Tuesday, September 9, 2008

Dear FFM: Help Put Together A J.Crew Outfit For Me

FabulousFloridaMommy (FFM) regularly guest blogs on outfits she creates with items that you, the members, request. :) FFM has done it again and exceeded my expectations and created an outfit for practically every request in the "Dear FFM: Help Put Together A J.Crew Outfit For Me" post! FFM has done a wonderful job with all the outfits. :)

To view the sets, click on the links below. (The name of the link relates to the request for an outfit.)
The Dream Silvie Dress in Heather Charcoal | Whiper Lame' In Dark Gold Goes Casual
Olivia In The Fall #1 | Olivia In The Fall #2
Snow-Leopard Simone Peacoat In The UK | Snow-Leopard Simone Peacoat Evening Out
Metallic Cloque' Pencil Skirt For Office | Metallic Cloque' Pencil Skirt For Fall/Early Winter
Astrid In Heather Charcoal With Dark Eggplant and Denim
Astrid In Charcoal With Bright Rhubarb
| Astrid In Charcoal-Seize The Day
Andrea At The Office III | Donegal Tweed Ecole In Sea Green
Martine and Sparkle Tweed | Martine In Heather Graphite/Green Goes Casual Chic
Acorn Cords Seize The Day With Lydia | Jackie and Lydia #2
Tartine In Heather Mushroom Look #1 (AKA - For Jcrewbug :)
Tartine In Heather Mushroom- Look #2
Wheat Graphite Saffron Argyle & Honey Glaze Cords | Flora and Argyle Cashmere
Cord Pencil Skirt in Honey Glaze #2 | Honey Mustard Cord Skirt In Fall #3
Honey Mustard Cord Pencil Skirt #4
Cynthia Dress In Papaya Look #1 | Cynthia Dress In Papaya Look # 2
Belle and Marcella At The Office | Belle and Ruffles
Fall/Winter in Florida #1 | Fall/Winter In Florida #2

Are there any items from J.Crew (that you either own or are thinking about getting) that you would like FFM to create outfit ideas. Feel free to include additional info like: the climate/season you want to wear the item/outfit, as well as age bracket/lifestyle. :) After a few days, FFM will select a few items (from the feedback) to create a couple of Polyvore outfits with those items (which will then be posted for all).

What J.Crew pieces do you often wonder how to use in an outfit? What J.Crew items would you like to see an outfit created for (please include item name or item number)? Do you have any J.Crew items in your closet that you are unsure how to style with? Please, let us know! :)

62 comments:

  1. Thanks FFM for putting together these inspirational outfits! Very fun to look at and thank you for my two Simone peacoat looks....

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  2. FFM, thanks for creating the sets for the whisper lame top! I also really love the ones you did for the Olivia. I now own that thing in three colors! I especially love the brilliant blue with the deep hydrangea liberty shirt. I just bought the liberty shirt today, and until I saw that set just now, I never would have thought to put it with my brilliant blue olivia! You are so genius!

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  3. Love the outfits! I was hoping you could help me out. :) I purchased the chiffon-trim tissue tank in deep indigo but haven't figured out a way to wear it with jeans (item 77993 and/or 97106) since I find the two different blues looks kinda strange together. I'm in my mid-20s, if that helps at all. :)

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  4. The outfits are fabulous! My favorites are with the copper chino jacket. I have the Liberty Fabric shirt in weathered Fuschia and am contemplating getting the Cotton-Silk Lawn in Deep Indigo but am not sure how to wear them. I am a children's librarian so need an outfit that can be dressed up (for professional meetings) or down (for lively storytimes with toddlers!) I would love something appropriate for fall that can transition into winter. I also love colors...but am 36 so not over the top. Sometimes it is warm in the library, sometimes cold so layering pieces are ideal. Is that too much information?!?!?! I just discovered this blog and LOVE IT! My new addiction!!!!

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  5. FFM: Love the ideas for the Silvie, thank you so much for doing it! The silvie also came in the camel color that the argyle cardigan appears to come in and while I loved it, I liked the contrast of the charcoal against my skin more. Probably just personal preference, though.

    Would you happen to have any ideas on the types of heels you'd recommend? I love the idea but the truth is, I own very few heels, I'm more of a flats kind of gal. :)

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  6. FFM- are you still looking for a Joelle blouse? i have one in regal purple, size 0 i thinking about selling. interested?

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  7. PS- FFM, never worn, tried on a few times and took tags off, but is too big for me. not sure how much i paid for it but can look it up tonight, i think less than $30.

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  8. FFM - I love looking at your sets! They always inspire me to try something new. Thanks :)

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  9. FFM: I would love to see your polyvore for Astrid jacet in Blue for casual and office. I have the wool pencil skirt in charcoal and university pants in camel.

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  10. THANK YOU to everyone again for the compliments on my sets, and for the opportunity to create new outfits each week, too. :)

    melanie: I love the look of the J.Crew heels I have shown in my sets, but have heard they are usually not very comfortable. I have tried to use mainly J.Crew pieces, and that is why they are shown in the sets. I personally LOVE shoes made by Born and Sofft...I know that their are many Aficionadas who also highly recommend Cole Haan shoes, as well. Also, even though I tend to show my outfits with heels...flats can easily be worn in place of them, or even shoes you already own that work with the color scheme. :)

    melissa: Thank you so much for the offer, but I did indeed end up finding the blouse in Regal Purple already. THANK YOU for thinking of me for the blouse...I TRULY APPRECIATE IT! :)

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  11. you're welcome! hope it's working out for you better than me ;)

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  12. I am purchasing the Tartine Crewneck sweater in Maize and really love the color. (i even bought the ecole velvet in honey glaze because of the deep yellows) I always have to wear flats (1. my boyfriend is only an inch taller and 2. we'll be on vacation and doing a lot of walking when i wear it) i'm going to be 25 in a week and wondered how i could layer it with showcasing the collar detail / not looking like a 10 year old school girl. any help is appreciated! your outfits are really inspiring to my wallet!!

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  13. FFM, I just wanted to say that your looks are fun and often not what I would have thought to put together. Thanks for sharing your stylish ideas!

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  14. FMM, you clearly put a lot of work into this. Thanks for your ideas!

    OT, does anyone know if the Gayle ruffle trench has an internal hook or button closure, or do you just belt it closed? Does it run large, small, or tts?

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  15. laura1: Thank you for the kind words...it means a lot!

    cass: I wanted to put together a look for your Cashmere Cable Cardigan but couldn't find a picture of it...I was considering trying to do it with a substitute such as the Cashmere Cardigan in Heathered Wheat. Would this work or did you already figure out a look for your sweater in the Heathered Acorn?

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  16. Anon @7:44 AM--Try the weathered fuschia liberty print with black pencil skirt and skinny patent belt. Conservative cut and color of the skirt works nicely with the purples and greys and loose print.

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  17. Hello! FFM I am at a loss. I am attending an outdoor wedding Oct 4th in VA. 5:30 ceremony, dinner reception. Its going to be High 70s during the day, 50s at night. I'm 23 years old, but am more classic than super trendy. What would you do?

    I love the hammered silks in peacocks, plums, etc. Those are great colors for me, ivory and mustard, not so much.

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  18. Love the Olivia sets FFM, thank you!!

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  19. laverte: Have you considered purchasing a dress, or are you more interested in seperate pieces such as a skirt and blouse?

    shannee: I'm glad you like them! :)

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  20. FFM-Both are fine with me--I just recently got the linen/silk metallic brushstoke shift, but cant decide if it will be too late in the fall to wear it

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  21. I love the chloe boots in the sets (with the buckle), but it doesn't seem to be at net-a-porter (it doesn't have buckles).

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  22. I will I'm on a moderate budget so, versatility is important :)

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  23. ffm, yes I got some ideas from my J.Crew online PS. Thanks though!

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  24. laverte: what is the item number on the shift dress you just purchased? Is it sold out online now?

    I really like the Hammered-Silk Laura dress as an option for you, too: Click Here. You could also opt for the Tartine Cardigan or simply wear a Pashmina wrap or something similar with it for the cooler evening weather, as well. :)

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  26. FFM: Its item #93606 I did a search for it to find it. I am only 5'2 so it is not nearly as short but seeing it in the pictures makes me wonder if it woudl be appropriate. Probably not...

    I love the hammered dresses, they are beautiful.

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  27. laverte: I am also hesitant on the Antonia Dress...I think it would be better to opt for something else if your budget permits. :) The Hammered Dresses are beautiful, and the Peacock is so pretty for Autumn, too. You said you like the Hammered Silk Tank...do you already have one?

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  28. Dear FFM: Would you please put together some late summer outfit ideas? I am a stay at home mom of two little ones and I live in the south (very hot, very humid). I get so tired of the polo and khaki shorts.
    When we go somewhere I love to dress up but hanging around the neighborhood I want to look nice but still be able to chase the kids, help ride the scooter and not have to worry about taking my clothes to the cleaners!

    Somehow in the colder months I have the look down but summer when I cant layer much because it is so darn hot, my clothes are boring.
    Thanks! H

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  29. FFM: I dont have any yet, but its my next purchase in my "cart" and I am hoping next week!

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  30. ffm: Love your looks, especially the Donegal Tweed Ecole In Sea Green.

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  31. By the way, I am in my late 30's. Thanks again!!

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  32. Great outfits, I loved them all.

    Can you suggest outfits for the dream crystal button colorblock cardigan (silver honey). Both casual and work (a teacher). No skinny cords please!

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  33. FFM: You did a wonderful job with the sets- thank you so much!!! :)


    Cass: You may be interested in the post "Love it or Leave it: Gayle Ruffle Trench " :)

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  34. FFM,
    I really enjoy looking at your outfit ideas :)

    I was wondering whether you could coordinate some pieces for petite sized people next time? a lot of outfits on j.crew catalog seem to work very nicely on tall models, but I'm about 5'4 (I usually wear xs or p0) but I have rather longer torso and shorter leg, so without wearing high heels, it's hard to pull many of these looks. I'm a student in graduate level school and usually wear nice casual. I don't have picture for most of items I have, but I wear lot of bermudas during summer and early fall.

    Here's some that I have images of.
    1. item no. 93552 (in light pewter)
    2. Petite summerweight chino Mendocino jacket, item no. 91822 (in kahki)
    3. Stretch twill bermuda, item no. 91296 (in white)

    Thank you so much :)

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  35. Okay - I tried on the orangish wool pants this past weekend at JC. Loved them. But didn't buy them because I'm not sure what to wear with them.
    Help me fellow jc fans!

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  36. Off topic- What do you guys think of the Long Glenbrae leather high-heel boots? Do you like them in black? I think they look cute on the model

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  37. Thanks so much for "Acorn cords seize the day with Lydia!" A-mazing! You certainly are fabulous,and have a great eye for color!!!

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  38. K, I am not a fashion expert, but after having seen Tim Gunn's Guide to Style many times, I have some ideas of what works on different body types. ;) If you have shorter legs, you should not be wearing bermuda shorts (or capris)!!! They are going to make you look shorter. Think shorts with a 3"-5" inseam at the longest.

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  39. alexis, thanks for the link. The thread was indeed helpful. ;) Did you end up getting the trench yourself?

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  40. Cass: You know I have been very close to purchasing the trench many (many) times. ;) But each time, I just went back to that post and read how it needed to be sized down, how the sleeves being 3/4 were limiting, and that it could only be worn closed. So without trying it on in-person, I just hesitated with the purchase. It just looks so lovely in the picture. :)

    Incidentally, I forgot which post it was in, but a member mentioned that there was a store in California (kind of like a 'mom and pop' Marshalls) that had J.Crew Gayle Trench coats in the khaki and bright flame for just $40.

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  41. anon @1:08: About the Chloe' boots in my sets...it appears as if they had been in the Sale section at net-a-porter.com but must have sold out. The black in the same style are still available and also the ankle version in the taupe color are available as well.:)

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  42. FFM- thank you so, so much!!! You are SUCH a help!

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  43. Alexis: About the mom and pop Marshalls in CA, I wonder if it's a place called Jeremy's? They are notorious for having lots of J.Crew items, super-discounted! There is a location in Berkeley and another one in San Francisco. I hear the Berkeley one is the one to go to for all the J.Crew stuff (the SF one's selection isn't as good).

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  44. Melanie: That is the place!!! :) I have not been to Jeremy's, but a member mentioned them having the Gayle Ruffle Trench so I looked up their website and saw that they do sell items from brand stores like J.Crew. :) I would love to go to the Berekeley store. :)

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  45. laverte: There are a TON of beautiful dresses in the Sale section today that would be PERFECT for the wedding and in beautiful colors, too. :)

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  46. FFM: How abouth the wool herringbone pencil skirt in sweet potato? It is a georgeous skirt, but I haven't a clue what to wear with it.

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  47. Wondering how I can wear knee high argyle socks to work so they show. I love them, but usually cover them up with pants. Help!

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  48. mary: would you consider wearing them with a skirt?

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  49. Love the looks you have for the blue colored berry Astrid. How about some combos with the Plum one? I am late 30's- plan on wearing it casually but don't want to always wear the t-shirt and jeans combo...I like unusual color combos as well. Open to anything:) Thanks.

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  50. How about suiting? City-fit wool gabardine trouser and wool gabardine three-button mini-hacking jacket, in dark chestnut both; - very boring, how to make them "sound"?

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  51. FFM - you are fabulous! I just got the Jacinda sweater jacket in black (item 98594) but I have no idea what to wear under it or with it - t-shirt? button shirt? The collar on the sweater is totally throwing me off - I guess I'm used to my cardigans... I'm an attorney in NYC, in my early 30s...

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  52. FABFLORIDAMOMMY: Yes, I would wear them with a skirt - what on my feet? flats? Mary Janes? Boots (but then they just peek a little).

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  53. Also wondering about the sweater dress - so cute. Think it gets stretched out in the rear after a day of sitting at the office? Anyone have one?!

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  54. mary: I think you can wear them with flats, mary janes, AND boots...just wear them the way you would normally wear tights. What color do you have?

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  55. Hi FFM! I was wondering if you could help me with some pieces. I have the gray "Seize Il Giorno" tshirt, faded cement boot cut cords, regal purple & sour lemon jackies, white silk pleated jersey top, watercolor lydia, cord skirt in chocolate, bateau dress in fresh strawberry and slate gray, chino cooper jacket in british khaki, featherweight merino ruffle cardigan in orange, featherweight cotton ruffle top in heather sterling, AND the market tees with the sardine & the beaded shoe. I have seen your other ensembles, and absolutely love them. I know some of these pieces are included already, but if you could give me some ideas with the TSHIRTS, it would be great. I always love the graphic/market tshirts, but never know how to make them look chic with other pieces.

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  56. FFM,
    I have a lot of colors, but the newest pair is pale yellow with gray diamonds. Also have yellow, navy, white and green, navy white.

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  57. You put together such amazing outfits! Would you style an outfit using the Navy Cashmere Femme Sweater? I have a picnic coming up in a few weeks and would love to wear it.

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  58. Hi -
    I just discovered this blog and the ridiculous talent of FFM! I need some help... I am getting ready to drop some money on a new wardrobe. I'm the full time working mother of two kids (4 and 1, I'm 34) and am back to my normal size once again (4). I'm looking to spend $2-3K and like the one stop shop of Jcrew this season. I work in a business casual environment and currently own a lot of favorite fit gaberdine pants. What I want to plus up is my skirt options. HELP!!

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  59. anon @11:04: First of all...congratulations on getting back to your normal size after having your second child! I know from experience that it is not an easy task to accomplish, and I admire your hard work. :) Secondly, just to clarify...are you looking for skirts in particular, or entire outfits styled with the skirt options? Are you also looking for tops? Thanks for the additional information. :)

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  60. Yes, yes and yes! I honestly just Goodwilled a TON of my clothes (and felt bad about all the money I've spent poorly over the years on trendy items) and want to start a solid collection of things I can use and mix on a week to week basis. I know that $2K is just a good start (it won't replace what I've just purged), but it will get me through to the January sales...

    I'm looking for skirts, tops & sweaters. I like jackets (say, like the Penny jacket) but I'm long waisted and sometimes JCrew cuts them on the short side. LOVE the pencil skirt this year (bought it in black already)... I'll also need to think about belts -- I haven't made a good investment into this area to date.

    I know this is a HUGE thing to ask. So thank you in advance.

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  61. anon at 11:04pm/12:23pm: Please start by taking a look at the sets I have already created seen Here . I will also work on some sets this week for you that will be posted in the FFM Blog results next Tuesday. New sets will be added to my Polyvore profile all week, so feel free to check back as frequently as you like. :)

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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! :)