Although the news is disappointing, it is also not unexpected. The system downgrade (including that $3 million in unexpected costs) had to impact J.Crew negatively. :(J.Crew fumbles system upgrade
By Colin Barr
August 26, 2008
J. Crew’s (JCG) latest makeover isn’t off to a good start. Shares in the New York-based apparel retailer swooned in after-hours trading Tuesday after the company missed its second-quarter earnings target and slashed third-quarter and full-year earnings guidance.
J. Crew made $18 million, or 28 cents a share, for the second quarter, down from the year-ago $21 million, or 32 cents a share. Analysts surveyed by Thomson Financial were looking for a 32-cent profit. But the weak second quarter isn’t all the bad news: The company said it now expects to make 28 to 33 cents a share for the third quarter, compared with a 46-cent analyst forecast.J. Crew cited $3 million in unexpected upgrade costs tied to its Internet and phone ordering systems, which “limited our ability to leverage our multi-channel platform and resulted in incremental expenses.” The company also blamed “continued softness in our stores business due to the macro economic environment.”
The sour numbers come as CEO Mickey Drexler, the man who made the Gap (GPS) into a household name, is trying to push J. Crew upscale. Analysts see an opportunity for the purveyor of chinos and polo shirts to take younger customers from the likes of Abercrombie & Fitch (ANF). But as Fortune’s John Brodie recently noted, “As confident as Drexler is, the timing is risky.” With shares down 15% in after-hours trading, that much is clear.
What are your thoughts on this article? Disagree or agree?
Oh boy.....doesn't look good....I can only see things getter worse before they get better.
ReplyDeleteI don't understand this upscale thing JCrew is going for...I think the timing is off....Time will tell...
I agree with you Anonymous at 5:10PM- this is a situation where time will tell if things get better or worse. :)
ReplyDeleteI agree with anonymous and alexis - I think this push for upscale is off in terms of timing, with the economy being the way it is right now. My hope is that it benefits us positively (ie, items like the berry-trim astrid go on sale rather than selling out - fingers crossed!) WITHOUT hurting the company too greatly. It's definitely hard to just watch and wait though!
ReplyDeleteSo much for the pre-announcement run-up. It will be an interesting trading session tomorrow. Perhaps a floor of $18 isn't out-of-the-question after all.
ReplyDeleteI apologize for being off topic, but just wanted to say how nice it is to be able to follow this blog. I've read many, but this is the first one that's ever really drawn me in. I've been having some hard times -- made reference to them in posts yesterday, and everyone was SO NICE -- it's gotten to the point (sad to say) where reading the blog is one of the better points of my day! Sorry if I am being sappy ... but it feels like you all are my nice, very fashionable neighbors or something.
ReplyDeleteKater: My fingers are crossed too! :)
ReplyDeleteDouglas: I was just talking to my husband about that very same thing- that $18/share doesn't seem far fetched now. (He also just asked me if I should sell my stock too- not a good sign if he is suggesting that.)
Anonymous at 5:30 PM: That was a really nice entry and I appreciated reading it. The members of this blog are just fantastic (and the true reason why I enjoy being a part of this blog.) :)
If the website/call center is not running properly for the Christmas buying season the stock will go a lot lower.
ReplyDeleteI agree with kater if the consumers stop paying fp for clothes and force JC to put the items on sale, this upscale push is just bad timing.
I don't think that many consumers are paying full prices for clothing, not with the constant sales and ebay. It's been the case even before the system upgrade and the downturn of the economy.
ReplyDeleteI think the upscale may not be that bad of an idea. Rich people will always be rich, and the price conscious will shop at Target, Kmart, or Walmart. What gets squeezed is the middle.
Anyway, I don't see how they can keep all their stores open though. It's more profitable to sell via the internet than the b&m.
I sold my shares @ $39 after the last conference call in May/June. I don't think it will rebound anytime soon. The consumers who can afford Gucci,Prada etc. will continue to purchase those brands. JCrew needs to keep their prices affordable for the middle class if they want to achieve further sales growth.
ReplyDeleteWow, the traffic on the blog has really slowed down. Have people moved on to more fashion/product oriented blogs? Just wondering.
ReplyDeleteI think it's because most of the women here are still scratching their heads at how to digest this news. It's a bit over most of their heads. Reality check that life is more than berry astrid jackets and how they go with blue jeans!
ReplyDeleteIt's very simple. Your husband's company is in trouble. He starts worrying about his middle management job. He tells her to cut back on spending. She continually hides boxes from j.crew/ups, but realizes her one income lifestyle is feeling the pinch. She stops shopping at j.crew to "help out". Thus, avoiding this board. It's the domino effect. I'm in finance. I work, I get it.
Wise owl
ReplyDeleteThe information isn't over our heads. We get it. We've been discussing the economy for weeks. We are all educated professional people here. I'm scratching my head right now, but about a) why you would bother to post here (do you feel the need to patronize us because we enjoy talking about fashion, or is someone you know hiding boxes from you?) and b) why it is that you think you are so wise.
Plea for common courtesy
ReplyDeleteyeah mary, please read alexis' plea for common courtesy.
ReplyDeleteOT: I just got the driving mocasins today. They were the regular priced ones. Anyway I got my regular size (7) and I swear these were at least a 9! It was the weirdest thing. They are huge! Anyone run into this? Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI have read Alexis' plea for common courtesy, Tina. Wise owl needs to show some.
ReplyDeleteMary, maybe this blog isn't interesting because it's not about fashion?
ReplyDeleteI think Wise Owl has a valid point. She's just summarizing what we have all been discussed in the last few weeks. The bad economy news is all over the media...right?
Wow, wise owl, that's pretty judgmental. I think most of us see this board as a little escape from daily life and the stock reports don't fit that model. I love talking about what to pair the astrid with, even though I know I won't be getting one unless it hits below 125. It's none of my husband's business how I spend my paycheque. I pay my half of the mortgage, bills, trips, etc. My discretionary cash is mine. I don't choose to buy j crew stock with it (I try to keep my investment money within my own country), but I do buy j crew.
ReplyDeleteAnon @6:43: I think this blog is the BEST! I think it's great to discuss ALL aspects of the company we love so much. I find that I learn so much about the inner workings of J. Crew from this blog. I don't think there's anything wrong with changing it up to keep it interesting and discuss the business aspect of the company every now and then.
ReplyDeleteI believe everyone is still reading the blog (even more now than ever before)but just may not have anything to add to the conversation so don't chime in. I think the only reason it may seem "slow" is because school is back on for many of us, meaning that our children are keeping us much busier than we were during the summer.
anon @ 6:43 - I believe that many of us are teachers and now that school has started, we may not have time to post. I know that I have been putting in long hours at school - yesterday I was there for over 12 hours due to open house. I now have papers to grade, plus grad classes to keep up with. Therefore, while I am reading as much as I can, I just don't have the same amount of time as I did before school.
ReplyDeleteAs for the wise owl, just b/c many of us are women doesn't mean that we can't understand. I just don't get where your comments came from - b/c we're women, we're stupid? I am offended by that old school thinking! Why have you decided that we don't understand?
wise owl= troll, I have noticed you have been posting under different names but the underlying ton of your messages is all the same old crap.
ReplyDeleteThis is a good blog don't spoil it for other people.
Hi Anonymous at 6:43 PM! Although the number of comments might be fewer in the past couple of days versus a week or two ago (which I noticed as well), the traffic has been steadily increasing. :) I also noticed that yesterday had the most number of visitors since the blog started. :)
ReplyDeleteThe bad economy is all over the news, and we are all impacted by it and have been discussing it. The tone of wise owl's post was patronizing, assuming that we who post here are not intelligent enough to digest the economic information coming at us and that our lives revolve around the number of berries on the astrid jacket.
ReplyDeleteThis blog is always interesting, no matter what the topic. That's why I come here.
oops! jj was me. I guess my husband had signed in and I didn't realize...sorry. :)
ReplyDeletemary, tina, anon, let's try to be friends here. anyone get any sale items today in store?
ReplyDeleteI love this blog, but don't want to talk about business. Bring on the clothes talk please!!
ReplyDeleteMy store is still closed for renovations. Not the greatest timing with regard to back-to-school shopping. And without a free shipping no minimum code, I can't throw down the money, I'm afraid.
ReplyDeletePS I felt the need to defend all of us from the comments made by wise owl, who inferred that we are shallow. My feeling is that coming here is a nice escape from the pressures of everyday life.
Anon@6:43 here. Thanks for the thoughtful responses.
ReplyDeleteI truly believe that "wise owl/ anon"or whoever you are is just trying to stir the pot and get everyone worked up. This blog is about Jcrew (which is a clothing store in case you didn't notice). If you don't like it, don't read.
ReplyDeleteI'm curious how 'up' is upscale? Just a few points higher than the current level, or is her going after 'near luxury'? If he's trying for the near luxury level stores like Saks, and so on have something J.Crew can never have; the cachet of a name.
ReplyDeleteJ.Crew's name and brand are thought of as more Gap than Gucci, I love J.Crew and I welcome more upscale. But no thanks for the really high end zone. Ties for $50 to $80 are do able, but the level past that is out of J.Crew's reach.
They need to really have the online problems history and the clothes have to be ones that sell out at full pop. If I can get an item for $25 on sale, why spend $75?
Alexis this blog is one of the first things I check when i get home. Right after email and banking. Keep up the great efforts.
Sorry for not commenting on the "wise owl" post. I figured it is not even worth discussing.
ReplyDeleteThanks JCrew Guy for the nice comment! :)
ReplyDeletejcrewguyincanada
ReplyDeleteYou are right. J.Crew is a mid-market brand, with many middle class customers who are struggling to survive right now. I'm curious about Mickey Drexler's decision to go upscale now, at such an inopportune time.
I went to my b&m today. I was shocked by the prices. JCrew has really gone upscale with their prices. I saw lots of cute stuff, but didnt purchase anything. The liberty floral twisted placket shirt was so cute. The price tag said $118.00. Wow. I guess it is "Liberty" fabric, but it still seems like a lot to spend just for a shirt. And I felt that way about a lot of their items. I am not sure why JCrew has seemingly raised their prices this season. I guess I am not their target shopper anymore.
ReplyDeleteThanks Mary. I do find that J.crew is good value for the money I pay. That being said I like everyone else enjoy a deal and if I can get it cheaper I do.
ReplyDeleteI did preorder the v neck argyle that was features in the mens' look book. Not to sure why the look book went away. As the cricket sweater sold out I thought I better jump off my wallet if I want this one. It's $98 and ships around 09/09. I'll tell you what I think when it arrives.
I think Mickey is doing a wise thing - if you can't control the outcome, control expectations. Keeping expectations low, *while working on getting this web system up and running*, will make the impact more powerful before the holiday season. I think he'll get it together...
ReplyDeleteWhat's more, I think JCrew is going to be pursing the "luxury" side cautiously. I didn't see them jumping into a ton of high-cost materials right away (although the python Jamie may be the start of that - I could be wrong). If they work on the branding and time it right, I think they will be able to successfully capture the lower-tier luxury market. As long as they don't chase the LVMH-type clientele, they'll be ok. They are trying to stealthily lead those of us who purchase the $200/order into the realm of the $500/order. It's not crazy to think that by making slightly more luxurious goods, they can achieve that....Put it this way, I was balking at paying $285 for the Lucille, but just the thought that my size would not be available made me take the leap. I would never imagine feeling pressure to buy a freakin' coat, but I took the leap ;P because of potential lack of inventory. If they limit the number of all their "hot" pieces (like their "honey glaze" -anything), built up enough demand but limit supply, heck, I can see them making some decent margins.
I still think they are smart...time will tell. But depending on how JCG does in the next few days/weeks - now may be a good time to buy!
I totally agree that to pay less is better, jcrewguyincanada, unless it's something you really, really want and are afraid will sell out. I never pay full price on items for myself, but if someone wants something as a gift, I'll shell out the cash.
ReplyDeleteI do think that prices on J.Crew merchandise have gone up, and I can't afford to spend money like that now on full-priced items. But the sale items have always been well-priced, unbeatable really, and reduced well within the time in which they are still in season. And I do have to say, in spite of Mickey Drexler's comment in a previous entry that most sale rack items are odd colors, I haven't found that to be the case at all. I have purchased many items in blue, white and black in the final sale area of both the internet and my b&m store.
Did your friend bring back the items you wanted from Vegas, jcrewguyincanada? I hope you are enjoying them!
Audrey
ReplyDeleteThat's an interesting perspective. I hope you are right!
jcrewguyincanada: good timing - that's funny that the cricket sweater sold out. My husband plays cricket in a white Gap sweater LOL!
ReplyDeleteI don't often write comments but I read this blog every day. I agree with other previous posters. I enjoy learning about all aspects of J Crew, from fashion to finance. I would bet that most of the women and men who post here are college educated. There is nothing wrong with enjoying fashion. This blog is really a welcome respite from my day and a great way to relax. Let's keep it that way. Kudos to Alexis for introducing several new topics each day!!! :-) I would like to also add my 2 cents regarding JC's trend toward going upscale. I think it is a bad idea. JC will always be, in my mind, in the same category as Gap and BR. Moreover, most luxury brands don't discount their merchandise the way JC does. If I buy a $600 handbag, I don't want to see it on sale for $300 in two months. I think that's the mentality of many luxury good buyers.
ReplyDeleteHi All - In the spirit of Alexis' blog, I will say one positive thing about the ''Wise Owl'' post. I really appreciate that he knew there were berries on an Astrid jacket!
ReplyDeleteAlso, as I think I might be one of the few regular posters who actually does not work and depends on her husband, I will take full responsibility for being the woman scratching her head and confused by our current economic climate.
mary: Thanks - it's only my perspective as a "clothes-hungry-stay-at-home-mom-who-must-perish-at-the-thought-of-hiding-my-jcrew-boxes-from-my-hubby".. ;) ((snort))
ReplyDelete(said tongue in cheek)
Hey Mary, my friend totally came through with the Vegas run. I think flagging items in the catalog helped.
ReplyDeleteI love the cricket sweater, just waiting for cooler weather for it.
The only time I'm unhappy with paying full pop is later seeing items heavily discounted. Guess it means to order carefully and pick the good ones.
J Crew Guy in Canada - The picking carefully thing regarding full price versus sale is so true and this blog really helps you feel the temperature of the items to see if it will be there later or not.
ReplyDelete^^But I think we all know the "game" right? It's still sweltering and I paid full-price for my sweater. I buy it, but leave the tags on, keep the receipts and essentially leave it untouched in my closet. 30/45/60 days go by and within that window, I see my sweater now discounted. If it's over the 7 day period for price adjustments (presumably) and my less than helpful SA won't allow me to return it to the store and rebuy it at the now discounted price, I just buy the sweater and the new discounted price online and return the sweater in-store.
ReplyDeleteI actually had to do this with the Pippa jacket last year (and it went down to something insane, like $80, I think!). Was it pain? Yes, but worth it!
Jcrewoldtimer
ReplyDeleteIt is difficult, isn't it, to think of J.Crew in the way that we think of luxury brands. It would have to totally reinvent itself to be in a class with Chanel, etc. I do think that Mickey Drexler had the right idea when he was going for luxury AND affordability. It was a pretty seductive combination. As a teacher firmly entrenched in the middle class, it has been really nice to be able to get some nice cashmere, good quality shoes or a pretty, well-made bag, all well-designed and within my budgetary constraints.
And you are right. If I had spent upwards of $600 on a bag, I'd be mighty pissed if I found it on the sale rack shortly thereafter...and that is indeed the mindset of the extremely high-end shopper.
Audrey
ReplyDeleteI've done that on numerous occasions myself. Mostly, though, I wait out the sales. It's just easier!
jcrewguyincanada
ReplyDeleteIsn't it great to have friends you can count on!?
Congratulations on scoring on all the items you wanted!
Jenn brak: You are so right. And I agree this blog really helps me to figure out what to buy for full price and what to wait for. But it's more of an art than a science. I've missed out too many times.
ReplyDeleteHey this could be a good thread or new topic. What's worth full price and what to wait for to go on sale. So far this fall I'm batting 1000. That being said I've most likely just jinxed myself.
Man I love this blog.
Or - in a lot of cases, someone who spends upwards of $600 on a bag doesn't really care if it goes on sale three months later, as they have already moved on to their next ''it'' bag. Neimans and Saks have amazing sales where I score very well, because I don't really care about being on trend, just looking for something that appeals to me.
ReplyDeleteI think my main problem with J. Crew right now is not the fact that they are trying to become more upscale, it is that I have noticed that prices seem to have skyrocketed even though I really believe that overall the merchandise has stayed relatively the same. There is the exception of a few pieces that are ridiculously overpriced a couple of us have mentioned on posts that I could never afford anyway. Since the website upgrade, I haven't been buying as much as I used to and I am less excited about J. Crew in general. I'm sure others feel the same way, too. I've said before that I have no idea how they expect to sell items at the prices listed in the Fall catalog. I am definitely waiting for the sales because I predict there will be a TON of stuff leftover.
ReplyDeleteJennbrak
ReplyDeleteYou make a very good point.
J Crew Guy - I am guessing that the Lucille in Mustard and possible the sequin chiffon ruffle cardis are ''buy nows'' and that there will be a lot of Ecoles left comes season end.
ReplyDeleteHi Guys Sorry this is very OT!
ReplyDeleteThe regular denim pencil skirt is sold out online! You have to buy it through the stores. I ended up doing a "we will find it" since it is still FP. But my discounts were applied and I can't wait to have that gorgeous skirt!
Just thought you might want the heads up.
I think maybe the idea is that the $600+ bag people don't want there to be enough left over to go on sale. It keeps demand high.
ReplyDeleteBlumre, I think you just proved the point. If it's hard to get, you want it more!
ReplyDeleteJenn brak I just your judgement on those must buy items now. I think the argyle sweater I preordered will so quickly like the English belt and some of the cooler ties. I'm really thinking about the scorpion tie, just wish it was navy and not black. I'm also wanting a reg stripe tie with crests on it like they featured in GQ.
ReplyDeleteOh Mary, I wanted this when it first came out. I was just trying to spread out my spending... I had decided two weeks ago that I was going to order it today. I am trying to make my gift cards last as long as possible. I know that's silly... but oh well. Sorry... I wish I could prove the point. But I don't think I prove it with this particular item-- plus I am lazy, so if its hard to get I normally just give up, or give up fairly quickly. haha
ReplyDeleteI completely agree! The prices are so much higher, but w/the discounts, they're more like the good o' regular priced items. But I guess we have to taken into consideration the higher prices to make the items and gas prices and higher minimum wages...yikes! I'm new this blog (love it), and hope I'm not offending anyone with economic talk.
ReplyDeleteblumre: Were you able to stack discounts on the skirt? Btw, congrats on getting it. I love mine and I think you'll love yours!
ReplyDeleteI just read the article. WOW. $3 million and how much lost revenue? I think the bigger question at hand is who did they hire to do their IT?
ReplyDeleteOh - Don't even start me on ties. Until I met my husband, I bought my dad $40 ties that I thought were lovely. I now purchase in a whole different tie stratosphere and am amzed by the beauty of the silks available. Sometimes I pick out a tie and then we buy a shirt and suit to complement. It is one really fun part about my DH. He lived in London and started to care about a good suit or a nice shirt there and brought it home with him.
ReplyDeleteAAHHH! The denim pencil skirt is sold out!? And the wool Charlie jacket!? I wish they would post warnings like Zappos. Argh!
ReplyDeleteI always find that items that sell out early in the season are then reordered and come back later because they know that this particular item has done well so it is safe to think that it will sell even more. Then, towards the end of the season, there ends up being a surplus of that particular item that always ends up on the sale rack. This has happened to me many times with J. Crew so watch out!
ReplyDeleteIf they'd sent me my catalog with a 15% off coupon, they'd have $130 more revenue today . . . has anyone else who gets catalogs in the mail not yet received one?
ReplyDeleteI think their marketing department picks and chooses who gets the 15% discount- I know, that sucks, right? But the reasoning behind it is that 1) if you already spend x amount each month, they know you'll keep coming back, regardless, and 2)they make an extra 15% off of you, because they don't have to discount your order
ReplyDeleteI just got mine yesterday, I seem to be on the slow rotation now.
ReplyDeletewhat are you waiting to get hexicon?
I think my philosophy, now that I know a little more on how the pricing/demand thing has played out at JCrew: I'm buying what I absolutely can't wait for (worrying about size or color selling out) immediately, but I am keeping an eye on the item's pricing. At the current price points, it's probably going to be a single do-or-die item. And it will have to be with either free shipping or a % discount.
ReplyDeleteI'll browse the real-life catalog for other fun things and basics and view the catalog on-line in about a month's time to see where things are headed. But I'll keep the majority of the buying for the final sale/final sale +20%/30% deals.
math teacher how is your school year starting out? I know I am so excited I tried it on in the store. Its going to be great and look really sharp!
ReplyDeleteHexicon: I never got my catalog with my discount :( I am totally pissed... but maybe it will come.
Wise Owl, honestly, I am a little offended. I went to grad school and I work in the financial field in Non-profits. I find Alexis' posts on the business side of JCrew to be fascinating and I am learning more and more every day about a company I love. Frankly, I am not married but even when I am there is a good chance I will earn a comparable about to my husband (current boyfriend) and he will be starting out in an NYC law firm... they don't pay peanuts. So if you would like to insult my intelligence because I like to talk about fashion instead of solving the world's problems as a break now and then, thats fine... but get to know me first. Also its the last week in August... EVERYONE IS AWAY ON VACATION--- this city is so empty and filed with tourists!!!
Someone asked about my discounts?--- Sorry I forgot who and I am lazy--- meep. But yes I got them all! Thanks to a fabulous SA
ReplyDeleteMath Teacher: this is for us!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.polyvore.com/cgi/set?id=3284621
gotta love the denim skirt! ;)
The problem I see with chasing after the LVMH set is that -our- demographic is then no longer being served. I'm mostly thinking of age group 28-45-ish. Done with American Eagle and Abercrombie, but not into Studio 121/Nordstrom or Talbots. Nothing wrong with any of those other retailers, but J Crew strikes a fantastic, polished, modern, sexy-yet-classy look at a doable price. Not every woman is trying to hide her body. If they continue to move away from where they are now, I think it'd be bad. Personally, I'd rather be a big fish in a small pond. Be the leader over BR, GAP, Ann Taylor and other wanna bes and show them how its done. Instead of being a bottom feeder in the LVMH ocean.
ReplyDeleteOMG- I LOVE THAT SITE!!!! THANKS!
ReplyDeleteRe: skyrocketing clothes prices, there are a few other brands I like out there and guess what? Their prices rose this past year too! :-( It makes me upset but while I think the Crew's price hikes might be a little more extreme than others I've seen, other brands are doing it too, unfortunately.
ReplyDeleteThe sad thing about the ever-increasing prices on J. Crew merch is that I just keep getting used to it. I used to think paying $100 for a top was ridiculous and now I'm like, "wow, that shirt is only $98, that's not too shabby!" I will, however, not get used to the prices of their cashmere. It keeps going up and up. I will only buy it on sale.
ReplyDeleteBut if you think J. Crew prices are bordering on ridiculous, have you SEEN Crewcuts?? I am planning on writing about this soon. Insane.
A couple of random thoughts -
ReplyDeleteRegarding the traffic or lack thereof over the last few weeks - we're in the heart of vacation season - having just returned from one myself. Let's measure the traffic after Labor Day.
I took my daughter to the J.Crew store on Madison for a bit of back to school shopping. Most of the new Fall clothing was in. We spoke with two employees and I asked if they were hearing complaints about CS and the web site. Both said yes - to the point of being completely embarrassed. Both were very focused on making sure we enjoyed our in store experience - we did. The only purchases were a pair of jeans and some accessories (both for her).
The male sales associate asked if I had a chance to visit the new Tribeca store - told him I was saving that for my next trip. He swore up and down that I would be completely hooked - especially with the antique watches, gorgeous suits etc. I have to say for a Saturday in August the store was packed - albeit with foreign tourists but it's all good.....
I received the Men's catalog today - I have to say I wasn't blown away - I guess I expected a bit more of the high end suits, shirting etc. to be the focus but they didn't appear at all. They do have a very nice selection of shoes for fall. I'm already focusing on a few (one at full price, two others when they hit the sale bin in 8 weeks).
JCG - tomorrow is a HUGE buying opportunity. I have an order in at $18 (need to put my money where my mouth is) because I do believe long term the company will thrive.
Kudos to all for putting the "not so wise owl" in her place. Each posting has implicit value to this board and I can tell you that J.Crew management and it's employees (both reps had visited this blog) gain valuable information from our feedback. The brutal online experiences of anonymous and others should be completely abhorrent to Mickey and his team. I have never read about or witnessed such ineptitude with an upgrade.
Frankly I could care less about Madewell - I'm sure I said the same about Old Navy back when the Gap was still relevant. I do think that while risky this move to an upscale mix - in effect expanding the product range will work but it must be done with great care.
Alexis - any idea what the female/male ratio is on this blog? Perhaps in the next week or so you can post an online poll around the number of female/male contributors to this site. I'm guessing we have a few more male contributors than would be commonly assumed.
Completely agree with anonymous - this blog is addictive. I was out of touch for 5 days and spent 2 hours catching up.
I also want to note that even though J. Crew's prices on some items are getting to be a little much, just compare their items to stores like Bebe, which charge similar prices for stuff that looks trashy and has quality that is only marginally better than that of Forever21.
ReplyDeleteI saw a jersey knit dress in ArdenB a few weeks ago that was $98 and it looked like crap. At least if I'm paying the same amount for a J. Crew knit jersey dress, it actually looks good and is of decent quality.
gigi: Well said! ITA!
ReplyDeleteAlso, I don't understand why they would want to leave their current market behind. I mean it's a huge, untapped, unaddressed market. Whereas the truly high-end shoppers make up a very small percentage of the existing market. I think it's something like 3%. So why leave behind a large percentage to grab only 3%??? I don't get it.
btw, blumre: Congrats on the skirt! Now there's NO doubt about whether you should have waited on it or not! Great Job! :)
I haven't gotten a catalog much less a coupon Hexicon. I'm with ya on that one.
ReplyDeleteAs for sky high prices, I agree - it's hard to even look at new items now. However, I'm sort of new to J Crew. I'd say up until early last year I was a BR girl. Still like BR's stuff but always want to pay a little more for something better from the Crew. The quality is really unmatched at these prices still in my opinion. Of course, I just purchased my first piece of Cashmere ever thanks to J Crew's sales. I really can't complain much but if I was any less of a bargain shopper then I couldn't afford shopping here. I must put in some serious time and effort to get deals and that is the only drawback I see.
blumre and math teacher:
ReplyDeleteI just ordered the denim pencil skirt online Saturday evening after seeing it in store but not in my size (fyi, my store in Tucson had a lot of them left, a lot! so it may come to you via sunny Arizona). They did not have a 16 which I will need with the pencil skirt cut; fuller skirts or a-lines I can do a 12 or 14. Anyway, my point is that I hope mine comes! The order says releasable and in stock, so we will see. I also ordered the cord skirt in grey.
J Crew Guy: Congrats on batting 1000! I am sure that is mainly due to your judgement and not just luck so don't worry about the jinx. FFM, Kater, and I were discussing elsewhere how we would like for our significant others to dress as nicely as you do!
ReplyDeleteOops, I meant to say that the skirt order is released and open. It says this for both skirts, same order, so I have hope.
ReplyDeletegigiofca: I totally agree - they need to stay away from the LVMH crowd. I see that they are trying to create their own demographic...a pull of folks exactly as you describe: too old for Abercrombie, but not quite Nordstrom woman yet. We have been here all along - they just want more of our cash!
ReplyDeleteOne of the things that does concern me about their turnaround - Madewell can help make them or break them. I think if it's not seen as a competitor with Urban Outfitters (UO), it's going to be seen as a version of ON , as compared to Gap. This could bring whatever upturn they have down. If they use Madewell to further differentiate their clientele and then cut them loose if they lose money, they will be ok...
Douglas, I went with my boyfriend to the tribeca store. though given that you have a daughter I know we are much younger than you are (no offense). But niether of us liked the store at all... see alexis' post. THE STORE WAS TINY... I mean smaller than an average sized NYC one bedroom! Not much to write home about... it quite a trek there for not too much
ReplyDeleteBTW Douglas, before I forget to say it. You comments were well said and I agree! And Bleh tourists I want my city back!
ReplyDeleteYes, I know Weab, I should have listened to you (and everyone else) much sooner!!! I am just trying to pace myself, and its not working.
jacquelyn, I will cross my fingers for you!
YAY I just got the "find it for you" email. They found it! HEHEHE OOOOO I am so giddy!
ReplyDeleteblumre: That's awesome news! Yay, JCrew!
ReplyDeleteYAY BLUMRE!!!! That's great news!!! I'm so happy for you!
ReplyDeleteAt least there's proof out there that "find it for you" works! Not once have they ever been able to "find something" for me.
ReplyDeleteAudrey: Was actually sitting here clapping my hands in applause for about 60 seconds (note: I am alone in my apartment so no one can actually prove I went insane).
ReplyDeleteAlso the CSRep who placed the order says if you give a suggestion to CSRep (e.g. more lengths available (34" would be great rather than just 32 and 36) and more colors for chinos (math teacher I said black and chocolate)they are supposed to fill out a form with your suggestion. MY CS Rep said Mickey Drexler actually reads these comments. So make sure to tell your CS Reps stuff. Its a great way to communicate with the company--- well other than this blog.
Jcrewbug: Thanks so much. Not too sure I have good taste or simply a willingness to spend $$ and use the catalog and magazines for ideas and direction.
ReplyDeleteDouglas: I completely agree with you. I think there are more men who both read and post here. I was addicted to Mad Men and now this blog. I can't really check it while at work, but once I'm home I can't seem to stop reading.
I'd love to see a mens' catalog. Or are you refering to the current one? Hmmm .... shoes, do I need/want some new ones?
blumre: you are too funny! I love the clapping...I'm sure I've done it at some point too..;)
ReplyDeleteYea Ashley: in most the "we will find it for you" doesn't work for me either! I am just thrilled it worked this time.... keep trying one time its bound to work for you too.
ReplyDeleteThanks everyone. I am very excited to wear it.
Wise owl, a lot of the women on this board are highly educated with advanced degrees. We just happen to like clothes as well! I know for a fact there are several PhDs, lawyers, MBAs and those holding other masters' degrees who post on here. Try again, mr. misogynist.
ReplyDeletejcrew guy in canada: sorry to butt in on your post but I love Mad Men too! The stylists on the show are phenomenal!
ReplyDeleteditto to Audrey and Jcrew guy: I love mad men too! :) There are a bunch of articles out there about how the show in influencing fashion!
ReplyDeleteI have noticed too that the price on some of the items have increased. For example in the men's section, their suit vest which was once $98 a couple of months ago, now sell for $118! Also many of the other outerwear item have increased $20 dollar as well. Though these prices have gone up, I still sometime spend my money on regular price item. This is because of the discounts codes that are available and gift cards that I get from betting on ebay. Most of the time I get an extra $30 or $40 just from betting on gift cards on ebay. Though its a long process, I must say that is the only way I would buy these full price item.
ReplyDeletethis is OT, but do y'all think the Wool Tuesday Trench will make it to a sale?
ReplyDeleteBlumre: Congrats! I am so happy for you!!! :)
ReplyDeleteDouglas: Unfortunately, I don't have a tracking system for men to women commentators on this blog. But I will say that I have definitely noticed more men commenting in the past month. I think there are lots of Aficionados out there in addition to the Aficionadas. :)
JCrew Guy in Canada & Audrey & Blumre: I love Mad Men too!!! :)
JCrew Guy in Canada: I think that is a great blog topic: what to pay full price for and what to wait for on sale! I will use it. :)
Sorry this post is not related to this thread. But does anyone know when JC will have their final summer sale with another added discounts??
ReplyDeleteMid September????
weab: Re. the trench, I think you have a good shot at getting a sale price on it. For one, they make a petite version too, so that at least cuts out some of your competition (I'm technically supposed to shop "petite" based on my height -not weight, hoho - and generally choose to do so if available)....Also, there are a few trench styles available in other fabrics, so that may help
ReplyDeleteSpeaking of fall items...the ecole jacket in honey glaze is completely sold out in P0, to my surprise...and there are no waiting lists or anything. I wonder if it's a marketing strategy, or it's just that Jcrew is more careful now so that they don't end up with too many in stock.
ReplyDeleteaudrey: Thanks for your thoughts! I'm also a petite (height not weight too) ;) I tried the regular 0 on and I still really needed a petite for the arms and where the waist is supposed to hit. It seems this one runs a bit big so that's why I'm so worried. I think all the small sizes will go, including the petites (as a plan "B" for those who wear regular sizes). But I'm hoping you're right. I'm going to wait it out.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I do agree with those of you who say the crew is limiting their production of all their stock in order to sell out before it makes it to a sale. Maybe it serves as a gauge for them to see early on if they need to produce more of particular items before actually doing so and risking excess inventory.
p.s. to those haters out there, just because I do stay at home and take care of my kids while my husband goes out and makes money, does NOT mean I'm dumb and uneducated. I have a BBA in Marketing from a prestigious University and CHOOSE to stay home to care for my kids. If that were a paid position, I doubt my husband could afford me!
ReplyDeleteKater, I have to have the opera gloves . . . before my next opera! Hee.
ReplyDeleteAudrey, J.Crew guy in Canada, and Blumre, I am a huge MM fan. I think I posted this on the other blog, but sorry if I'm repeating myself:
I ordered the royal violet super 120s dress and the size was not right. I was in front of the mirror debating whether to exchange or just return when Mr. Hex came in and says "I like that--it looks like something Joan Holloway would wear." So now I have to keep it! (in different size)
Hex: that is soooo exciting and very cool! WTG Mr. Hex! :)
ReplyDeleteWeab: you tell 'em. I am so glad to know we are all a bunch of seriously tough cookies ;) (I totally mean that in a girl power, awesome way).
ugh I need to go to bed... I have now stayed up late 2 nights in a row reading eclipse and I am almost finished with it... SO UNACCEPTABLE
weab: You go, girl! :D It *is* an incredibly important job (being a mom)...and you're right - no way could our DHs afford to pay us as "salaried personnel"...we'll just get it in clothes and accessories (hahahaha!)
ReplyDeleteMan, they need an SAP expert at JCrew....I forgot I used to work on this LOL! It took two years to implement at our company, but it eventually worked.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SAP_AG
Hex: Your DH's comment is priceless...Love it!
ReplyDeleteI'd love to rock what Joan wears but man, the foundation undergarments necessary for that kind of cantilevering...astounding...!
hex - I haven't recvd a new catalog. The most recent one I have had the shoes on it, I believe.
ReplyDeleteAshley - I agree w/you. I am also psychologically getting used to the higher price points. I will pay FP for something I absolutely have to have and will wait for other items to go on sale. I am still sad about missing the tomato Cheshire last winter. Actually J Crew screwed that up somehow before the web, if you can imagine. I'm realizing there has been a humongous abyss/disconnect between the ordering system and the warehouse. The web overhaul only underlined the fact.
jcgincanada - I love MadMen. I *have* to get caught up On Demand.
I love seeing the guys come out of the woodwork here. Please keep showing up. We love it. I bought a plaid short sleeve shirt for my husband and today he was pointing out the intricacies in the stitching. I think that was a hint that he loves his shirt & I should stick w/the brand for him. So I'll be watching what you're buying. ;-)
Oh yeah -- we'll see what happens with Madewell. Remember how kitschy ON commercials used to be? They have really revamped the brand with stronger, sleeker advertising campagins and better merch. I'll be curious to see what ways Madewell may adjust as they find their footing.
And finally -- I ordered some Final Sale items and recvd an email confirmation. Only 2 of my 5 items were listed as "This item is final sale and cannot be returned or exchanged." To be specific, the Frances (91802), chino cafe capri (89706) and jamie jacket (95244)were not final sale. The blouson sweater (90728) and popover top (92681) are final sale. I was tempted to wait until there is an additional % off, but I figured the website would clog up and I might not get my items. Also, I may not be shopping for awhile so I wanted one last hurrah -- esp since it is still 95 degrees here. I was able to use IAT-100 for free shipping over $150.
I think J Crew demographics is probably broader than the people who read/posts on this blog.
ReplyDeleteI always wonder how much they sell to Japan, for instance. A few of their items are wore by movie stars (most recently a navy Fiona on Julia Roberts).
Anyway, I think if they go up market a little bit - say $300 for a pair of shoes, $600 for a handbag, then it's peanuts for some, and somewhat reachable for other professional women.
Going the LV/Gucci route will be a hard stretch.
Heh, Audrey, if I don't lay off the Snickers (I'm eating one right now) I am going to have to look at some serious foundation garments myself!
ReplyDeleteOh, and the gab suiting dress is definitely in the same category of 60's retro--looks great with the rosette belt (which I bought even though I could make it with a glue gun). And I think Joan would wear the Astrid herringbone suit in Sweet Potato too!
www.whatwouldjoando.com
After seeing Hillary tonight I'm feeling totally justified in asserting that orange is the new power color. And I never would have tried it if it weren't for the girls on this blog urging me to get the Sweet Orange Candace!
I think J.Crew is raising its prices because customers are willing to pay. Didn't one of the articles on Mickey say that he asked SA's if customers were complaining about the prices yet? No complaints, full price sales still taking place, and he figures why not raise them even more? I also have a theory that the whole *waistlisted*, *no longer appearing on the website*, and *sold out even though it's brand new* issues are all a ploy by J.Crew to generate *buzz*, *excitement*, and even *panic* over certain pieces, so that sales are increased...hmmm...could it be?
ReplyDeleteThis blog is supposed to be for discussing ALL things J.Crew...that means the Good, the Bad, the Ugly, AND the Fashion related side of J.Crew...afterall, they ARE a clothing company!
Btw...I just returned from a City Council Meeting where I spoke against an ordinance directly affecting my property negatively. The council voted against the ordinance, due to the fact that I delivered an intelligent, well-spoken, well-informed, and knowledgable argument against it. Now I am online checking this blog and Polyvore because I LOVE to discuss fashion, J.Crew, and shop...not because I can't understand what's going on in the *real* world.
hexicon: I noticed you commented on the purple wool gab dress. I tried that on and liked it a lot too!! But the size that fit in the hips is way too loose in the bust. :( Is there a way to tailor that to make the fit better?
ReplyDeleteweab: i ditto your comment @ 11:44...another educated, stay at home mom here ;) cheers!!
ReplyDeleteMelanie, I hope so. I posted a more detailed fit analysis in a different thread. I tried on 6R in store, huge everywhere, ordered a 6P, which hit me in odd places and was too short and still too big in the torso. I ordered an exchange for a 4R, which I think I will still have to have altered in the waist. I love the color and really want to keep it.
ReplyDeleteHex - I think the site is http://whatwouldjoando.tumblr.com/ and it will be another attention diverter for me. *lol*
ReplyDeleteffm - We are currently ignoring people who come on board to flame. It's really for the best. For the record and until I learned otherwise, I first thought both you & ccbmum were employed in the 'traditional' workplace. Whatever that is. Ha!
Hex and Melanie - I have to have a lot of things tailored because of a small waist/bigger hips shape. I took a look at the dress you both mentioned regarding tailoring. A talented seemstress will be able to alter this dress for you, but it will probably be quite expensive. The things that make it more difficult are the detailed bodice seeming with the buttons. The skirt is made a little more difficult because of the pockets. I am not a professional, just trying to give you a little more info for when you visit your tailor.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree about Joan. I always think she looks the prow of a ship cutting through the waves of bs as she glides through the office.
Hi gigiofca: I was simply trying to make a point that this blog is for discussing ALL things J.Crew, since as of late there seems to be numerous posts saying we aren't talking about the *right* J.Crew issues or topics. I didn't personally direct my post at anyone, and was merely giving an example for previous comments made that stated just because someone enjoys discussing fashion it doesn't make them less intelligent.
ReplyDeleteAll –
ReplyDeleteAs far as I’m concerned Mad Men is “it” as far as TV viewing is concerned. Nothing else comes close…..
Looking through the latest catalog you can see the Mad Men influences – rich colors, 60’s fit and finish (slim suits, skinny ties) and an overall return to real elegance.
Almost makes me want to buy some Brylcreem – which believe it or not is still sold in stores…who knew?]
http://www.amctv.com:80/originals/madmen/
FFM: Congrats on the city council meeting. Go you! :)
ReplyDeleteThanks blumre! I'm really excited! I spoke on behalf of our neighborhood and *won* the argument against the other party and the ordinance (an annexation request)submitted to the council...the win is really a big deal for us and all of our neighbors. :)
ReplyDeleteFFM: Congrats on delivering an awesome speech that convinced the council to vote against the ordinance- that is awesome!!! :)
ReplyDeleteFFM: You rock! Congrats - public speaking still scares me straight (and I was in sales - successfully - for years before starting my SAHM gig)...it's takes a lot of guts, not to mention brains, to be so poised and articulate in front of an emotionally charged group!
ReplyDeletedouglas: You are so right! Love the style on MM. While I adore the looks for the women, it's the men's styling that makes me swoon! I've even got DH looking at those classic, narrow suits. My dad, who throws nothing away, actually has a few in his closet and they are kewl!
blumre: So far, my school year is going well. I have pretty good classes and fairly small class sizes. :) I am exhausted, though. It usually takes me a while to get back in the swing of things, as far as energy goes. I hate starting with a full week, and that's what we did. So by the time Saturday came around, all I wanted to do was laze around! Thanks for asking.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you got your skirt. And, I love the polyvore set. Now, I have more to buy. :P