Another "thanks!" to Julie who shared with us J.Crew's latest email about J.Crew's jewelry collection. They are featuring the Jenna bracelet (Item 98337, $75.00). It is certainly both "bold" and "gold" (not real gold of course, but metal- "12K shiny gold-plated metal" to be exact).Moreover, Twiga (in the Anonymous at 11:45 PM comment at the "J.Crew Stores: Grand Opening List!" post ) mentioned "The Sales Associate did mention that the jewelry is not selling well at all and J Crew recently held a conf. call to discuss with stores why..."
What are your thoughts on J.Crew's latest jewelry collection? Do you like or loathe any pieces in particular? Do you like the direction the jewelry design in heading? Are you surprised (or not surprised) to hear about J.Crew jewelry not selling well?
It is over the top and over priced for what it is. You can get like pieces at other stores for less. I think J-Crew, again, needs to think about who it's customer base is lower their prices.
ReplyDeletesorry its not it's
ReplyDeleteIt's overpriced for fashion jewelry. That's all there is to it.
ReplyDeleteAnon: The heck are you talking about? J.Crew's is a high end retailer. Why not just shop at H&M, or GAP if they were to lower them? They know who their consumer base are & if you find their prices unacceptable, then you're not part of that consumer base. Sorry to say, but that's what it is.
ReplyDeleteEvery single thing is gold (with exceptions for the beaded ribbon necklaces). I don't really think j.crew's fan base are big gold jewelry wearers. If they could mix up the type of metal and sizes of pieces it would encourage mixing and matching. But everything is big or long or gold or all of the above.
ReplyDeleteAnthropologie can be kind of too precious or weird, but I think their jewelry is more intriguing than j.crew's.
I agree with anon@11:59...it's overpriced for fashion jewelry...WAY over priced, IMHO.
ReplyDeleteI don't wear J.Crew's jewelry because it feels too heavy for me for everyday use. When I try on their bangles at the counter, my wrists feel weighed down a lot!
ReplyDeleteI think the main problem is that jewelry is a second thought when you shop at J.Crew. Who honestly thinks, "Oh, I have to check out their accessories", when they enter J.Crew. It's nothing but an after thought. What they should be doing is pushing the jewelry harder.
ReplyDeleteJeff--she has a right to her opinion--as do you. You make yours well known.
ReplyDeleteI agree that it is obnoxious looking--think Tony Soprano would probably wear this. IF I wanted to wear it I WOULD choose to buy it elsewhere...for less. I think that is the point she is trying to make. Their jewelry is hard-pressed to sell at full price unless it is REALLY unique and special..then people might think it is worth it. It is all over this blog and in the press that the jewelry is lackluster in sales...and I am sure they mean full-priced sales.
There are many other stores where you can buy jewelry with the same "look" for much less. I may be a loyal customer of JCrew, but that doesn't mean I'm going to blindly shell out money for nothing-special jewelry pieces. Some pieces are cute and different and therefore might be an option on sale. My b&m doesn't have much of the jewelry, so I have to make most of my determinations from online pics and what I read on this blog!
ReplyDeleteI L-O-V-E the J.Crew jewelry, but the price point is too expensive. I often buy jewelry from Banana Republic, as the prices are much lower for costume jewelry.
ReplyDeleteI actually have the Jenna bracelet and I have to say that I love it. It's definitely a statement piece and very over the top, but I really like it. I'm pretty tall and thin, so I feel that big and chunky bracelets work well on me. On the downside, it is very heavy and I usually have to take it off if I'm going to be in front my computer for a long time, as it tends to clank. (however, I have that problem with most bracelets).
ReplyDeleteI agree that it is way overpriced.
ReplyDeleteI have noticed that JC puts some expensive twist on their items (Italian cashmere), that is made in China, and silk on sweats to justify charging higher prices.
Another thing I would add is that I think the biggest seller of their jewelry is the way they show it with the looks created for the website/catalog. There are many things I would not even think of until I saw it on a person as one does in the advertising. I don't go there thinking most about the jewelry but I have been driven to try i.e. the yellow long strand of beads they showed with so many looks. I wasn't going to pay full price though--only going to buy if they had coupon etc.
ReplyDeleteBTW-my review of these beads is that they look and felt very nice in person (like good quality) but did not look good with a fair skin tone (even with a slight tan). IMO-better for darker/olive or very tanned skin.I was sad they washed me out:(
Forever 21 often has a nice assortment of *on trend* fashion jewelry at fabulous prices...I don't feel bad if a necklace or bracelet breaks or tarnishes when I only paid $5 for it, but I would be extremely upset if I had paid $150. I really think a lot of the pieces J.Crew is offering right now are very cute, but just not cute enough to warrant the high price for *FASHION* jewelry.
ReplyDeleteI don't buy costume jewelry. Why would I when I can buy Lagos and Yurman off eBay for a fraction of retail and not much more than some of the J Crew pieces? And they are sterling silver with 18K accents.
ReplyDeleteIf I wanted to buy "fashion jewelry" I can easily find vintage pieces that are better made in thrift stores.
I think most of Jcrew's jewelry reflects the designer, it has the Big in Texas aesthetic lol. I'm petite, so I really can't pull off these large, heavy, very shiny gold pieces. I ordered the Gold rope link necklace when it was on sale and I was really surprised by the bling factor. It was verging on Mr.T style. A lot of their gold is too gold.. too yellow I guess. I wish they would offer a more antique gold.
ReplyDeleteI do like the double strand necklaces. However, I will not pay $200 for glass, string, and plated metal. Please Jcrew
jeff,
ReplyDeleteJCrew is not high-end, but they apparently aspire to be. It's not freakin' Burberry, it's not even Ralph Lauren, and heck if I'm paying as much for it. They are trying to go all out and are spreading themselves thin in all departments. A lot of nice pieces, yes, but so many misses this season. Time to reign it in. Frankly I'm am very turned off by jcrew's opulent better-than-you attitude of late. And, I've been shopping with them for 12 years--since I was 14!
jeff, the receptionist- remember how you you were against personal attacks on the other thread? let anon speak her mind w/o fear of you slamming her. unless you're bothered now that it will take 2, not 1 of your paychecks to buy 2 pieces of jewelry at full price...
ReplyDeleteJust saw your comment, Jeff. Did you get up on wrong side of the bed this morning?
ReplyDeleteI can well afford J Crew's prices and still think their jewelry is overpriced. Maybe if it didn't look like H&M quality at J Crew prices, I would be more impressed.
FFM: You are exactly right, it is fashion jewelery (the kind that can be purchased from other retailers for a fraction of the cost) and that is why people who CAN afford it won't buy it. Their prices are insane for plastic baubles that weigh the wrist down and frequently only match one or two outfits. I have their scroll link bracelet from last year that I wear on a daily basis because it is an "in between" size that looks pretty on any wrist.
ReplyDeleteAs far as the bracelet in question goes, I kind of like the chunky look, but it's probably way too big for my wrist. In one of the most recent cataloges, I noticed that one of the bracelets looked like it was falling off the model's wrist. I think it was the acorn bracelet or the one with little persimmon colored cylinders.
ReplyDeleteAlso, definitely overpriced for costume/fashion jewelry. At my favorite consignment shop, I can get vintage pins and necklaces in good condition for anywhere from $1 to $30.
I really don't think it has anything to do with the fact of whether or not people can afford this jewelry. I believe it's about what you get for the money (as many of you mentioned).
ReplyDeleteAs a Texan, even I think a lot of the jewelry is becoming a little too out there. However, *some* of it is really nicely done. I also don't tend to wear "fashion" jewelry very often. But at the right price (usually only on sale) I do purchase some of the pieces from J crew. I know that the crew has a big push/initiative with their jewelry line. But I really believe they are off base with some of these price points.
I guess the bottom line is that they're trying to create a perception of quality and exclusivity through their pricing. But I'm not buying... ;)
I buy my jewelry from independent artisans on etsy.com . I generally pay around $20-$50 for a handmade silver piece, and between $50 and $200 for a 14 karet gold piece...so to me, jcrew's prices are definitely inflated.
ReplyDeletei'm starting to think jcrew is taking advantage of all the loyalty customers by encouraging them to buy and wear overpriced junk. between the jewelry, the uncomfortable shoes, whatever that brown plastic coat thing is, i'm very disappointed. jcrew has convinced everyone that it knows what is cool, and now expects us to all tag along on its journey into fugly land. i'm not going!
ReplyDeletealso, i am really turned off by the "if you only knew" line on the website. it sounds whiny. come buy our ugly jewelry please! we know it's overpriced but it will be an heirloom someday, we promise! we know you lost big on your 401k last week but that's ok, buy a bug pin and some fake gold! ugh.
sorry, thanks for letting me vent.
I think for fashion jewelry, JCrew is overpriced. Some of their neck pieces are nice but not at their prices. They dont even use semiprecious stones (when they could at these prices).
ReplyDeleteThey need to rethink their market and do pieces that are not over the top (style and price wise).
I also think their accessories could be beefed up. I would like to see more handbags,scarves, etc.
Some of the jewelry is really whacky- like the 'bug pins' that look like they were made by a kindergartner- priced at $50 each. I do love some of the pieces, like the enameled cuffs, but they are too expensive and not items I can wear everyday. I'd rather spend my money on a sweater or a jacket I'll get lots of wear out of.
ReplyDeleteI think lindsey b. and weab hit the nail on the head. It's not that the jewelry isn't pretty, it's just that -- considering J.Crew usually doesn't use real stones or precious metals -- it's too much for costume jewelry. I'm someone who will pay $500 and more for a handbag and $250 for a cashmere sweater jacket, but I won't pay for something that doesn't have value.
ReplyDeleteIn my opinion, some of the jewelry designs are either too simplistic or too gaudy and look like they belong on the racks of The Limited or H&M.
Now, having said that, there are a few pieces that are truly one-of-a-kind or understated yet noticeable that I would shell out for. I've been drooling over the Double strand jeweled-flower bracelet for a while, especially in the pink beads: http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Browse/WomenBrowse/Women_Shop_By_Category/jewelry/bracelets/PRDOVR~96995/96995.jsp
You'd think it would be easy to find something similar, but believe it or not, elegant and not completely over-the-top flower clasps are hard to find. I check a lot of vintage places and jewelry supply sites that my jewelry designer friend recommends.
I also think the stone-mosaic cuff bracelet is striking and unique: http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Browse/WomenBrowse/Women_Shop_By_Category/jewelry/bracelets/PRDOVR~92704/92704.jsp
On the other hand, I bought an assortment of almost identical hand-painted bold zebra bangles (http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Browse/WomenBrowse/Women_Shop_By_Category/jewelry/bracelets/PRDOVR~98803/99101602113/98803.jsp) at Target for $7-12 and get exactly the same compliments on them.
Granted, I'm a little spoiled to have a friend that's a jewelry designer, and she makes me some of their designs only using real stones/metals, but for less money. Knowing exactly how much glass beads and floral clasps cost makes me a little annoyed that J.Crew charges as much as they do for similar pieces. I'm all for businesses having reasonable markup and making good profit, but the price of many of the jewelry items is simply not compatible with the product. Because I see a lot of jewelry that real designers sell, I understand the creativity that goes into the designs. But knowing that many jewelry designers charge the same or a little more for similar designs using real stones and metals, it makes me not want to spend the money at J.Crew for what is largely a collection of either banal or gaudy designs using primarily glass, plastic, and non-precious metals.
However, I'm definitely a fan of many of the recent handbag designs!
Excellent points, Melissa. I feel much the same way: What happened to the well-thought-through clothes that were sold at reasonable prices, like last fall's bella jackets? Now J.Crew - which is definitely not a high-end retailer, and never has been - seems intent on making clothes that are different solely for the purpose of being different, and then charging ridiculous prices for it. There's no better example than that patent leather rain coat, but there are many, like the wool patch-work jacket and pants for men.
ReplyDeleteIt's so condescending to suggest those of us who are turned off by these and many more items simply can't afford them. We can. We're just discriminating customers who don't fall for every clothes line J.Crew throws out.
Anon @ 12:07 - I agree that jewelry at Anthropologie can be a little more intriguing than J.Crew's; there's actually a necklace available there now that is very similar to those double-stranded necklaces (were)being offered by J.Crew. Although, the one's at Antrho are single strand with smaller beads AND less expensive.
ReplyDeleteauryane - I agree with you on supporting the artisans over at etsy.com; it's a wonderful treasure trove of knick-knacks and jewelry over there!
As for the Jenna bracelet, it's pretty to look at, but I don't think I'll be purchasing it. I have a few of J.Crew's older gold bracelet offers, and I think my days of buying them in the future have passed and gone, sadly. They're getting a little TOO bold, IMHO.
The Crew, however, has come out with some jewelry that I do like, or love in some cases, like the giraffe double-strand (LOVE!) and the bubble necklaces, and even some of the rings. I guess it's a hit or miss, really.
La belle helene, you said it perfectly, and I think you spoke for all of us when you said, "We're just discriminating customers who don't fall for every clothes line J.Crew throws out."
ReplyDeleteSorry, I meant TRIPLE-strand, not single. =P
ReplyDeleteI agree with Weab this is Jcrew trying to create an image of high quality and exclusivity. They need to get a little perspective on their jewelry though. Imo it is not like clothing where you can place any a arbitrary price you like on it. I think most people feel that jewelry is the sum of it's parts and the value cannot go too far beyond what those part are. Even if it is a lovely design, it is costume. Play jewelry. And like many posters said, you can go to an antique shop and get costume pieces with more style and history for a lot less.
ReplyDeleteIt's too bad really because Jcrew features their jewelry so well in the catalogs. If they price it accordingly I bet it would fly off the shelves.
Too be honest, I think a some of Jcrew's pricing strategies and advertisements recently are bordering on insulting. They seem to think their shoppers are completely gullible. As if we can be fooled into thinking clothing and jewelry sold in the mall is haute couture. We love ya for who you are Jcrew, quit trying to be something you are not
I seem to be one of the few fans of J Crew jewelry! I'm not a dainty jewelry girl, I like to wear one statement piece at a time and their items fit the bill. I love the Jenna bracelet but won't be buying it anytime soon, but only because I'm trying to save some cash for a trip. I don't think their jewelry is comparable to items from h & m, f21, etc. It's heavy (I don't find it dead-weight heavy like some, just satisfyingly heafty), not jangly and light. It's actually gold plated, not just painted to look like gold. I would much rather buy a piece from J Crew that will last me years than a piece from h & m that will break within months. The J. Crew item may be more expensive but I know the $ : # of wears ratio will be much better.
ReplyDeletemelissa: Lol! you were actually able to (hysterically) articulate what I believe many of us are thinking! Can you send that to Mickey? (j/k) :)
ReplyDeletedrewablank,
ReplyDeleteThanks :-) It's so unfortunate, too, because I used to love J.Crew's offerings. Just last fall, I spent a mint because I fell in love with so much from the Paris and Highlands collections. I haven't been nearly as intrigued by any of the clothes this fall, and I've been turned off by prices that don't correspond to the quality of the clothes.
Regarding the jewelry, I bought quite a bit last fall, but since then, it seems the bracelets have all been so chunky. I tried one on last spring, and it nearly fell off my wrist. It was too heavy, and would have clanked against everything - plus, I'd have had to wear one on my other wrist, too, so my muscles would have gotten the same workout :-)
melissa,
ReplyDeleteI can't stand the "if you only knew" crap too! It's so snobby! Like I said in a previous post, sure, jcrew can be preppy, but I never thought of it as snobby. Wrong direction, jcrew!
shannon - Amen to that! I'd love to buy some of their accessories. Belts, shoes, and jewelry included. But when I realize that I can buy Cole Haan dress pumps with Nike Air that are truly miraculous in their comfort + craftsmanship for $200 (or less on sale), similar belts at TJ Maxx for half, and jewelry from local designers (or my friends on etsy.com), it's hard for me to justify the J.Crew ones.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I will keep buying much of the clothing. I particularly adore the coats, sweaters, pants, and cute blazer jackets. As long as they're not obscenely expensive, I'll remain a loyal customer. I've been shopping at J.Crew since the mail order catalogue days and it will continue to the first place I go for much of my wardrobe.
I'm a jewelry designer, aesthetics aside, am surprised to see J.Crew offering gold plated jewelry. They must know full well that gold plate is a mere few microns thick, & wears/rubs off quickly, leaving the wearer with something that is only fit to throw away.
ReplyDeleteVery expensive for what it is, & also rather Texas & over-huge. I'm from the East Coast, & while I am a fan of J.Crew clothing in general, simply find J.Crew jewelry offerings to be tacky & overpriced.
J.Crew- your customers come to you for quality, & they deserve better.
i should say, i do like SOME of the jewelry. i got the zebra bracelet from earlier this year for $30, which is ok for me. and i think the glass-bead necklace is cure too. i think we can all agree on what the weird/ ugly/ insulting pieces are. unless someone out there liked the bug pin? (sorry if that's you ;)
ReplyDeletelbh- you hit the nail on the head. i like to think i am more discriminating than jcrew seems to think i am.
does anyone think the "if you only knew" is maybe directed at all the haters/ complainers (incl us?) that have been so vocal lately? like if you only knew how hard we are working for you? more like, if you only knew how dumb you will look wearing this! omg, i am getting too negative today.
btw, not to get too far OT, but has anyone else noticed how much they're trying to tout the "Loro Piana Cashmere", "Baird McNutt Linen", "Lanerie Tempesti Mills". I mean does anyone really care? I know I don't. I mean I know they're trying to get the point across that "for the quality, you're *actually* getting a great DEAL". I just don't by into that line of thinking.
ReplyDeleteAm I alone here or does anyone else feel that if I wanted Prada, I'd go to Prada and if I want a Rolex, I'd get it from a trusted jeweler. Furthermore, if I wanted to spend $150 on a piece of jewelry, it better be stamped with something other than "J. Crew".
p.s. I still Love you Jcrew. I just want you to come back down to earth again. (which was why I fell in love with you in the first place) :)
ingabelle: I am a Texan so I don't think it's fair to lump the look into a "Texas" look. I know that I prefer more conservative, delicate pieces as do many of my friends. So I think the look is really a "Lisa Finkelstein" look and Texas just can't be held responsible for that judgment. :)
ReplyDeleteI don't like the jewelry. I prefer to wear real metals and stones, not overlay. Also, I think most of it is too large which in my mind makes it gaudy. I guess I prefer more delicate, feminine pieces?
ReplyDeleteI often wonder...if these pieces were shown on HSn or QVC w/o the J.Crew label, how owuld they sell? The answer speaks volumes to how well the jewelry is received by the J.Crew shopper. I'm not denigrating HSN or QVC (I shop both on occasion), just thinking aloud.
The jewelry is not selling well because (most of it) is oversized, overweight, overstyled and overpriced. Please get a new jewelry designer, j.crew.
ReplyDeleteBtw jeff no need to act like an expert on the sale of women's costume jewelry. Their jewelry is very prominently displayed in cases on the sales floor and on fixtures at POS--I don't think people are just "forgetting" to buy it.
I love J Crew jewelry. It's one of the few fashion jewelry lines I can wear due to my metal allergy. (I like that J Crew uses gold plated metals.) I am petite, but I love to add one bold piece of jewelry to my outfit. This is the only way to enjoy big bold gold these days when 14/18 kt jewelry prices are out the roof.
ReplyDeleteI'm surprised they don't realize that the jewelry is waaaay too expensive. I only buy particularly special pieces at J. Crew because the basic ones are cheaper elsewhere, and you can't get a lot of wear out of the more unusual pieces because people will remember them.
ReplyDeleteOT - I tried to exchange a gift item recently, and they wanted a fair amount of info from me - driver's license, etc. They also wanted to know who gave me the gift. I ended up not exchanging the item because I don't want the giver to find out that I exchanged her gift (I'm guessing that if they want her account info, it will show up on her account). Thoughts, suggestions? Does anyone know what I should do in this situation?
I think some of their jewelry is over priced as well. I have a long beaded necklace and the beads are PLASTIC...it was $60 reg. priced. Plus it doesn't help that the closest J Crew to me decided to shrink their store in half so there isn't anywhere to display much of it. It's just an afterthought really. This is one area BR does a much better job at producing.
ReplyDeleteanon 2:04: As long as you're willing to take store credit, they should not need the giver's info. I mean you should just say it was a gift and you don't have the receipt and that's it.
ReplyDeleteAs for the DL #, I'm not sure but they may need it to verify your identity for the store credit. Not totally sure though. Anyone else able to shed some light on this?
I don't think that J. Crew's jewelry prices are astronomical, but the price IS high when you look at how low quality some of the jewelry actually is. I have the crystal starfish necklace from spring/summer, and I put it on for literally an hour and the entire back side of it turned silver. It was ridiculous. I returned it and the store manager actually told me that she had the same problem with hers. I understand it's only gold-plated metal, but that was crazy. Second, one of the things I look for in jewelry is versatility. I like something that is kind of a basic and will go with more than 1-2 outfits. Most of J. Crew's jewelry is pretty, but it is also very colorful and costume-y. It definitely makes a statement, and this is not very good for everyday wear. I think there's something to be said for bold statement jewelry, but they definitely don't have the balance of bold and versatile. Not ALL their pieces have to be crazy and showy. And I completely agree with whoever said their gold is TOO gold. Come on guys...silver deserves some love too.
ReplyDeletej. crew does not take your DL# but rather your name and address if you return without a receipt. this is to keep track of fraudulent returners - probably not you, but those people who consistently return things without receipts or stolen merchandise. it's part of their loss prevention, and they might even have a do not return list like some other stores. it's just company policy that they take it from everyone who doesn't have a receipt even if it's an innocent situation like a lost gift receipt.
ReplyDeleteAgree with ingabelle. I bought a necklace on sale last summer and wore it once. The pendant left a dirty/rusty spot on my white cashmere sweater (lucky the dry cleaners got it out). Irritating though.
ReplyDeleteHas anyone seen anything similar to the glass bead necklaces from J.Crew on etsy.com? I tried doing a search but the number of results is daunting.
ReplyDeleteRe: BR costume jewelry, I think their prices are more reasonable, but I think a lot of the designs are uber ugly. I wish they would get a new jewelry designer too.
If there are any JC employees out there, I'd be curious as to what the store feedback was on the conference call re: jewelry not selling well.
ReplyDeleteI like some of the pieces at j.crew, but I do think that a lot of them are overpriced. I also think that a lot of them are just too big. There have been several pieces that I think are lovely, and then I see them in the store and I am appalled at how large they are. I like statement jewelry, but the fact that almost all of their pieces are statement pieces makes them not that wearable on a regular basis for me. The lack of wearability, combined with the fact that it's costume jewelry, makes them overpriced IMO.
ReplyDeleteJeff, I would hardly call J.Crew a "high end retailer". They aren't comparable to a Gucci or Chanel store. I guess if you're tricking yourself into thinking that it is, then you're fooling yourself into thinking that you're part of this elite group that gets a better shirt if they pay higher for it. Maybe it's "high end" for you, but for the majority of the others on this board, we've seen better and would much rather pay the prices if the quality demanded it!!!!
ReplyDeleteJcrew, please make your jewelry pieces smaller. I feel like the pieces you have out right now are downright gaudy.
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure about the "If you only knew..." campaign. If I only knew what? That you're making a buttload of money off of me for selling something that isn't even worth waiting until the Final Sale for? I'm really wishing that you guys will get your acts together and realize that your mainstream buyers aren't looking for couture items and saying that they're made in the couture houses, etc isn't that appealing when they are just ugly. (Bug pins- come ON). Remember Fall 2007? What good times those were, when clothes were priced accordingly. Yes, I bought bellas at full price because it was worth it. I know I won't spend $400 on a cashmere sweater/jacket, no matter how many soliciting emails you send my way!
I think the j. Crew jewelry has jumped teh shark. Most of it is too big and too fancy for most run-of-the-mill people - even those of us with huge egos, LOL. And it costs too much. I'm not a big fan of BR, but I like their costume stuff much better than J. Crew's anymore.
ReplyDeletePS> I tried the stone bead necklaces that are on the site now and didn't like how they hung. The zig zag beads made it hang awkwardly. The ribbon was wonderful though, and if the beads had been strung in a straight line (instead of all zig zaggy), I would have had this piece in EVERY color.
ReplyDeleteLast serial post - I have a thick double link gold chain necklace from J. Crew that I won on eBay. IT's nice and I'm happy to have it, but it literally gives me a neckache! I can't wear it two days in a row. LOL
ReplyDeleteMolly I agree with you about the zig-zag beading. It makes the necklace look immature rather than refined. I had bought one online and returned it for this reason.
ReplyDeleteI actually really like J Crew jewelry. However I always wait for it to go on sale or on promotion. That being said I also buy costume jewelry from BR and Anthrolpolgy. For me the problem w/ costume jewelry is I'm drawn to the trendy stuff. I hate to pay big $$$ for something I'm only going to wear a season or two.
ReplyDeleteJ. Crew's spring and summer line of jewelry was fantastic! The pieces lately, not so much. They're way, way too large. Like just about everyone else, I also think they're overpriced.
ReplyDeleteLately, I've been getting great jewelry at Banana Republic - great pieces at great sale prices.
I'm saying no to this bracelet. It looks tacky and for the same look, I can get it elsewhere for much less. However I do love some of J.Crew's pieces, such as the double strand flower necklaces - and the infamous giraffe necklace that is now cropping up on ebay again. It's such a pretty piece with great details and well-worth the $150.
ReplyDeleteI just want to say that I love J.Crew jewelry! I buy quite a lot of it, but ONLY on sale. I think many of the items are unique and beautiful, and while I was not a personal fan of that huge black and white lobster bracelet from the summer collection, I realize that someone else might be! We all have individual taste and style. However, I agree that they should probably curb the prices a bit.
ReplyDeleteI do find that the quality of some of their pieces is not the best. However, I find it hard to agree that Anthropologie and BR have better quality jewelry. I swore off buying anything from Anthro because it is absolute junk, and BR's jewelry collection has taken a turn for the worse over the course of a few years.
And please be nice to Jeff, ladies! I used to be a J.Crew employee, and when Mickey took over the company their new bright idea was to make J.Crew more HIGH END. So this really isn't Jeff's idea...it's J.Crew's!
Someone saying J.Crew is higher end doesn't make it so, regardless of whether it's Mickey Drexler or anyone else. Chanel is high end, as is Dior, Burberry, Prada, Gucci... J.Crew is not in that category. Anyone who buys into that is, well, naive.
ReplyDeleteI promise this is the last time I will ask this (I asked in two other posts...maybe no one has bought this item?)
ReplyDeleteI'm wondering about the Kelsey tank dress...how does it fit? It is final sale so I am wondering if it would be a good purchase.
Not a fan. Would rather a) invest in something more expensive and real; b) hunt down and bag an actual vintage statement piece; or c) spend less money on costume jewelry elsewhere. J.Crew costume jewelry just doesn't do it for me.
ReplyDeleteI've noticed a lot of people talking about how they wish J Crew would go back to the "old" prices- or at least back to pricing based on quality. I was wondering, does anyone know of a store that has done that (i.e. attempted to become more high-end but then abandoned that idea)? Just wondering if it's even a possibility.
ReplyDeleteHope that post made sense, lol. ;)
For me, J. Crew already had a reputation for being preppy and a bit snooty. I think the brand is partially responsible for the success of places like Abercrombie and Hollister. Maybe they are trying to get away from that sessytime teen vibe and appeal to us more sophisticated, tasteful grownups like me (rofl!).
ReplyDeleteAnyway, there is a huge spectrum between H&M and Prada and I think J. Crew is fairly close to the lower middle tier, if you look at price alone. I appreciate their coture overtures. It's fun and feels accessible, like when H&M has real designers (not Madonna) do a line for them.
That said, I will not pay 400 dollars for any items of clothing (except for my beloved Studio Ball Skirt, but it's different). I also think some of the jewelry and ESPECIALLY the shoes are a bit cheap. I tried on the peep toe mary janes at the store recently and I kid you not, they felt like Target shoes to me.
anonymous 3:58 PM, I didn't say that J.Crew was high end, I said they were trying to become more high end. I think they realize that they will never be on the level on those top designers, and that's fine. But they are trying to get ahead and go above the Gaps and the Banana Republics of the fashion industry by offering some higher quality products.
ReplyDeleteIf you don't like the jewelry collection, that's fine! I hate the bug pins and some of the other "chunky" pieces, but please let those of us who enjoy it continue to do so!
kat, jeff saying j.crew was high end.
ReplyDeleteOf course we are all free to enjoy what we like and not buy what we don't like. I never said otherwise, so please don't put words into my mouth. It was you who chastised those of us who pointed out jeff is wrong about J.crew being high-end...
Amy: I think that's what the Gap tried to do and failed miserably. Guess who was at the helm then...yep...ours truly, Mr. Drexler.
ReplyDeleteWeab- interesting! Do you have any articles about that?
ReplyDeleteI agree with Melissa at 1:00 , and also anonymous at 2:21 - I have purchased several of the jewelry pieces, also the starfish pendant which had so little gold on it, it all rubbed off after the first few wearings. Other pieces (a seashell bracelet from Spring 2007 for one) are very large and heavy. And yet, the bangles do not fit if you have large hands.
ReplyDeleteI do purchase jewelry of all types - Yurman, Hardy, Roberto Coin as well as costume jewelry from Nordstrom, Forever 21 accessory stores - I love it all. But I won't spend $150.00 for necklaces to wear with specific outfits for one season.
And OT, but to agree with Melissa, J Crew shoes are the most uncomfortable shoes out there!!!
weab, you are right, and gap got into all sorts of economic problems for that experiment. I consider J.crew above gap in quality of clothes, but they should stick with what's worked and not get delusions of grandeur. There is a market for good, quality clothes with touches of luxury, and j.crew has a good share of that market. Now they're trying to sell thousand-dollar items, and I doubt J.Crew shoppers will go along with that.
ReplyDeleteanonymous at 4:15 PM, I didn't think that saying "And please be nice to Jeff, ladies!" was a chastising comment, and I apologize if I offended you or anyone else. I was just trying to point out what J.Crew has been trying to do over the past few years.
ReplyDeleteweab - This is anon 2:04 again, I was surprised that they wanted the giver's name and DL, but they definitely did. I have only returned one other gift, and it was a while back, but that time they didn't want anything - they just gave me store credit. Maybe it's a new policy.
ReplyDeletecool, kat. I agree with you J.crew is TRYING to become higher-end, which is different from calling them high-end, as jeff did.
ReplyDeleteI'm just not sure the higher-end is working. I liked their jewelry when it was a decent price, not so much now, because I don't think the quality matches the price they want. It seems many on here feel the same way - that it's still good jewelry to pick up, but only on sale.
I used to love j.crew, and I'm just disappointed they seem to be going away from what worked so well.
I like some of the necklaces, but as a rule I don't go for any fashion jewelry, no matter who makes them or how well they are made.
ReplyDeleteI prefer 18kt - now if J Crew decides to go for the real thing and make 18kt gold pieces made in Italy I will be tempted.
oh and the new catalogue says that they're shoes "are still made in Italy" -- that's funny, because my kingston loafers say "made in Romania." They should say, "some" or "a few" or our shoes are still made in Italy.
ReplyDeleteJust like their "italian" cashmere sweaters, where the label says "made in China with Italian wool."
I'm reading an interesting book - "Deluxe: How Luxury Lost its Luster" by Dana Thomas. Apparently, "Made in Italy" basically means "Made in China and imported via Italy," even in "real" luxury brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, etc. Not that that's a bad thing, necessarily.
ReplyDeleteFor shoes, it's common to make most of the shoe in China and attach the soles somewhere in Europe, and have the "Made in Italy" (or whatever) printed on the sole.
Actually, I find it kind of interesting that people get hung up on where things are made, even when they can't discern a difference in quality without the label. I mean, it's not as if craftsmanship is genetic - why would an hour spent by a Chinese person working on an item give a worse result than an hour spent by an Italian?
ReplyDeleteMaybe it would make an interesting blog topic to ask (1) if people think that J. Crew is less than 100% honest about where things are made, and (2) if they care.
"why would an hour spent by a Chinese person working on an item give a worse result than an hour spent by an Italian?"
ReplyDeleteFor me, it's more about working conditions and human rights issues of said country.
mary @ 4:02.....I agree with you completely:)
ReplyDeleteWell, Italian workers have higher expectations than Chinese workers, but that doesn't mean J. Crew *has* to treat its Chinese employees badly. If you thought you could influence the Chinese government by withdrawing business, that would be a different matter - but I think the European labels are more about perceived quality than humanitarian issues. (I could be wrong.)
ReplyDeleteIt matters to me where it's made if I'm paying high-wage worker prices for low-wage worker goods, even if the quality is identical. Pass teh savings on to the consumer.
ReplyDeleteI'm Chinese, and I wholeheartedly agree with China's expectation of quantity over quality. With that said and globalization of trade, it's hard to pinpoint where our stuff is getting made. I've seen some jcrew jewelry pop up on ebay and the resellers are from Hong Kong, or China, which is questionable as to the quality of pieces derived from areas like these. But as long as we make a market to buy these goods, jcrew will continue producing it and charging an arm and a leg!
ReplyDeleteamy: I'm not sure this example is what you are looking for, but Walmart pretty much did what you are talking about. They had a niche and were doing ok, then tried to carry high"er" end items (to compete with stores like Target), started losing money, and has gone back to the basics (even changed their ad campaigns, etc...)and are sticking with what they are good at. (I'm sure there is someone out there with more details on what actually took place, but this is the gist)
ReplyDeleteI guess it takes someone with a lot of guts high-up in the company to be like "Look guys, this isn't working!"
I believe the quality standards are higher. Look at the product recalls for goods made in China (toys, some food products), because they were unsafe and were made with inferior materials.
ReplyDeleteJ. Crew associate here...
ReplyDeleteThe jewelry is selling (and has sold) amazingly well at my store. Our cases are typically pretty barren, because once we get replenishment and new pieces in, it sells quickly.
As for the quality of J. Crew overall, I personally don't care if the fabric of my shirt was made by the same mill the queen of England uses or that my jeans are woven on 100 year old Japanese mills. And sometimes I think it is pretentious-sounding to always point out where items were made. However, I do think it speaks to the quality that J. Crew wants to be (and is) known for. For example, many of our fabrics are made by the same design houses that Prada and Gucci use, and the leather handbags are made by the same tannery that does bags for Hermes and Louis Vuitton blah blah blah... you get the point.
In some respects, J. Crew IS on par with the higher-end market. On others, at LEAST the same level as Banana. But Gap or H&M? Dear God... is anyone actually serious when they say that? Sure some items may LOOK cute, but the quality of H&M at least is a joke (slightly better than forever 21, imo).
Well...that's my two cents.
Regarding the view that Italian made goods are of a higher quality, there's an interesting article here: http://articles.latimes.com/2008/feb/20/world/fg-madeinitaly20. It describes Italian sweatshops staffed entirely by imported labour, working in deplorable conditions for long hours, while still brandishing the "made in Italy" label.
ReplyDeleteChelsea- Isn't that totally pathetic? In a world where faster is better, it's sad to hear that there are people slaving away to make us clothing. And it's worse that companies would allow for this to happen...
ReplyDeleteAmy--I feel it is going to be hard to undue a bad decision on Mickey's part--hope it doesn't effect those who have loved or come to love the J Crew product.
ReplyDeleteThis is a good place to hear the real fanatics (meaning those that have been through it all with J Crew throughout the years) commenting on their concern that J Crew is heading in a new and distinctly dangerous direction--that may be destructive. Not what we all hoped for.
I think if they continue to offer similar to the past product and even things that have a higher fashion element (say details that add a slightly less conservative look to an otherwise simple blazer--ie. snow leopard blazer cut) that is fine and people are open to it. BUT do so with caution as you will only be selling it on sale when you price it out of this typical demographic. That is to say prices that have gone up in the $250-$300 plus mark for blazers. The same people buying the blazers of last year--will need to wait for a sale to buy those of this year.
They need to be reasonable with their pricing--we know the cost of goods is rising with the economy but their items are still made in China (for undoubtedly, undeniably CHEAP labor. Let me inform or remind people on this blog that they were in trouble at one point for child labor. Not saying that it is still happening but honestly--all of the companies that get caught go on to do it again. It is too inexpensive to pass up and meanwhile the executives are lining their pockets..I digress.)
The cost of many of their items (I am almost certain I can say ALL of the jewelry is made in China--for pennies on the dollar) and they are asking us--the consumer to shell out our hard earned bucks for what is ultimately not going to last a year--let alone years and become a heirloom.
My experience with fashion jewelry (I am talking expensive plated designer costume jewelry out of LA is that it still tarnishes even after a couple of wearings or even sitting in the drawer. I WILL NOT do it anymore--I have learned my lesson. For gold items--it is REAL or nothing. Now things that are glass beads etc. I will consider it as I know it won't tarnish. I do not want to pay BIG BUCKS for crappy plastic beads though..and I won't...not even on sale. I agree with Mary that I would rather invest in a piece I KNEW wasn't going to tarnish. BUT if I loved a string of their beads (which undeniably have a classic look) I might buy them on sale as I still won't pay $100-$250 dollars retail for them. If I don't want to wait for a sale, I scout the item out elsewhere or forget about it.
Kat-The reason people have gotten after Jeff is that he got on the blog and ATTACKED anon. this morning for expressing her opinion. He wasn't using the forum to answer the question posed..he deserved some calming down. Now that he has gotten it--I hope we will all move on.
Sorry this is SO LONG!
I also have to add...it is a BIG, FAT joke to insult a buyer of our intelligence and stature with crap like "made of italian wool-in China" who do they think they are kidding--are we a bunch of F-ing idiots?? This is my OPINION:)
I just received both the waterfall necklace and the giraffe double strand necklace and I can say they were worth every penny, to ME (I can understand not everyone). They are both absolutely gorgeous. I primarily buy JC jewelry because it is unique. BR has nice pieces also, and at reasonable prices, but I just don't find they are the same quality. I agree that this "gold plated" thing isn't so great, but my pieces have yet to tarnish/rub off. Maybe I'm just lucky???
ReplyDeleteleslie: If you don't mind me asking, where did you get the giraffe necklace? The website? How recently? I'm very interested in the necklace, but so far it has been very elusive.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Leslie that BR pieces just don't have the same quality and style that appeal to me. Granted that all jewelry pieces are made in China, I still make a distinction when I really look for in a piece of costume jewelry.
ReplyDeleteHi, everyone
ReplyDeleteOT: But I received three catalogs today. One thick catalog (I think it is the one on the website) and two skinny catalogs. Only one of these catalogs contained a free shipping code w/$150 purchase ( I would post it but it seems it might be a one time use). Did anyone else receive catalogs with different promotions or no promotion at all? ( I wonder if they are just sent out randomly?)
I saw this piece in person at my b&m store, and it was actually pretty under the glowing lights.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I have a similarly sized bracelet from them from a few seasons ago. I am constantly twisting it back into place. I have to do the same with the St. Tropez cuff I got at 30% off final sale price. The beautiful floral piece is always rotating to the back. It was annoying.
I am a teacher, and I proudly wore one of the chain link necklaces at my elementary school last year.
One third grader said, "Mrs. Smith, what's with the bling?"
I am not FiftyCent, Diddy, or Mr. T.
I have not worn it again!
Sooner- I have the Kelsey tank dress and LOVE it. It is very flattering and does fit TTS in my opinion. You could probably get away with a smaller size if you needed to, though. I think it's a great buy. I can't wait to wear it!
ReplyDeletejanek, that "bling" remark is hilarious! I also have a chain link necklace, and I haven't worn it yet. I believe mine was advertised as a "layering piece," meaning I'm supposed to wear MORE bling with it!
ReplyDeleteWowza! Lots of anger, lots of really interesting points and points of view. Here are some of my thoughts:
ReplyDeleteChanel makes costume jewelry, and it's not cheap.
I'm not super-wild about this bracelet, but I'm not a big jewelry wearer to begin with (I think I've discussed this before with some of you). I do, however, like gold and goldtone things more than silver tone things (in general, but not always). I know platinum was very big (is still big) for engagement and wedding rings, but I opted for gold. I know a lot of my friends thought I was out of fashion (got married 6 1/2 years ago), but I like it. I think gold is starting to come back, but I'm not sure. I hope silver-tone and gold-tone can coexist, because they're both pretty.
I don't see why so many people think that J.Crew can't compete with designer stuff. What's so great about designer stuff? Yes, the quality should be good, but the quality on the J.Crew collection stuff should be pretty good too. I know we discussed this a few weeks ago (or longer ago than that?)--that J.Crew has good designers, that some of us tend to assume name brand bags that we see are fake, and so on and so on.
Here's the link to trouble mentioned about J Crew (and Gap) child labor lawsuit and more...
ReplyDeletehttp://www.coopamerica.org/programs/responsibleshopper/company.cfm?id=244
lovesargyle: I received one catalog today and no coupon. :( I was also not one of the lucky who received a free gift card.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your explanations, everyone!
ReplyDeletethe pieces are near misses - almost right but not quite (i.e. the amber ball necklace - looked so great online but clumped up in real life). If only the pieces were a little more affordable or really amazing, I'd reconsider buying their jewelry again.
ReplyDeleteanon @ 7:06: I bought the giraffe necklace on ebay. Buy It now for $148. Totally worth it...I will wear it with quite of bit this fall/winter. There are others on eBay, but they are traditional auctions.
ReplyDeleteA little OT: I just got my October InStyle mag and inside they show a tweed ecole blazer and list it as $300 (which probably in JC speak means $298). I have to say, it is gorgeous, albeit a bit pricey. I'm assuming it will come out online/instore late October. Just a heads up in case you were holding out for something like this. Let's hope it fits better than the velvet ecole!!!
ReplyDeletewhat about the bug pins- they look like a DIY project for second graders. I can't imagine they are making less than 100 times their production cost if they manage to sell one. Clearly they have been having a hard enough time selling gorgeous items, I don't know why they would think this would sell. Maybe they're just trying to make money on this because they are awful. I keep on waiting for them to show up on the blog
ReplyDeleteJeff - J Crew is NOT a high-end retailer (a wannabe perhaps but not a true high-end one). Back in the late 80s, I remember J Crew selling "Barn jackets", rollneck sweaters, rugby shirts, t-shirts, jeans, etc....quite similar to LL Bean or Lands End (except a bit more youth-oriented). In no way was J Crew considered a high-end retailer at that point. There was a BRIEF, period, however, when J Crew used big-name models like Christy Turlington and Lauren Hutton. It is only recently that J Crew is aspiring to be a high-end retailer (and with mixed results). Many of use Aficionadas remember the 'old J Crew', not the new one that you apparently think has always existed. Perhaps you are young relatively new to J Crew?
ReplyDeletere: my above post at 8:04....the tweed ecole shown in the Oct. InStyle mag is pricey because I just noticed it's part of "Collection" (tongue-in-cheek!!) and it has "metallic thread and sequins". Okay...so not your typical daytime tweed blazer. Sorry to get anyone psyched....
ReplyDeleteToo pricey for how non multi-use most of the pieces are. Not to mention the lame craftsmanship. How plated gold costs upwards of $150 is beyond me..
ReplyDeleteHi all, I am a big fan of J.Crew jewelry and own a couple of them. But there is area that J.Crew can improve.
ReplyDelete(1) Please make it functional. I do love Moroccan Moroccan Bauble Bracelet, but it is too big to work at desk (it hits my desk).
(2) Please offer small jewely as well. A big jewelry tells statement, but a small jewelry also can be beautiful and sophistcated.
(3) Please make it light in weight. Enameled magnolia cuff bracelet (Item 92709) is so beauftiful, but I don't wear it so much as it is too heavy for "petite" people like me.
(4) Please reconsider pricing. "High price" does not always mean "high end". If materials are glass beads, resin, or woods, there is a appropriate price for it.
I buy jewelry not only at J.Crew, H&M, but also at Tiffany. I always compair the price I pay with the value I can get. Recently I bought $39 faux peal long neckless at victoria's seacret(!), but it exceeds my expectations. Personally I believe that consumers can feel satisfaction when they get value more than what they pay. J.Crew jewelry is not much appearling in that sense. If J.Crew does better in points above, I would buy more:)
(Thanks for reading a long posting!)
One more thing. Some mentioned that they can not stand "if you only knew". So do I.
ReplyDeleteMoreover, J.Crew made a mistake. On globtrotter suitscase, J.Crew says "these color combinations are exclusively ours". But THIS IS NOT TRUE! Beige color is called "Safari" which is a revival style made in 1929s and they are now available all over the world. (http://www.globe-trotterltd.com/main.html)
J.Crew, please do not assume that customers do not know.
Question for all you SALE EXPERTS out there....I noticed several new arrivals for Oct. and Sept. have sold out completely. No backordered dates. Do you think JCrew has made much fewer items and that is why things are selling out? I had several items that I hoped to get on sale that are all sold out now...can't afford their higher prices...
ReplyDeleteThank you Naomi, Covert5 and Chelsea for the informative links. I'd like to become a more responsible and informed consumer, and new input is always welcome.
ReplyDeleteThanks!
FYI: I received two catalogs in the mail yesterday:
ReplyDelete-one catalog is 127 pages, no coupons, & came in the name of the account I use for internet shopping.
-second catalog is 71 pages, with a one time use only Free Shipping code for purchases over $150 & this one came in the name I recently used for phone orders.
The women's section of the catalog pages are laid out in a different order, & the larger catalog features merchandise for women, men, weddings & Crewcuts.
Go figure...maybe they do send coupons to customers who shop the least.
so, this is WAY ot, but i have a question about the bella jacket. i am wearing mine today for the first time and the collar is driving me crazy! maybe my neck is too short or something, but it's all up in my face, and itchy (i got the light brown herringbone). i really want to love this jacket, but i'm about to give up and sell it to one of you. any thoughts? does anyone else have this problem with the bella?
ReplyDeleteI have to inquire as to why JCrew Chatter is an exclusive group? Are the rest of us loyal Aficionado's missing out on coupons in there?
ReplyDeleteI've seen FFM mention on Polyvore she would discuss more about a set on "Chatter". I've seen posters here inquire a few times but no replies from the chatter group (caw, FabulousFloridaMommy, Shannon, JCrewBug, kater, Hexicon, Molly, Weab, blumre). Some have removed the link to Chatter from their profile.
I guess I'm wondering why did you have to name it "JCrew Chatter," and then restrict it to invited bloggers only??
You know the readers here love, love, love all things JCrew yet you have to go and create an exclusive blog using "JCrew" in the title.
I think we deserve at least a reply to this question.
Is anyone else wondering about this topic?
I own the Jenna and love it. It’s not something I would wear everyday but it is something that defiantly makes a statement when I go out. I love the weight of J Crews Jewelry; I hate when something feels light on. As for the price, I paid $75 for the jenna with the 20% off and thought that was fair. I would not have paid more then that. I agree with others that over $100 for costume jewelry is crazy!
ReplyDeleteA couple of those flower pins are up on the site now, and I laughed out loud when I saw the price. One is $85, and the other is $155! J.Crew has GOT to be kidding ... it's a silk flower on a pin!
ReplyDeleteanon@7:36: I wondered about it, and then I noticed that it didn't seem like even Alexis was in the group, so I figured it must be pretty exclusive for some reason and if they wanted me to know what it was then they would tell me. I figured it had to do with keeping things away from J.Crew management, who admittedly read this blog on a regular basis.
ReplyDeleteAnonym@7:36
ReplyDeleteThat is an interesting question about the JCrew Chatter. Anyone can create a blog and restrict it to certain members...their right to do so...However, there will always be the junior high/immature girl in many women who want to feel special. I can't stand to be around them so glad they are off on their own...If I see any tendencies towards this in women I meet, I run as far away from them as I can! Good riddance!
Melissa,
ReplyDeleteHave you tried a turtelneck with your jacket. I have itchy problems with wool too...that is why I got the velvet Bella. So sorry to hear about your problems...Also, try rubbing maybe a slightly damp wash cloth dipped in fabric softener and/or a dryer sheet on the collar. Also, put some lotion on your neck??? All things I have tried and worked....
thanks anon! those are good tips. the itchiness doesnt bother me as much as how high the collar goes! i finally had to put my hair up because it was looking funky.
ReplyDeleteOT but does anyone have any comments/reviews on the straight fit men's vintage cords? I'm thinking of getting them for the bf for xmas... this is the first time he has said he likes a pair of jcrew pants!
ReplyDeleteMichelle and Anonymous - J Crew Chatter is a blog for people who are often on this site, but also want a forum to discuss J Crew "offline". I am not a member, but remember when they got started. Don't feel left out.
ReplyDeleteAnon at 8:06, I am totally in agreement with you about that type of woman. I run screaming in the other direction too.
Chatter - ouch! I literally have not felt this way since middle school.
ReplyDeleteOh well, I was starting to read this blog too much anyway - being excluded from the conversation will free up my time to do other things. :)
Anon - I actually used to be pretty active on this blog, but it just became too negative. It is hard for me to understand which people are fans of J Crew when all everyone seems to do is complain. Not every piece of clothing is made for every person. If you can wardrobe yourself tolerably well with what is available in your price range, than why complain about prices or sizes or whatnot? It just makes no sense to me.
ReplyDeletemaybe the jcrew chatter people just feel more comfortable with each other and wanted a place where they could talk amongst themselves. I don't think they are trying to be snobby or anything.... *shrug* I don't really care, there's plenty to discuss here! :)
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone own the glitterati blouson dress? I just bought one of the last ones available - the rep. said that it would not be final sale, thankfully! I've never seen it in person, and would love some input as to what I can expect.
ReplyDeleteI am sorry that some of the members of this blog feel the need to exclude others. Has anyone asked if they may be a member of the group? Perhaps it is a simple matter of asking first before you jump to the conclusion that you are being excluded. Just a though.
ReplyDelete^It seems like it is just a small group of people that wanted to get together and "chat", though...I assume anyone could start something like that if they wanted? Just an idea! :)
ReplyDeleteI guess they're probably not trying to be snobbish or exclusive...I just really enjoyed the conversations that took place here, and I feel bad that they didn't enjoy this blog enough to continue chatting here. And did they really not invite Alexis? That's...odd.
ReplyDeleteJcrew chatter was started a while back, I believe by Jcrew Mama, for discussion about topics that they didn't want privy to Jcrew management, who as we all know, patrol this blog on a daily basis.
ReplyDeleteAt its inception, Jcrew Mama stated that anyone who wanted to join could send her an email and she would send them an invite. I sent her an email, and was invited. No problems.
I was invited just before I went on vacation and when I got back, well frankly reading this blog has taken up most of my days so I was disinvited from Jcrew chatter. Which is totally fine. As somebody else commented, reading this blog takes up enough of my day :-)
So again, it really isn't the type of snobby, elitist group some of you are making it out to be. If you sent the email when Jcrew mama posted that she was starting the blog, you would have gotten an invite too. It's as simple as that.
You got disinvited? OMG, has anyone seen mean girls? I mean, can you seriously discuss jcrew even more than you do so on this blog?
ReplyDeleteDon't know anything about J.Crew chatter, but I loved "mean girls" :-) Rachel MacAdams was great, as was, of course, Tina Fey as the teacher. I also really liked Lohan in the role, which is why it's even sadder to see what a ruin she seems to have become.
ReplyDeleteMean Girls is a total guilty pleasure for me.
Let me rephrase that - I don't actually feel guilty watching it. I just think it's funny and entertaining.
ReplyDeleteyou got disinvited b/c you didn't spend enough time there?
ReplyDelete(Alexis, please accept my apologies for having to resort to using your space on J.Crew Aficionada to answer questions about J.Crew Chatter. I appreciate the opportunity to answer questions and accusations that are being asked and leveled here.)
ReplyDeleteIn response to Anonymous@ 0736, Michelle and Anonymous@0803: I am the owner of the J.Crew Chatter blog, and am happy to answer your questions about J. Crew Chatter. Had I been aware of any previous questions, I would have answered them right away – perhaps they were not addressed to my attention? As I am the blog owner, I doubt if any of the other members would have taken it upon themselves to answer questions about the blog. I hope you can understand why. I sincerely regret if any questions contained in comments here have gone unanswered. I have replied to every email I have received asking about J.Crew Chatter.
Because there have been so many new users since I started reading and commenting here back in early July, I am uncertain of how long the three of you have been reading here at Aficionada. I have to presume that you were not reading at the time when starting another site (which I named J.Crew Chatter) was first brought up. If you care to see the original comment in which it was mentioned, you may refer back to my comment (August 14, 2008 at 0937 p.m.) in this post. If you read this comment and the follow-on comments in the post and some others in the following days, you will see that J.Crew Chatter absolutely was not created to be an exclusive blog with limited membership - it was opened up to ANY readers at Aficionada who wanted a place they could discuss J.Crew clothing, sing J.Crew’s praises or rant and rave about problems without being seen by J.Crew employees, whom we had already learned were aware of Aficionada and were reading it daily. (Because Alexis is a superstar!)
I posted my then-preferred-email address for interested Aficionadas to contact me and discuss the possibilities. Initially, I received emails from 2 or 3 people, and at that point, I set up the other blog, which I called J.Crew Chatter. Over the next few weeks, about 11 Aficionadas contacted me, and all were given access to J.Crew Chatter. No criteria, no exclusivity. The only requirement was that members could not be anonymous , as members wanted to use J.Crew Chatter as a place to safely trade email addresses and even real names to assist in trading/selling/buying items from one another, and no one felt comfortable sharing private info if we did not know who all the readers were. Anyone who was willing to share his or her real name was welcome. J.Crew Chatter was never intended to be (and is not now) an exclusive group of members who wanted to be separate from J.Crew Aficionada. It was established to be a complimentary group where Aficionadas could speak freely amongst ourselves without concern of being observed by J. Crew employees (as we already had been advised that they knew of Aficionada and were reading it daily.) Anyone who was interested was always welcome to get in touch with me. Alexis did not express approval or disapproval of the group (or interest in joining!) and therefore, I felt it would be inappropriate to keep mentioning it on Aficionada, as this is Alexis’ blog and not a billboard, and I did not ever want to be viewed as trying to skim members from Aficionada. So, I continue to read and post at Aficionada as always and leave J.Crew Chatter out of the discussion.
Now, jump ahead a month. After the first few weeks, the small group of women that had joined J.Crew Chatter became quite close. The group that began as a place to discuss J.Crew clothing and rant privately has turned into a warm,, close group of online friends, where we get together daily to chat about our lives, our families, whose kids are sick, whose in-laws are difficult, whose jobs sucked that day, etc. When we all realized that the group had become more about socializing and less about J.Crew, we also realized that we would lose that sense of closeness if the group got too large. And so it was decided that the number of members would be kept low – no more than about a dozen at any one time. We would not be announcing that we were either closed or open to new members here on Aficionada for all the reasons I detailed in the previous paragraph. Your not hearing about J.Crew Chatter on an ongoing basis is not for purposes of exclusivity or a desire to be separate or “special”. It is out of respect for Alexis and his wonderful place she provides for all of us at J.Crew Aficionada.
As for other concerns your comments raised, we are not discussing anything related to J.Crew that you all are not already discussing here. None of us has any inside track or any access to special sales or coupons or codes or gift cards. None of us know or speak with Mickey Drexler or any J.Crew employees. We spend as much time discussing our daily lives as we do J.Crew! Some of the members of J.Crew Chatter decided that they wanted to remove the blog from their Blogger profiles so as to lessen any sense of being special or separate that might have been perceived by others. I am keeping it in my profile because I own the blog and am open to being contacted by others about it. I encourage people to remember that what others do is usually for personal reasons, not for the purpose of making a public statement.
As for using J.Crew in our name, J.Crew is what brought us together, and so we keep J.Crew in the group’s title. I have to say that any sense that we were trying to be exclusive or antagonistic in having J.Crew in our name, or that we are flaunting our existence in the faces of other Aficionada would be projection on the part the person who perceives it that way. J.Crew Chatter is not and has never been about exclusivity or separateness. Anyone who knows me from Aficionada or who had bothered to look back to find out about how Chatter got started would know that. I did change the name I sign off with in my Blogger ID, and I announced that change here a few weeks ago. I made this change to maintain my anonymity, as I also have another blog (www.FashionistaSocialWorker.com) , where I post about my personal and professional beliefs diverge from those officially held by my profession. Posting with my name could impact my job.
I hope this has answered any outstanding questions about what J.Crew Chatter . If you have any further questions about this group, please refrain from taking up space on Alexis’ blog and email them to me directly at FSW(at)FashionistaSocialWorker(dot)com. Likewise, please email me if you are interested in becoming a member of J.Crew Chatter, and I will be happy to take down your name and email address and hang onto it .
All this said, I need to also say that I am personally hurt and offended by the implications and outright accusations about me, the group and its members made in the comments posted here by Anonymous@ 0736, Michelle and Anonymous@0803. Anon@8:03, your comments were particularly rude, presumptuous and hurtful. One obligation in participating in a public dialogue is taking public responsibility for one’s statements and actions and acknowledging when one misspeaks. Apologies here would be appropriate and much appreciated.
And, "a", thank you for your kind defense of me and of the group. As you obviously understand, you and another member were recently unsubscribed because you were not participating and there were others who really wanted to join and participate. Your presence was so appreciated, and I hope that if you decide you have time to read and post, you will come back and join us again! (We miss you!)
Gratefully and Respectfully,
Fashionista Social Worker
(AKA jcrewmama)
So are you accepting new members?
ReplyDeleteWow, I can't imagine what they must be blogging about that they want to keep hidden away from JC employees- sounds like some shady shenanigans to me- otherwise why this secret society?
ReplyDeleteWho cares if you rant or rave about JC? Are you scared to be blacklisted from your favorite retailer because you/they know absolutely complain about everything?
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ReplyDeleteYikes, I seemed to miss a lot this morning. Anyway, Im not a fan of the gold bracelet. It's a little too big for me but I usually like Jcrew accesories
ReplyDeleteWow, and to think I bothered dignifying any of this with a well-thought-out and sincere response. Well, have your say, and enjoy yourselves. I am so sorry any of use are having to bear witness to these displays of vicious, juvenile namecalling.
ReplyDeleteFSW
what's up with the string of hateful anonymous responses after jcrewmama's post? geesh. You're probably one of the jcrew managers or workers who troll this site. she explained it, now get over it (no, I am not a member of jcrew chatter, this is just silly).
ReplyDeleteSo wordy and unnecessary, no wonder our social systems are such a mess. People can't just make things simple and easy to understand, instead they muddle it with babble, and in this case chatter. Keep it short, save a kid.
ReplyDeletealso off topic, but has anyone on polyvore noticed all the "jcrew xx" members lately? I think they are all personal shoppers, and none of them are in the jcrew polyvore group. I am starting to get paranoid that they are trolling polyvore looking at our sets, trying to get clothing combinations to use in their store displays! Yeah, I am probably being too paranoid, lol.
ReplyDeleteWow. These posts are leaving me feeling really disappointed about people.
ReplyDeleteIn FSW defense, I contacted her about a week ago about the chatter site and she sent me back a very nice response, stating the reasons that she gave above. Sounds reasonable to me. She also offered to take my contact info (just as she did above) in case room opened up. I am guessing, though (now that I read more, FSW) that I probably wouldn't have time to be a meaningful member of the group- exactly why they are limiting membership.
Again, if anyone feels that strongly about it, why don't you just start your own chatter-type group?
I almost hate to post anon.but I am at work You girls are terrible and very rude. FSW has every right to have her own blog and her explanation was mature and acceptable which is more than I can say for the responses. If you want to name call please move to another blog, I would hate to see some of the best posters leave because of this unnecessary and childish abuse.
ReplyDeleteANON @ 11:56am--LOL!!! you nailed it. i think the truth needs to be posted about these ladies aka vampies
ReplyDeleteI assume I am the "any" that you are calling fat. That mature and kind response is very much appreciated.
ReplyDelete:(
Amy- if you are part of the chatter group, then you are. If not, you aren't. Sorry for the mistake
ReplyDeleteI know management in JC, and they know who these ladies are, and they are not well liked.
ReplyDeleteumm... maybe THAT's why they have closed membership, because they don't want JC stooges harassing them. Maybe you should focus more on developing quality product instead of $1800 patent leather ponchos and trolling blogs.
the quote I just posted was from a post after Amy's that apparently was deleted. Guess they realized how stupid tehy sounded.
ReplyDeleteAgain-wasting time with these ANON people is..well, just that, a waste of your time! Forget and skip over their CRAP!
ReplyDeleteI think it would be good for ALL that read this to ignore ANYTHING that is posted to cause a stir--you are turning your power, time and effort over to these lame individuals. SKIP IT PEOPLE-don't get sucked in!!
Omg people, relax! Firstly, yes I was unsubscribed but as FSW mentioned, I was not contributing and so I did not take it personally. Having been on that blog though, I can confirm that most of the discussions were of a more personal nature. If you were not part of Jcrew Chatter - you were not missing out on secret sale info etc at all. This blog has always been great for that (#1 on the web in my books!) and if that is what you are looking for, you are in the right place. Although it really saddens me to see what a negative place this has become to post. What happened to the good old days when we all got along?
ReplyDeleteI'm finding it hard to believe that all of these anon's are different people as well. Sounds like one person who just got off on the wrong side of the bed, this and every morning and just wants to add some negativity to other people's day.
Whoever is feeling excluded is more than welcome to open up their own blog and restrict membership in any way they need to. With all of the negative comments coming on this blog, in this posting and other postings I'm not surprised Jcrew Chatter has decided to restrict membership.
Lighten up people!
I also think FSW did a great job explaining the rationale behind creating the blog and restricting membership. Just take the time to read it and you'll understand. Or just don't read it, don't understand but then don't flood Alexis' blog with all of your negative comments either.
ReplyDeleteSo you have to contribute to stay on? Say peep or get kicked off. I love the clubhouse rules. I'm one anon, but I know there are others that call upon themselves to regulate the silliness on this board. Call us vigilantes....
ReplyDeleteUh, I can vouch that that was a post from FSW- I'm sure so can others. You must be one of those crazy left wing ladies that read US Weekly for political news. LIES, BETRAYALS, SCANDALS!
ReplyDeletei almost hate to respond to this, because it is taking up room on alexis's wonderful blog, but i have to. i've been reading this blog since late july, and the best thing about it has always been people being NICE to each other and helping each other out. the members of JCrew Chatter have always posted helpful info on here about sales, products, etc. so what's the problem? i can see why they want to start their own community. this one is becoming nasty, and i am really sad about it.
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ReplyDeleteUS weekly, are you kidding? I haven't even watched MTV in 12 years. Just b/c I like clothes doesn't mean I read fashion rags. And, I have a master's degree, which is more than that snowbilly brood mare can say.
ReplyDeleteAnd uhmm, US weekly is not a lefty mag, it's for ignorant high school dropouts, retard hilljhacks, hockey moms and other people who need to be distracted by the cult of celebrity to make their lives more bearable. Oh, and Dem's name call? Didn't Rush call Obama the "magic negro"? didn't fox news call michelle his "baby mama"? hmmm? Wake UP.
And if it *WAS* FSW, which we really can't say now because the post is gone, I still stand by my point, that being of course they don not want to be harassed by JC management. Again, I am NOT in the jcrew chatter group.
Sorry for the thread jack, Alexis but I had to respond to this idiot.
When US Weekly put out two covers: Michelle Obama; Why I love Obama, and Sarah Palin; Lies, Betrayals, Scandals! It was hardly screaming out which side they were on.
ReplyDeleteSo you have your Masters? So I guess that makes you a smarter person. But then again, I know tons of people with Masters and advanced degrees that can't tie their shoes. Perhaps J.Crew will come up with a fashionable velcro sneaker for you in Winter 2008.
The facts suck for you, which is why your side cries the hardest when things don't go your way. I guess I should go back to work, make more money, pay more taxes, so you, the vampire can live off of other people's hard work, and then claim it's unfair!
If I don't deserve to vote because I read the US Weekly titling off of two channels of media, Fox News and MSNBC, then I guess you should walk away from this blog, because clearly, you're not needed here. How unpatriotic of you!
ReplyDeleteI really like the jewelry line but it's just too expensive. I can not justify spending that much on costume jewelry.
ReplyDeleteoh crap I forgot to wear my flag pin, send me to guantanamo!!! I just didn't want to make a snag in my jcrew cashmere, we know how flimsy it can be.
ReplyDeletemaybe you should turn off your tv and read/listen to the bbc news, washington post, wall street journal, nyt, npr, pbs, hell even wonkette links to varied sources.
Anyone notice that Mccain's wife's clothes are beautiful whereas Obama's wife looks like a GAP black label? Just my 2 cents...
ReplyDeleteEveryone, you'll have to excuse Heather, this is her first time to be proud to be an American!
ReplyDeletejust a thought...
ReplyDeleteI actually think they both dress well and befitting for a potential first lady. Mrs. McCain is an heiress, I'm sure she can afford lots of high-end designer outfits.
anon,
ReplyDeleteit remains to be seen if I am proud to be an american. Now excuse me while I go burn some flags in a pile of late-term aborted fetues and welfare checks, because that's obviously how I spend my afternoons.
Anon 12:21--i'll vouch with you. Heather--please get your facts straight
ReplyDeleteI don't feel this is the place for politics - it is a place for fun and fashion. I think 1st anon was just feeling hurt and questioned the theme of the other blog. At this point it has blown way out of proportion. I think that the explanation of the blog owner more than covered the situation and was very understandable. Now please respect this blog owner's (Alexis)blog and discuss JCrew fashion politely. Just my thoughts - svid
ReplyDeleteok, agreed, svid, I will stop feeding the troll(s). I do have a lot of respect for Alexis and this blog is a fun resource for those of us who enjoy jcrew--whether it's what is used to be, what it is, and where it's going. It's a nice break from the day to come here and read reviews, etc.
ReplyDeleteCan we rehash the "What your oldest/favorite jcrew item?" post, now that there are more users? I loved that! I miss the old stuff sometimes.
I've been here almost since it's inception, anon, ok?
ReplyDeleteAnd maybe having a master's mean shit, I know I've had my spells of tough times, but I did it all on my own and am proud of it. No I am not an obamabot and if McCain were the same guy from 8 years ago maybe I could at least respect him (though not vote for him). Not now. Ok, no more politcs from me, just discussion of the intricacies of buttercup vs honey glaze vs spicy mustard vs.... :)
FSW: Your explanation was excellent! Actually, I didn't even know that something like J Crew Chatter existed! LOL!! I am so appreciative of all the help ON THIS BLOG that I have gotten from you, FFM, weab, blumre (although I am still mad about her not telling me about Tasty Delight until AFTER I had been to NY...LOL!!) and the others and I am sorry that you are being attacked in the mannner in which you are. :)
ReplyDeleteLet's just bury the hatchet, Heather. I know it's not easy getting a Master's, I just can't stand it when people throw it out there as a "I'm better than you because I own a piece of paper" tool. But, it's not a matter of who or what you vote for, it's the issues at hand, and we're all so different (some like khakis, some like them chinos!). So, I apologize for the heated exchange of words, but damn it, it sure gets us rev-ed up for the day!
ReplyDeleteUm...I like the Jenna bracelet. It looks exactly like a Monet bracelet I bought back in '86 (which I still have). BTW, Lunch hour is over, let's hope the haters all go back to work now...
ReplyDelete"I just can't stand it when people throw it out there as a "I'm better than you because I own a piece of paper" tool."
ReplyDeleteUm...it's not a "piece of paper." It represents several years of higher education, which is why it gets you a better job and salary. If you feel so inadequate about not having a degree, perhaps you should go back to school.
Yikes, when I read this blog I get the feeling I am way different than most women. I don't spend money on jewelry. I have a few pieces of 'real' jewelry, very few, that I live in. I think I'm alone out there! I see how it helps accent you outfit but I'd rather spend money on more clothes. :>
ReplyDeleteMelissa - My "solution" for my herringbone Bella may sound a little odd but it has worked for me. The collar always drove me crazy because the ends/corners of the collar stood straight out rather than opening slightly(if that makes sense).
ReplyDeleteBefore hanging the jacket in my closet, I take a pin and pin down each side/edge of the collar - this helps the collar to roll away from my face when I wear it and keeps it from rubbing my chin and jaw line (and means I don't get make-up on my collar).
Let me know if the explanation makes no sense.
ok anon, hatchet buried. I feel like going for a bike ride now, so it was a good energy boost! ;) And I probably shouldn't have said only retards and dropouts read US Weekly... it's probably all well and good to page through when you're laying on the beach and such. sorries jcrew aficionadas who read us weekly!
ReplyDelete"which is why it gets you a better job and salary"
I've definitely had better, more stimulating jobs, but not-so-much-better salary, understandable for the recent economic climate, I guess. It's a trade-off I'm willing to take, and knowing I'd probably have to take given my field, but I'd at least like have a job that will allow me to pay off my 40k of mostly grad school debt in a reasonable amount of time. :/
^I hear you, Heather. :/ I have two masters degrees and an extremely large amount of debt to go along with it, but I never seem to pick the fields that bring in the big bucks. Boo.
ReplyDeleteAny degree is a piece of paper unless it's put to good use! It's like the law student that gets the law degree and doesn't use it. I'm sure Heather would agree. And yes, $40k is quite a bit to pay off and should not be taken lightly. Kudos to you for the accomplishment though.
ReplyDeleteHey, I make good money, but I don't spend it like I do! The more I save, the more I'll have on a rainy day...:P
All the anons seem to be the same troll-- like after Fashionista Social Worker's post-- refreshing this page and typing a series of replies in the tone of whichever one of his/her personalities.
ReplyDeletemarison- excellent suggestion, thank you! i guess that's what was bothering me too. i looked at pics of it on the model and it does seem to open more away from the face. anyway, thanks a lot!
ReplyDeletePlea for Common Courtesy :)
ReplyDeleteamy,
ReplyDeleteI hear ya. I've considered doing another MA. Everyone thought I was NUTS to apply for my PhD, TWICE (and I might be trying AGAIN!), b/c of adding to my mountain of debt for potentially little financial return (especially now that in academia where phds seems to be a natural fit, tenure across lots of fields is rapidly vanishing). If I cared that much about money, I would have gone to business school! But living comfortably and having health insurance is nice, I will say that.
My last post here was at 11:14 this am. I have no idea who wrote the "deleted post" being attributed to me - I never saw it and don't even know what it said (and don't care to!) Heather, despite our obviously differing views, I appreciate your ability to see past differences in opinion when making judgements about facts. Other than my fondness for SP, I bet you'd be surprised by how many other views we share in common! ;-)
ReplyDeleteFSW
Well, is a degree is also worthwhile for the knowledge and reasoning skills one gains while earning it. One may or may not make this pay off financially depending on one's chosen field.
ReplyDeleteOT. Anyone seen the new Fall arrivals in stores? Yesterday, I saw the boucle tweed Penny jacket, city tee cardigans in both colors, the Deco print dress, and French Serge Day coat. All cute, especially the deco dress which was gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteTo those asking about the serge coat, it fit tts and the color is very similar to the maize of the Tartine cardigan. It's lightweight though, so it would get you through the fall but not a very cold winter.
Also, i saw the Pavia cashmere sweater in a heathered brown. Very pretty color and so soft.
Cleo26: How did the boucle tweed Penny look? Did they have it Honey glaze? I went to the B&M yesterday and I only saw the Rose chiffon tee in ivory (xsmall was already sold out) and the Metallic boucle clea jacket in black. I did try on the Audrey cashmere sheath dress, but I didn't care for the fit on me.
ReplyDeleteAnon @ 3:37: I am mistaken. The penny jacket looks very similar to the ones i saw at the b&m, except they were not boucle. Instead, one of the jackets i saw had sequins on the collar, and the other had almost a snow leopard print at the collar and was in knit.
ReplyDeleteFSW: I didn't mean to accuse you or anyone else of anything in my comment. I was simply responding to anon ... I had noticed the group and who was in it, and judging by that I figured it had to do with J.Crew management. That's all I said. I wasn't accusatory at all, or at least I didn't mean to come across that way. I don't get to check this blog everyday, so maybe I missed where you started the group. Your comment was too long for me to read in full, but I wanted you to know that honestly, it doesn't bother me at all and I am glad that you have a forum for your private discussions. I hope you understand that my comment was not negative in the slightest.
ReplyDeleteJUST AT THOUGHT @ 12:48 Michelle Obama stated that she buys her clothes at two stores...JCREW and GAP....it was on a news program just last week--I watch so many but I believe it was Today.
ReplyDeleteChunky costume jewelry that isnt even original.
ReplyDeleteFSW: I just read some more of your comment, and I'm not really sure how I got lumped in with the people being rude or calling you names, but I hope you see now that I did nothing of the sort. It's hard for things to come across on here, just because you can't see or hear people, but I meant my comment to be matter of fact. I'm sorry you took offense to it; I really meant nothing by it.
ReplyDeleteMaybe she just buys her white t-shirts at j.crew, b/c nothing she wears looks like it came from here!
ReplyDeleteCleo - You saw the Hedren jackets! Any comments? I love the pictures, but think maybe the collars look a little stuck on as an afterthought. How do they appear in person. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI love those bracelets. I have around 15 of those. And every time I use it, people on the streets stop to ask where I bought. It' so beautiful!
ReplyDelete