too, but I can't seem to find that post, either.
ReplyDeletefabulousfloridamommy: i vaguely remember, but i just thought it might be worth mentioning again for those who are new to this blog - since the final sale is going on right now :)
ReplyDeleteOh yes, DEFINITELY ccbmum, and THANK YOU! :) That's why I was searching for that Blog Post it was all in, as we had alot of good tips, and I was going to post the link for anyone who missed it. BTW...have you noticed that when you do your item # searches they tend to go straight to final sale now, instead of to the page where the items are NOT final sale?
ReplyDeleteThanks Kristina -- I love your tip -- so fun!
ReplyDeleteSo, I just splurged (for me -- I never spend > $100 on flip flops)and bought the jeweled posy capri sandals in black...can't wait to get them!
I am sure J. Crew is aware of this blog. Most companies have people who keep track of "media hits" and that definitely includes blogs these days.
ReplyDeleteI think they should give free shipping to cardholders, or at the very least, a low flat shipping rate. Now that the free shipping with low minimums is gone, I often buy stuff I don't want to get up to the $150 or $175 limit with the intention of returning it at the store.
Re Kristina's post: Since the sale section only displays one picture of each item (usually not on a model), I also use google to access older versions of the j.crew website in order to see multiple views of an item and/or to see the item on a model. Many times I just wouldn't feel comfortable ordering an item if I couldn't view it on a model or from the back, so I really hope J.crew doesn't block this 'feature.'
ReplyDeletehi fabulousfloridamommy: yea, i noticed that for most items lately...bummer! but sometimes you can get lucky...when i just now did 91019U i got the *non final sale* listing...i'm sure jcrew is catching on but hasn't caught all of them :0!
ReplyDeletei would ask jcrew what is the logic behind final sale online???:
i think it's totally unfair to make items final sale ESPECIALLY since the items are online. not everyone knows how something fits them or how some of these hideous colors look in person since i'm sure they alter them online. someone new to jcrew is totally excluded since they haven't bought items before and don't how something fits/looks/feels. i think it's really bad buisiness and does nothing but discourage people from buying (old and new customers)...especially when the deals aren't even that great. just my 2 cents *smiles!* :)
RE: Google Search...last Final Sale it was possible to find numerous items at the same price/different page but NOT final sale, and now on most Google Searches it either says the item is sold out, takes you to the Final Sale page, and in some instances...even takes you to the full price page.
ReplyDeleteThe desk at ROck Cent. is an actual desk. Its more liek a customer service desk it has been there for a few months. There is nothing truly special about it. On a side note I had order a featherweight merino v-neck last winter that was on back order and I got an e-mail saying sorry no more were available... gues what I saw it on the new arrivals... I called and I am getting one at the sale price! Hooray!
ReplyDeleteLynn: You are probably right in that they are probably trying to aim for a more high end image.
ReplyDeleteLeigh: I think the email you sent is perfect! I am planning to send one just like it later today. :)
Kristina: First welcome! Also thanks for the nice comment. :) As FabulousFloridaMommy pointed out, many of us are aware about the tip of googling and finding items. But I think it is a great point to bring up again, in case someone wasn't aware of it. :)
FabulousFloridaMommy: I actually agree with you and think J.Crew has figured out the link situation. I too have noticed that many of the links do not work like they use to.
Let's hope that J.Crew is "cracking down" on these links like they did the coupon websites.
I like sharing information and would hate to think J.Crew is using that sharing against us- it's core clients!!!
Nicole R: I had no clue that J.Crew's credit card came in two shades: Silver and green. I also wonder what the difference between the two are.
SilverLining: I have a feeling that our closets look very similar in terms of J.Crew items! ;)
CCBmum & FabulousFloridaMommy: I do remember FabulousFloridaMommy also pointed that tip out in an earlier post. But again, I think it is great to re-mention in case someone wasn't aware about it. ;)
And FFM- I have also noticed that these item searches go directly to final sale. Which is totally annoying! But right now, the letter "Y" is the only one that works without linking to final sale, the only drawback is that it is very limited in stock compared to the other letters.
J: Couldn't agree more with your suggestions!
Incidentally, the post that FabulousFloridaMommy was referring to about the item/link search is: Love or Hate: J.Crew Catalogs
ReplyDeleteccbmum: I COMPLETELY agree! Maybe Final Sale would be more understandable IF they carried ALL items in the stores...but they DON'T! For example: after reading a great review on the Python-print Lucia jacket from an Anonymous Blogger on a previous post...I would LOVE to give it a try. However...it is now only Final Sale in my size (I would actually get the 4 AND 6, then return the one that didn't work out, or both if it was just horrible on me)and on the Google Search where it's not final sale they only have it in a 12. Anyways...they are missing out on my very probable purchase all because the jacket is Final Sale, and NOT available in my store. Hopefully, it will still be available when Final Sale FINALLY goes away again!
ReplyDeleteGood Morning Alexis! Thanks for finding that link...I gave the "Y" a try on the Python Lucia Jacket and it also went straight to Final Sale, and the "Y" on the Italian matelassé Lucia jacket that I REALLY want (but not until it's price is drastically reduced)says it is Sold Out, even while it is still available in the Final Sale section.
ReplyDeleteI also hope they aren't "cracking down" like with the shipping codes, but it really seems as if IT is happening, too. :(
To Alexis:
ReplyDeletethe green J crew card is the 1st one you get when you open an account. Once you spend more than $500 in a year, they upgrade you to Preferred cardmemeber (silver card). There is a different phone number that comes w/ silver card, supposedly, you get better Customer Service, faster shipping or whatever. In reality, I do not see a difference b/w green/silver and no-card users at all. Sales- everyone finds about about them at the same time; item u/a- it's unavailable for everyone regradless status; waitlist- works same for everyone. Cardmembers supposed to get seasonal lookbooks, but gueas what- I haven't been getting them regularly ( I complained, and Jcrew assured me they placed me on ALL of their mailing lists), while non-cardmemebers report getting them sporadically w/out requests. So, honestly, I do not see value in having a J crew card. I am contemplating using Am. Express card instead, I get so much more money back then measly 5% rewards from JC ( which tend to expire if you don't use them right away, as someone mentioned before). And how about APR, argh...
FabulousFloridaMommy: Sorry that the "y" didn't work for your items. I tried it again and it worked for some (like the solid Frances blouse) but not for others.
ReplyDeleteIt would be awful if they took these little links away from us! :)
Slastena: Thanks so much for explaining the difference between the green & silver card! :) I totally understand your frustration about lack of real benefits from owning their credit card- it doesn't sound like you all get many extraordinary perks.
JCrewMommy- No! I have not heard of the J.Crew Q Club? Do you mind telling me more? I will definitely make your comments about the club, its own post. :)
Hi... As for the concierge desk, yes, there is an actual desk and someone who can assist with questions or orders! Haven't used the services yet though. I
ReplyDeleteI live in manhattan and stop by at Jcrew stores at least 2-3 times a week!
Thanks Anonymous at 12:01 PM for letting us know that you have actually seen the concierge desk. :)
ReplyDeleteIs it just a desk, or is it a pretty significant set-up in the J.Crew store? (I actually have been to the Rockefeller J.Crew numerous times, and I still can't picture where this desk would go.) :)
I'm going to play devil's advocate for this post -- now, let me say of course I'd love free shipping if I was a cardholder. And I was irate when they removed free shipping codes from websites. But...
ReplyDeleteI'd like to compare J.Crew to two other retailers. First, Land's End. They charge shipping, unapologetically, saying their prices are so good that they feel it's fair for customers to pay shipping. Second, and the real meat of my argument: Banana Republic.
BR is about as opposite of J.Crew as can be -- free shipping codes galore, sales all the time, no final sales. As a result, I RARELY buy full-price items at BR because I always anticipate them going on sale. There's not really a feel of "exclusivity" either. I just imagine a store full of discounted prices when I imagine BR. When I think of J.Crew, though, I think high quality and "better act now" before it's gone.
I think charging shipping sends the message that the clothing is worth paying shipping for. (Again, I TOTALLY disagree with removing shipping codes from websites, trust me. I'm totally with you guys, just saying I can see where J.Crew execs are coming from.) And in the end, I believe J.Crew is the more successful business. Gap, BR, etc, may have sales all the time, but in the end I don't think that helps their image. So that's all -- my two cents on how J.Crew NOT offering so many incentives actually helps the brand retain value.
-Emily
Hi Emily...in response to your "devil's advocate" post (nothing personal against you at all)...I have to disagree with the argument that J.Crew is more successful because they charge so much for shipping...1)their stock has dropped since they removed the Free Shipping/no minimum codes, thus proving that their core clientel DOES NOT think that J.Crew brand warrants shipping 2)just from this blog you can see that MOST J.Crew shoppers don't pay full retail, but wait for it to go on sale (just like Gap and BR), and 3) J.Crew always has sales, just like Gap and BR, so they are really not set apart in that aspect, either.
ReplyDeleteI personally don't consider a clothing brand to be "better" than the others because they charge for shipping, it just means that I buy less from them, because I refuse to pay their ridiculous shipping prices. :) I LOVE J.Crew, in fact the majority of my closet is J.Crew, however...I do think that alot of their marketing is towards "label junkies" that think just because it says J.Crew it warrants a high price tag and exhuberant shipping charges, or that it is super stylish (i.e. those paisley men's pants that apparently sold out at $265 each seen here: Classic-fit Italian paisley pant , which we discussed in another blog seen here: Questionable Items of the Week: Summer Pants .
I just don't think that charging high shipping and removing shipping codes makes a clothing line more valuable, nor does it send the message that it's better because it's worth paying shipping for...it just shows that the execs making the decisions have no regard for the customers that are truly making their company profitable, and once again...appear as if they are trying to become more "high-end" (because those customers can afford the shipping charges). Just my 2 cents! SMILE
Good morning ladies! 1st let me just tell you the hassle of a j.crew card for Canadians. We can't pay online so it requires a money order from the bank which is $7.50 on top of the exchange which thankfully is not to bad right now. The statements come within a week of the due date so by the time you send payment in the mail you are charged a late fee. This is the reason I do not have one. I remember last summer using a $4.95 flat rate shipping which I enjoyed, they could bring those back. In terms of shipping from other retailers well BR and Gap do not ship to Canada, but their in store sales are quite good. Having said that I find that walking into BR nowadays is like walking into the closet of j.crews jealous step sister. I am all for being inspired by another, but it doesn't take much to figure out that the design staff at BR obviously devours the j.crew catalogue the way I do. My just ask us questions would be when they are opening stores in Canada.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI think that maybe "label junkies" was not the right word for what I was trying to describe, as J.Crew labels are always appropriate and never blatant. (BTW...I would also be considered a "label junkie" since most of my closet is J.Crew). Plus, I was not trying to speak ill of anyone, I was only trying to speak about J.Crew catering to the market of people that may buy something that is more of a "you've got to be kidding, me...really?" item, just for the mere fact that it is J.Crew, and not really very pratical (as in my example about the Paisley pants we discussed in another post). I guess I'm thinking back to my Junior High/High School days when it was all about name brands like Jordache, Gloria Vanderbelt, and clothes from The Limited Express (boy I am REALLY dating myself now) and I would make my mom pay huge amounts of money on the clothes mainly due to the marketing strategies of the companies. That's what I think J.Crew is doing with some of the items, and it apparently has a market for them, too. Am I making any sense? My post was not meant to offend anyone, and I'm sorry if it did. :)
ReplyDeleteFFM- I would recommend not getting the Lucia python jacket, especially in Final Sale. I bought it back when it was normal sale and ended up returning it. I really hated it- there's way too much fabric in the front that makes it look bulky. Plus the print looks really cheap in person. Everyone is different though, so you may like it, but just trying to save you a few bucks since it's non-returnable :-)
ReplyDeleteRe Emily's post: Interestingly, I have *never* once paid full price for an item of J.Crew clothing and I seldom will buy without a free shipping code, but I do buy full-priced items at Banana Republic fairly often (I spend at least $2500/yr at each store). J.Crew's relatively high shipping charges definitely impact my decision of what and when to buy.
ReplyDeleteI love this blog :) Heehee...
ReplyDeleteEveryone has such varying opinions and perspectives. It's neat hearing what people think about different items and JCrew itself.
Anyone think it's about time JCrew updated the website with a new look? I feel like there are too many links on the sidebar menu once you've clicked a link on the top menu. The less scrolling I have to do, the better :)
Can anyone clarify the terms of the teacher's discount again? I was making an in-store purchase today and was told that the teacher's discount is not applicable on sale items with the additional 25% discount. However, during the same visit, I placed an order on the red phone and the customer rep honored both the teacher's discount and 25% discount! What's with the discrepancy??
ReplyDeleteJcrewmommy,
ReplyDeleteyou are really lucky! it's not the same thing as a personal shopper because I supposedly have a personal shopper at my local store and when I asked her once about being informed about sales, she said that that wasn't part of her role as a personal shopper! needless to say, upon hearing that, I never bother contacting her with any of my purchases, which have been many!
JCrew is bumping us non-essential sale shopping, shipping cost complaining, web-link glitch searching crazies to the Madewell line so you might as well start accepting it.
ReplyDeleteSee below...what does "honest women" mean?
"...Madewell will open late spring showcasing their collection of real, honest women's clothes that speak for themselves: not too trendy, not too girly, just cool clothes infused with a modern upbeat attitude -- an edgy take on casual with a few vintage details and a modern twist."
"We see Madewell and J. Crew complementing each other, not competing with each other," said Brunelle, noting that she expects Madewell will cater to the younger female customer because of its lower prices and style."
Actually Madewell sounds good as I don't buy clothes for work and am not Miss Trendy. I'm saying this in a joking manner but in the back of my mind I am prepared for the fact JCrew is going to stylize and price themselves out of my range ;(
Anonymous at 12:40 PM: I see where you are coming from playing "devil's advocate" (which you did quite well!) :)
ReplyDeleteAs a stock owner, I do want J.Crew to perform well (if not great!) :) However, I also want J.Crew to not alienate its core customers by making it more difficult for them to make purchases (which they have done through their high shipping rates, as well as removal of certain links on their website and preventing coupon sites to publish their coupon codes). They just need to find the right balance. :)
Moreover, I tend to agree with FabulousFloridaMommy that high shipping fees doesn't give me the impression that the clothing line is more impressive.
I also should add, that I rarely buy something "full price". I would estimate that about 80% of my purchases are on sale. This is because every time I do buy "full priced" items, they go on sale in like a month. :) Much like Danielle, shipping charges have an impact on how much I am willing to purchase.
Yogichicki: You have my sympathies when it comes to the credit card situation. It really is unfair for J.Crew to charge you late fees if you have less than a week sometimes to pay your bill!
Sue.Bee: I like the varying opinions as well! :)
Anonymous at 6:28 PM: You should have been able to get BOTH your educator's discount and the 25% off discount. I urge you to call J.Crew's customer service and explain to them what happened. They will credit you the difference immediately. (so please make sure you get the credit you so rightly deserve! I have experienced the same situation- with a store employee not knowing that both discounts can be applied- and just called the customer service reps to fix the situation. Good luck and let us know if it worked out.) :)
JCrewMommy: Thanks for explaining the about the "Q Club". I really appreciate it!
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like the "Q Club" is only for those with direct connections with an associate of J.Crew, not really open to the general population. Well congrats on being a part of it- it sounds pretty fabulous!!! :)
I work for JCrew and as long as the promo codes on the website are completely removed after expiration.. JCrew technically has no problem with you listing them. They just do not like when blogs, websites, etc. list them and them don't remove them at expiration because people still will try and use them at check-out. As in go down the list and try to use each expired coupon and try to hope they work. This "clogs" the server and slows down the check-out process for all shoppers who are checking-out and using the shopping bag feature. Again.. I do work for JCrew corporate NYC and I am viewing the blog on my free time and enjoying it. I'm sure JCrew is already using it for marketing research.
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone have any experience with the Alexa swiss-dot dress in sour lemon? I just bought it but am a little concerned about the sheerness. I'm wondering whether I need to wear it with a slip(which would be such a hassle), or is it ok on its own? I'd love some advice on this one. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteKristina: excellent suggestion. THANKS!!
ReplyDeleteI too am a silver card member...haven't noticed anything special...like FREE SHIPPING!!! GRRrrrrr.
FFM: the button fell off my printed Elizabeth halter as well (purchased brand new on Ebay for around $24.99).
Anon 9:59: thanks for the info. much appreciated!! :)
Alexis, I emailed customer service regarding the educator's discount and the response was that the discount is not applicable towards sale items in which there is also an additional markdown involved(25% off and so forth). So now I'm just confused. It seems as if everyone at j.crew has a different idea of how this promo should be applied!
ReplyDeleteffm,
ReplyDeletei made the comment earlier about the talitha patchwork madras molly dress.
anyhow, i ended up purchasing it at the price i mentioned earlier! very excited!
anyhow, as i was carousing ebay looking for the blue talitha cami, i came across the talitha dress in size 6. i remember you writing about how you liked it as well...and currently the price is at $69 with no bids. much better than my deal! nevertheless, here's the link..
http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-J-CREW-LIMITED-ED-TALITHA-PATCHWORK-MADRAS-DRESS-6_W0QQitemZ160252918426QQihZ006QQcategoryZ63861QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
i wish i knew how to embed it as it would make for a more streamlined post but if that doesn't work search ebay for talitha - it comes right up!
-alm
So I went to the next "closest" JCrew store (in Plano) to return my defective Wellies and some other items I had ordered online. LOVE them! The employees were so nice and friendly and very attentive (not in a "I think you're gonna steal" way). The guy helping me with my returns noticed my address and was surprised that I had driven to the store since it takes over an hour. I told him I usually went to the other location (Northpark in Dallas) but I was fed up with how rude the employees were, so I wanted to check out this store. He told me I wasn't the first customer to make that comment and that he hoped I would come back more often to their store instead. I told him I absolutely would since they were so much nicer.
ReplyDeleteHe mentioned that he had heard by the end of next year they'll be opening a store in my city. Hurray! So if anyone lives in Fort Worth, TX...there's a JCrew coming in 2009/2010!
That location only had additional 25% off on the headbands and belts. I was tempted by the San Telmo Jacket for $99.99, but most of my wardrobe is already black. I need to branch out! I didn't really see anything else worth buying.
Lynn: thanks for the "heads up" on the Python Print...I definitely won't be trying it at the current sale price and FINAL SALE, at that. :) I actually prefer the Black and White one that is similar, but it is still at over $200, so I won't be trying that one, either...sigh...
ReplyDeleteRe: Teacher's Dicount- when I called J.Crew Customer Service, I was told that when an item is already marked down...say by 20 to 25%, then you are still able to use the teacher 15% discount on that sale price, but you cannot use a shipping code, too. The teacher discount on top of the 25% is not using 2 codes because the item is already that price, but using the teacher discount AND the Free Shipping code would be using two. NOW...when I was in my store and asked about it...I was given a little book mark looking card and told that the teacher discount is only good on full price items and cannot be used on sale merchandise. I told the manager about Customer Service saying you can use it on top of sale items, and she honored the dicount...if in doubt, always ask to speak to a manager and get their name, too. :)
Anonymous at 10:30pm: how ANNOYING about the buttons on the Elizabeth Halter! Aren't you glad you didn't pay full price and have that happen?
alm: thanks for the link to the Talitha Madras Dress...do you have the full length or shorter version? How is the sizing...does it run small or is it true to size?
sue.bee: Congrats on the new store! I wish we could get another one here.
Anonymous at 10:17pm: The Printed swiss-dot Alexa dress is very cute! Since it is cotton and has a pattern you may be able to get away without wearing a slip...most of the J.Crew fabric seems to be more sheer now, but your chances are better for more "coverage" since the fabric is cotton. Good luck! :)
Anon 9:59-- Glad to know that employees such as yourself are reading this blog as the information discussed here is very vaulable! Recently read an artivle on Jenna Lyons--- must be a great place to work..... :)
ReplyDeleteHi Anonymous at 9:59 PM! Thanks for letting us knwo about the server/code situation. Also, thanks for being up front about your status as a J.Crew employee- I think it would be great to hear from J.Crew employees on some of these topics, to better understand the corporate side of decisions impacting customers. :)
ReplyDeleteAnonymous at 10:17 PM: The Printed swiss-dot Alexa dress is sheer. I face a similar issue with the two Smocked polka-dot dresses I own. I end up wearing beneath the dresses a nude color bra and some short shorts. This way I don't feel like I am exposing too much. :)
Anonymous at 11:12 PM: I know it is a bit of a hassle, but try customer service again. Some customer reps are more accomodating/ knowledgeable then others. Also, some reps maybe "new" and not understand that you can get both discounts.
At stores, you are allowed to use one discount (either educators discount, student discount, or even that limited Father's day discount) in addition to the sale (whatever the additional percent of is- be it 20, 25, or 50%).
Hopefully if you call (or email) again, you can get your rightful credit! :)
ALM: Just in case you were wondering how to post a link within text, this is a good site: How to Link a URL in Text
Sue.Bee: Nice to hear that the Plano store was super accomodating! :)
Anonymous 10:17 PM:
ReplyDeleteI have Alexa dress in Sour Lemon, and absolutely adore it. I don't wear slip underneath since it is so form fitting and slip would kind of defeat the purpose ( it is an airy summer dress ). It is sheer,but not overly sheer. I did not have a problem ( no thongs, please:))and it is so flattering on a figure. I was thinking about purchasing the dress in other colors as well.
Alexis, my store associates/managers told me I absolutely cannot use student's discount on top of 25% final sale. How can I constructively argue with them?
ReplyDeleteThanks!
Slastena: I completely agree with you that you it's hard to argue with the store associates, and manager, if they are strong on their position. :)
ReplyDeleteHowever, I am sure if you give J.Crew's regular customer service line a call, they can fix the situation for you. :)
I had a very similar situation that happened to me a few months ago. I went to several different J.Crews along my trip from CT to NYC. Each store carried an additional percent off sale items sale. Unfortunately, one of the stores [and I did make purchases at each and every one ;) ] refused to give me my student discount in addition to the sale percent off.
The customer rep said I had to choose, between the "additional 25% off" or the student discount of 10%. Despite me explaination that the other stores honored both discounts, she refused to budge. Of course I picked the 25% off and bought the item.
But when I came home, I called customer service and explained what had happened. The cust rep said I was right, that my student discount should have been applied in addition to their sale discount. I also got a call from the manager (of the store that refused my discount) to personally apologize. I later received a handwritten note from that manager, plus a $20 gift card for my troubles (which was way more than the credit to be given back to me).
Since we're talking about student discounts... :) I have a question about the teacher's discount. Does it only apply to teachers in the U.S.?
ReplyDeleteI'm leaving to go teach English for a year (or more!) in Japan...would I be able to use the discount?
I thought someone had asked a similar question in another post, but I couldn't find it :(
Alexis, I also have the smocked polka-dot dress, in navy blue. LOVE IT. I wish I could have bought more than one color. I remember it went on sale during J.Crew's last final sale and I had ordered it (full-price) a couple of days before it had. I was hesitant about ordering some more when I wasn't sure of the fit. Well, totally regret that one, as it sold out in a red-hot minute and it is the most adorable, comfortable sundress ever. I wear it as a normal dress, rather than a bathing suit cover, and have gotten many compliments on it. :)
ReplyDeleteThe navy is sheer in certain lights but I rock the nude colored underwear and give it nary a care.
I'm surprised no one has commented on Anon @ 801. I thought that they brought up an interesting point, that Madewell will be the "J.Crew" we all remember while J.Crew continues to raise its prices and image. Based on what they've been doing recently, the idea has a lot of logic behind it.
ReplyDeleteTo Alexis and all:
ReplyDelete-1st of all, Alexis, I am AMAZED how you find time to maintain this vast blog and to answer PERSONALLY so many questions/comments posted; GREAT job, thank you so mush for introducing this blog in a 1st place;
-secondly, I went to Chevy Chase (MD) B&M store today hoping they had Lucia jackets on sale and to check if I could use student discount in top of 25% sale. Seems b/c sale has been going on for some time now, not much was left- no jackets, tons of tees and shorts, but I already have too many. I spotted Helene pave sandals which showed on-line at $79, store had it at full price. I stopped the first person who walked by, turned out to be a manager of the store and asked her to see if it was on sale. She reluctantly said she would check, she did and it was on sale. When I was standing in-line to check out, I heard sales clerk saying to a customer that she would not be able to apply student disocunt on top of FS, it's either one or another. When my turn came, I informed the sales clerk that according to my knowledge the student discount should be applied to sale items as well. Manager was nearby, and she said; "No way." I paid , stepped out of the store and called JC customer service. They listened to me, put me on hold, called the store, and then confirmed that disount , indeed, CANNOT be combined. I told the girl that now she has me totally confused, as it seems different customer reps telling us all different things. She was nice enough, and applied discount to my purchase on individual basis, but stated that in a future, they cannot honor addt.disounts and whoever got 10% off on top of FS got "more then they bargained for."
So, I guess in my area student discount is no go for final sales. What tickled me most is the they have the bright red "How can we help you" card in a store and that's exactly what card says:" College students. ( We love you too). Receive a 10% discount off ANY in-store purchase with a valid student ID." NO asterisk saying * Full price items only.
I cannot call every time I buy smth and have JC Customer service tell me different things. I was on a phone for 1/2 hr today and,frankly, will not do so again. I am perplexed and disappointed. Seems that right hand does not know what the left hand is doing.
On top of things, the reward card for 2nd quarter for cardholders was mailed out early June ( I have posted the questions earlier), and I have not received it. Guess what, it expires June 30th, and tody is 22nd. I have to call them again and try to straighten it out.
Cardholders, had anyone received the rewards for the 2nd quarter? Somone on the blog told me it's not out until end of June, and JC is telling me it's already out and mine was "lost in a mail."
slastena: I am so sorry to hear about your bad experience with the student discount...it sounds as if the manager at your store has a real issue and I just think: Why does it REALLY matter to her? The discount isn't coming out of her pocket, and J.Crew Customer Service said it's allowed anyways. She seems to really be a "not so nice" person...I'm sorry you have to deal with her at all, too! Do you have another store close to you that you can go to, or is this the only one in your area? I only have one near me, but I am fortunate in that the managers and employees at my store are really great, and I haven't had any such issues.
ReplyDeleteI thought of something you might try...what if you email customer service asking if you are allowed the discount on top of sale items...when they email you back with the "yes" email, then you can print it out and carry it with you to the store as proof. Maybe it would help? I just see no reason for them not to give you the discount on sale items...you are still a student whether or not the item is sale or full price, and should get the discount either way.
BTW...slastena: is J.Crew going to mail you out a new rewards card since yours is supposedly "lost in the mail?"
ReplyDeleteDear FFM:
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for the kind words. The dilemma is that JC Customer Service over the phone confirmed what manager said: discounts indeed CANNOT be combined (which is opposite of what Alexis was telling me earlier and opposite of your experience).In my frustration, I probably did not explained it clearly in my post. Customer service adjusted my purchase for today since I was so disappointed, but stated that in future I should keep in mind that offers cannot be combined. Hence my confusion. Seems depending on who we get over the phone, we get different statements. No uniformity whatsoever.
I have no clue what's going to be done about my rewars card, I have to call them tomorrow. I am too weary to pursue this problem today.:(
Can one of the JC employees comment on this situation, please?
I did not find anywhere in print that student/teacher discounts cannot be combined with final sales. If I am correct, I think all stores should be aware of it. We should not be begging the associates/managers for it every time we buy smth in stores. Clearly, it annoys everyone ( manager did seem annoyed by it too) and does not result in positive experience for anyone.
Thanks to everyone who responded to my question regarding the alexa dress. Now that I know how everyone is wearing theirs(w/o slip), I feel much more comfortable wearing mine. Like Alexis, I was worried about being overexposed! I'll be looking for some nude boyshorts tomorrow. Thanks again!
ReplyDeleteSue.Bee: Unfortunately I don't know if the teacher's discount applies to those outside the states. I am sure if you called their customer service, they could let you know. :)
ReplyDeleteMelanie: I have seen the smocked polka dot dress come and go in the sale section quite a bit. So I am sure the chances of us seeing it again are high. :) I own both the navy and the brown; I also wear them as dresses (instead of beach coverups!) ;)
Slastena: I am sorry to hear that even customer service couldn't help out. That J.Crew store, could have been a bit more accomodating though. You did all you could, and I agree, there is only so much you can do. :)
Unfortunately, I have noticed that J.Crew is starting to change many of their pre-existing policies. I just called today to get a price adjustment on a sale item that hadn't shipped yet, but was reduced in price (due to the 25% off sale today.) The customer service rep told me that they are only doing price adjustments now for REGULAR priced items that change price within 7 days. Bummer! (FYI: The cust rep did give me the price adjustment as a "one time" deal).
I find it very perplexing that J.Crew is all of a sudden "changing up" all of their pre-existing customer service policies. The excellent customer service I have been receiving is one of the main reasons I remain a loyal customer, choosing to overlook their "crackdown" on Free Shipping and Coupon Sharing (they DID do that, too-i.e. Retailmenot, even though the J.Crew employee said they don't mind us sharing), the unnecessary "price hikes", the Final Sale, and the advertising that I feel is sometimes patronizing - "Final Sale...it's back and better than ever" - Give me a break...you really think I'm buying into THAT one? Anyways...I think Customer Service plays SUCH an IMPORTANT role in a company's success and longevity...I really hope they don't get "too" strict with everything at J.Crew...it will definitely mean less purchases for me...even though I love them! BIG SIGH!!!!
ReplyDeleteslastena: I called the jcrewcard (wfnb) customer service line (NOT Jcrew cust service) itself and they gave me those dates for the reward cards. I have not received one yet either...as far as I know, no one has rec'd them yet. looks like yours isn't lost in the mail, it just hasnt even shipped! you can view your rewards online in the card section to see how many points you have accumulated. once the amount goes down, that's when the new period starts. Hope this helps!
ReplyDeleteFabulousFloridaMommy: I find the recent changes (and changes for the worse) to certain customer policies troubling as well.
ReplyDelete[I really hope that the Marketing team at J.Crew are NOT using this blog, a forum for sharing, to discontinue policies that I think sets them above and beyond other retailers.]
I totally agree with you that some of their advertising is patronizing- as if we can't tell that the items they are now putting in their "best 'final sale' ever" weren't cheaper just the day before!
Again, much like you, I believe that customer service is such an important part to J.Crew's success. I really *hope* they don't change things too much to alienate me as a customer.
I have often thought about them "watching" us, and it's just very coincidental that everything we have discussed on here has gotten changed...the item # searches, price adjustments, google searches, etc. It's really disheartening to think that they may be using our excitement, loyalty, friendliness, and LOVE of J.Crew against us! In all reality...how much does it REALLY affect them to have the above mentioned things in place? Is it REALLY necessary to remove them? I personally don't think so, and I find it annoying that they DO seem to think so.
ReplyDeleteTo anonymous at 10:58 am:
ReplyDeleteThanks again!You are absolutely right. I called J crew today and finally had it all straightened out. I HAVE received the prev. quarter rewards in April and they were valid until June 30th ( same rewards that according to yesterday's JC CS were supposed to arrive early June, hence the mix-up,I already got them 2 mos ago). Next distribution is not till late July-early August ( for April, May, June), and so on. The schedule that you posted is correct. Thanks again!
To Alexis and FFM:
As I was calling JC anyway to figure out what happened to the rewards, I thought I'd ask again about student/teacher discounts and today's girl told me they should be applied to ANY purchase. When I inquired why yesterday I was given a different answer, she started to get vague and stated that , generally, everything is up to discretion of the store manager.
So, here we are back to where we started.:)
I will not ask for any discounts anymore. I'll take my FS and will walk away, I'll just buy less.
BTW, today they did adjust my Saturday purchase to receive addtl.25% off ( just as yours, Alexis, on individual basis).
Overall, I feel that JC does cave in, but it requires constant calling and nagging on my part. I am not up to it.
FabulousFloridaMommy: Again, totally agree with you! :) How much does it really affect J.Crew if we ask for price adjustments, do an item search, etc. Especially if these actions increase the total amount we purchase with them!
ReplyDeleteSlastena: I totally understand why you are feeling frustrated. It is terrible to get conflicting information on a policy (which should be universally applied to all stores). On a brighter note, I am happy to hear that they adjusted your purchase from Saturday to the new price. That is always great to hear! :)
I "just asked" customer service if I could be exempt from the $7.50 return fee. My reasonsing for the request:
ReplyDelete1. I bought multiple sizes of a suit because J. Crew does not carry petites in stores, and I did not know which size would best fit me in this particular style.
2. I do not live near a store. Not only does this mean I cannot try before I buy, I also cannot return items to a store. (During my last vacation, I visited several J. Crew stores to try on every single thing I possibly could be interested in so that I could order online with confidence. This is why my no-petites-in-stores reason is still valid even though I don't actually live near one.)
3. I paid full price for the items I bought.
The answer, of course, was no. I knew when I bought several sizes of the same item, I'd have to factor in the extra shipping and return charges, but it's still frustrating that they don't seem interested in waiving what ultimately is a very small dollar matter. I think J. Crew is being penny-wise but pound foolish.
Someone tell me why, given the reasons above, I should continue to shop at J. Crew when there are plenty of companies that offer good (better?) quality suits for *under* $400, with free shipping to boot.
I'm also mad because I don't even like the suit in the size I'm keeping. But since I've already worn it, I don't feel like I can return it. It is the itchy, unlined wool I mentioned in a previous post. I was going to take it to a tailor to have a lining sewn in, but why should I have to do that on an item that wasn't exactly inexpensive to begin with? Part of me is tempted to return the worn one and throw a fit if they won't give me a refund. I want to make it clear that because they were so intent on keeping that $7.50 of my refund, they are losing the sale of a suit that I otherwise would have kept. Penny-wise, pound foolish.
Chini, when you factor in all three of the points that you made, I think it is pretty reasonable to be mad about the situation! Banana Republic would offer free return shipping on petite items before they offered them in the store, which I thought was great. As a petite girl, I would be so mad if I had ordered a bunch of the same items to find my size and then still had to pay to return them because there was no J.Crew nearby. There has to be something else that you can do, because that situation sounds so unreasonable.
ReplyDeleteI tried "just asking" if I could use the "private" 20% off code to buy the $1200 worth of merchandise I had in my cart even though the code had expired the day before. I very nicely explained that I have tried several times to sign up for emails from them and I have never gotten any. (And yes, I did check my spam folder!) I haven't herd back from them. Too bad--they just lost that sale!
ReplyDeleteFor all you fellow "J Crew" addicts...here is a handy tip to keep track of those pesky buttons:
ReplyDeleteSince J. Crew is lovely enough to put most of its extra buttons in cute little envelopes, I simply write a short note about the item on the envelope and then keep all the spare button envelopes in a ziploc bag on my closet shelf. Now when I need a button, I just quickly look through the envelopes for the name of the item. Works like a charm.
Of course, if like me, you have quite a few of those little button envelopes, you might want to put the ziploc in a shoebox to keep your spouse from freaking out.
I admit at times I buy J Crew stuff on eBay. Most of them are new. However, because I haven't bought them directly from J Crew, when I need extra buttons (some of them are impossible to find out in the market)I cannot get them from J Crew? When I called JCrew, their customer service asked me what was the order#. It was sorta humiliating (?) - especially when you pay almost full price on eBay for items that are out of stock on JCrew.com... Does anybody have good advice on this? Thanks!
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