Anonymous at 11:47 AM (in the "The Great (Weekly) Exchange" post yesterday) suggested a great topic for this blog, which is about J.Crew colors. I personally believe J.Crew offers some really great shades of color when it comes to their clothing. Unfortunately, the colors we see in their catalogs/online isn't always the same color we see in person at their stores.Although I adore the names J.Crew labels their colors, it is sometimes difficult to determine the shade and brightness of the color (e.g. yellow) by the names offered (like "honey glaze" or "sour lemon"). It makes it even more difficult when the same color name appears in slightly different variations in their catalog/online, depending on the item.
Take for instance the image on this post, which displays three versions of "bright rhubarb" in the actual clothing item displayed and the color box of the selection section (which I hight lighted in a blue box).
- Tartine cardigan (Item 96527; $88.00)
- Solid cotton-silk shirred blouse (Item 96633; $78.00)
- Cashmere cable crewneck sweater (Item 97811; $188.00)
What is your take on some of J.Crew's colors (e.g. sour lemon, citron, poppy, deep persimmon)? What colors (from which J.Crew items) do you believe were "misses" or not represented in the pictures as the shades they really were in person? Moreover, do you believe J.Crew should stick to a standardized color system?
I have to say that ever since I have started shopping at j.crew my wardrobe has gotten brighter. I used to buy a lot of black but I feel good being in colour. I agree that the online/catalogues swatches differ from the actual pieces. I like to be a bit safer on more expensive items, but if I am shopping the sale then it is a colour adventure. OT, I also got my September catalogue today with a 15% off code valid until September 5th at 9:59pm ET - enter FALL at checkout. It is for full price items only, but I am only a couple pages in and am very excited about what I see, so I will be using it for sure.
ReplyDeleteI do find it very difficult to gauge what the colour is going to look like in person from the website's pictures (and I live in Canada so I buy most of my J. Crew online). However, I think the actual colour that the item is is usually close enough to what you wanted that it's not a big deal...except for reds and pinks...I can never tell the difference and I never order any red looking items because I'm afraid they might be too pink (I hate pink.)
ReplyDeleteIf you are buying different items in the same material (i.e. cashmere), the color is consistent if it has the same name. However, if you are buying in different fabrics, beware!
ReplyDelete"Sweet Papaya" looked totally orange in the Joelle cami and blouse, bright watermelon in the Amelia tank, and a pretty, non-neon pinky coral in the refined canvas Fiona jacket.
As for navigating the names of the colors, it's best to see them in person, because the pictures do not always portray them accurately. "True Aqua" in the flamenco dot swimsuit looked more like teal, and "Soft Azalea" looked more like BRIGHT azalea in the featherweight merino sweater.
I agree that the reds are especially hard to gauge online and I would like to add that I really, really wish J crew would offer the Jackie cardi in a true red!
ReplyDeleteFunny you're talking about this topic. I thought the same thing earlier this evening about how the 'bright rhubarb' looks similar to the 'deep persimmon' in the Tartine cardigan. I find that the colors in the catalog tend to be closer to what you see in person than the website. If you were to look at the 'bright rhubarb' in the catalog, you'll see that it is similar to the other two items you posted.
ReplyDeleteI do have to say, JCrew offers an array of bright, beautiful colors that I absolutely love.
Thanks for this great topic!
yogichicki: You got the catalog!? I am so excited now!! Unfortunately, I seem to never get the catalog in the mail so we'll see if it arrives for me. :)
ReplyDeleteAlso, I love being able to spice up my wardrobe. I've always loved pink, but have been drawn to blues, yellows and greens for forever (I'm a spring color palate gal). So adding these other, warmer colors has been sort of a priority for me. I wouldn't be heartbroken if the rhubarb wasn't as red as I wanted. :)
Speaking of colors, has anyone tried on the Louisa dress? I am admiring the buttercup / goldish toned dress but don't know if the "shark skin" is too out there. :) Any thoughts would be muchc appreciated!
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ReplyDeleteDoes anyone want the copy of the September Catalogue? Please email me!
ReplyDeleteI got caught on the Citrus Lime color this summer, it was really bright, I kept it and I have received alot of compliments when I wear it. I stay away from ordering reds and stick to blues greens, and greys.
ReplyDeleteSept. cataloq oh no! I have not straighten out my August orders yet!
New coupon code: SHOPFALL free shipping on $150 or more through Friday Just received this via email.
ReplyDeleteMorning, all! There must have been some kind of site "update" (and I use the term loosely) as a bunch of summer stuff is showing up in the non-sale sections (ie, mini skirts). When you click on the item, the sale price does show - but know knows if the stuff is actually available? Proceed with caution!
ReplyDeletePS - I still see the EXTRA30 in the final sale section.
I really do like the bright colors that J.Crew offers...I typically wear a very neutral color pallette, but have been trying to break out of that *rut* by purchasing the more colorful pieces. I do find the colors that show online to be more muted than the actual IRL color, and base my purchase decisions on that fact. I never purchase any of the Citron or Sour Lemon colors online, as they tend to be super bright compared to the online pic. I was however, pleased with the Honey Glaze color, and would order it from the website again. Also the Bright Flame pieces are brighter than the online pics, but I have come to expect that and don't get as shocked when they arrive. I think it would be great if they were to carry the same colors from season to season, instead of doing slight variations on each. :)
ReplyDeleteSuilver lining: I saw that last night too. And its not showing up where it should be--- e.g. t-shirts are in the sweater section etc...
ReplyDeleteI an email with a shipping coupon for $150 or more and its good through friday. The code is SHOPFALL. I wont be using it. But hey, they are e-mailing me again, thats a plus.
I love Jcrew deep dark blues! They are so bright and always scream my name. I am sorely regretting not buying their gorgeous blue print from last year (I cant remember the name of it). I do get great color ideas from their catalogs though... sometimes things I wouldnt think to pair together actually go together. I try something similar at home and it almost always works.
I have to say that I'm disappointed with the color choices for the current "cambridge cables." Some of the colors are rather pretty if it was spring, not fall. I usually like to switch to a different palette in the cooler months - deeper reds, peacocks, deep purples, evergreens, and more jewel tones. Imo, the colors scream "summer" and not "winter".
ReplyDeleteLast year at the outlet, I lucked out and bought two of their cable versions, and they are actually soft and did not shrink yet. (But I may have ruined one with a chocolate incident... so we'll see what they have this year.)
i heart j.crew: I would email you, but I don't know your address. It would be great if you'd share the new catalog though!
ReplyDeletegOne of my favorite things about J. Crew is the new colors that come out every season. I love color and I love the thought of getting to add a new J. Crew concoction to my wardrobe! I'm always disappointed when they keep some of the same colors from season to season...like Citron. I absolutely loved Citron, but now my closet is full of it. I'm waiting for a new bright yellow.
ReplyDeleteFor years my closet was grey, black and white. Now I still love all things light grey but I am definitely getting some color in there. Even if it is just the 3/4 sleeve boatnecks. I am branching out and wearing colors I have never worn before...yellows, oranges, blues. J Crew totally brightened up my wardrobe!
ReplyDeleteI think the catalog does a good job of showing the colors in reference to other things - like the stacks of cashmere, where you can see that royal purple is a lot bluer than azalea, or whatever. Online, it's a toss up, because J. Crew really can't control for hundreds of different computer monitors and screen settings, but again, at least you can flip between colors to get a sense of what's what.
ReplyDeleteWhat might be interesting to see is something like how a Mary Kay catalog is set up, with labels for their colors. Cool, warm, neutral? I look ghastly in anything orangey or yellow, and sometime their reds straddle the line. If they came up with a system to discreetly label their colors, I think I'd be pleased - purple with blue undertones, purple with pink undertones - that's a big difference! But as for the names of their colors - I love them. As a copywriter myself, I can get hung up on ugly names, but theirs are always a little romantic...
I like the color choices JCrew offers, even if they switch them from season to season. The color selection is a big part of the reason I shop their brand. (I loved Roasted Pepper and Guava from last year!)
ReplyDeletejcrewmommy: Congrats! You must be so excited! As for what to wear: I would opt for the Trouser jeans and Cardi...Casually Chic. :)
ReplyDeletejcrewmommy: Wow how exciting for your and your mom! I personally would go with the dark trouser jeans and a cami with maybe a jackie cardi (or any favorite color cardigan) over it. If you own the Fiona then there is another option and all that you need to add is a white tank and again your dark trouser jeans (this would also work for the Tulip jacket) and gold accessories. Have fun!!
ReplyDeleteFFM: Great minds think alike! :)
ReplyDeleteI agree, some of the colours are WAY brighter in person and I've had my share of disappointments. I do want to try new colours outside my comfort zone of black, grey & shades of blue.
ReplyDeleteAll that being said, I do find the colours in the catalogue are usually closer to reality tht my monitor. Since I live in Canada there are no stores near by for me to go check-out the colours in person :-(
On the plus side got my fall catalogue yesterday so at least there's no time delay on getting that to Canada! Love the new favorite fit pants but sad the plaids don't come in tall inseams.
J Crew Mommy - I always think the people with great accessories stand out in Oprah's audience. I would wear the the cami/cardi combo, with a great scarf or necklace.
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ReplyDeleteI thought Poppy and Deep Persimmon were alike until I held them under a bright light. Very confusing, but of course, I own both! And that fits right into the strategy related by Jenna Lyons in one of the article I read recently. Offer the same stuff over and over, but change up the details so it looks new and people want it. I think this applies to color, ruffles and buttons with this company. That's fine! I'll keep buying!
ReplyDeleteI got a huge order yesterday that I'm reviewing on my blog. Yes, Alexis and gigi inspired me to start one! Thank you both!
40 is the New 29
I love jcrew's colors too, but get frustrated when they change from season to season. I think some consistency in naming would be helpful, even though I know that some fabrics dye differently even though you use the same color...but at least we would have a better idea!
ReplyDeleteI'm trying to think what my all time favorite crew color is. Maybe kelly green? Although I do love the various "honey glaze" shades that have shown up over the past couple of years. And the oranges...oh boy..:)
I love J.Crew's great spectrum of colors. However, I think so far the fall colors have been a little too bright for fall. As katherined mentioned, I too prefer deep jewel tones for fall.
ReplyDeleteHopefully, the September catalog will feature those types of colors. But if August is any indication, I'll be out of luck. I too wish they would come out with a true red.
jcrewmommy: How exciting for you! Let us know what you decide on!
OT: I just placed an order on-line using EXTRA30 and it worked. Now let's see if it gets canceled.
montrose: you got the new fall catalog? As in, new items? Lucky you!! =)
ReplyDeletei heart jcrew: love to see the September catalog but you didn't include your email address.
ReplyDeleteyogichicki & montrose: If you have a minute, can you tell us about the new collection? I think many of us would love to hear a quick review until we can get our hands on it ourselves. :) TIA!!!
OT - I just got an email for free shipping on $100+ orders enter code FALLISHERE. *Free shipping offer expires at 11:59 pm ET on Friday, August 22, 2008. This offer is valid on Internet orders
ReplyDeleteshipped via Regular Shipping (4 to 7 business days) to US and Canadian addresses only. Offer is not valid on
telephone orders. This offer cannot be combined with any other promotion. Previous purchases are not
eligible for this discount. Merchandise total must be $100 before shipping, handling and taxes are added.
I was in my b&m yesterday and it was pretty bare as they were setting up stuff - the only thing I saw that looked new was a mini version of the felted-wool Adrian skirt from last holiday season. It looked very similar, and was in ivory, black, and grey. I'll be going back on Friday to check everything out. :)
ReplyDeletemelanie - I was late for work today because I was tabbing the new catalogue. Lol. You should try requesting it to more than one address if it isn't getting to your house. Like maybe work or a friend/relative.
ReplyDeleteMelissa - I am a canadian shopper too! Did you get the email with free shipping to canada on orders of $150 or more enter code CANADA valid until 11:59 ET friday aug 22nd. Internet only regular shipping. Happy shopping.
I love JCrew range of colors, why can't they name them teal blue, violet, red, etc. It would make online shopping so much easier.
ReplyDeleteI had to wrestle the new catalogue away from my mother but here are some hilights;
ReplyDelete1. Berry trim astrid jacket (96309) $248- I know some have already pre-ordered this and I LOVE the bright blue & plum
2. Snow-leopard Simone peacoat (96475) $260 not available in tall but I love the pattern & always love peacoats
3. Cashmere Flora dress (97455) $238, really love the flower detail but not crazy about the colours offered (heather carbon & brilliant blue only)
4. As I mentioned before the fav-fit pants. I like the plaid university (96138) $168 but they only come in reg (33 inseam) The plain wool university pants do come in petite (96620) and tall (96619) $139.50 but only available in camel and heather charcoal.
5. watercolour garden (97750) $110 & Lydia blouse (97751) $88 love the colours but hard to see how they`ll look on.
Still lots of bright transitional colours (4 shades of yellow-orange) with a few jewel tones mixed in. I am in love with all shades of peacock for the fall. It looks great with denim, camel, grey, black, white, brown, honey glaze, etc.
Didn`t get the free Canadian shipping e-mail :-( and I just placed a huge order. Grrrrr
okay, baby is waking so I must run!
JCrewmommy: You got tickets to Oprah!!! You are so LUCKY!!! I hope you get to be on the episode where she gives away those amazing prizes! ;)
ReplyDeleteAlso, her audience is the best dressed audience on t.v. I may have to suggest going with a suit and a pretty cami. :)
Montrose: Thanks so much for the great review! I can't wait to see the items IRL!
ReplyDeleteMontrose: thanks for the update - you're awesome!
ReplyDeletel think it would be great if JCrew did a color library for reference that described the colors and maybe give the inspiration for them. It is so hard to tell some of the colors apart especially on the Tartines. And I am so jealous of those of you who got the September catalogs!
ReplyDeletejcrewmommy - How fun! Definitely go with bright or jewel colors. I would lean towards jewel if they tape 1 or 2 months in advance. That means it will air on Sept or Oct and you want to look seasonally appropriate. That + accessories & good makeup will get you a close up on TV! :-) We want a full report, of course.
ReplyDeleteI have the bright rhubarb tartine cardigan, and I must say that its color is close to the color represented in the catalog, and far from the color shown online! Luckily, I was able to buy it at the local J.Crew store, which I prefer doing, when I like to see (and feel!) what I'm buying BEFORE I buy it!
ReplyDeleteThe color difference is mainly an issue with photography, and probably also has to do web colors, etc, and maybe even our own monitors or screens. Hopefully the issue will be resolved soon, so I can feel comfortable trusting what I see online. Until then, I'm still a J.Crew lover...and I couldn't be happier with the tartine cardi (I want a few more colors, now!)
J. Crew colors are the best out there!! Bright rhubarb is prettier in the store than in the catalog, more coral/pink/red. Bright papaya is my favorite! Now, if we can just get some yellows without a greenish tint. The citrons tend to have a little too much green in them.
ReplyDeletesusan, last summer, J Crew did a catalog that had photographs of little fabric swatches with the name of the colors by each one. It was a wonderful spread! Deep Flamingo was my favorite from that range.
ReplyDeleteJCrewMommy: I am sure whatever choice you go with (outfit-wise) you will look fabulous in! :) I am also really excited for you!!! Please let us know how it went afterwards. :)
ReplyDeleteWow, I have missed so much on this blog lately! I've been over at polyvore obsessively recreating my outfits and making birthday wishlists. Anyway, I am glad to see so many interesting posts over here!
ReplyDeleteOne color that I was most recently surprised by was the crisp poplin mini in the pinkish color (guava, maybe... I forget the exact name). When I saw it in the store, it looked almost like the color of a safety cone! It was like this crazy floursecent color. Maybe it was the store lights.
Blade Green is also another one of those colors that looks different on the web, it is more along the lines of the summer lime JC had this summer, but it is toned down abit, more green/blue tones. It looks wonderful with peacock.
ReplyDeleteOT--does anyone have any knowledge of the Emily sweater or the color Mandarin Orange? Now that we have talked about the colors, I am wondering if anyone can describe!
ReplyDeleteThanks!
molly: I LOVE deep flamingo/soft fuschia/azalea/any of those. It's my "power color"!
ReplyDeleteheather: are you an august birthday as well? mine's on friday, and I'll definitely be incorporating J.Crew into it somehow! :)
I was in the store and saw a new color of Tartine not in the catalogue - it's called heather geranium and is very pretty!
ReplyDeleteI got a sweater in Mandarin Orange a while back and took it back even though it was final sale. The color is this super bright orange that looked nothing like the picture(it looked more like reddish orange). The manager at the store gave me really hard time when I was returning it saying the color looked exactly like the picture online. Which of course it did not and as soon as the manager walked off the CS rep said the color was definitely off and allowed me to return it.
ReplyDeletesilver_lining,
ReplyDeletehappy birthday! Nope, mine is early September, but with Labor Day and an upcoming vacation, I am sorting out what I want/need a little sooner. :)
Hi,
ReplyDeleteI agree with y'all. The colours are very different in person. I find the reds esp. tricky as I prefer reds w. blue undertones (cranberry) over reds with yellow tones (rust) for my blonde/blue eyed dutch colouring. Still mourning the lost opportunity of that lovely "Dark Cherry" blouse of two seasons ago. Serves me right for holding out for a possible sale price.
Sometimes the folks at jcrew can help. Although I tried talking w. someone @ jcrew customer support & got all tangled up in the different ways to describe "Rhubarb". On the plus side, I had a great experience with one of the personal shoppers hereabouts (bay area) & pulled together some great outfits. Ashely helped me pull together a cute outfit:
Pencil skirt (90798 carbon) w.dark teal & pale grey stripes (bought earlier)
Featherweight merino glass-button cardigan (96033) in soft grey
V-Neck tee (97761) in peacock
Chiffon rosette belt (98098) also in grey & peacock
Add a necklace of jet beads & some swish black pumps & you've got an outfit that garners a lot of compliments. I found that wearing the belt at my natural waist & with the bow in the back works over the sweater. However, when I loose a layer, I like to wear the rose low on one hip with the ribbons in a bow on the other.
Although I find that some items can go from season to season -esp. if they have patterns- it never hurts to grab a few tees to match when they hit the sale table. For example, that peacock blue may be hard to find later on.
Speaking of colours... re jcrewmommy's visit with Oprah. I've been in a few audiences in my time. It's always great fun & one of the few "touristy" things I can convince hubby to attend. However, if you are concerned about your outfit, I would urge you to be careful with your colour choices, certain hues tend to bleed or look almost neon on screen. I'm sure you'd like to stand our for looking fabulous - not fluorescent. So I definitely vote for interesting patterns & accessories (although it's always good to remember Chanel's advice) that bring attention to your face. Also I vote for a jacket as it gives more definition than a sweater. Lastly, I would recommend a "Screen test" with your Mum. You can try on a variety of outfits & take pictures to see how they look to a camera. Maybe a Oprah night with plenty of your favourite episodes & snacks?
Hope that helps :}
JLiz - I have the cashmere tee in Mandarin Orange. I don't really see red as a part of the undertone Since the material is cashmere, the color is a little faded...creating almost a heathered look because of the pile. I would call the color bright orange, myself. It's borderline neon, but not quite. Thanks for asking about the color. I am going to wear the tee tomorrow w/a long creme chiffon scarf, jeans, light tan mid-heels and a gold necklace. I also tried it on under a tan blazer and it was very good looking.
ReplyDeleteIn most cases I find their online depiction of the actual colors are fairly close. My only beef was with the buttery twill trouser in warmstone, while in the catalogue it looked light grey, after looking for it high and low for months, i was finally able to find one, and much to my disappointment it was more of a light beige/khaki than grey. other than that, my experiences with jcrew colors has been prety good.
ReplyDeleteI would like to know how the bright tangerine looks on brunettes.. i've heard that it looks best on blondes due to the cooler undertones?
ReplyDelete