Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Article on J.Crew Accessories

Although this article is from March of this year, there are lots of points that I thought were interesting. For the article in its entirety, click here.

J.Crew Pushes Accessories to the Front
By Sharon Edelson
March 18, 2008

"In the past couple of years we've been looking at elevating every category," said Jenna Lyons Mazeau, creative director of J. Crew. "When we actually looked at our shoes and accessories we realized we weren't really highlighting them. We're primarily seen as a clothing company. This [catalogue] is to bring them out and show them. We realized we weren't speaking loudly enough."

Lyons said the shoe business has increased incrementally. "It's something that kept growing," she said. "People kept asking for more. We ended up having this really broad range of shoes." A recent search of the J. Crew Web site turned up 97 different shoe styles. One of the most expensive, the Tivoli ballet flat in python, is priced at $398. "Our shoes are made in Italy and snakeskin is rare," Lyons said. "It's speaking to a slightly more sophisticated customer."

Handbags are still an underdeveloped area, but won't be for long. "That's an amazing opportunity," Lyons said. "We're looking for ways to build on our Uptown tote. We're looking at how we can make our [handbag collection] larger and exploit it online. We're doing precious skins for fall. We're frustrated with what we see going on with designer handbags. The prices are insane and the [devaluation] of the dollar has made things worse. We want to be very conscientious. Can a handbag be $700 or $800? Sure. But do we want to get to $1,200? We want to win people's trust with the quality of the goods without doing it big and expensive."

So far, J. Crew has experienced no resistance to its prices. That, and the success of its costume jewelry, encouraged the company to launch fine jewelry. Items in the collection include a 10-karat gold boule ring with pearl, $495; a 10-karat gold pearl frog ring, $438; an opera-length pearl necklace, $450, and a ribbon-tied long pearl necklace, $200. "This is our first foray into fine jewelry," said Lyons Mazeau. "We want to be approachable. Each individual piece is quite delicate. This allows people to see what can do with fine jewelry. We're opening a store on Madison Avenue focused on the Collection portion of our business. We're going to have a separate case designated for fine jewelry in that store. We'll be doing some specialty pieces there with semiprecious stones and playing with other weights of gold."

The company will introduce a few unique higher-priced products each season. "It's always fun to do a standout piece," Lyons said. "We had a sequin jacket that we sold online made from hand-painted sequins. It was $3,000 and it sold out in two days. When it's quality, the customer gets it. We're looking at doing special incredible pieces."

What do you think of the article? Have you purchased some of their higher-priced products? If so, which ones and do you think it was worth the purchase?

139 comments:

  1. Woah, hand-painted sequins? I thought sequins were little ... how do you hand paint them when they're so tiny?

    ReplyDelete
  2. they have another $3000 sequin jacket online with the fall stuff now. it looks like they only made it in one or two sizes. it looks kind of over the top to me.

    ReplyDelete
  3. A few months ago I saw a pair of tortoise ballet flats for something like $150. The description stated that they were made of "Italian plastic". Are you kidding me? Plastic is plastic. Much of their jewelry is made in China. I have one of their enamel bracelets. They look great in the pictures but are quite cheap looking in person. JC has fallen the way of J. Peterman. They hire talented writers to describe the items to make them sound much better than they really are. Most of JC's clothing is made in China. Only a small (and I mean SMALL) percentage of their clothing is made in, say for example, Italy. Yet, when you read of the description of the items made in Italy it is prominently described as being "Made in Italy of the finest, blah, blah, blah". Everything else is merely "Imported". Again, plastic is plastic no matter how you put it. Note to JC: we're not stupid.

    ReplyDelete
  4. I bought their ribbon tie pearl necklace, but only for everyday wear. It is not the one I reach for when going to more upscale events.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Great topic, Alexis - I was thinking of suggesting a post on shoes after caw and I were discussing our love for the Teuta midheels. :)

    I love JC belts, shoes, and bags. I don't wear much jewelry but do own the 1" bangles in 6 colors - they're nice to have on hand if an outfit needs a little something extra. I'm totally intrigued by the bubble necklace but I'd have to see it in person and my b&m does not carry jewelry. It looks really heavy, and I'm a slouch as it is - it would have me totally hunched over!

    As for shoes, I don't have too many pairs (Teuta midheels, patent peep-toe MJs, Vivian slingbacks, Eleanor suede peep-toes, Lucia flats, Barcelona flats) but am loving the Juliet midheels as of late. I'm glad they've taken the heel height down a bit - I got the metallic Mary Janes last winter, but at 3 3/4" they were just too high for wearing more than an hour or so and had to go back. Glad to see more offerings under the 3 1/2" range this fall! I've found that eBay is the place to get a deal on shoes if you know your size - they have a lot of New, Without Box selections for about half of the full retail price that I can't justify paying - I want as many pairs of shoes as possible!

    ReplyDelete
  6. I totally agree wth anonymous at 4:54 AM. You couldnt have said it better! While I love all their accessories, being "made in Italy" doesnt want to make me buy it anymore.
    BGD

    ReplyDelete
  7. From the article: "So far, J. Crew has experienced no resistance to its prices." That is EXACTLY why they charge the exhuberant prices they do...it's too bad, because I really don't feel the quality is there, and in no way warrants the amount they charge for any of their accessories or garments. Do customers not realize that they inflate the prices above what the garment is actually worth knowing that it will eventually go on sale? As for the sequin jacket selling out...I'm sure they only made a handful knowing it wouldn't be a big seller, and that is the ONLY reason it sold out...if they had made several thousand I don't think that would have been the case. I also really hate the descriptions...I think it makes J.Crew appear as if they think their customers are gullible, with more money than sense. I personally don't own any of the jewelry...I can't justify paying that much for costume...maybe on sale at a great price. :) I don't have any of the shoes except for the capri sandals...I think there are numerous adorable pairs, but once again can't justify paying that much for shoes I won't wear on a daily basis.

    ReplyDelete
  8. Truth be told I love Brooks Brother's Jewelry. I have my good stuff but they make great costume jewelry. Some of J.Crew's stuff is O.k. but I think most of it looks really cheap. I hate the enamel braclets, they are horribly uncomfortable. Thats just my $.02

    I do love their flats and driving mocs, but not their heels. They are too talk and with no padding they hurt like all heck after 15 minutes. If I lived in suburbia and could hop in my car every 15 feet I would deal with them. But I live in NYC and on an average day I walk at least 2 miles if not more, my shoes need to hold up and keep my feet comfortable. Jcrew's heels cant do that and they are too tall! But their flats are great all though over priced!

    ReplyDelete
  9. okay, i have really small wrists (less than 7" diameter) and all the bracelets/bangles are too large. could J Crew please make bracelets for small wrists?

    as anon@4:54 have mentioned, most of J Crew's manufacturing comes out of China. i sometimes think their shoes comes from China, although it's marked "made in Italy" on the bottom of the sole, maybe the sole itself is made in Italy, but the entire shoe looks like it came from China or elsewhere. i don't own J Crew shoes, because they don't look any different than Nine West. if you've seen really good shoes (Gucci, Givenchy, Marc Jacobs, Roger Vivier, etc) you can tell the quality and craftsmanship that goes into an good Italian shoe. so instead of buying J Crew shoes, i would save my money and wait for annual sales at Saks or Neiman Marcus where i can afford designer shoes of much better quality.

    ReplyDelete
  10. webbysuzzy: I agree with you. Jcrew's shoes often seem cheap. I still buy their flats because once they are on sale I dont feel bad beating them up as I walk around the city. and I do find the driving mocs are a great shoe. But other than that I 100% agree

    ReplyDelete
  11. FFM: Gap is having a sale on their jeans (25% off) and I remember that you liked one of their styles - could you refresh my memory? The essential jean sounds familiar . . .
    thanks!

    MJ in VA

    ReplyDelete
  12. blumre: i know what you meant about walking around in NYC. there's MTA to catch and different grounds to stomp on and i want my shoes to not only look good, but hold up to the amount of walking that i do. the upper leather should be strong and beautiful and the soles should be thick for good cushion. the overall design of the shoe should mold my feet, so i don't have to worry about scrapes/sores or my skin chaffed because the shoe was rubbing against my feet.

    sometimes, i think i can tell a true New Yorker on the street from a tourist just by looking at their shoes:)

    ReplyDelete
  13. Oh, and sorry for going off on a tangent and not even acknowledging it!

    I agree with ffm and blumre regarding J. Crew's shoes - they are way too expensive for me to justify unless they are on sale - the quality is just not there. I have a pair of gold capri sandals from last year that I paid full price for and the gold is already coming off on one of the straps - I've maybe worn these sandals 5 times! The only exception I'll make is for the grosgrain flip flops, I wear these to death and they hold up great and are super comfortable.

    MJ in VA

    ReplyDelete
  14. MJ: The Gap Jeans I like are called ESSENTIAL...they come in 3 different washes and also in different lengths. :)

    ReplyDelete
  15. Good call on the quality - the metallic gold finish on the Vivian slingbacks started to wear off after 1 day at work (and I'm in an office, it's not like I was out pounding the pavement or anything). I would've been really irked if I had paid the full price ($238, I think) for them. Their "vintage metallic finish" begins to wear off almost immediately. I love the look of their shoes though - will have to look into some of the other brands aficionadas have recommended!

    ReplyDelete
  16. Blumre: Another tangent. I remember from yesterday that you liked a blazer/jacket from Banana Republic - I got an e-mail from them today with coupon for 15% off of a $150 purchase, which I believe is the cost of the jacket (very cute, BTW). Offer good until Sept. 1. Sounds like a good excuse to me!

    MJ in VA

    ReplyDelete
  17. Haha Webbysuzy: You can always tell the true new yorkers by their shoes. We don't wear huge white clunky sneakers with everything! And we are the ones in awesome shoes moving at roughly the speed of sound!

    Anon @ 8:46: OOOO their capri sandals hurt me like all heck. I can't wear their leather flip flops. They are no fun!

    Haha thanks anon @ 8:54: I actually go the same one and I will be using it :)

    ReplyDelete
  18. Thier super high price pieces "sell out" because they don't make many of them (not because lots of customers are buying them).

    I love their costume jewelry, but only buy it on sale. As for shoes and handbags, I can't justify the J.Crew prices, when I can get better quality for a lower price.

    ReplyDelete
  19. ffm: I totally agree with everything you said! Spot on!

    ReplyDelete
  20. The men's shoes are pretty decent, over half my shoes are J.crew. I really like the style of them and for the most part they are very comfortable. The sizing needs work. Too often they are off, either too big or small. Since I do 99% of my J.crew shopping on line fit is very important to me.

    I've noticed that the men's side is getting into higher end limited editions in belts; nice stuff, but it's hard to justify $150 for a casual belt. I'm hoping it looks impressive in person.

    ReplyDelete
  21. jcrewguy: I am not that impressed the with mens belts. I know MMiller isn't either. He can't wear the beat up look to work and even to class he hates looking like a slob. I am not that impressed with the mens belts.

    However the new metallic leather belt for women-- gorgeous!

    ReplyDelete
  22. i totally agree that jcrew shoes can be very uncomfortable and cheaply made. the fabrics they use are really cute sometimes, like the lize peep toes (i got the cherry blossom on ebay), but the patent and others are no different than cheaper brands like nine west.

    my latest shoe discovery is cole haan's nike air line. there aren't too many options yet, but for a basic heel they are sooooo comfortable and completely worth the $200 you can get them for on zappos. i walk a lot and they feel awesome.

    ReplyDelete
  23. blumre, webbysuzy: same goes out here in SF as far as shoes...i need shoes that i can walk miles in. i've had a pair of cole haan t-strap sneaker type shoes that i've walked many many miles around the city in...jcrew shoes have never been comfy in my opinion. it's too bad because there are so many cute ones. ;)

    webbysuzy: that's too funny about the bangles...i have tiny wrists too...those bangles just fly off me. :)

    ReplyDelete
  24. I agree w/ silver lining and others, jcrew shoes LOOK cute, great styles, fabrics, but that's where it ends...they are pretty much uncomfortable and don't wear well, esp the flats. That said, I have still purchased them....and they are my shoes of choice because I love the style. Fortunately my life has become suburban and I can do this b/c I am in the car more than on food-bad for exercise, good for shoes. I am a sucker for their jewelry, most of it. It is pricey and so I try to wait for sales, but I just think it's so cute, I have always been a big jewelry accessory person so Jcrew totally fees into this...

    ReplyDelete
  25. hi everyone! I missed you guys last week!

    I agree with what everyone is saying about j.crew shoes - they aren't the most comfortable in the world, and are very expensive. that hasn't stopped me though because of how cute they are. I will say that I've bought many of the expensive pairs on ebay for much lower prices, and they've seemed to last pretty well. But then again, I'm not wearing them everyday!

    ReplyDelete
  26. ccbmum-funny about the bangles, I can just picture some unsuspecting getting wacked with a jcrew bangle :)

    ReplyDelete
  27. oops-"some unsuspecting person"
    proofread, proofread

    ReplyDelete
  28. I find J Crew shoes cute but extremely uncomfortable. I walk around a lot because I'm a student and I basically have trekked around everywhere in Boston this summer, but I only own one pair of J Crew shoes since I can't fit into their shoes! It's so frustrating because sometimes you can get a really good deal and they're really pretty.

    I completely agree with melissa though about the Cole Haan nike air line. It's amazing. I purchased two pairs this summer during their extra 20% off their july sale. The selection was amazing and their shoes are very cute. I'm actually wearing a pair of the Air Gabi right now. With these shoes, they're more solid and I actually feel like they support my feet.

    ReplyDelete
  29. aly-i used to live in boston and had horrible foot probs. If I wore heels they got caught in the brick,I ruined so many heels that way. flip flops wer too flat so my feet would kill..flats, same thing..It was a problem !!! :)

    ReplyDelete
  30. Kater, caw:
    I am with you on shoes! Love how they look, not so happy wearing them, and still buying them ( on sale, mostly). I have to start going to other stores to break my J crew habit. Loehmann's had tons of designerstuff ( shoes, clothes, etc.) recently, and I was so excited. Finally, I liked smth else besides J crew.:)

    ReplyDelete
  31. aly: i just moved back from boston to nyc. the streets there are horrible. i actually find it easier to walk around paris than boston. the streets there ruin shoes (and cars for that matter!)

    ReplyDelete
  32. All - I received an email yesterday from WFNNB, which provides the J Crew card, letting me know about the following change to online billpay:

    To increase your payment choices, we are making some important changes to your J.Crew bill payment options. You may continue to use the online payment scheduling feature, which allows you to schedule your payment up to 30 days at no charge, or after September 2, 2008, you may choose to PAY TODAY for a $10 fee.

    Does this mean we have to pay $10 every time we choose to pay our bill without setting it up in advance?!?!

    ReplyDelete
  33. surfside: there are other posts about the card. But yes I believe if you dont have an advanced scheduled day and you decide to pay your bill that day... they yes. they will be charging you a fee.

    Personally, Jcrew better give me some better discounts or free shipping with my card or else I am going straight to BR to get a card there!

    ReplyDelete
  34. I cannot wear J Crew shoes - even if they fit my feet (which are wide), I find the heels are too high. I do have some Rivington Kitten heel boots though. The rest of my shoes come from Talbots. Seriously, go check out their shoes. They've come a long way baby. I also like Talbots bags and some of their jewelry. I don't like to pay as much as J Crew charges for bags and the J Crew jewelry is just a little too over the top for me half the time. The Chandelier necklace this fall is a little more my style - it has a presence, but it isn't out there, like the bubble necklace or the sea treasures necklace (which I totally would have bought if it came in a 17 or 18 inch length).

    ReplyDelete
  35. caw: lol :)

    aly, melissa: the cole haan's i have are the g series with nike technology...i love them...they're like slippers :) totally worth the money :)

    ReplyDelete
  36. blumre, BR is *okay* - it's no J Crew. The stuff is a little trendy and cheaply made by comparison. The fabrics and colors are just blah. AND every single pair of my BR pants has to be rehemmed because the hems fall out!

    J Crew somehow manages to be grown up and youthful at the same time. I don't know how they do it - I think it's the combination of the great colors and the classic pieces.

    ReplyDelete
  37. melissa & aly - ITA about Cole Haan's Nike Air line. Very much worth the price. Other lines I like are Via Spiga, BCBGirls and BCBG. I buy most of my shoes at Macy's. They have good sales like 40% off, plus 40% on top of that.

    As far as jewelry I have allergic reactions to everything. I get earrings and bracelets at H&M because they are nickel free. Huge thumbs up to H&M who size their bracelets S/M, M/L! As far as JCrew and their jewelry, I am convinced I can DIY one or two of the necklaces with good beads though I don't know if I will ever sit still long enough to try.

    ReplyDelete
  38. Molly: I do know about BR style and clothes. I do like some of their stuff but I agree some stuff can be cheaply made. However I think their suits and jackets have actually withstood the test of time for me.

    I was just saying I was POed about the card and BR gives much better incentives and rewards than Jcrew does.

    ReplyDelete
  39. Way off topic, but I received two of my 40% orders yesterday and I said I would review. Here goes:

    Surprise favorite: brushstroke cardigan in golden moss. The color is absolutely stunning! Perfect fit and it couldn't come at a better time - 78 degrees here tomorrow!

    Baird McNutt Georgia jacket and pencil skirt - Love them both and am contemplating ordering the jacket in another color.

    Refined serge pencil skirt - love the fushia color and the fit is devine. It's a heavier material so I think I can totally get away with wearing it late in the season with a navy or olive sweater.

    Citrus paisley blazer - sorta wish it had a hook/eye closure, although easy to do. Very happy with the weight of the material. It would have been too hot for the summer here but will be great for spring/fall.

    Avery Ruffle cardigan - lovely but I'm not sure about the fit yet. Could have been the tank I was wearing underneath. Still a good deal and I like the soft pink color.

    Rosette dotted dress - little bit disappointed in this dress. If it wasn't final sale, I would probably return it. Be on the look out for it on ebay cause that might be where it ends up. Just not real flattering on me.

    Domino cropped jacket - love this too! I can't wait for football season because I am pairing it will a black strapless dress. For work I think I will go with my wild peony Amelia tank.

    Tie front dress - definitely see what the hype was about!! I love this dress and will be seeking additional colors! It's a perfect hang out dress but can also be dressed up a little if you work in a casual office.

    One order to go!

    ReplyDelete
  40. Re: shoes, I agree about the total lack of foot support/cushioning and that most of the heels are too high. It looks like they are doing more midheels this season though, which is good.

    I got a pair of the cole haan ike air high heels and they are awesome! It was the most I had ever spent on a pair of shoes but they are beautiful and sexy and I can walk around nyc all day in them without my feet hurting.

    Occasionally you can find them on smartbargains.com for a good discount (like $150 instead of $295) or on sale at nordstrom.com.

    ReplyDelete
  41. I posted in an earlier thread about this, but I thought I would also post in the latest thread because I'm really excited about this. I bought a canvas Fiona in Sweet Papaya! I have been on polyvore trying to make some outfits that will help transition it into fall. This is my favorite outfit so far. How do you all plan to transition your papaya Fionas into fall?

    ReplyDelete
  42. michelle: Congrats on your Fiona purchase! Your outfits on Polyvore with it are super cute...I LOVE it with the Jeans...so Casual Chic! :) I don't have a Fiona, but to transition into Fall I would also put a turtleneck under it...it would also look pretty with Winter White or Khaki.

    ReplyDelete
  43. I agree with the fact that J Crew shoes have no support, although I've only bought 2 pair of flats. I have the Lisette ballet flat, and they're so cute, but a little like wearing slippers all day with no support. I survive at school, but would prefer some support. I also bought the marsala on final sale, and they are too small. I have tried to stretch them to no avail. So, they are going to consignment. After trying several on in store, I think if I size up 1/2 size, then they fit better as I have a wider foot. The penelope flat feels like it has more support, so I hope to get those when they go on sale. I can't imagine paying full price for uncomfortable shoes.

    As for jewelry, I only have one bracelet and I do love it, but again, I got it on sale. I think it's cute, but for those prices, I'd rather have real. I don't wear a lot of costume.

    Regarding bags, I've never bought any of their bags. I prefer Coach.

    ReplyDelete
  44. yes, the jcrew card is turning out to be pretty lame. the GAP silver card is awesome...i'm always getting coupons, double points, etc....and i just got invited to an "event" in downtown SF to preview the new fall stuff and have a stylist dress you...unfortunately i don't buy a whole lot from gap any more except for t-shirts and jeans so i'm not going to attend. but a VERY cool offer anyway :) how cool would that be if it was for jcrew...i'd be there in a heartbeat! :) i also have a BR card...

    also, i posted this in the other thread...if we just pay our jcrew bill from our own bank website i don't think we will get charged...just if we pay through the jcrew card website...that's what i'm hoping? does anyone know? thanks in advance. :)

    ReplyDelete
  45. FFM: Thanks for the ideas :) I am so excited about the Fiona ... I just hope it fits! I think the sweet papaya color is so pretty and flattering on my skin tone and dark hair. I thought it might be difficult to work into fall, esp with all the purples and greys this year, but I think I am going to try some more polyvore outfits with some light-medium grays and see what happens :)

    ReplyDelete
  46. michelle-i have the papaya fiona and would love to carry it into fall, do some more sets!
    FFM-those suggestions sound great...i love winter white...

    ReplyDelete
  47. caw and FFM: I have 5 sets up there right now. I did take FFM's advice and try some khaki and a turtleneck ... I like it! I also played with some light grey and a muted purple bag. I can't wait til my jacket comes! Btw, my polyvore name is mchesq.

    ReplyDelete
  48. michelle: when I was thinking about purchasing the papaya fiona (which I did), slastena had some sets up on polyvore that she showed me. My favorite one had a grass green shirt, neutral colored pants (can't remember exactly which neutral) and purple jewelry and shoes. It was SO cute! I don't have any purple jewelry or shoes (and don't know if I'd be brave enough), but I do plan to pair it with a green shirt and khakis. I think it would be good with navy, too.

    ReplyDelete
  49. michelle: when I was thinking about purchasing the papaya fiona (which I did), slastena had some sets up on polyvore that she showed me. My favorite one had a grass green shirt, neutral colored pants (can't remember exactly which neutral) and purple jewelry and shoes. It was SO cute! I don't have any purple jewelry or shoes (and don't know if I'd be brave enough), but I do plan to pair it with a green shirt and khakis. I think it would be good with navy, too.

    ReplyDelete
  50. oops! Didn't mean to post that twice. :)

    ReplyDelete
  51. michelle: LOVE the new sets...so cute with the turtleneck, and I adore it with the jeans! :)

    ReplyDelete
  52. emily, thanks for the great review! Much appreciated! Was it a phone order where they matched the additional discount offered by one of the stores? Sounds like you got some wonderful pieces, glad things went well :)

    ReplyDelete
  53. math teacher: I love the idea of the papaya, green shirt, and khakis! I will definitely try that.

    ReplyDelete
  54. Okay, I'm going to try the "fancy link" to my papaya fiona set on polyvore.

    Click here
    to see my fiona set.

    ReplyDelete
  55. Did it work? It worked on my end, but I have learned that doesn't mean it works on other computers. And, how will I remember those steps every time? I need to mark that page. :)

    ReplyDelete
  56. math teacher: It WORKED!!! YAY!!! Cute set, too! Btw...the more times you do the hyperlink the easier it is to remember how. :)

    ReplyDelete
  57. math teacher: cute set! I like it :) It inspired me to make one with a green tee too, only the tee is a little more olive.

    Click here

    ReplyDelete
  58. michelle: your set is cute, too. I like it with both greens. If I can find slastena's set on polyvore, I'll link you to it.

    ReplyDelete
  59. i just made a polyvore with fiona (name: caw) I was so inspired I had to take time out at work to do it-lol. I always wear a lot of white in the summer or ivory in the winter bottoms this way I can do color in my tops, accessories, shoes, bags, etc. I wish I had everything on my polvore set!

    ReplyDelete
  60. caw: Love those sets...especially the Fiona with the Honey Glaze Silky Jersey Top...so adorable! :)

    ReplyDelete
  61. CAW: great outfits! and vg distraction from my RE training (since they are going over stuff I already know)

    ReplyDelete
  62. thanks!!! I knew you'd like that top, FFM :) It just jumped out at me. I have yet to try that top in "real life" they were out of most of them at my B and M.

    ReplyDelete
  63. happy to provide distraction blumre!polvore plus this blog is REALLY bad for my job! I am also alone in the office today...argh!

    ReplyDelete
  64. caw: really cute! I am happy to see the papaya fiona is so versatile :)

    ReplyDelete
  65. I just wanted to let everyone know about some sales that are going on at my local B&M at Northpark Center in Dallas:

    All of these items are an additional 40% off:

    Cashmere Olivia Shell - $99. They had bright citron, navy, punch, and ivory. These colors are different than the ones online, but who knows, maybe you can get a deal.

    Piper Tank - $69

    Slub Cotton Tunic - $34.99

    Brushstroke Cotton Femme Sweater - $??

    Linen-silk Beach Cardigan - $69.99

    Printed Linen Antonia Dress - $119.99

    Flowy Jersey Bateau Dress - $??

    Luxe Knit Gathered Tee - $39.99

    I ended up getting the gathered tee and the olivia shell in punch. I probably could have used an xs in the shell (the smallest they had was small), but I think I can make it work. It will look good with my gold opera length necklace and other gold accessories. Was a little annoyed that the guy at the register totally did NOT ring up the additional 40%, plus my 15% student discount until I pointed it out to him. It saved me $80!!

    ReplyDelete
  66. ashley: Congrats! Sounds like you got some great deals...the Olivia Shell is so pretty...is it cut really low in the front so that you have to wear something under it, or is it ok on its own?

    ReplyDelete
  67. ashley: how low is the V on the olivia shell... how did it fit etc? Can one wear a bra with it? and will the bra be seen?

    ReplyDelete
  68. I have several pieces of the jewelry from the last year or so and I have to say I love, love, love the bubble necklace and the magnolia cuff.
    The shoes are so so. Great design, quality is just ok.

    ReplyDelete
  69. blumre & FFM: You can totally wear a bra with the olivia shell. Even though I usually have issues with J.Crew shells/camis dipping down too low, even in an XS, I could wear the small without exposing anything. If I actually had boobs, it would probably show some cleavage, but I don't have any, so it doesn't! If you want to be more modest, you could easily do a tank underneath it. The ribbing that is under the bust hits a lot lower on me than it does on the model on the website, but I think even in a smaller size it would still do that. They probably had to do some pinning with that shell to get it to look like that.

    ReplyDelete
  70. This is OT, but I wanted to let everyone know that Patagonia started their summer sale today.

    I own alot of Patgonia...some of it 10+ years old, and every item is structurally in perfect condition after repeated use. Some colors can fade, and have over time, of course.

    Lots of selection too.

    ReplyDelete
  71. Sorry to be OT, about the student discount, I think it was mentioned in another thread that it changed from 10 to 15%? I got the 15% off on my order last week. Just got off the phone with a rep today though and she said that was a promotion for that week. She said 10% off is the usual student discount.

    Maybe I misunderstood the previous postings, (or perhaps it really is changed to 15% permanently but she didn't know?) just thought I'd mention it.

    ReplyDelete
  72. The shoes are fine... on sale. And I agree the sizes tend to be all over the place. I do love the ballet flats but again only on sale.
    The bags are laughable, the prices are crazy and the designs are so-so. I've started buying "costume" jewelery on Etsy. Warning it can become quite addictive!

    ReplyDelete
  73. Update on that OT on Patagonia: May not be worth it at this point...way too much sold out.

    ReplyDelete
  74. Speaking of Shoes.....I just got an email ...Bloomie's is having a sale, today only! 50$ off a shoe purchase of $200 or more, $100 over 300 and $150 over $500 and free shippping (code: SHIP17). Happy Shopping ! Think I am going to sit this one out........

    ReplyDelete
  75. Re: student discount, I had heard from a SA that the 15% was temporary. According to the website, teachers get 15% and students get 10%.

    http://www.jcrew.com/AST/FootieNavigation/help.jsp

    ReplyDelete
  76. I was told the 15% student discount was permanent. Of course, no one at J.Crew can give a consistent answer.

    ReplyDelete
  77. i was really drooling over the Juliet pumps, but I am starting to think i should look elsewhere...
    Are they comfortable at all or same old?

    thanks in advance ladies!

    ReplyDelete
  78. OT: I just received from UPS my first order that I placed from J Crew since the website change yay!

    I bought a navy Slub Cotton Henley Tee (95149) navy in xs for 24.99. Shipping was free because I used the SHOP code. I already bought one henley tee in June and I love it. This is my backup tee shirt. I ordered via web on the 7th and it came in today. Not too bad.

    Yesterday I received my red phone order of the Simone Jacket (96784), and the the Floral Twisted Placket Shirt (96170) in peacock green.
    The jacket is made from felted wool and it has such a boxy shape. I bought it in xs, and it does nothing to flattering. Will return the jacket. T
    The fabric on the shirt is smooth and the colors are amazing. I bought a size 0, and it fits great.

    I almost have the complete look is featured in the Look book on page 44. I'm going to pass on the jacket and wear my Camden Sweater from last season instead. I pass on the Lucie shoes. I have a pair of Alberta Ferretti green pumps which will work just fine.

    ReplyDelete
  79. webbysuzy: how do you find the fit of the henley tee? I have been thinking about ordering, but have been hesitant b/c it is a final sale item. I am a 2 in J. Crew jackets and either an x-small or small in tee-shirts - although I have gone up to a medium before depending on the tee.

    MJ in VA

    ReplyDelete
  80. mj: the tee fits great and i love the button front. what i'll do is give you the relaxed measurements of the tee:

    shoulders (across back) is 13.5".
    bust (armpit to armpit) is 16.5".
    waist is 15.5" across.

    the sleeves have a twist binding and it's snug, so that's something to think about. my bust size is 31" and i wear an 32a bra.

    ReplyDelete
  81. Emily: I'm so glad to hear that the brushstroke cardigan (golden moss) is nice -- I ordered it, too. I don't remember ever seeing it in my local B&M. What were you planning to wear with it? Is it a hard color to coordinate with?

    ReplyDelete
  82. Ladies, be wary if you're interested in the cotton-silk pintuck tank... I just got mine today in my usual size and it is quite big. It's roomy in the bust and the straps, and the "light citron" color... uh, not so much. It is literally NEON yellow. I am so disappointed! The style is very pretty and I like the fact that it is lined and more substantial than their other camis - in fact, I was planning to order a black and a white one once I tried on the citron - I'm scared to size down, because if that doesn't work then I'm really stuck! It's a catalog/.com only item as well, which makes it all the more frustrating. BOO to Final Sale!

    On a better note, I got the khaki Tuesday Trench and it is great! Exactly what I wanted for summer-to-fall. Got another Silky Jersey top as well - they are so comfortable!

    ReplyDelete
  83. I was just looking at the new catalog and was aghast at the $198 patent leather pump. They are so cute, but no way would I pay that for J. Crew shoes. Nice that they aren't made in China, but that is crazy!

    ReplyDelete
  84. I was just looking at the new catalog and was aghast at the $198 patent leather pump. They are so cute, but no way would I pay that for J. Crew shoes. Nice that they aren't made in China, but that is crazy!

    ReplyDelete
  85. In the picture of the Tuesday Trench on the website, does anyone know how you tie the belt like that? I cannot figure it out!

    Thanks!

    Kristin

    ReplyDelete
  86. anon @12:05 - this was a phone order and they verified the 40%. So glad they will do that.

    ML - I think the cardigan will go with almost anything. The color palette is very neutral so you can wear with tans and navys. You can also add a punch of color with a cami or tank underneath for some interest. What I didn't realize, which is why I think I love it, is there is a subtle gold outline throughout the pattern.

    I think you will love it!

    ReplyDelete
  87. Kristin: its a slip knot that uses to strands rather than just one.

    ReplyDelete
  88. Kristin: If you know someone who horseback rides or sails they can show you that one. Its not hard... but I couldn't write out the directions if I even tried. I would start off by completely mixing up left and right

    ReplyDelete
  89. I know this is off topic, but I just got my package of fall items. Here's my review.

    The cotton cricket sweater in muslin is perfect. Not too heavy and very much a tennis style piece you'd find at Polo. Fits just like all the other men's sweaters.

    Two merino wool sweaters, always reliable and the wool is so fine it reminds me to skip cashmere and go for these. They don't pill either.

    The Italian flannel plants are a classic colour and fit. Not as slim as they lead me to believe, but fit true. The wool is more three season than winter weight. Very nice pants.

    The Glen check tie in wool is good as well. Feels very well made and should last a long time.

    Now I want to get the cords in tobacco and a shirt or two. I'll wait for a week or two and then grab them.

    ReplyDelete
  90. j crew guy in Canada - I totally agree with you about the merino wool from J Crew. It's the best!

    ReplyDelete
  91. silver_lining: How is the fit of the tuesday trench? Do you wear the same size in that trench as you usually wear in J. Crew jackets/outerwear? I've been eyeing this one for a while!

    ReplyDelete
  92. Jcrewguy: OH I AM SO GLAD YOU LIKE THAT SWEATER!!! yay! thats awesome. :) I had a feeling you would love it!

    ReplyDelete
  93. Molly and blumre, thanks so much. I'm so pleased with the clothing. Now I want it too cool off so I can wear this stuff.

    That cricket sweater rocks, I'm such a prep. And it sounds like it'll be sold out right away, same as the pants. Glad I got them early.

    ReplyDelete
  94. jcrew guy in Canada: Did you happen to notice the difference between the amount on your shipping invoice and what you were charged on your credit card?....there is still aglitch in the Canadian orders.

    ReplyDelete
  95. Way OT....I called to pre-order a skirt and the rep was very chatty and we were talking about some of the new items that will be coming out. She kept raving about that bright blue jacket with the little balls or berry things down the front. She said it's so gorgeous and so unique and the pre-orders for it are more than they ever expected. I caved and pre-ordered it. Either I'm going to love it or it'll be the ugliest thing ever and I'll have to return it!

    ReplyDelete
  96. Just a few random items-
    I went to a b/m store for the first time in a LONG time, and received wonderful service, even being offered a bottle of water!
    I tried on the Ecole jacket. They had it in a yummy brown velvet that isn't shown online. When I was trying it on, my sales associate let me know it was on a "secret sale" for the day, at the price of $145. I was really looking for the burgundy, but the brown was cute. I added my teacher discount to it, and it was definitely a good price!
    The Cambridge cable crewnecks were a few bucks off, but other than that, there was not a sale rack in the joint!!
    I was surprised at how slim the choices were. They had massive quantities of what they had, but were missing a lot of the fall inventory. I live in the Twin Cities.

    ReplyDelete
  97. I tried the blue jacket with berries on last week. It's very cute, but boy, it's out there!

    ReplyDelete
  98. By the way, has anyone else noticed they took those incredibly lame bug pins off the website?

    ReplyDelete
  99. janek: too bad the lame bug pins are still in the stores taking up space. Bleh they look cheap and worthless

    ReplyDelete
  100. i love the creativity of the "berry" jacket but i'm not sure that i would wear it...maybe in the dark berry color. i'd have to see it in person. i'm actually suprised to see this from jcrew though...it looks is very anthropologie to me...in a good way :)

    ReplyDelete
  101. molly: thanks...I can't wait to see it!

    ReplyDelete
  102. I like it better than Anthro stuff - it's more uptown. Anthro is so bohemian sometimes.

    ReplyDelete
  103. molly: yes, the berry jacket is more uptown and probably fits much better than anthropologie stuff does...

    ReplyDelete
  104. molly: I don't have an anthropologie store near me, so I don't get to check out their things too often, unless I look online.

    ReplyDelete
  105. tammylee: congrats on your purchase of the berry jacket :) the more i think about it the more i really want to see it and try it...especially in one of the darker colors. i think somebody a while back mentioned that it came in other colors...maybe a grey or dark berry? in any case i hope you love it when you get it :)

    ReplyDelete
  106. ccbmum: Thanks! I'll let you know what I think of it.

    ReplyDelete
  107. What is the item number of the blue jacket with berries? I would like to see what it looks like. :)

    ReplyDelete
  108. Re: Berry jacket. I truly love this piece. Have asked about additional colors at J Crew but no one knows anything. It is in the style issue of InStyle in a charcoal that is fantastic. I am waiting to see if that comes out before buying the blue. It is a definite statement piece, not for eveyone. My only concern is that the silk ruffles are completely unfinished which might lead to fraying.

    ReplyDelete
  109. Is everyone talking about the Astrid jacket? I think it's the one pictured here. Personally, it doesn't do too much for me, but I think part of that is the color. I would like to see it maybe in a berry or plum color.

    ReplyDelete
  110. Emily,
    Which store did have the Avery Ruffle Cardigan and the Tie front dress for 40% off. Could you please let me know..I ordered them online 2 days ago for 59.99 each..Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  111. emily, did you find the Domino cropped jacket to run true to size? Congratulations on the great order too!

    ReplyDelete
  112. OT- does j crew have measurements of most items if you call CS? My dh desperately needs some new clothes but he refuses to try on anything when we are in the store *eye roll* The only crew he has now is the jersey polos which he is an ex-large in. Are the men's sizes as inconsistent as women's?
    tammylee-congrats on the jacket! I saw it in store and the blue is gorgeous

    ReplyDelete
  113. Anonymous @ 5:41 pm: my credit card has not been charged for these items yet. Or if it has they haven't been posted yet.

    I will watch my balance carefully. Thanks for the heads up.

    ReplyDelete
  114. Jcrewjunkie and Jen_Brack, I believe you are talking about the Astrid jacket. I pre-ordered it last month. I believe it is available in the blue, as well as plum and heather gray. I cant wait for it to come in!

    ReplyDelete
  115. webbysuzy: thanks for the measurements!

    MJ in VA

    ReplyDelete
  116. I have been stalking a skirt I saw in the September issue of Lucky magazine, page 345,called "Bontecou." Has anyone seen this in person? It looks so pretty, with the green and black flowers. It's pricy at $140 but it is so my style that I am seriously considering getting it full price. Like the bug print skirt I have (remember that print? from 2005) I know I will keep it forever.

    I called CS and they had no idea what I was talking about but she put me on hold and when she came back she said she thinks it might be available September 23? Item #94467. I asked about pre-order and she did not know.

    Can anyone help? The more out of reach it seems the more I want it. Funny how that happens.

    ReplyDelete
  117. Hdayton - Yes - It is the Astrid Jacket (with berries). There is one without, and you have to specify when speaking to CS. Glad you received a positive answer about the colors, as I had been striking out left and right. I owned it for about a day last week, but then returned it, as I wanted to know about other colors first. Fit is great and the blue is gorgeous. My only concern is those silk ruffles.

    ReplyDelete
  118. shannee: Thanks for your thoughts on the blue astrid jacket - I'm glad you think it looks good "in real life" - I'm only going off what I see on the computer screen!

    ReplyDelete
  119. Slightly OT but has anybody seen the Amelia Tank in person and/or purchased it? I'm considering buying it to wear to work underneath suits/cardigans and was wondering a- if its work appropriate, b-any guidance you can give me on fit. Is the neckline low, is it quite fitted, etc etc. Also what are teh colours like in real life?

    thanks!!!

    ReplyDelete
  120. Jcrewmommy - I totally agree about the factory stores. I was in one in Denver this past week-end for the first time in years. What a disappointment. Merchandise and price-wise. I did not see anything that attracted me enough to look at quality, but assume you are right there too! Sad, in high school I used to drive about 2 hours each way a few times a year to hit the J Crew outlet. During the rugby shirts for girls and fisherman sweater days of yore.
    Also, following the shoe discussion. The Cole Haan outlet appears to stock only "from store" merchandise. There were several pairs of the air heels you were all mentioning earlier.

    ReplyDelete
  121. aisha, in a thread from a few weeks back (June?) someone reviewed the top and said it ran quite large. I ordered a P2 (I'm normally 2). It fit just fine but the hem was shorter than what the style is meant to be. I sort of wished I sized up to P4, but I still love it. I got it in Pale Almond.

    After I ordered I got a chance to try the regular sizes on in store. I tried 0 and 2 and indeed they were big, but 0 would've worked and it definitely would've been a top for tucking in. The 2 also fit fine around my bust but was too long.

    As for colors, I only saw papaya and wild peony, I think they do basically reflect the website pictures. But in person, you can see that they are kind of cheaply made, even though it's way thicker material than Joelle. Also, there is a bit of organza along the bust line, could be scratchy and uncomfortable for some but didn't bother me. I slightly regret not getting more but figured I'd save my money for the Fall stuff :)

    I think it would look very pretty under a cardigan or blazer for work! The neckline is cute but not low cut or anything. And the bit of shimmer is also great for after hours.

    I'm so sorry for the long post! I hope this is helpful!

    ReplyDelete
  122. Anon - thanks so much for the helpful review! I remember reading something about the Amelia tank but could not remember which thread it was in (there are so many!). Your review was very helpful...I think i will order a couple - the price is just fantastic!

    ReplyDelete
  123. I really wanted the Amelia tank to work for me, but it was too low cut. I kept having to push the straps backwards to get it to cover my bra, and that made it poof out in the front. The ivory and pale almond are great basics. The papaya is that bright orange. Those are the only colors I've seen in person. I returned my Amelia's and am looking at the hammered silk tank from the fall line because the neckline is higher.

    ReplyDelete
  124. I have the amelia's in three colors. I ordered the ivory, pale almond and the navy color (forget the name of that color). I really like the tops. I got them for 40% off plus my 15% off educator and then the guy on the red phone gave me free shipping. The tanks were under $11 each.

    I ordered two in 6 and one in 8p. I would have liked to have had all colors in the 6p or 4. But I will likely just get some alterations.

    They don't have the papaya or pink color in either of those sizes right now or I would order those too. I think they are great under a cardi or jacket.

    Keep in mind that other people (I think FFM) mentioned the straps are kind of long. I think that shortening the straps could take care of the issue for me. I ordered these just to wear under jackets and cardi's.

    That said, I will likely purchase the hammered silk tanks in a few colors too.

    ReplyDelete
  125. aisha, you're welcome! anon from 11:28 pm also made a good point about the cut. I am small chested so maybe that's why it was fine for me. You could always wear a nude color cami underneath...and at 19.99, you can't really go wrong :)

    Anon from 10:12pm

    ReplyDelete
  126. gigiofca: How much is the Astrid *Blue Berry* Jacket?

    ReplyDelete
  127. Re. Amelia tank - it was too low cut for me. I have a big chest and it was just too sessytime for work. I could have had the straps shortened I guess, but opted instead to just send it back. I ordered hammered silk tanks yesterday because they look higher cut. Fingers crossed!

    ReplyDelete
  128. Re: AMELIA TANK - I sized up to a 4...I usually wear a 0 or 2 in the Cami's. I think it runs smaller in the bust, personally. I can see how it might be lower cut with the length of the straps the way they are, but I am going to shorten them and that will solve that issue. :)

    ReplyDelete
  129. I am a 2 in JC camis (sometimes 0) and got a P4 in the Amelia tank and it was a better fit than the 0 or the 2! The straps were perfect, but I found that organza strip to be annoying beyond belief - it kept 'flipping' over the neckline and I had to keep tucking it back in. Argh!

    ReplyDelete
  130. FFM - I forgot to note the price. If I see it again today, I will post the info. I'm fairly certain it's over $200. I want to say $258, but I can't recall.

    ReplyDelete
  131. jcrewmommy: I also went to an outlet recently, and thought the prices were ridiculous too! They have new versions of the emelia blouse from last year (but it's now a mix of cotton and silk rather than 100% silk), the bella in cord and wool herringbone, and the dani peacoat in bright yellow. I didn't think the quality of the outlet version of the bella was bad - but at 178? NO WAY. And the version of the dani was $198! I think I will be getting these at some point because I love the styles but not until they get seriously marked down!

    also - for those of you looking for bellas and dani peacoats - be careful on ebay because I'm sure a lot of sellers are going to get them for the outlet and try to pass them off as "real" from last year.

    ReplyDelete
  132. Thank you for all of the recommendations for the Amelia tank, I purchased them in size 12 today in the peony, ivory and the navy. Then, I decided i should call in to get exact sizing info - and I think i should be a 14 in this top if the sizing info is completely accurate!! argh!! It seems to run pretty small in the bust as others have noted. I don't know why but i thought it ran large...too late to cancel my initial order, but in the 14 they had the pale almond which I had initially wanted so I ordered that...they were $11.99 each. I hope the size 12 works. Fingers crossed :)

    For those who have it can you wear a normal bra with it? I'll probably get the straps shortened to get rid of the neckline being too low problem.

    I never used to buy silk tanks, blouses etc but tried on the joelle blouse in store yesterday and fell in love with it! Mind you, the price was good too ($11.99) I would never have bought it at full price. But it drapes really nicely and is such a nice layering piece. I was worried abouti t before b/c of the elasticized centre pleat (and i'm a 36dd so wasn't sure how that would look) but it falls much lower than the bust and the vertical seams are so slimming! Love it...if anyone is looking to get rid of one in a size 8 in royal violet or the moss colour, let me know!

    ReplyDelete
  133. a: Is it true to size? Do you wear an 8 in most other Jcrew tops? Sorry just curious... I dont mean to pry.

    ReplyDelete
  134. Blumre - I dont think it is true to size at all; I was shocked I took an 8 in it! Haven't worn an 8 in anything in quite some time :) To give you some reference - I wear a 12 in the Emily Blouses, a 14 in the frances, and a 10 in the Lana tops. I also take a L in all sweaters and a 12/14 in Jcrew Blazers. Yet I took an 8 in the Tulip Jacket and an 8 in this top. Their sizing is all over the place!

    I'm not an 8 on top by any means :) so I would recommend sizing down on this one for sure!

    ReplyDelete
  135. A: So since I am normally a 4 I guess I should order a zero??? That is totally outtah wack! Its cute look but maybe i should pass on it.

    Anyone got any opinions. I bet my PS could find it for me if I begged (really nicely, with sugar on top).

    ReplyDelete
  136. Blumre - try calling into CS and getting exact measurements, I find that is always helpful. That's how I know what size to order for the various tops. I would have assumed I would be a 12 in everything and I ordered the 12 Lanas and was swimming in them. So before I ordered the Frances, I called in to check and ended up sizing up. Same for the San Telmo (size 10) and Tulip (Size 8) - the only reason I knew my size was b/c I called in. I know I need at least 40" in the bust and started off with measurements for a size 12 and went up/down as needed :)

    Hope that helps! Best of luck!

    ReplyDelete
  137. Also I find you can get the measurements if you follow the CS prompts to place an order (press 1) and there is normally no wait to do so (vs. press 2 where all the CS complaints go in!)

    ReplyDelete

Dear J.Crew Aficionadas & Aficionados: Please feel free (and encouraged) to share your thoughts and opinions. :) However, please note that this is still a personal blog. So comments that are considered inappropriate (e.g. obscene, racist, homophobic, personal attacks, rude, and just plain mean) will be removed.

And now back to J.Crew! :)