Anonymous at 8:52 PM in the "Will you visit J.Crew this Weekend?" suggested a post about J.Crew's different "fits" for denim. Although there was a post awhile back about J.Crew pants' fit in general ("J.Crew Fit: Which is your fave?"), I think it is a great idea to bring back the topic again, but for jeans in specific (especially with all the sales going on in-stores, it would be great to know which fits to try on!)J.Crew offers lots of pant styles for denim like: Matchstick, Trouser, Bootcut, Hip-slung, and Boy-fit.
I actually own several pairs of J.Crew jeans (although I must confess that I am a big fan of Gap's jeans as well). I have stuck to the same style: trouser cut. I find this particular style look best (e.g. the most flattering) on my 5'8" pear shaped frame. Although I love how matchstick jeans looks, I don't even bother trying them on (let alone buying a pair) because I know they would never work for my body type. ;)
As a help to others who are unsure what style to get: What is your body style and favorite style? How do you like the lengths of J.Crew denim as well?
I have tons of J Crew jeans, but find that the trouser style is so long. It states that the inseam is 33", but even being 5'4" and with a 3" heel they drag. Is this how they are supposed to be worn? I remember reading in one of FFM's posts that she can't see her shoes when wearing her jeans so maybe they are supposed to be super long? Thoughts anyone?
ReplyDeleteSome/Most/many people feel the correct way to wear trouser jeans is to have them barely touching the floor. Personally, I can't stand that look. I don't want my pants touching the ground or even skimming it. Granted, no high waters for me..he he and I do like my jeans to be long enough as I am almost 5'10 but that is just not me...guess I think I might trip and fall...seriously:)
ReplyDeleteOK. My favorite fit for the waist is the city fit for casual wear and favorite fit for work as I can occasionally wear dark, nice jeans. I like the bootcut fit jeans the best for me although I do own JCrew trouser jeans and matchstick. The cowboy jeans last year fit me well but the inseam was too short. I rememeber the entire JCrew staff that was free coming in to see me with them on b/c they hadn't seen anyone that they fit yet but they were too short on me everyone agreed.
ReplyDeleteTheir inseams are pretty inconsistent. I actually have several pairs of J.Crew jeans in the short lengths so I can wear them with flats. I had recently bought the same exact pair of bootcut jeans I already have, but in the regular length so that I could wear them with heels. The regulars were 1/2 inch shorter than the shorts (and I've put the size shorts in the dryer numerous times!). I've had similar problems before, but this was the worst.
ReplyDeleteWith that said, I love the trouser cut! Those look great with heels!
I have the bootcut, hipslung, boy, matchstick, vintage slim, cowboy, and trouser jeans (almost all of them were purchased for <$20, either from final sale, or eBay!). By far, my favorite is the hipslung for everyday wear. The vintage slim and cowboy fits I had to size down for (and may have even been able to go 2 sizes down) due to the fact that they hang so far off the body. However, I had to size up for the bootcut jeans because they felt like they were digging right into my hips! It's kind of a crapshoot with their denim, but when they do fit, they just wear so well that I can see keeping all my jeans for a long time.
ReplyDeleteI find J.Crew's bootcut jeans rather less boot cut than other stores (which is fine with me -- it's more straight leg). I only own one pair (and one pair of cropped matchstick jeans), and in general they're okay but not great. I'd splurge on full-price pairs if they were awesome, but they're just so-so. Sometimes the waist can be too big, or I feel the inseam is too short -- by just a touch), or the denim just feels weird.
ReplyDeleteA side note: I received an order I placed last week -- JC is not using UPS (sorry if this is old news), and instead going through USPS. AND my package had delivery confirmation so I had to go to the post office to pick up, as I'm at work during delivery times. VERY frustrating and cements that I won't be placing any more orders until things are fixed.
I have not bought jcrew denim in about 4 years. I have 4 pairs of petite bootcut, all size P4. Two are darker washes, 2 are light washes (though maybe one has just faded from wash and wear!), one of which is more lightweight. They fit a couple inches below the navel, on the hips. I'm 5'1" and their petite jeans used to have a 28 3/4 or 29" inseam, but now are 30" or 31", which is too long for me. I don't know what size I'd be now, probably a P2, and I know I'd still have to get them altered. I've started wearing Levi's because they're cheaper and I don't have to hem them.
ReplyDeleteI must admit, I hardly ever buy JCrew jeans ... and rarely pants. I'm looking for some advice though, I am a size 12 (unlike all you other skinny minis) and need recommendations on jeans that will fit my curves. I drawn to the trouser fit, but not sure if that's the right one. Is anyone else out there a plus size with hips and thighs? And what jeans/pants do you recommend.
ReplyDeleteI have to agree with lynn - there's really no consistency between fits and styles whatsoever. I haven't bought jeans from J.Crew in probably a year or so - the last I remember I think were called "boy fit." Most all my jeans now come from the GAP. J.Crew's denim just never fit quite right - saggy in some places, too tight in others - too short sometimes and other times way WAY too long. I'd pretty much given up. Though the trouser style definitely looks promising. I might have to give 'em another go. :)
ReplyDeleteCape Cod Betty, I am like you. A size 12 with a big booty and thighs. I really like the trouser jeans. The very dark wash is nice and they hang really nicely. I do have to have them hemmed though, because like several others have said they are super long. In chinos and other pants, I think the city fit works best for me.
ReplyDeleteCape Cod - I am also a 12 (actually, I just started to be able to fit back in a 12!! I was in a 14...close to a 16 for awhile) anywho....my favorite jeans are from Ann Taylor LOFT. I wear either the original boot or the curvy boot. They don't sit super low so your behind is hanging out but they aren't too high either. I just scored 2 new pair last weekend for only $19.99 each (and I must admit one of the pair I got was a 10, I'm being ambitious in my weight loss goals!) I also broke down and bought a pair of jeans a Lane Bryant (the "yellow" fit)when I was in plus sizes and I loved them! I'm actually pretty bummed that I won't be able to wear them anymore.
ReplyDeleteBut back to Jcrew related things...I have never tried a pair of Jcrew jeans but if I did try any, I think it would be the trouser fit. I am skeptical to order online since I have never tried them before and our closest store is several hours away.
My J.Crew is a good 45 minutes away, so I usually just order online. I'm a pear shape and I have issues with the waist gaping in the back but the pants being too tight in the butt and thighs. I'm an 10 in the waist and a 12 on the butt! Not to mention I'm only 5'0" so I have problems with the length and I have to take every pair of pants to the tailor to be hemmed. I have to go with the trouser cut in a 12 so my legs are more balanced with my hips, and then I just hem them so they don't trip me or get torn up. The 12 is so big sometimes I feel like I need a 10 but what if they didn't fit? I hate returning stuff. I try to wear belts for the waist problem but that doesn't usually look right on me. Any other pears have solutions or a different cut they suggest for a better fit? I might as well be sewing the pants myself I have so much trouble.
ReplyDeleteHi All: I am a tried and true fan of the Trouser Fit Jeans...I have one pair of J.Crew in Dark Rinse, and 3 pair of GAP Essentials both Light and Dark Rinse. I am also 5'4", and have an athletic hourglass/slightly pearshaped build. I ALWAYS buy the long inseam because I do indeed like my pants to hit the floor, covering my shoes...it really makes for a longer legline and extends the overall silohuette. I buy regular inseam if I intend to wear flats, so that the jeans still hit the ground...please understand that they are in no way dragging so as to wear holes and frays in them, but they do always touch the floor. I do not like it if my jeans or pants show too much of the shoe or even heel of the shoe, as I think it breaks the line of the silohuette in an odd place. I am not much of a "blue jean" person and actually prefer pants, chinos, and skirts over denim, but when I do choose, it is definitely Trouser fit.
ReplyDeleteI have too many pair of their pants/jeans to begin to even mention... BUT I will say that I agree that their jeans do run a bit inconsistently -- as do many other brands. I always think it's the best policy to take many sizes and inseams into the dressing room and try on things you think you might not even ever fit into -- bigger and smaller -- because you just never know.
ReplyDeleteThat said, I have a pair of matchstick jeans, hipslung jeans, boy jeans, and bootcut jeans and although I originally thought that I should buy them all in the same sizes, was I WRONG. I find that the hipslung cut in a bit at the waist, the matchstick ran big for me and the bootcut was true to size (I wear a 6/8).
As far as their chino's go, I find that I can order them offline and they run true to size every time. I LOVE the city fit - very updated and a flatering fit for me. Although, I do still love the old "favorite fit" chino for the everyday, classic look when paired with an oxford and a sweater vest or something equally "old school-y". I've been wearing these pants (or a version of them -- remember when you could buy them unhemmed??) since I was in college).
I have to say, change is good and I guess I'm one of the few who likes a lot of the changes on the website (better ability to search for my size or particular items quickly is nice) but I'm tired of the Crew acting like it's a hipper sister of Brooks Brothers. No way the quality and service are there yet -- just the prices so far. Did anyone else notice the marked jump in prices a few years back (three or four?) when the buyer for Gap jumed ship and joined the Crew team? Suddenly Jcrew got some pretty big ideas about itself...
Frustrating to be treated like second rate customers for wanting to take part in sales, coupons and bargains.
Anyway, sorry to digress from the pants/fit question.
I always love the way the trouser fit looks on others, but I can't pull it off myself. I think it's because my legs are short. :(
ReplyDeleteI love J.Crew's hip-slung jeans! They hit at just the right place to be low without being indecent, and the leg flares out ever-so-slightly, smaller than a bootcut flare. The matchsticks are nice too! I'm pear-shaped like you, Alexis, but I wear them just fine. It depends on how much the opening tapers in towards the ankle. J.Crew's matchsticks don't taper TOO much, so they look fine! :) I love the way they look with cute strappy sandals.
rachel: It is best to go up one size to fit the hip/thigh area, and then have the waist taken in by the tailor, so that you are not required to always wear a belt. I have had this done numerous times. :)
ReplyDeletei had a pair of j crew bootcuts and the waist was constantly gapping, and i found that they stretched out and never went back. i too am a sz 12 sometimes 14 and I am admittedly, a jeans snob and find that Seven for all Mankind is the best made jeans, period. I love the wash, cut, and the way they wear. well worth every cent. I also have a pair of William Rasts stella bootcuts that i absolutely LOVE-and you can size DOWN which is always a bonus for me being a size 32 in denim. :)I do have a pair of J crew trousers that I had hemmed last winter and still havent worn, but plan on doing so this coming fall and winter. I like the way they look!-BGD
ReplyDeleteI have the J. Crew bootcut and agree that they are more straight fit-- but I love them..... I also have boy fit --- they are fun and relaxed, but my favorite is trouser fit...... :)
ReplyDeleteWHEN IS THE SITE GOING TO BE FIXED????
the only jcrew jeans that i have are surprisingly the matchstick ones...after i had my baby i went back down to my normal size but it was all reconfigured...no butt anymore...go figure...:0
ReplyDeletei know i've said this before but i don't have much luck with jcrew's pants in general.
most of my jeans are actually GAP...i have trouser fit, skinny fit, and the flares...their styles always fit me very well...
Congrats on the size drop Monica. I have a great pair from GAP and have been holding off on buying some JC's til I lose some weight. I think I'll def try the trousers.
ReplyDeleteThanks everyone for your great comments!
ReplyDeleteOut of curiousity, do jeans come with different lengths? I can't remember if they do or they don't.
I like wearing jeans that barely touch the floor. But Anonymous at 9:27AM is 100% right, that they also have the strong possibility of making me trip or fall (if not get caught between my heel and shoe). :)
Anonymous at 9:29 AM: Are cowboy jeans regular staples at J.Crew?
Silver_Lining: Great prices for your jeans!!! :)
Ratsonparade: I agree that the Gap is excellent when it comes to jeans! :)
FabulousFloridaMommy: I agree that the trouser, with heels, totally gives off the look that you are longer and slimmer! :)
Amy: Maybe I should give a second chance to matchstick jeans with the tapers! :) I do like the look!
Anonymous at 10:11 AM: I know what you mean about the waist gap (either in the front or in the back)- what is up with makers who do that?
Although I love the fact that J.Crew carries a lot of their pants in tall (36" inseam), I have to admit I only have one pair of J.Crew denim and am very disappointed in them. They are the trouser cut from a couple of years ago, but they stretched so much after one wear that I had to have them taken in over an inch in the waist! :( Has anyone else had that problem?
ReplyDeleteMy favorite cut in jeans is definitely a trouser cut or a 5 pocket flare (which I think are similar to J.Crew's high heel flare although I'm not sure because I've never tried them on). My favorite jeans in my closet are Citizens of Humanity, 7 for All Mankind, and Paige Premium Denim. Have a couple pairs of each and absolutely adore them all! :)
Rach (and all the other size 10/12 curvy gals like me!) - I am a 5'2", ad more curvy than pear shaped, but I am a size smaller in qaist than in hips. I have not worn J.Crew jeans b/c I need a petite and am not willing to pay for shipping and return shipping while I figure out what fits! I wear Seven for All Mankind for casual and Joe's Jeans for dressier looks. Higher rise pants fare sit higher up, that is, up where the difference in measurements is more dramatic, so anything with a higher rise gaps. I always felt low-rise jeans were too young for me, but since I started wearing them, I'll never go back! (Not super low-rise, mind you.) The low rise is measured to fit your low waist, which is actually the top of the hip, so there is less of a difference in waist:hip size when you wear a lower rise. I find that with the lower rise, the waist gaps very little, if at all, adn certain brands/cuts are made to eliminate it all together (Joe's Jeans Provocateur cut is very curve friendly and is made specifically for petites, so the bootcut actually flares out at the proper point of the leg for a petite, versus halfway up the thigh where it causes the leg to look chunkier. These jeans make my legs look long and lean, and they do NOT gap at the waist. Now, they also cost about $180 a pair, so I buy them either on sale or on Ebay. Sevens are snug in the thigh, but they also stretch out after about half an hour, and they do not gap at my waist either. (They are lower rise than the Joe's, so they require you to either have a flat tummy or to be okay with a little muffin top (I usually wear either a skimming camisole under my shirt a looser shirt when I wear these to avoid making my muffin top public! These jeans also reveal my tattoo when I bed over, so I am sure to keep it covered when I don't want everyone to see my Ink.)
ReplyDeleteHowever, I really would love to find a pair of J.Crew jeans, as they do cost less than what I'm wearing now! :-)
Cape Cod Betty & Rachael: My mom has the same problem y'all seem to have - a size smaller waist than hips. I call it her itty bitty waist problem! :) She has had a lot of luck with the Ann Taylor and Ann Taylor Loft pants in their curvy fit. I know that is where she gets a lot of her pants for work. But as far as denim goes, I know that her favorite pairs are from Coldwater Creek because they come in long and are cut smaller at the waist. Just my (hopefully helpful) two cents! :)
ReplyDeleteI am 5'4" and hourglass, slightly pear-shaped like FFM (although I wouldn't characterize myself as athletic, haha). Like Alexis, I don't even both with skinny jeans because they probably would not look flattering on me - I just admire them on others :) The only cut I have tried at J.Crew are the trouser-fit jeans, but I did like the way they fit me. I tried them in a 4 and they fit perfectly, but not quite as perfectly as my Seven For All Mankind Dojos.
ReplyDeleteI would definitely buy the J.Crew on sale though. They had a nice dark wash and a flattering silhouette. Also, they seem like they would wear well over time. The inseam was a little long, but I am used to having jeans hemmed.
On the subject of hems, I can't quite seem to find a happy length. It seems like they either have to be too long for flats or too short for heels. Have any of you other 5'4" ladies found a good inseam length?
oops, actually i have GAP "long and lean", not the flares...just wanted to fix that ;) also, GAP's "straight jeans" are cute and they have red stitching on the inside so when you cuff them you can see the red stitching...i actually got a compliment on them when i was in the JCrew store this weekend :)
ReplyDeletesorry, i know this is supposed to be about jcrew denim...:0
I heard from a friend that works at jcrew that there is a new fit coming out. It's called something High Heel. They look to have a higher waist and a wider leg. Which will work great for my pear shape as well!
ReplyDeleteAlexis-
ReplyDeleteYes, they come in short, regular, and tall. The short are 31" and the regulars 33" (supposedly).
michelle: To get the perfect inseam for different heel heights, it's really best to purchase multiples of the style of jean you like, but with different inseam lengths. :)
ReplyDeleteFFM: Thank you! I have never gotten the waist taken in although I have considered it. I think I shall try it and see how it works!
ReplyDeleteAly: I know what you mean! I have a butterfly tat on my lower back and have the hardest time hiding it! I work with kids so of course I'm always pulling my pants up and my shirt down! LOL
It's a southern thing: I LOVE Ann Taylor (mostly Ann Taylor LOFT as it is hard for a 20-something to pull off cardigans and sweatersets--at least for me, but I'm no fashion guru). You are so right--I ordered a pair of pants in Navy and the waist was perfect...wish they still fit. I went from a 16 to a 12 (Nutrisystem) and now the pants I loved are too baggy. They are wide-leg and I caught a glimpse yesterday in a 3-way mirror at Penney's and I think I'll have to do some serious altering...they were my fave pants too! Guess I'll try a trouser cut from Ann's? *sigh* Pants are such a pain for me to buy!
for michelle, FFM, and the other 5'4" pear/athletic women (myself included!), I have always been loyal to Mavi jeans.
ReplyDeleteFor whatever reason, Mavis -- esp the Zoe cut -- fit me perfectly!
I love J Crew for everything else, but have never been a huge fan of their denim. I think I'll give the trouser cut a try.
Thanks for all the advice!
Alexis, The cowboy jeans were a new style that came out in Spring 07? I don't know if/when they will be back. They had a 31 (maybe32 in.?) inseam and I need closer to a 33.
ReplyDeleteHow do you get a tailor to hem jeans? And can you keep the original hem (so it doesn't look like a "mom job"?) How much does this cost, roughly? Has anyone done this themselves? - A
ReplyDeleteHi Anon: A good tailor can do it with the original thread or a similar one and do a good job. In Boston or NYC this will run you 18-25 bucks. I can't speak for another location as to prices.
ReplyDeletePersonally, I do loved the cropped matchstick jeans. But other than that I am either a hipslung or a boot cut girl. I am 5'7" but a competitive skiier and horseback rider (Spells big and rock solid thighs... I love them but matchstick jeans don't flatter them, strangely the cropped matchstick ones work though).
I also think the Jcrews inseams can be inconsistent. Sometimes I need a long and other times I need a short. I find the bootcut tend to be about a half inch longer than the hipster jeans.
I live in a mid-size University town and had a tailor hem a pair of jeans for me. They matched the thread and it cost $10 or $15 I think.
ReplyDeleteRachel - congrats on the weight loss!
Anonymous at 10:55 AM: A new fit at J.Crew- that is very exciting news! I love wider legs on jeans/pants, so I can't wait to see them and try them on!!! :)
ReplyDeleteLynn: Thanks for letting me know! I didn't realize they had different lengths for jeans like they do for their regular pants. I guess since I bought most of my J.Crew jeans on sale, I just took whatever length was available in my size. ;)
Anonymous at 11:11AM: I actually remember the cowboy jeans in their catalog, but haven't seen them in awhile. I actually thought they were quite cute!!! [But in all fairness, almost everything looks cute on those gorgeous J.Crew models! ;) ]
blumre: I can be in the worst mood, but when you mention your thighs I always get a good chuckle. I love the way you describe them, although I am totally in awe of your being a competitive skiier and horseback rider. Kudos to you!!
ReplyDeletejcrewjunkie :)
I have own three pairs of the trouser cut jeans and LOVE them! Like Alexis, I am pear shaped it is very hard to find jeans that fit with this particular body type. I am waiting for them to go on sale again on the J Crew website so I can stock up.
ReplyDeleteJCrewjunkie: Glad I could make you laugh.
ReplyDeleteIn all honesty it is so frustrating. I cant buy half the pants on the planet (no vineyard vines or polo for me :() They are big but there is NO jiggle.
Alexis: Its true... why does everything have to look so darn good on the jcrew models... I mean there are items that would look horrid on any normal person but the jcrew models look amazing in them. Whats up with that?
Personally I am not a fan on the trouser leg mostly because the only look good with heels and I don't do a lot of heels on weekends/evenings. That and I sometimes feel they are too tight in the stomach/butt area which can look weird with a wide leg. Also I hate the boy jeans... they just always look sloppy.
Alexis: I used to like gap jeans too... and then they stopped making the ones I liked! :(
I just hope j crew never stops making the bootcut and hipster jeans. i adore them!
blumre:
ReplyDeleteit's funny, those cropped matchsticks have a strangely perfect fit for me too...with my reconfigured mom body and all...i have never tried the long ones though. i have GAP's long skinny jeans and they are very comfy and fit well...i have tried jcrew's hipslung and like those as far as jcrew's jeans go but they are still not quite right on me...
thx Monica, you too! (I believe somwhere in this long line of comments I read that you'd lost some lbs. although it is hard to keep track! LOL)
ReplyDeleteReally wish they'd hurry up and fix the site...or at least fix part of it. I believe I may have a false tracking number (or else UPS is having issues as well) for my polo...maybe mine is really coming by USPS instead of UPS as someone previously mentioned?
ccbmum: Aren't the cropped matchstick jeans fabulous??... I wear them all the time. they are great with heels and flowy top for night out, flats and a Tee for the day time or flip flops and a sweatshirt to go really casual. I love them!!!!
ReplyDeleteThats great that they fit you! Finding comfy jeans that also look good can be such a problem! Congrats on being a mom! Have you tried the bootcut? I find the hip region to fit in a similar way to the cropped jean (although the cropped ones do run 1 size big)
"A" (anon at 11:14): Most professional tailors can do a great job--my pants never look like they have been altered, although I do have to be careful as to where the hem falls in terms of shoes (I always take the pair I most with the pants to the tailor's). My tailor only charges $10 to $15 per pair here near Va Beach. Not to sound judgemental or typecast but I have the best luck with Korean, Chinese, or Japanese tailors (the ones that are true immigrants and not American-born). I think it's the culture, the way their parents raised them--they work fast and stitch PERFECTLY (even by hand!). My tailor is so sweet and polite, don't know what I'd do if she quit! I wish we had that mentality, Americans seem so lazy and rude sometimes in comparison to other cultures.
ReplyDeleteblumre: yes they are fabulous. i agree with you...they can be worn with pretty much EVERYTHING and look great. i especially love to dress them up with a flowy top or when it's cooler, a great sweater jacket or cropped jacket, scarf and fabulous clutch...i am very thankful that i am able to wear them. i always joke to people...i am seriously challenged in the bust area (and was always teased for it) but to make up for it, i am able to wear skinny jeans...;)
ReplyDeletei have tried the bootcut and i don't remember which one fit me better between the hipslung or the bootcut. i need to spend some time trying on different sizes...jeans are the most frustrating thing to buy!
Hi - 8:52 here-thanks for this post! I hope it will help everyone.
ReplyDeleteI have several pairs of designer denim, including Paige, Citizens, and SFAM...and I love them. But there are times that I want to wear denim that has NOTHING on the pockets, and that's where J Crew comes in.
Body type: I'm 5' 10" and normally wear a size 6. Athletic, hourglass, lanky. J Crew trousers @ 33" long fit me right off the rack in flats. I like some shoe showing, and am not into the pants barely touching the floor look. I actually sometimes try to look less tall, which is why I wear flats most of the time.
Raves: J Crew 5 pocket trouser jeans. These are sooooo flattering. The cut is very generous, and I bought them in my normal size, which runs big. I thought about sizing down, but ended up washing them twice in hot, and got them to shrink. They didn't shrink too much, but I love them! If you are looking for a pair of jeans that make you look instantly polished, but feel like a pair of sweats-get these!
Current Hipslung: I purchased Hipslungs the first year they came out. They used to run very generous. Now, I'd say that a 30 is like a 6/8. They are very flattering. I just went on a hunt for the store exclusive white hipslungs, and it looks like a lot of people agree with me. They were hard to find and were never sold online. Thankfully, a pair were located and are on their way to me. I've been looking for the Holy Grail white jeans, (no logos, plain pocket, comfy, not too tight, classic contemporary cut) for so long, and I think these are it. Yay!
Bootcut: Run small. They will not correlate to your designer denim, and you'll have to size up, which we all know is such an ego booster. I agree 100% with the Ladies that say J Crews bootcut is really a straight leg. The flareout, what there is of it, is more towards the very bottom of the jeans, making them slightly less flattering to hourglass shapes. This was not a happy development for me, but I'm sure all the ruler shaped ladies love them. This didn't bug me that much with the jeans, but it did with the Cords. I loooovvveee J Crews Cord colors, and would normally stock up, but I need a true bootcut. I also have to buy Talls, wash them in hot to shrink them, and then have them hemmed to get a TRUE 33" inseam, as they shrink like crazy. This results in whatever litttle flare out at the bottom there is, being cut off, turning them into straight legs. Boohoo! I ended up buying TRUE bootcut cords from Boden this last fall....they have some nice colors, and offer free return shipping so you can try on a few different sizes with no risk-nice.
Matchstick: Ah, the final frontier. I have never tried these, as I have a 10" differential between my waist and hip. I've always assumed these looked best on ruler types, but I'm itching to try them. I have read on other boards that the cut was better last year. I'm waiting to hear reviews on the new Fall cut...if there is one.
Boycut: never tried...I'd love to hear other people's thoughts.
I hope this helped someone...their Jeans sizing is all over the map.
I am a newly converted matchstick fan. I own carpenter jeans( both denim and neutral from last year collection, love how they are draping nicely over the legs),boy jeans, trouser jeans and bootcuts. I never thought matchsticks would be a good match for me, but a sales associates (who happened to be a very cute male) MADE me try them in a store and I bought a pair on a spot at a full price(28R in pewter). What I like is that they have a straight leg, and definiteley are not cigarettes pants as most matchsticks are.
ReplyDeleteSo, now I want them in every color.:) LOL
Agree that mid-heel and flats are the best shoes to wear with matchsticks. For all pear-shapeds :), I would recommend giving it a try. You might be pleasantly surprised. I am an hourglass/a little pear shaped.
Matchsticks run one size larger. I am normally 29 and had to go with 28 on matchsticks. What I liked is that they are not tight even at 28. Too tight don't look good even on Victoria Beckham who is like minus 0:).
ReplyDeleteFFM: Thanks! I've got jeans with varying inseams, and it's just so tiring; I was hoping there would be a magic number for the inseam where I could get the best of both worlds. Blah - oh well!
ReplyDeletemichelle: If I wear just a 32" inseam, then I find that it is possible to wear it with flats, (they just hang on the ground a little more), and also with a mid-heel, say no more than 2 inches, but not with a 3 or 4 inch heel. So the 32" could be your magic number. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks FFM :) I'll give it a try.
ReplyDeleteFFM:
ReplyDeleteany comments on Joelle blouses/camis? Did you receive them/liked them?
slastena: I just posted this on another topic...we must have been typing at the same time...here it is again. :)
ReplyDeleteOk...I just received ONE item out of my order of five, and it came by USPS...thank goodness something finally got here...unfortunately it is a piece that I already own, and just ordered a second...I have still yet to try my Joelle Blouse and Cami. :( Hopefully later this week...odds are I get my package from the store at Columbus Circle before I get anything else from the waredhouse. ;)
It's good to know that some items are ACTUALLY being set free from captivity! :)
FFM: Not sure if I mentioned it already, but I did not see the black/white striped shirt you were looking for at my J.Crew! (It's the Palo Alto / Stanford one). Sorry! :( Hope you're enjoying your other purchases though. :)
ReplyDeleteSorry...that should say warehouse. :)
ReplyDeleteDid J.Crew always have short inseams available in the store? I remember not even looking at pants in the store because I figured they'd always be too long but recently I've noticed they have short inseams more readily available. I am liking that because I can try things on in the store now!
ReplyDeleteAlso, given a choice between a petite size and a short inseam, I pick the short inseam, mostly because I like the way the waist / thighs fit better. I remember earlier, FFM mentioning that she sizes up to her thighs and nips in the waist. I wish I could do that! I have the opposite problem - anything that fits my waist seems to leave my thighs swimming in fabric!
The short inseams are new in stores as of about 1 or 2 years ago. Personally, I wish they would start carrying the tall inseams in stores.
ReplyDeleteMelanie~ Do you know whether they have Petite sizes in-store now? Just wondering as I haven't been inside a J. Crew in a long time. I prefer Petite over Short because of the crotch area. If I don't get Petite then the crotch hangs like 4inches too low and it just looks goofy. LOL BTW I used to think the crotch area was called an inseam how goofy is that?! Blonde moment!
ReplyDeleteFFM:
ReplyDeleteSeems it takes forever for items to come in. You ordered blouses ages ago. I was thrilled to read about gift card that you received. That was so nice of CS. Please, post on blouses/camis once you receive them as I would love to hear your feedback.
I am a huge jcrew fan, though the jeans are not great. I heard they are working to improve the fit and quality of jeans and swimwear this year. We'll see.
ReplyDeleteI have several pair of jcrew jeans, as a stay at home mom I practically live in jeans. Though I have to say Citizens and Paige are my favorites. Also, the denim jcrew uses for the bootcut feels very thin.
Rachael: I haven't seen petite sizes in stores, ever. :/ I think it's exclusively online only, which is unfortunate because there's never any way to try on sizes!!
ReplyDeletemelanie,
ReplyDeleteI have the bootcut stretch cords in both P2 and S2. The short are better lengthwise on me, but the petite fits better on the waist, hips, crotch area. I just hemmed about 3 inches off the P2s.
Someone earlier mentioned jcrew's rise in price a few years back. I remember when jcrew jeans were $59, now the "cheap" ones are $98! I stopped buying them when they became prohibitively more expensive, though I guess I did start wearing skirts/dressier pants more after college and grad school, so my jeans aren't wearing out as quickly anymore.
just to clarify: I should also add that on the Short cords, they are still too long, but not as long as the Petite, which I find odd. You'd think since petite is supposed to be all around smaller, that the length would also be smaller...
ReplyDeleteOkay ladies, I know this isn't the post for it but...drumroll please, I received the highly coveted Via Vitoria Jackets, in Flame and White, today!! Yeah, finally! (Still awaiting the second order.)
ReplyDeleteI also received the
Slub-Cotton Femme Top in Navy & Soft Aqua too. What a steal at $9.99 & free shipping!
(These items were ordered Fri., 6/27 before 7 a.m. - we need a name for the day the website died!)
I LOVE all four items!
I went to the store today (Towson, MD)& there's not much to write home about as far as merchandise goes. I bought some favorite fit t's & a pair of flipflops...ho hum. They had new cordorouy jackets in, with the peter pan collar I am not fond of, in Navy & a Khaki or Stone color.
I wear GAP jeans, & have never tried JCrew's jeans. My latest couple of pair of jeans from GAP are the Welt-pocket Curvy Jeans . Hate the name but LOVE the fit! Now I just need a pair of those highly recommended BORN shoes to wear with my jeans ;)
Anonymous @ 1055: I saw the flared high heel jeans at the store today. I didn't look at them though. I'm not sure I like the color of the denim. They're actually posted on the website
ReplyDeleteHigh Heel Flare.
Rach: I laughed so hard when I read your comment about needing "a name for the day the website died!" So funny! We really DO need to come up with a name to mark that moment in J.Crew history!!! :)
ReplyDeleteMy packages came via UPS, you know "brown". Although some items were placed in the same order, all four items came in separate brown bags. I must mention my kind UPS man bagged them in plastic because it looked like rain-he's so nice.
ReplyDeleteHas anyone verified JCrew isn't using UPS anymore? All my shipping emails linked to UPS' website.
I'm in Maryland - where are the folks located who are receiving shipments via USPS? Maybe location has something to do with it??
Ok...I have another update on my order...UPS just came and left two packages, each containing one item, so I am still awaiting 2 pieces of my order. So, I just received my Leather Skinny Belt in Silver...LOVE IT...it can be worn lowrise or around the waist...just what I was looking for, and would love to have it in more colors.
ReplyDeleteI also received the Joelle Cami in Navy Blue size 0...I think I could have actually taken a smaller size if they made it, but it still fits me fine. It looks really pretty with my White Wide Leg Pants, and also with the Gray Skirt I purchased at ON that resembles the Cotton Taffeta Belle Skirt. I anticipate wearing my Tulip Jacket in Bright Flame over it with the white wide leg pants, and my new Born Welly sandals in the British Tan color (also called Cuoio).
As I anticipated...the Joelle Cami came packaged as Final Sale, along with the receipt marked Final Sale, even though it was NOT purchased as Final Sale. Good thing I made a copy of my order page before I completed my checkout just in case, because you just never know...I expect the Joelle Blouse and Kelly Sweater Jacket to also arrive as Final Sale, when they were not purchased as such, either.
It appears as if J.Crew is using both USPS and UPS to ship packages...they are trying to make sure the items arrive within the 4-7 business days they promise on the website (according to Andrew the CS rep).
Anyways...today has been pretty thrilling, to say the least, and I am so excited to have received more than half of my order...HOPEFULLY my blouse and jacket will come tomorrow!!! Fingers Crossed!!! ;)
YAY FFM!
ReplyDeleteI wish mine would come now! But I think you have been waiting for longer. I am very happy for you!
Rach: CONGRATS!!!! What is the fit like on the VV Jacket? If you get the chance, can you please give shoulder and waist measurements?
ReplyDeleteYou must be so excited!! I also have the Slub Cotton Femme Top in Navy...I actually ended up wearing it on July 4th with my white Chinos...cute and comfy! :) I bet the true aqua is just beautiful, as well.
Thanks blumre! Andrew the CS Rep said that they are trying to get most orders placed recently deliverd this week, so your chances are good. Btw...I never received a tracking number for UPS, just one for USPS, and I never received a shipping email for the UPS packages, either.
ReplyDeleterach: i think i saw those new corduroy jackets in my store too. they also had what looked like a flame color. i didn't love the jacket either. the ones i saw had puff sleeves which i'm not into. i know not everyone's ready for fall yet but i can't wait. i'm hoping for a great TRUE red (not bright orange or pink) merino sweater jacket...:)
ReplyDeleteFFM: congrats on your packages! hopefully your joelle blouse comes soon! can't wait to read what you think of it ;)
Heather: Thanks for the tip! Perhaps I will try ordering some pants in petite sizes to see how those fit too. :) It has been awhile since I tried petite pants, mostly because I got tired of ordering multiple sizes and having to return them. I should try again.
ReplyDeletePlus, on the cotton chinos, the petite size that fit great in the waist / hips looked WAY too baggy in the legs, though perhaps that is the cut of the favorite-fit chinos.
Hi, I menationed the High Heel Flare Jeans in a post a few weeks ago when the new stuff came out for July (in June). Nobody responded so I guess nobody had seen them yet. I really want a pair but don't feel like "putting up" with JCrew's website and slowness right now.
ReplyDeleteI guess I am the exception to the rule. I have consistently worn an 8 in JCrew jeans for the past 4 1/2 years...all kinds, styles, types.....
Someone mentioned they aren't sure about the color of the high heel flares...can you share more info. on that? I was wondering the same thing. Thanks:)
FFM: what size did you take in the Navy Slub Femme top? I see on jcrew.com that they only have S, M, and L and I am usually an XS (esp. when it concerns boobage of which I have NONE). I also got the coveted VV jacket and fell in love with it IMMEDIATELY. I got it in white, size 2. Would you like the size 2 measurments?
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone have the Brushstroke Print Chessy jacket? I received mine today and wondered what people were thinking of them AND what they are wearing with them.
Thanks, as always, for your helpful suggestions...
jcrewjunkie :)
Melanie: I saw the new corduroy jackets too. EWWW they looked horrible and shapeless. Certainly a leave it for me.
ReplyDeleteDid anyone try them on? Are they indeed as bad as they looked on the hanger?
Off topic: Has anyone tried the Ocho Rios Gathered sweater dress. I tried a small b/c I am normally a 4 but it was huge. Has it worked for anyone? Does anyone own it?
ReplyDeletejcrewjunkie: I think they run on the small side...I have a medium and it fits me fine. I usually wear a cami under it if I go out, but if I'm wearing it at home, then I don't. :)
ReplyDeletejcrewjunkie-I have the chessy jacket and am waiting for late summer/ear;y fall to wear with a white tank sticking out the bottom and jeans, either white or blue denim. and I have wooden high heeled red salds from many moons ago from j crew that will oook fabu with it!! I'd love to hear other ideas as well!!-BGD
ReplyDeleteAnon @ 6:58: I was looking at the high heel flares the other day since they seem similar to the 5 pocket flare style that I love, but I have to agree with Rach, the color is odd. The only wash available is called "faded blue", and it seems a little dated to me. It is not really a denim blue and is almost too blue if that makes sense. Sorry to ramble... I'd love to know what others thought of the color though! :)
ReplyDeletejcrewjunkie & Anon @7:45: I have the Chessy jacket which I love, love, LOVE! :) For work, I wear it with an ivory tank and dressy Ann Taylor capris that are a cotton sateen - either chocolate brown or this great goldish khaki color I have. Then at night, it is the ivory tank again with my dark wash Paige jeans. I feel that the print and the color of the jacket is too pretty to distract from with too much other color. :)
FFM: So glad to hear that you are beginning to get your pakages! :) I was really worried for awhile... Hopefully tomorrow, you'll get the rest of your items! :)
Off topic:
ReplyDeleteI went to the store today (Bethesda/Montgomery Mall) and INSISTED on educators discount applied to my final sale order. It WAS ( although reluctuntly)!!! We'll see what happens next time.:)
I purchased Candace jacket in orange($31), straw belt ($9),and Dauphne t-straps in Kelly Green($34). I am perplexed as to what to wear with my new Candace jacket.Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.
Rach:
First, congratulations on VV jackets.Secondly, I also went to Towson mall last week ( I study/teach at UMB), store had some amazing jewelry on sale at that time and nothing else much. Montgomery store today is pretty picked over, although I saw some new items on sale, namely,Kayla bloses in black/red, chiffon-trim tissue tanks in every color(they are huge, even XS), Riviera boatneck tees, featherweight merino v-necks and Crisp poplin minis.
Blumre:
ReplyDeleteI tried Ochos Rios gathered dress in XS in store (last month) andquite loved it. You are a whole 2 sizes smaller then I am ( what I agethered from your posts) and XS was just right for me. I am 5'5", 4-6 on top, 2-4 on bottom.
FabulousFloridaMommy: Congrats on many of your packages arriving- that is fantastic news!!!
ReplyDeleteSlastena: FANTASTIC!!! I am so happy to hear you got your discount on top of the sale. :)
its.a.southern.thing: what shoes do you wear with your Chessy jacket? I am really stumped about what color to wear.
ReplyDeletejcrewjunkie :)
FFM:
ReplyDeleteMy stats:
Shoulders: 15-1/2"
Waist (Natural): 30" (short waisted)
Height: 5'7"
Weight: 127 lbs
Chest: 34B
Via Vittorio Jacket shoulder width: 15-1/4" (just barely 1/4")
I agree with Slastena that it may be snug in the shoulders for you. It just fits me right in the shoulders. If I sized down to a 4 I know it would not look fitted properly (sometimes I get away with button downs in a 4 but not sweaters & jackets).
The photo of the jacket on the website is pretty accurate. The gathered area at the lower back is really pretty. The sleeves are longer on me than the model, they hit just past my wrist, like 22 to 22-1/2" long.
Regarding the waist, I could wear this jacket while bloated & no one would be able to tell. Now in my JCrew
Adelaide Jacket from last fall, I popped the last button on the jacket off last time I wore it when my waist was in that state.
I purchased the slub cotton femme tops in size small & they are purrfect! (I think I read you're wearing it in a medium.) I wear Jackie sweater in size medium.
Hope this helps!
Slastena: I don't purchase jewelery much, usually given as a gift. So I'm one of those who doesn't pay attention to the jewelery in the store :)
ReplyDeleteThe store seems so boring to me now, I guess because I look at the internet everyday. I used to get really excited at the stores but not in a long time!
Maybe I'll run into you one day. I'll be the mom with the cutest little boy in the store ;)
I have yet to have a good experience with J. Crew jeans. I must agree with everyone else who said the sizing/fit is inconsistent. I normally wear a 8 in city fit pants and a 6 in favorite fit, but 10s and up in jeans just hurt my body's feelings. I also don't like their denim, it's too thick and heavy for me.
ReplyDeleteAs for a store with fantastic jeans--I love love love Martin and Osa. They make a booty look good!
Has anyone in the Maryland/DC/Virginia region been to the Annapolis mall lately? Anything good left in the store? Is it worth me taking a trip from DC?
Thanks.
I used to love the petite hip-slung jeans. I thought they'd be my go-to jeans for years to come, but then J.Crew stopped making denim in petite sizes. They replaced petite with short, and short is much longer (as heather said, it was 28-29" for petites). The short sizes are not only 30-31" long, but they're also cut bigger overall. I bought a pair of 26S and they were way too long, and roomy in the hips and bottom. I had to return them. I don't know why they stopped doing true petite sizes in the denim. I hope they will not start phasing out petite pants in general.. Short does NOT equal petite.
ReplyDeleteIts a southern thing: I think I am getting what you mean about the blue color by using the term "dated". When I saw them I thought the same thing like the blue was a blue shade from many years ago although I don't know what year/decade to say??? That being said though...I would have to see the color in person...hopefully they will have them when I make it back to the states in a few weeks:)to shop at my local JCrews. Don't think they'll be disappearing too fast at the 100+ price but then again one never knows:)
ReplyDeleterach: Thanks for the measurements on the VV Jacket...looks like the 6 would probably work for me, but not the 4, and the waist would not be as "fitted", as it is on the model, either. I do have the Slub Cotton Femme Top in a Medium, but it was purchased awhile ago, and I would order a small if I were to get one now (I've lost more of the "baby weight" since I bought it), and I have Jackie Shells in both Small and Medium...they both work. Trying to buy J.Crew tops/jackets is really difficult for me, as the sizing, for me particularly, is all over the place depending on the cut. Anyways, thanks for the info...let me know when you get your other VV's in...I may still be interested in one. :)
ReplyDeleterach: btw...that Adelaide Jacket is beautiful! :)
ReplyDeleteit's.a.southern.thing and anon @6:58: the color of the denim on the High Heel Flares reminds my of Wrangler Jeans...do you remember them?
ReplyDeleteFFM: You nailed it with the denim color! It is the Wrangler jeans color from back in the day when the leg was super straight. Yeah, I don't think I care to revisit those days any time soon...Haha...
ReplyDeletejcrewjunkie: As far as shoes go for the Chessy jacket...To work I wear a pair of chocolate brown pumps and out at night I either wear the chocolate brown pumps again or this great pair of natural colored peeptoes with brown patent piping and heel. :) I steer clear of black though because of the dreaded Halloween effect...
jcrewjunkie: I would wear your Born Tiki sandals in Cuoio with the Chessy...or any other shoes in a similar color...something Neutral/British Tan/Camel... :)
ReplyDeleteBtw...Nine West actually has sandals out in a Bright Flame color now...I tried them on at the mall last week when I was there. I had on my Suzannah Cami in Bright Flame, and the shoes matched perfectly...didn't get them, as I had already spent over what I had anticipated. ;)
ReplyDeleteI was thinking about the whole inseam issue...a woman/man can be the same height, but have different inseam lengths, based on how your body is proportioned, and that will affect how a pant will fit you. It would also explain how certain inseams fit people of the same height differently. For example...I am 5'4", but the inseam length on my leg is 31", and that is why I cannot wear Petite or Short, even though I am considered to be fairly short. That would also explain why I am able to wear the longer inseams with heels, and not have my pants completely dragging on the ground, and why I can get a regular inseam and wear flats with it.
ReplyDeleteSo what I am basically saying in a nutshell, is that each individual should measure his/her inseam, and then make your purchase based on your own personal inseam length.
Hope this helps! :)
Jax: I thought your comment about how Martin and Osa jeans fit so well was so interesting! In college, the jeans that consistently fit me were from American Eagle, which is Martin and Osa's parent company. M&O was just opening up in my area less than a year ago. I will have to check out M&O now to see if the style continues. :)
ReplyDeleteFFM: I completely agree about inseam lengths differing from person to person regardless of height! I am 5'9" which is the lower-end of the tall spectrum according to J.Crew, but always need the tall length in pants. I think we're both just a bit "leggier" than a lot of people our respective heights! :)
ReplyDeleteFFM: Wrangler blue color...eew...I don't care for that!!!??? Thanks for the comparision though. I am sitting here shaking my head! I think you hit the nail right on the head!
ReplyDeleteMelanie: if you end up digging Martin + Osa, sign up for their email newsletter. I get a new coupon from them almost once a week and they have free shipping and returns. It's funny how M+O jeans fit me, but American Eagle jeans do not. AE jeans are always too big in the waist.
ReplyDeleteI am almost 5'10" and I can wear the 33" inseam just fine....sometimes even 32 with flats..talls are way to long and if need be (all other reg. inseams sold out) I buy them and have to get an inch or two hemmed on them......
ReplyDeleteFYI: the high heel flares are more like the favorite fit according to CS
late to the party, but these posts are so helpful! my size ranges from a 26-27 in jcrew jeans. i got their matchstick jeans in dark wash first and the fit is pretty comfy and not too too tight, which i like. i just ordered the new vintage slim jean in distressed, and had to go down a size to 26 (strangely, the smallest size they sell in that style!). i'm 5'4 and almost always have to get all my jeans hemmed. the vintage slim is a great fit, though. to the commenters who said that they felt like it was way too loose, that's because the cut is designed to 'drape' the body instead of the 98% cotton/2% spandex painted-on style that's so common these days. personally, i'm a big fan of returning to 100% cotton denim that's just a little loose/worn-in! :)
ReplyDeletedoes anyone know of a good fitting jean? for me. size 14-16 in gap cause they stretch so dark much. used to wear the lowrise bootcut but they dont make now. i have a gut and no butt so finding pants is hard. i was thinking about the j crew bootcut or maybe banana r bootcut. ? any ideas for size 16
ReplyDeleteBlack really good jeans and I collect very informatic information here very nice blog keep it up.
ReplyDeletebootcut jeans