As many of you have mentioned, including Anon at 12:03 AM and 3carmelos (in this post), Green_Dino, Anon at 12:31 AM , Anon at 12:43 AM, & Naomi (in this post), as well as Smarty (in this post), J.Crew's final sale (aka: all sales are final, "no exchanges, no returns") is back. This news is displayed on the main index page of J.Crew's website (click here) and on the sale page (click here).I was under the impression that the final sale would not return until after the holidays (refer to: "J.Crew's Final Sale Expected To Return In Jan '09"). Maybe that is just for brick and mortar (B&M) stores? However, now I am wondering if B&M stores will be carrying the "final sale" signs today too?
What are your thoughts on this news? Will your local B&M stores carry "final sale" now too?
What made me laugh, is that "final sale" was in big bold letters. It was like this was something we having been waiting for all of our lives. Hee Hee.
ReplyDeleteI really wouldn't mind it so much except for the fact that their sizing is so darn inconsistant.
Oh yuck. Wow, I really expected a whopping % off discount this week. Maybe later in the week. I'm really bored with the selection right now anyway.
ReplyDeleteI bet the best sales were the HOHO and Turkey ones. If J Crew has moved alot of inventory there is no incentive to offer better deals.
ReplyDeleteThe cashmere tees and jackie cardigans are back to normal price too except the ones in the FS.
boooooooooo J. Crew! Nordstrom would never do this. Martin and Osa doesn't even do this!!!
ReplyDeleteI love how they say it's the sale we've been waiting for. Ummm, no. Not at all, actually.
ReplyDeleteI agree with leaderboys - it makes no sense to not have the option to return catalog/online only items, especially given inconsistent fit, color, quality, etc. I'm truly grateful for this community in that area - last time final sale was around I wasn't able to get so much input on an item before purchasing, and really stayed away from FS most of the time. Some other sites that have "final sales" are usually items with much deeper discounts. $49.99 for an unreturnable see-through silk cami that's as big as a house? No thanks!
ReplyDeletePerhaps they are concerned about returns from all the recent promos?? Speaking for myself, I purchase WAY more knowing that I can take it back if it doesn't work out. I spent more in the past month than I ever have before and am really sad that Final sale has reared its ugly head again
ReplyDelete:(
Twiga
I'm glad that I got most of what I wanted already.
ReplyDeleteBTW, I think the "final sale" news should be posted with a black background instead :p
Em, I agree with you. I thought, you think I've been waiting for final sale??? You must be crazy! I HATE final sale. :)
ReplyDeleteThis stinks, to put it mildly! I've been waiting for the next discount to see if I could snag a Lille coat after seeing how gorgeous Slastena looked in hers. But I'm so hesitant to purchase now because I'm pretty sure I'll be between sizes. Darn J Crew and their Final Sales!
ReplyDeleteWOW...this sucks! I'm SO glad I purchased everything I needed/wanted with HOHOHO and JINGLE, especially since some of the items had fit/color issues and needed to be returned.
ReplyDeleteDitto everyone else. It's not like the final sale prices are any different. "Hurry"?!?!?! How would final sale benefit anyone other than them and, in this economy when retail is begging for whatever it can get, I don't think it's a smart move...but Mickey would never ask me what I think about it.
ReplyDeleteIt is not a smart move on their part.
ReplyDeleteI placed an order for 7 items over the weekend & just rec'd 4 separate emails listing 4 separate cancelled items! Boo hoo. Glad I got what I really wanted during the earlier promotions. :)
ReplyDeleteDispostion: !Cancelled!
- Dream turtleneck sweater / small / light spearmint !Cancelled!
-Pintuck jersey scoopneck tee / small / deep indigo !Cancelled!
-Dream open cardigan / small / carrot !Cancelled!
-Argyle Wellie Socks !Cancelled! (That's ok, I already had these.)
I've returned literally dozens of items that I purchased on "final sale". I just say they were a gift. The SA gives me a hard time about it and tries to "track" the order via the (imaginary) gift giver's last name...and of course has no luck. Eventually I get a store credit for whatever the item rings up as, in some cases more than what I actually paid! This is a PITA, but I don't mind the store credit since I can always find things to spend it on and it's better than being stuck with something that doesn't fit! I really think J. Crew should at least allow people to exchange final sale items for another size or store credit.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Math Teacher. When I saw the words "Final sales you've been waiting for"... it made me laugh. NO ONE IS WAITNG FOR FINAL SALES!
ReplyDeleteI'm done with the sale section. It was fun while it lasted and while I returned several items, I ended up keeping several that I otherwise would not have ordered (if it were final sale).
ReplyDeleteOh well.
This is OT, but has anyone seen the new bag, the Bridgeport, by Banana Republic? It reminds me a lot of the Oslo, but at least $50 less before the BR coupons. Does anyone have input re. the quality of the BR tumbled leather vs. JCrew's Borge leathers? Ooh,I also like the BR Jefferson satchel. I've heard rumors that BR uses the same quality leather as Coach for their more expensive bags, but I don't know if that's simply an urban legend. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteHas anyone seen the Quinn camis and the hammered silk camis in person? I bought some Quinn camis and was shocked by the sheerness. Holy cow. I can see everything: the gals, the bra, the belly button, waist!!!!!!!! The only one that provided only the slightest bit of coverage was the dark slate color. I'm thinking of returning all the colors I purchased at $10.50/each and perhaps getting the hammered silk one which is more expensive. Also, I'm not sure that I'm loving the pintuck neckline on the Quinn.
ReplyDeleteDear FFM: Do you have any polyvore outfits with the Candy tweed jacket?
Thanks!
anon at 8:29 - that might be pushing it a bit, especially if you're getting back more than what you paid for.
ReplyDeleteDont think any of us want to resort to those tactics to return final sale items.
Coach isn't that great of quality anymore.
ReplyDeleteYes, I don't want to resort to being a liar and a cheat.
ReplyDeleteIt isn't as bad as people holding on to items until they go on sale and thinking they "deserve" to get a price adjustment even if it's been over a month... just because you have chosen not to take tags off or wear the item, doesn't mean you aren't stealing from the company. You chose to have the item hanging in your closet. You could have worn it several times, just because you didn't doesn't "entitle" you to anything.
final sale is already back in stores, or at least it was this weekend at Pentagon City
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone know of the lulu peep toe heels stretch at all. I bought the size 11 and they were too big: much bigger than all my other size 11 peep toe heels purchased from J Crew over the last 4 years. I ordered the 10, but that was pretty snug and I don't know which is the lesser evil. I think I'm a 10.5, but in Cole Haan, I wear 11s while in Coach sometimes I have to go down to 10s in flats to keep them from falling off the feet. LOVE the style, just don't know what to do.
ReplyDeleteAnon 8:49 The Quinn camis are so sheer. They have to be worn with something under them IMO. I could not believe I could see my belly button. I bought one yesterday at the store in the Pale Almond because I had a Bria Cami coming in the mail and wanted to have a back up if I did not like the Bria.
ReplyDeleteThe Bria arrived (champagne) it is amazing. Not sheer and the fabric has more body so it is not clingy... I felt it runs smaller than some of the others like the Lydia... I loved the fit. HTH someone.
I am fine with final sale if the items are especially cheap... but I am not seeing any new discounts today. Has anyone seen some new bargains?
ReplyDeleteQuick ?. I think I'm between regular and tall versions in coats. Where should the cuff end when one's arms are down? Regular version feels funny around arms/shoulders, but cuff ends just past wrist bone. Meanwhile the tall version cuff rests halfway between wrist bone and start of pinky. It's the lady coat so to hem the cuff would be expensive and time consuming due to the style of the cuff.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like the regular fits you where it should and the tall is too long.
ReplyDeleteWhat about going up a size?
I bought more full and sales prices items this month than i have purchased throughout the year, mainly because being in between sizes, i was free to return what didn't work out. In fact, i kept most of the merchandise.
ReplyDeleteI am mainly an internet shopper even though i have b&ms nearby. With final sale, it is very unlikely i will be ordering much online anymore. I just won't assume the risk of being stuck with something that didn't work out.
If i look at their competition, I don't understand J.Crew's position on this.
Re. tall/regular coat: I tried going up one size and the shoulders/arm area was better, but everywhere else I was swimming in space. It's weird. It's like I have a long torso, but regular arms. Is that possible? I have to get long torso J Crew bathing suits since the regular ones don't reach up to cover the chest area unless I wanted to give myself a wedgie. I love the style of this coat and really want to keep the tall version for comfort. Were it not for the length of the sleeves, all would be super.
ReplyDeleteGlad to see there are many out there who dislike the final sale... Now I'm not sure whether I'm going to purchase anything because the sizing is inconsistent.
ReplyDeleteIf everyone would boycott the final sale, they'd have to take it away.
ReplyDeleteMini-update: J.Crew just updated the sale section with more items (not necessarily new or in-stock items, but worth a visit) :)
ReplyDeleteAlso, it looks like the Story book Charm bracelet (although out of stock) just went on sale. :)
Anon@8:42 - I bought a BR bag this past summer and was really pleasantly surprised by the leather. I don't have a JCrew bag to compare it to, but the newer Coach bags I've seen have had an almost plasticky quality to the leather.
ReplyDeleteThe Madeline dress is finally on sale (though also currently sold out). I'm sure there will be an extra % off after Christmas, they are just prepping us for final sale and loading it up with everything right now. We all expected it - no big deal. :)
ReplyDeleteI feel like I am being punished by J Crew!
ReplyDeleteMy New Year's resolution is to not buy anything on FS....
I just took a quick tour of the final sale inventory and found that the prices of the items I've been eyeing for the last couple of days are exactly the same. So, can someone please tell me what exactly is the benefit of holding out for a "final sale" and not buying during the regular sale?
ReplyDeletecasual-crew is right - the best deals were during the Turkey and HOHO discounts. I personally bought more items between the end of November and mid-December than I bought in the past 6 months combined. So what if I returned a few of them? I ended up keeping tons, and I also bought tons of gifts for family and friends. Doesn't J.Crew benefit a lot more when people buy more?
Kind of kicking myself for putting together a cartful of items last night and not pulling the trigger. If I'd purchased them last night at least they would've been returnable. I hate the final sales. And yeah, I wouldn't mind so much if it truly was a clearance of items they're trying to get rid of, but seriously, there's a slub tee on there from last summer that costs just as much now as it did then. If they were really trying to get rid of it wouldn't you think they'd mark it down? Even a little!? I, like the rest of you, will be shopping MUCH less now that FS is back. No way, no how.
ReplyDeleteHi all,
ReplyDeleteI'm debating on the brushed gold lame skirt. I haven't seen it in person (e.g. does it look lovely or not-so-lovely), and I'm wondering about the sizing. I needed a 6 in the A-line taffeta skirt, a 6 in the duchess-dot skirt, but all my other skirts from J. Crew are 4's. So: 4 or 6?
Thanks ladies! You all are the best!
Booo! I hate you final sale.
ReplyDeleteKate, probably 4. I got it in 2 down from my usual 4 and it fits well. it's roomy and full,very beautiful skirt!
ReplyDeletethere were actually a couple of reductions if you look hard enough:) the juliet midheels are now 79.99 in many sizes and colors. i'm seriously tempted to grab a pair of dark poppy but shipping fees are stopping me.
ReplyDeletebut i agree, i think waiting it out until an extra %off promotion would be best since the price reductions were mainly for items that there are still a lot of left in stock:)
Arrghh! The dreaded final sale. I hate it, hate it, hate it. I agree with others - I've been finding that J crew is not as consistent in sizes anymore. So when I thought I was a medium, now I am a small in many cases. I haven't lost weight :) so I know the sizing is off from before. Of course if the prices go way down, I will consider taking a chance but its generally not the way I like to shop. By the way, the argyle knee high socks for $4.99 are really good socks! They always mark them down at the end of the year and I pick up a few more each year in different colors.
ReplyDeleteSince Last night they added about 3 pages of sale jewelry that has not been on the website for ages- seychelles necklace, Seahorse necklace etc...I guess they want to make sure these do not come back to them!
ReplyDeleteTwiga
Thanks Slastena! It's so frustrating that the sizing has been inconsistent. I have always been able to buy 4's at JC forever, and then when the taffeta a-line and duchess-dot came in 4's and they didn't fit right, argh! I'll get the 4 and cross my fingers! :)
ReplyDeleteKate:
ReplyDeleteI just ordered that skirt! Arriving tomorrow (hopefully). I got some advice before ordering and most said it runs TTS, so prolly order your normal size (6). I'm normally an 8 and that's what I ordered. Hopefully it works as I'm planning on wearing it to Xmas Eve dinner tomorrow night! :-P
i'm disappointed that they added a lot of old items. i want new stuff.
ReplyDeletei did notice the wool shift dress went form 49.99 to 29.99. beware, the skirt of the dress is very full even though it doesn't look like it online.
ok I take back my comment about the jewelry being added as every single piece I clicked on says it is sold out?? So yes they added them to the sale page, but they are not really available!
ReplyDeleteTwiga
I just sent this e-mail to JCrew. I incourage others to do the same, maybe they will re-think this Final Sale nonsense
ReplyDeleteDear JCrew,
I just wanted to say how much I loathe Final Sale. Doesn't Jcrew understand that people will not buy items that they cannot return or exchange, especially around the holidays. Bringing this back 2 days before Christmas is ridiculous. I have 400.00 worth of merchandise sitting in my cart and they are all sale items that would have been returnable had I bought them yesterday. Please tell me the logic in this? Alienating customers that want to shop with you but are not willing to take the chance of something not fitting is not good business. Especially given your inconsistent sizing. What other store puts items on sale but refuses to let the customer return or exchange them, especially on-line! Please tell me when this Final Sale will be over so I can resume shopping at Jcrew.
Suilove at 10:06
ReplyDeleteAt the last final sale, I called to ask about some flats. I told the SA that I was between sizes and I was going to order both. She put on the order that it wasn't final sale. I kept one and returned the other no problem. Also, that way you'll qualify to use ICD-49 for free shipping off $150.00.
Good luck!
I had a cart full of items last night. But with final sale, I won't be purchasing any of them. I won't be taking a chance with my hard earned money. Also, even if I could convince the SA to refund it, I don't want the hassle. Shopping should be fun. I'll be heading to other retailers who want my business - there are a lot of them!
ReplyDeleteLOL Frances Blouse, Striped Katie Sweater, GO AWAY already!
ReplyDeleteI'm really enjoying this blog! This is my first time posting...
ReplyDeleteAnd yes, it looks like they've added items but everything I've clicked on so far is sold out :(
Just wanted to add to what others were saying...I'm offended by the header page. Final Sale is not what I've been waiting for. Don't insult my intelligence. I'm not ordering anything FS.
ReplyDeleteI don't understand why Jcrew thinks that when people didn't buy a certain item when there was 30%off+fs, they would buy it now when the price isn't marked down and they have to pay for shipping.
ReplyDeleteI noticed that they added many more old items to the sale section today. But those items have always been in the system. During HOHOHO and JINGLE, if you searched the item by key word or item #, they would show up.
I hate this kind of tricks of hiding items when there were good coupons.
I don't know if anyone saw my post on the other topic, but I saw a storybook bracelet at the Danbury, CT store. The number is 203-748-3580. Hope someone can get it from here!
ReplyDeleteHas Jcrew's price adjustment policy always been 7 days? I thought it was 14 days.... Hm...
ReplyDeleteIt makes me giggle. The way they are presenting a negative as the greatest, happiest positive. I completely understand why they do final sale, but pushing it as a happy thing? Silly. Why not add a few smilie emoticons to the mix, just to be even sillier.
ReplyDeleteIt is odd how they are promoting the final sale as a good thing, when there are NO additional markdowns, and you can't return. So random that they would do this before Christmas. I have to do some online returns today at the BM, will report back on anything good I see.
ReplyDeleteCan anyone tell me about the "Gathered summer jersey dress"? http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Browse/WomenBrowse/Women_Shop_By_Category/dresses/knitdresses/PRDOVR~93925/99101458393/93925.jsp
ReplyDeleteI saw it this past summer and never ordered it and now it's in the FS area. It looks cute, but not sure about sizing?
Anonymous,
ReplyDeleteI tried Danbury this morning but they sold the last storybook bracelet yesterday. I did manage to find one somewhere else and as soon as I know Desert Rose is all set, I will let everyone know where that is. They have 2 so maybe 1 available if she buys the other.
Some things did get marked down further:
ReplyDeleteMadison pants are now $19.99.
Golden roses skirt now $119.99.
Merino turtlenecks now $29.99.
To those chastising 8:29,
ReplyDeletePeople wouldn't have to resort to such tactics if JC would allow at least an exchange of sale items. Then you could bring back your actual receipt, and get a store credit for the price you paid (not more). No story to make up, no wasting SA time tracking down an imaginary gift giver, and JC still gets to keep their income.
It's not like they actually have anything on sale in stock...so whether or not I purchase something in their final sale is irrelevant.
ReplyDeleteand here was their response:
ReplyDeleteWe sincerely apologize for our Holiday sale becoming a final sale.
Your disappointment is understood. Thank you for your comments and suggestions regarding the improvement of our service. We always appreciate hearing from our customers about ways in which we might develop an elevated customer experience. We'll be sure to review the problems you described immediately. Our primary concern is complete satisfaction with all your J.Crew purchases.
If we can be of further assistance, please let me know by responding directly to this email or through my contact information which I have provided below.
translation: we don't care, we know no one likes Final sale but we have a load of crap that won't sell and we would prefer that you get stuck with it rather than us.
ReplyDeletethanks JCrew
I have the storybook charm bracelet and I love it. So much so, that I don't care that I paid full price for it.
ReplyDeleteIt was one of those things that never received much play, but I noticed it on the website and ordered it right away.
LOVE it!
I saw that someone posted about the merino turtleneck the other day. Could you tell me how it fits? I don't want to be stuck with the wrong size on FS.
ReplyDeletePeople wouldn't have to resort to such tactics if JC would allow at least an exchange of sale items.
ReplyDeleteLet's get some perspective. No one is forcing anyone to "resort" to anything. The poster was fully aware that the item was final sale when she bought it and then chose to lie when she decided she didn't want to abide by the conditions under which she made the purchase.
These are all wants, not needs. No one "has" to buy anything from final sale.
Beyond that, there are many ways of legitmately handling this situation without lying and ripping J. Crew off. For example, if you pay with Amex, Amex will permit a certain amount of refunds if the store won't take the item back.
victoria - that dress runs VERY big. size down at least once, and even then you will probably need a belt/sash to not look like you are pregnant
ReplyDeletebottom line: Don't buy Final Sale they will be forced to take it away.
ReplyDeletela dolcevita
ReplyDeleteAre the charms on storybook really large like on jeweled turtle, etc.?
I found that sizing varied quite a bit on the merino turtleneck. I tried on several larges to get one that fit. Laying out 2 of the same size on the bed, I could see inches of difference in the neck width, arm length and body width. Same with the cashmere turtleneck - the first one I got was huge - more like a cowl neck - then I reordered and got one (same size) that fit perfectly.
The merino turtleneck is very thin, but still warmer than a cotton tneck. I think it says in the description it is supposed to be fitted.
Penny, Thank you for posting the email you sent to CS. I used it as a sort of template, edited of course, and just sent my own complaint email off. I needed the inspiration (couldn't seem to formulate my thoughts beyond, "God this sucks"). Hopefully everyone is sending in their emails too!
ReplyDeleteCleo26 -- I am the exact same way. I've bought a ridiculous amount of clothing, much of it on sale due to their promos, in various sizes so I can try things on. I ended up keeping 95% of the items so I have different sizes to wear when I'm...well, different sizes. I hate the final sale because I don't have the option of returning that 5% that's just never going to work for me.
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand, this is going to help me immensely during my self-imposed 6 month J. Crew break. Thanks J. Crew for making it easy for me not to shop!
I was waiting for another sale, I was sure they would have one last push before x-mas. It just doesn't make sense to bring back Final Sale right now. People are still shopping for 2 more days. No one will buy something as a gift and tell the person tough luck if you don't like it you can't return or exchange.
ReplyDeleteanon: good, please anyone feel free to use and get the word out.
This means NO online shopping for me! (yes, "I have been waiting for that" as they pointed out on the website since I overspent by all means. I just waited for an excuse to stop shopping!) :)
ReplyDeleteI have a friend who occasionally shops at JCrew. She just pointed out recently how "other retailers don't impose this final sale". Welcome to JCrew world" I thought. The final sale monster is back to stay....
AP has an article- Shoppers haggle for deals from desperate retailers. A J Crew associate commented:
ReplyDelete"Allen Chen, a part-time cashier at a J. Crew store in White Plains, N.Y., said shoppers with two-month-old receipts are asking for partial refunds for items now on sale. Normally, the store's policy is to refund the difference between an item's purchase price and a later sale price only if it goes on sale within seven days of the purchase.
"When I tell them it is past the seven-day policy, they tell me that they will just return it and re-buy it" at the sale price, he said, adding that his store managers are now allowing customers to do so most of the time.
This just goes to show that J Crew knows that they are facing a losing battle with customers. I am pretty sure that even if J Crew decides to continue w/ their FS policy customers are still going to be allowed to return FS items.
If "it's the sale you've been waiting for" = the sale that I definitely won't purchase anything on, then yes, I have been waiting for this sale! After ordering 2x my normal credit card bill on JCrew items recently (returning a bunch to the Reston B&M today!), I needed a bad offer like this to finally curb my JCrew spending. Thank you JCrew! ;)
ReplyDeleteI'm not saying this is the right thing to do but anytime that I have an item that I ordered online that is FS and does not work out I take it back to the B&M. They tell me they can't take it back and I tell them that I called CS and they noted my account that I can return it. I then point to the phone and say go ahead and give them a call about. After I say that they give me a full refund for the item. I have never once called CS to have them make a note on my account but the associates don't know that and they are to busy to take the time to call CS and figure it out.
ReplyDeleteAnon at 12:11 pm, that is a really good tactic! I am going to do that from now on.
ReplyDeleteI did see that the silk dupioni skirt is on sale, from $99 to $69...
ReplyDeleteAnd I'm so glad everyone warned me about the Quinn camie, I was considering it to go with the peacock skirt, as the model is wearing, but sheer tops drive me crazy!
Anyone know whether the B&M stores are having any special sales?
And another hint for FS, when there are items that I am unsure about, because of fit, I usually email CS with really specific questions about the fit, i.e., lengths of various rises, arms, inseams, etc. If they don't have the information available, they always offer to note my account so that I can return the item if it doesn't fit.
ReplyDeleteI have returned 3-4 items from final sale to "my" JCrew store. The SA has never given me a hard time.
ReplyDeleteanon @ 11:27 - your translation of penny's email response cracked me up! It's totally true.
ReplyDeleteI thought (according to the stores and CS reps) that the next final sale wasn't going to come until spring, or at least after the holidays.
So let me understand this: if there's old stuff lying around from last year that didn't sell, let's charge the price that it didn't sell for last year. For this season's stuff that isn't selling, let's jump-start sales 2 days before Christmas when everyone is already on their last nerve and many have already spent too much... by totally irritating the company's most loyal (and possibly highest spending) customers so they effectively stop buying from your company until the final sale ends.
Also, why the mixed messages? I recently received this response on the phone from CS when I expressed concern about ordering an item that may not fit -- and I quote: "Now, you know that even if you do buy something on final sale and it doesn't fit, we'll always try to at least exchange it for another size. We want you to be happy."
My understanding of that statement is, if you are trying to order a final sale item online but are worried that it may not fit, maybe it's best to call first and get them to say that to you (or order it by phone). Then, if it doesn't fit, you can at least say that CS told you they want you to be happy and you want an exchange.
The only thing that would make me order some of the stuff that's sitting in my cart right now (and there's been a good amount from the past few days) is either a larger price cut or a hefty discount code for final sale items. At least a good discount or cheaper prices would make it more compatible with a true "final sale."
ReplyDeleteI can definitely understand the anger and frustration that could drive someone to be less than honest about their returning tactics. I was shopping at Tysons yesterday and a woman walked up to the register with a J.Crew shoebox bursting with J.Crew receipts. She tried to return stuff that had been purchased more than 60 days ago for full price and kept insisting that one of the local stores had given her money back on her credit card (not a J.Crew card). Nobody believed her (though the manager was really calm and professional about it). Also, it would have been halfway believable if the customer had walked in with 1 receipt, but someone who had like 50 receipts in there wasn't making a good case for not knowing J.Crew's return policy.
Anyway, the manager offered the customer store credit or credit back on her J.Crew card, which she said she didn't have. Then the manager actually called the other store that the customer had named to ask if they had been giving customers money back after 60 days, to which the answer was no. I'm pretty sure everyone standing in line was aware of the return policy and knew the customer was lying, but she still argued for about 20 minutes. Then, after the manager still wouldn't give her her money back, she told one of the sales associates what a good customer she was and how much she spent at that store, and she said she wasn't being treated right. Then, she tried to prove that the other store was lying by searching for an old receipt that showed her refund back to her other credit card after 60 days (which she wasn't able to find, apparently.) Now that was over-the-top lying!
I think at least trying to return a final sale item and not expecting anything but store credit or the final marked-down price is less criminal than the customer who lied about getting her full money back on her non-J.Crew card after 60 days, was busted by the store that she claimed gave it back to her, and still tried to lie about.
Yippee!!! Final Sale is Back! Like J Crew said, it's the sale I've been waiting for! Right, just like I've been waiting for a hole in my head! Er, NOT!!!!!
ReplyDeleteI HATE FINAL SALE and I'm refusing to buy anything on Final Sale this time. I cannot believe the number of times I've been stuck with something that didn't fit. Despite the fact that I LOVE their clothes, their sizes are very inconsistent. I can wear anything from a size 2 to a 6 and an XS to a Medium. How in the world am I supposed to be able to buy something and guarantee that it'll fit me perfectly without first having had the opportunity to try it on??? I would love to be able to go to a store to try stuff on but the nearest one is a 4 hour drive each way and it's not even in the same country! I can appreciate that J Crew has a business to run and should do whatever it takes to be financially successful. Similarly, I hope J Crew can appreciate that since I hate getting stuck with merchandise that don't fit, I should do whatever it takes to not part with my hard-earned money.
Thanks but no thanks to the Final Sale.
Oh, and has anyone else noticed that they've changed the wording to their Sale Page? It used to say "Hurry, it's the Sale You're Waiting for" to "Orders place today are not guaranteed for Holiday Delivery".
I guess it's dawned on J Crew that it's NOT the Sale we've been waiting for.
My only interpretation is that this is an attempt by Jcrew to fight the recession. They're trying to avoid returns. My experience with Jcrew in the last 6months has taught me to stay away from Jcrew in the past month. It was frustrating trying to keep up with all the "random" discounts they were coming out with. Sometimes I was a winner, but on other occasions I ended up being the loser. Also, I was getting stuck with many items from Final Sales.
ReplyDeleteI ended up spending my money at Anthropologie, who offered free shipping from early December to Dec.19th. It was plain and simple. No crazy changes in discounts. I knew that the item on sale would be the best deal for a while, and the free shipping made me place about 3 orders of 200+ dollars each. I was able to order different sizes since I could have the peace of mind knowing that I can always return the item to the store without any hassle anytime I want to.
IMHO, that's the way to do business without making customers feel like they are being manipulated.
Just my 2 cents. I still loooove Jcrew! Just wish they would get rid of FS!
I just find it surprising that this is their final holiday strategy - all of the other retailers are offering 20% - 40% off merchandise with free or inexpensive 2 or 1 day shipping! And I am shopping with them! I have purchased from Anthro and Saks to get those final last minute presents. I just don't understand J Crew strategy -- they seem to try to do the opposite of what all other retailers do.
ReplyDeleteNeiman Marcus has already started their "After Christmas Sale" with an additional 40% sale prices!
ReplyDeleteI'm boycotting Final Sale!
Alexis - I have a suggestion for a post - how much we LOVE LOVE LOVE our UPS driver! I love mine and if we weren't both married to other people, I love him more - but we are, so I just love him like Santa bringing me gifts from far away places with a smile and a wink :) He must think I am crazy, but he never shows it - and as others have said, at least I am keeping him busy. We give him Starbucks cards, tickets to the Cal games when we have extras, stuff like that to keep him happy. Love him!
ReplyDeleteMack, why do you have to keep the UPS man happy? It's his job to deliver the packages. He'll get fired if he doesn't. He's definitely not doing it as a favor to you. Am I missing something here? :-\
ReplyDeleteYAY Final Sale !!!
ReplyDeleteThat my DB has been waiting for!
Because I will STOP shopping from JCrew!!!!
Bye bye JCrew,
see you again in 4 months...
Hi Confused,
ReplyDeleteI know he is just doing his job - but he does it with a smile and stops to chat and jokes with our kids. I have seen grumpy UPS men - and when you see him as often as we do, it makes a difference. We have a nice mailman too - also give him nice present at Christmas. We have lived in our house for 12 years and he has been our UPS man the whole time. Maybe we're strange - but I like to take care of the people that take care of us, even if they are just doing their job.
somewhat related... how do you return an online item in the store w/o a receipt? do they look it up at the store even if you don't have a j crew card?
ReplyDeletei have an item that i can't find a receipt for. i want to make sure i can return it without any hassel with this final sale crap.
I won't be buying from final sale. I know that my B&M will take things back, but I also know that it hurts their store sales for them to do that, and that's not fair. I did place a number of orders during the HOHOHO and TURKEY promos, and even recently using the free ship code and was surprised at how many problems I had. Items missing, the wrong items sent and so many cancellations of items. I will be returning a ton to the online because in many cases part of the order was canceled and I no longer want the remainder of the order. Either I bought things to wear together, or I added an item to hit the $150 for free shipping. I guess the good news is that the credit card bill will be much smaller.
ReplyDeleteThe good news is that thanks to someone here I did finally snag the storybook bracelet!!
Desert Flower, what store did you get it from? "We will find it" refuses to search for it since it is a sale item. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteBloomies is now having extra 50% off already marked down items...some great deals to be had...
ReplyDeleteI agree w. these threads, I am spending my $$ elsewhere, where I can return if need be. I just spent some at Banana, which is having additional 20% off sale prices, and no final sale. Only JC does this final sale thing.
ReplyDeleteI actually like the Quinn camis a lot, though I know some people above don't like them so much. They are a little sheer, but I find that if you're wearing a proper size, they hang straight down (which I think is the intended fit) and you don't see any bellybutton. I've been wearing a flesh-tone bra under my pale almond Quinn cami, too, and there's no show-through (it's a VS Biofit bra, too - I think those are tip-top for no-show-through). So - I'd recommend trying them on before you write them off. Mine are absolutely a delight - perfect for holiday parties, and they'll go right into spring, tucked into skirts, by themselves or under jackets/camis.
ReplyDeleteThen I am done!!!
ReplyDeleteI just sent jcrew this email:
ReplyDeleteDear Jcrew:
Please do not insult our intelligence by touting final sale as something customers are waiting for. In fact, we hate final sale. Your clothing sizes are so variant that no one wants to order something final sale. Secondly, why the hell should we not have the option of returning something?? The last time I checked Jcrew was a multi-million dollar company - not some discount store "going out of business." Why resort to these tactics to make yourself more money?
Moreover, quite frankly - since your prices are not low enough to even justify final sale, we can reasonably conclude "final sale" is your way of forcing merchandise on customers with no mode of relief if it does not fit, or if the color is portrayed inaccurately on your website (which is often the case).
Finally, the come back of final sale is most surprising considering this year's economy. If you really cared for your customers, you'd offer a sale worth shopping for.
Thanks,
J.Crew sizes are so inconsistent. For some shoes they recommend to size up when I actually have to either get the regular size or even to size down. I’ve got a pair of denim in the mail yesterday and today I have to return it because it is too small. I wanted to try J.Crew jeans and ordered according to the size chart. And it did not work for me. I cannot shop during final sale.
ReplyDeleteAnon 1:39 pm
ReplyDeleteBoston Copley had 2 storybook bracelets as of this morning.
Mack - personally, I thought your post was hilarious.
ReplyDeleteI am VERY dissapointed! Final sale already??? The last one lasted what felt like YEARS!!!
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone know when new inventory will be added to the JCrew site? Getting bored of the same old stuff.
ReplyDeleteI was at my B&M last night and they said that they will have their new inventory out this week and next - they said they had been receiving boxes all week. So the launch of spring line should happen shortly.
ReplyDeleteSweet!! Now hopefully they dont put any of it on Final Sale so I can order online, try on and return if I need to. How sad is it when a sale becomes a negative?!
ReplyDeleteBKP-
ReplyDeleteDid you get an email confirmation for your order? I would try taking that in with your return. Or maybe you can try to call CS beforehand and see if they can make a note of your issue so that when you go to the B&M they will be less likely to give you a hard time about the receipt.
I loathe the Final Sale. Especially since I've been waiting to score the Dream Open Crewneck sweater in Kelly Green for weeks now, and it finally shows up to taunt me from the Final Sale pages. And the price hasn't even dropped!! It's not the sale I've been waiting for... it's the one I was hoping to avoid until after the holidays! I certainly won't be wasting any holiday giftcards I receive on Final Sale items (at least on Internet orders, anyway... shopping at the stores at least allows you the opportunity to try things on ahead of time).
ReplyDeleteAnon @ 2:17 PM - I love you!!! :)
ReplyDeleteI ordered both bracelets for my sister in law and myself and the store honored the sale price. I am so happy!!!
Forgive me if this was mentioned already. My newspaper had an article about all the sales at the mall. They had a quote from a JCrew SA saying how many people were returning their merchandise that they bought at the regular price to get the sale price. Even though the receipt wouldn't let them pay the difference (I think you only have 7 days). People were returning the items, get store credit and then repurchasing them at the lower price. He said there was nothing he could do to stop them. It was an AP story if anyone can find it.
ReplyDeleteAnon 2:45,
ReplyDeleteGlad they still had them and that they will be going to a good home. :-)
Hope they work out for you and that you and your sister in law have fun wearing them!!
Anon 2:17
Here is JCrew response to my unhappy email about Final Sale (that's one snarky response in my opinion):
ReplyDeleteWe thank you for taking the time to give us feedback regarding our final sale and will forward it to our feedback group for review.
Sizing can be an issue with any garment you haven't tried on so we always welcome out customers to call to get exact measurements, especially when ordering final sale styles.
If we can be of further assistance, please let me know by responding directly to this email or through my contact information which I have provided below.
Just a side note.. I have a knack for numbers and was surfing last night pre-FS and noticed that today there are at least 20 more accessories listed, 35 more shoes, and various other additions. While the actual PRICES for most things may not be lower, there have been a few items added. That being said, GOD BLESS FS for curbing my spending habits :)
ReplyDeletewhat address do you use to send in emails to j crew? contactus@jcrew.com?
ReplyDeleteWow, thank you for this site and everyone's comments. I just stopped myself from ordering $400 worth of FS items. I can wait - an will. The no-return policy is not acceptable to me anymore. Besides, I can always checkout the outlet on my way home from Christmas. That's probably where a lot of these items will be soon anyway. Thank you ALL!
ReplyDeleteYes, I just went to the website and on Contact us page is that address. The response came in about 20 minutes.
ReplyDeleteEww... I take back my prior half-assed praise. Some of the shoes on FS are seriously TWO summers old and still only discounted between 20-40%. Shame on you, J.Crew.
ReplyDeleteAlso, you can email your store if you know the store number. While this won't get anything changed at all, it could at least get a relationship going with the manager there if you don't already have one. The format for J.Crew store emails are as such:
ReplyDeleteStore.### at jcrew dot com
I ADORE my B&M's manager. It is always good to have an "ally" in your local store. You never know where it may get you ;)
Thanks Anon at 3:03pm, you are very kind. :)
ReplyDeleteI posted this in the weekly exchange but I will post it here as well in case people are looking to buy these online items and want to try them on first, especially since now everything is FS.
ReplyDeleteI am returning boucle tweed short coat size 0 to San Diego Fashion Valley store because I am keeping size 2. So if you want to try it on and see how this coat looks in person it will be at the store. I am going there now, 12:30pm.
Oh, and I am also returning the boot cut cord denim in chocolate color, size 27 regular. It is too small for me. Not sure if this is the correct name for the denim, I do not have my invoice with me. But they are not matchstick so I think they called bootcut. Anyway, they are going to the store :)
Any CS out there want to divulge the % off yall are getting? I was just in the Reston B&M and the CS was telling me I don't even want to know how much off they are getting for the next two days (I returned a too big pair of Lulu metallic heels that she swooped up) - she almost blabbed until the other CS was like "no, don't tell". I believe the normal discount is 30-50% or something around for CS depending on full price or sale items? Please tell! Not that I want to be getting a part time job at JCrew, but I'm very curious!
ReplyDeletebkp - just bring the order number and I think you'll be fine. I'm a cardholder so I'm not 100% sure, but I've never had any problems making returns this way.
ReplyDeleteIf you can print up your order confirmation and bring it in, that might be even safer.
If JC doesn't want people reordering and returning their full price items, they should offer a decent price adjustment policy like they used to. Personally, I picked up the habit only *after* they stopped doing price adjustments, partially out of sheer annoyance. Price adjustments accomplish the same thing and save everyone some hassle.
ReplyDeleteWow, I just ordered a dress from Bloomingdales and loved the experience. I got an email within a couple minutes confirming the order and was told of an approximate shipping date. I thought to myself, I hope it's in stock and I really get the dress. LOL...I forgot it's not J. Crew! I've forgotten how pleasant it is to shop at other internet sites! I've got another cart full at another retailer ready to purchase.
ReplyDeleteThanks for Final Sale...it pushed me to go to other retailers for FUN shopping experiences.
An email that I sent to J Crew-
ReplyDeleteDear J Crew:
I find your announcement of Final Sale on the main page of your website very annoying and more importantly, insulting. Final Sale is not the sale that I have been waiting for and I highly doubt that it is the sale that any other J Crew customer has been waiting for. Who would wait for a sale on merchandise that is non-returnable? And the fact that you have used the word “sale” in “Final Sale” is arguably deceiving. I just checked the website to see what was on sale and I can say that while there have been some new items added to Final Sale, 90% of what I saw a few moments ago is not discounted anymore then it was 24 hours ago when there was no Final Sale.
I have found that over the last year J Crew clothing sizes has become very inconsistent. Your clothing sizes are so variant that it makes it nearly impossible for someone to order something Final Sale and be satisfied with the fit of the item. I have tried to call costumer service to get measurements and descriptions but this is time consuming and quite frankly, even costumer service can be wrong about measurements and color descriptions. I feel like Final Sale is J Crew’s way of forcing merchandise on to customers without a means for the customer to return the merchandise if it does not fit correctly or if the color of the item is not accurately described. I’m not sure why any retailer would want to do this to their customers.
Sincerely,
X
I just received my
ReplyDeleteMerino Portland Cardigan Item 99826 and they're exactly what I was hoping for. Thin, soft, not at all itchy. Fits TTS but is a long sweater (25" or so long). The sleeves hit past my wrist to the bottom of my hand which is great for me because I'm sick of bracelet lenght sleeves. It is form fitting but accomodates a full viscose jersey top underneath. The shoulder seem is set back further on the shoulder instead of on top of the shoulder, and there's no issues with the shoulders being too narrow. I don't love v-necks but this fits so well the v-neck doesn't affect my opinion of the sweater. I purchased navy and champagne, and might order more. This sweater would look great over a skirt, with or without a belt over it, and currently I have it on with my cords and it looks great with those too. It will be a great spring item too since it's thin. (The lighter color does require something under it because you can see a bra under it.) I'm glad I returned my Stephanie cardigans and bought these instead. I tried it on and have not taken it off yet. I highly recommend this sweater!
bkp -- print out the email confirmation or shipping confirmation and that should serve as your receipt without giving you any problem.
ReplyDeleteLOVE the letter sent by Anonymous at 2:02pm. Great word-smithing! :)
ReplyDeleteIt just doesn't make sense - the price was not low enough for people to be tempted to take a chance at something that does not fit and have to pay for shipping to boot.
ReplyDeleteOn the Quinn - I returned the pale almond promptly after I found out that it was ultra sheer. I don't know what they were thinking. I also love the Bria - the silk is substantial and the cut away on the arm isn't as drastic as the victoria. I got it in olive, which will go well with the brushstroke roses belle skirt.
I think final sale is a way of protecting themselves from returns and a way of forcing customers to pay full price and not wait for things to go on sale. Nothing about that is good for the customer.
ReplyDeleteeveryone should send an email....
ReplyDeletecontactus@jcrew.com
This is what I have to do during FS:
ReplyDeleteI go to my B&M and I take a pen and a small paper pad. I try on things at FP or anything that peeks my interest and I write down the the size that fits me and maybe a couple notes about the item. When the item is reduced to FS I whip out my paper pad and see what size I wrote down and then I order the item. This usually saves me the headache of dealing w/ FS. The only downside is that J Crew has items that are online/ catalog only that I don't get to try on. Sometimes I will order the item at FP so that I can try it on and then return it and order later when it is FS.
kitchy7 I agree, and don't forget Mickey mentioned in his last earning report J Crew will adjust their inventory levels something in Spring07/ When this happens not much will be going on sale we will be lucky to see a promotion. Not good for the consumer.
ReplyDeleteshort hills store had no final sale sign
ReplyDeleteIt wouldn't be half so bad had they discounted the merchandise more than it has been. I mean, have the prices gone down on practically anything in over a week? You would think that if this stuff is still hanging around despite some decent sales it either doesn't fit like it should, it's not as nice in person or it's a funky (as in bad) design to begin with. It doesn't take a genius to figure it out. I will NOT waste my money till things are at least half of what they are now. There's nothing remotely tempting about most of what's left anyway. And on that note, this season has left a lot to be desired. There have been a few pieces that truly captured my interest but compared to the past few years this season was a little disappointing. Hopefully spring will inspire me.
ReplyDeleteCasual Crew-
ReplyDeleteI don't think this will be good for J Crew either. If I am forced to pay full price for an item I will be buying less from J Crew not to mention I will be even more picky about what I do choose to buy at full price. Less sales for J Crew.
Well at least one person is buying J Crew:
ReplyDeleteSuri Cruise is a J.Crew Baby
The mother-daughter duo was seen shopping at the J.Crew store at the Time Warner Center.
I just saw an article, 5 Tips for Grabbing Last Minute Holiday Shopping Deals. The article says, "For the best deals, check out these retailers:
ReplyDeleteJ. Crew is offering 20 percent off through December 24, but it applies to in-store purchases only. That means the stores will be crowded, but you can snag some great deals on J. Crew's colorful winter collection."
Not sure that 20% of is that good of a deal and now it might be final sale as well.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteFYI, B&Ms still have the extra 20% off permanent markdowns (and the 20% off anything promo--but you don't get double discount on the markdowns), and the markdowns are still not final sale.
ReplyDeleteThey are not combining the 20% "promo" with student discount, but you can still get the student discount on top of the permanent markdown extra 20% off (I had to fight for this at the register b/c they have always let me use it in the past and I clarified that the extra 20% off permanent markdowns was not the same as the 20% "promo" that could not be combined). Some of the SAs don't know the difference so be (politely) assertive. For me it was a $30 difference.
Oh, and I noticed the portland merinos are still FP in the store while they are $39.99-$49.99 online, but the michelle merinos are on "promo" for $69.50 in the store while still FP online. They are very similar sweater but the michelle has bigger buttons and the knit is a little more wintery-feeling, while the portland is more of a silky-feeling spring-like knit.
Oh, if anyone is looking for coats the 45th and Madison store in NYC had a ton left, extra 20% off and not FS. They had 5 lille coats in majestic purple, size 10. They had a ton of black tulip coats and heather acorn carrie coats. Also some peacoats, etc.
ReplyDeleteAnybody else sent an email to J Crew re final sale and get a response? Just curious to know.
ReplyDeleteHi everyone!
ReplyDeleteI know it's been sold out online for a while now, but please let me know if you see the Crystal-button colorblock cardigan at any B&M. Thanks!
-Jill
gigi - posted this on your blog, but maybe others can help.
ReplyDeleteI bought the shipley coat in a size2. I love it, but I have this self doubt that says it is too small. I tend to buy things a little too big by mistake ALL THE TIME.
How are coats supposed to really fit? Snug, easy to button but not much room, fits my body pretty much like a glove? That's how this is.
HELP PLEASE !
(yes I know I am psycho).
anon 5:12 PM - that's not psycho at all. i have a similar question i've never been too sure about: I love getting jackets (from the suiting wool crepe blazers to the belle) - but what are you supposed to do in the winter?
ReplyDeleteBack to what anon 5:12pm was saying - if you get one that properly "fits" overtop of jackets, you'll be swimming in it when you're just wearing a thin sweater, but if you didn't size up for the blazers, you wouldn't even be able to get the coat on at all! Aside from buying two sizes of the same coat - what's the fix?
Thanks everyone!
I just got off the phone with Jcrew customer service after an hour and a half conversation regarding two orders I placed last week with JINGLE. *sigh* I am exhausted. It turns out the two orders I placed were not even shipped out yet made it seem like it was shipped out with false shipping confirmation e-mails and tracking numbers that only said "billing info received". I'd been calling and e-mailing almost non-stop last week and yesterday asking about the orders and was told they'd be here today, then this coming Friday, and lastly I get a call from Jcrew this morning regarding my orders. Turns out, both of them weren't even shipped.
ReplyDeleteI really had high hopes that these would arrive on time because of reading notes here about similar situations from other afacionadas.
Now, the items I wanted most are out of stock, the Christmas presents that I ordered for others will not be here until next week, and on top I've been snowed in my house for the past 5 days unable to go Christmas shopping. I'm extremely upset and disappointed with this ordeal. I feel like the little hope I had for my Christmas presents getting here on time has been completely shattered since I haven't even been able to get out of my house to go grocery shopping let alone Christmas shopping at a mall further away. :(
I'm going to have to think twice before I order from Jcrew again, if I ever decide to order from them again.
So if I typically wear a M in Jackie, and could wear either a S or M in Tartine, which should I go for in the Portland?
ReplyDeleteFlame away, but I honestly don't understand why people are so upset about final sale. JCrew is a business. Businesses ultimately need to make a profit. It costs money to keep items in a warehouse or on store shelves. The longer merchandise sits around, the less valuable it becomes. When customers buy things which they store unworn in their closets and then demand a price adjustment weeks or months later, that company is losing money on first run merchandise.
ReplyDeleteI agree that beginning final sale without further reductions in price is premature, but everyone here knows those items will come down even further in price. People keep pushing for seriously cheap merchandise and yet they also want great quality and great customer service. How can any company do that not lose money? -that is without resorting to sweatshops and rock bottom wages for their employees.
I've gotten so many outrageously good deals through the past few codes, that I'm amazed they made much profit at all.
Anon 4:50pm-
ReplyDeleteI posted the email I sent to J Crew at 3:29pm and this is the response I got from J Crew:
Thank you for your valuable feedback regarding our Final Sale policies.
We have made your comments available to our feedback team for review.
If we can be of further assistance, please let me know by responding
directly to this email or through my contact information which I have
provided below.
Best,
Peyton
1-800-591-3802 ext 53114
Guess they didn't like what I had to say b/c their response was pretty short.
sad-little-teapot
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry for your situation. That is totally unacceptable. Did you talk with a manager? What are they doing for you?
If you can get deliveries to your house, try some other retailers. You'll have to pay for expedited shipping but I think you'll be able to get some presents for Christmas.
At this point, I would phone in orders and ask the SA for help. Explain your situation (another company has messed up your order) and most people will try to help.
Try Bloomingdales, Nordstrom (great customer service), Amazon...
Aficianadas, do you have any other suggestions?
Don't let this ruin your Christmas.
Good luck! We're rooting for you. :)
sad little teapot--that sucks!!! They should have offered to priority overnight new items to you so you could have gifts to give! Did you ask to speak to a manager?
ReplyDeletesad little teapot--you can still overnight orders from amazon if you order by 3 PM PST (that's next 20 min...)
ReplyDeleteTeapot: other gift options that don't have to be shipped: many retailers do e-giftcards. You can print out the order confirmation and put it in a nice xmas card. Or you could order tix online for a concert or some other type of performance, and also put the confirmation in a nice xmas card to give.
ReplyDeleteI went to San Diego Fashion Valley store and the 20% off sale is NOT final. According to the rep they will have 30% off sale later after Christmas that will be Final sale.
ReplyDeleteI think they have introduced the final sale right before christmas because business slows down right about now. That way, they can introduce the post sales discounts on the final sales merchandise and move to clear inventory into the new year.
ReplyDeleteI think JCrew would be in better position with customers if they just imposed the "no refund" on final sales items, but gave us the option to exchange for different size or a store credit.
That would seem fair to me.
Sad Little Teapot - I don't know what to say, except I'm so sorry to hear about your debacle. . . .
ReplyDeleteAt Anon @5:35 PM:
ReplyDeleteI actually happen to agree with you. For all the bitching we do about FS, it increases J.Crew's profit, thus making them a more viable corporation from which to buy things.
Also, I agree with those who are miffed by the lack of "deals" in the FS. I totally understand needing to get rid of things that are clogging up warehouse shelves, but selling 2 year old merchandise at less than 50% off is insulting to the intelligence of consumers. I'm disappointed that people fall for some of this stuff.
Hopefully there will be some sharp markdowns soon! We can always hope for the best :)
OT: Does anyone have online discount code for the extra 20% off at Banana Republic? I want to order a few merino t-necks and I can't get into my work e-mail account. TIA!
ReplyDeletetotally off-topic.. but has anyone hand-washed the tartines?? I washed a black cardigan & it shrank, but I was quite happy with that because it was originally too big. But I just washed a lighter colored sweater (ie. not cardigan) & the fabric right at the neck & waist looks awful! It looks kind of like the fabric has been pulled or something. Has anyone else had this happen?
ReplyDeleteAnd yes, I realize the tag says to dry clean. But it's wool. Never had a problem with hand-washing wool before.
Just got the peacock pencil skirt in the mail...its really beautiful. Fits like a glove everyhwere...except for of course my hips. I feel like it might be pulling a bit in that area. Being pear shaped is AWESOME.
ReplyDeleteAnyone else experience this with the skirt and if so does the skirt stretch a bit with wear?
I just got my plum peacoat, and boy is it PLUM! It is a little brighter than expected, but I think I like it. Anyone have one or seen one in person? What do you think of the color? Should I keep it???
ReplyDeleteSteph - you're right, it is almost shockingly bright. When I first saw the plum, I didn't like it - but the more I've seen it, it's really started to grow on me, and I think it's a beautiful color - and a great alternative to the usual reds and blues you traditionally see in outerwear. Now I'm almost wishing I had snatched up the plum peacoat when I saw it in my store!
ReplyDeleteThanks everyone for all your ideas and thoughtful responses. I'm going to try to get somethings from other retailers ASAP, thanks to all your suggestions. :)
ReplyDeleteAfter being on the phone for more than an hour with the news of disbelief, I just wanted to get off the phone and sulk. I feel like I basically was in shock with this whole thing. I did ask to have the items overnighted and the CSR went to ask her supervisor but was told even if they do overnight, the packages would not get here until next week because of Christmas.
I'm usually the kind to demand they give me some type of service for all the troubles they've caused me but after getting the "No, unfortunately, we won't be able to do that," over and over, I just wanted to get off the phone.
Do you think it'd be wise to call back again and ask to speak to a manager? What should I even ask for because they said overnight isn't possible and they said they can only credit me back for the items or order the ones that are in stock?
Anon and 6:48 was me ~ sad-little-teapot.
ReplyDeleteI understand that a business needs to protect itself while driving business. That being said, I am so annoyed by the inconsistency- final sale/not final sale, 20% off one day, 30% another, sometimes you can combine discounts/smetimes you cannot. Arrrrggg
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't have such a problem with the Final Sale if Jcrew's sizing wasn't so inconsistent. I can wear 4, 6 or 8 depending on the jacket and I can order a medium that's snug or medium that hangs off of me. I actually emailed Jcrew and thanked them for the final sale. . .I'll finally quit buying stuff.
ReplyDeleteTeapot, if they wanted to go out of their way they could have overnighted you the stuff. But that would require someone personally walking over to the warehouse to pull the stuff from the shelves and bringing it to a fedex counter somewhere to overnight, rather than just putting your order through the normal processing procedure. Since they royally screwed up your orders (for xmas gifts no less), I am surprised there is no "customer advocate" or whatever to help you with this. I have heard of J.Crew doing this before, to fix some of the screw ups of orders that happened over the summer.
ReplyDeleteI ordered last night...only one item that I still wanted after TURKEY & MERRY. So glad it won't be FS, considering it was for a pair of pants and I have no idea how they'll fit. That's it for me for awhile. I have been spending too much $$$!! Sorry to all of you missing items from orders. Must be really nerve wracking trying to get everything done before Thursday. I'm glad the Spring stuff will be out soon. I don't get tempted NEARLY as much for warm weather clothes. Always have been a sucker for Fall / Winter merchandise.
ReplyDeleteSpeaking of great (non-final) sales from other retailers, I just got an obscene amount of clothes for CHEAP from the Bloomies sale. I got a swimsuit, 4 blouses, 2 camis, 2 bras, 3 sweaters, 2 dresses, and 1 skirt all for $530 incl. shipping. Everything was marked down plus extra 50% off, plus I had a $25 off coupon, plus they gave you an extra 15% off for using your Bloomies charge. I probably won't keep everything, but I didn't hesitate to order everything that piqued my interest since I know I can return it if it doesn't work out.
ReplyDeleteSorry, I am just on a shopping high right now. :P
@Steph -- LOL. I had similar feelings for the pumpkin peacoat when I first received it but now I truly love the standout color. If you wear it over neutrals it really becomes a lovely focus. I think you will come to enjoy the plum no matter how bright it is.
ReplyDeleteSan Diego Fashion Valley has Owen Hobo in lemon color (not sure what is the name of the color since it is not listed on the site). The cost at store is $199 I think. It should be $149 plus an additional 20% off.
ReplyDeleteOT: I purchased several items from J.Crew Collection and I think the quality of these pieces is the same as regular J.Crew. What makes Collection different from regular J.Crew?
ReplyDeleteFolks, I need help identifying a dress. Saw it in a Long Island JCrew yesterday but don't see it on the site any longer. It's a very sixties looking silky dress with a bright mustard yellow and brown print. It has a tie collar, and is long sleeved with a zip along the side.
ReplyDeleteI was hoping if I could put in the item name I could get it to pop up on the site. Sad they didn't have my size in store, but hoping I can call CS to find one.. any help would be much appreciated!
Hi SLT,
ReplyDeleteI'm sooo very sorry to hear that you had such a terrible time buying your gifts. I too, have had some bad experiences. This most spectacular being a cancellation + wrong colour + mis-ship for a dress I was planning on wearing to a wedding. The other was similar to yours, several weeks + many phone calls + emails with no "We will find it for you" happy ending.
I would say you could try & ask to speak with a manager. However, that hasn't been entirely successful for me. If you're willing, I would call w. all my numbers & dates previous conversations at hand. Then request similar items as substitutions at the same discounts or prices. Ask for it express & maybe you'll get it in time for boxing day.
HTH,
Heather:D
Sania: Is this the dress you saw? Italian deco-print rollneck silk dress .
ReplyDeleteITA about the inconsistency in JC sizing. I usually wear a size 4 or 6, but, I ordered a skirt online in a 6, and it was just huge ~ you could go camping in it, and not be crowded. When I returned it to the store, the SA said, yes, others have complained about the inconsistent sizing, she said she wears anywhere from a size 2 to 6 in JC stuff. So, why, why why have the final sale?
ReplyDeleteI am looking for a men's Sherpa Track Jacket in SMALL, either color.
ReplyDeleteI went to the Orlando B&M today, and they had it in gray, $49.99 minus the 20% everything, not Final Sale.
It had a rip in the front of it that was noticeable. We asked the manager, who cheerfully offered another 10% off. I said that it was $39.99 online and with a rip should be 50% off, so I'll offer $20. She said no go but would match the $39.99 to start with. I said no go.
So if you have a non-ripped one, let me know!
Jim
I want to take a moment to wish everyone a Merry, Merry Christmas and a Happy Happy Holiday.I have enjoyed this blog so much and look forward to the New Year and sharing many more new episodes of J Crew with all of you. I've gotten some incredible buys, I've given items a second look,and I've put together some great outfits, all because of this blog. And because I now need to focus on my Christmas Eve dinner and stop checking and commenting on this blog, I wanted to send good wishes your way. So Merry Christmas to you, Happy Holidays to You, and may you have much happiness in the New Year.
ReplyDeleteSania: I saw a few of the Italian deco print roll neck dresses at Tice's Corner in NJ yesterday afternoon. I'm not sure what sizes they had but you could try giving them a call: 201-391-4123. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteJim @ 9:14. I have sherpa hoodie and love it. They are completely sold out. They do fit a little small so size up if you can.
ReplyDeleteHope this helps.
The inconsistent sizing is really annoying. One of the best things about JCrew in the past was that I knew what size I would take in pants, tops, jackets, shoes, etc. I was comfortable ordering online because I knew how things would fit.
ReplyDeleteNow, they even state that you should size up or down sometimes and other times you read JCAs blogging that items are way under, or more commonly, over-sized. Having a final sale with the discrepancy in product sizing is not a good deal for the customer. :-(
Anon@5:12 (regarding coats): I was looking up information on Mackage coats yesterday and found this interesting online article:
ReplyDeletehttp://tinyurl.com/6v9mm6
Entitled "How Not to Look Fat in Coats" (not that any of us do :)!) form stylist.com...it includes info on fit, etc. Also, Oprah recently did a feature on coats and how they fit (available on her site). HTH!
Maybe the best tactic is to send those items deemed "final sale"-type items straight to the JCrew outlets, instead of letting them hang around the warehouse(s). This way, those people who purchased at full-price or during an earlier sale will get the satisfaction of knowing that the items they purchased can't be had for 50% off or more and feel the need to trek back to the store for price adjustments.
ReplyDeleteThe problem, though, is that many people (obviously not the ones who have issues with final sale), really do get great deals from final sale. Maybe they did their "homework", tried some of these items in-store, double-checked the quality and colors of specific items, and were fortunate that some of their sizes are available. I agree that if anyone receives a damaged item, this item should not be subject to final sale. But for the majority of "bargain hunters", final sale really isn't so bad. I think what we saw with HOHOHO and Turkey was JCrew having to back-pedal with the excessive inventory from their website issues. I don't expect great deals like this in the future...unless they completely revamp their marketing strategy. And probably Mickey himself would make an announcement about that.
JCrew's approach reminds me of Gymboree...the children's clothing store. They have all kinds of gimmicks..special "dollars" that are redeemable certain times of the year, super "secret" sales, etc. I spent a couple of months chasing the price adjustments then realized the craziness of it all; just not worth it. For me, the upshot was that I stopped shopping there, period. I took my money elsewhere.
If it gets to be like this with JCrew, I'm sure I (as well as others) will look elsewhere for clothing. No big deal...My personal experience with JC has been fine so far, but I've gained more perspective on the company, seeing how they have handled major glitches, and I'm proceeding with caution...
RatsonParade: Regarding the coats, as crazy as it sounds, I do have different coats depending on what I'm wearing..so I'll wear a larger trench to accomodate a JC blazer/light coat. I have two winter coats, one in a M and one in a L. It actually happened by accident, since I lost some weight, but maybe an inexpensive trench in a slightly larger size would be something to wear over a JC jacket, for example...
ReplyDeleteJust a thought! :)
Has anyone purchased the favorite fit stretch vintage trouser cords? Any feedback on fit? I have very thin thighs so anything that is roomy in the thigh area looks terrible on me. But if they are stretch, as they say, it might not be bad. I normally wear a 6, but wondering if I should go down to a 4?
ReplyDeleteI'm considering it in sea salt in tall... I mean it is only $19.99 even if it is FS.
RatsOnParade -
ReplyDeleteI have several coats in order to accomodate what I'm wearing as well as the varied weather. Some coats are cut more generous to allow a suit, blazer or large sweater beneath. Other coats are more fitted, better when I'm wearing just a blouse or tee.
I buy at least one new coat each fall/winter so I have over a dozen in use now and that allows me to choose the coat I need each day. If you buy quality and choose some for versatility, in a couple of years you will be able to wear anything under the right coat, no matter the weather. I started with one coat large enough to wear over a suit and then added one fitted to wear with dresses, etc.
Think about what you need and consider the cut of the sleeves, coat length and the collar/neckline as the more open coats may require a wool scarf or even pashmina beneath if the neck is open, like the Lillie coat. Consider what you would wear beneath most often and what is more important to you, comfort, warmth, style, etc. Large coats can look bulky but when you need to wear a suit and also be warm, it is not always possible to be trim and tailored as the coat tailoring may not match the suit tailoring. I liked the Marie coat this year as it was fitting large and the raglan sleeves also gave it ease, which allowed a suit beneath. It would be much too large for a dress, however, the Lady Day or Madeline would be better for that.
Unfortunately, there are not many coats that will fit all your outfits and still be comfortable in varied weather. But you can be choosey and select a couple that fit your style and keep you looking fabulous.
Verdict on the peacock pencil skirt-fit great everywhere except hips. I never go higher than a 4 in J Crew and actually had to call and order a 6. I figure that if I really love it, I can get it taken in in the waist.
ReplyDeleteWhen I initially ordered the skirt, I got it for 20% off with free shipping. When I called to order the size 6, the CS rep said that not only could I get it for the same price and with free shipping, but that she would note on the order that I could return it even though the item is now final sale.
Moral of the story, just press the issue about returning it and make sure the CS rep notes it on your order.
Happy Holidays everyone!
Jacque: That is too funny about thanking J. Crew! "Finally, I'll stop buying stuff!" ... I second that! Couldn't have come at a better time for my credit card!
ReplyDeleteI got the last Quinn cami in pale yellow size 0 online (so I was told it was the last one in stock by the rep on the phone)! Love it!!! As most of you pointed out, it is a very loose fit but it is ok for me. My problem with the Quinn though is the length. It is SUPER long! I may get it altered later. It is not all that sheer actually. I wear a nude colored bra. It looks fine. Can't wait to wear it with my white sailor pants in summer! :)
ReplyDeleteCan I return something that I got during NON final sale which is now on final sale?
ReplyDeleteBanana Republic code for 20% off regular priced items only is
ReplyDeletePVG3P48LW9DD
Valid Dec7 2008-Jan 18 2009
or
DH9JRGPWLG61
I think both are one time use codes because I got these on little red cards they were handing out in the store few weeks ago.The cards are valid instore also but only one time!
HTH!!!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS everyone.
Miramar
!Cancelled!, the South Windsor, CT store had a few of the dream open cardigans in Carrot, Small about a week ago.
ReplyDeleteSigh.
ReplyDeleteThe sizing is horribly incosistent.
The selection is crap.
The final sale makes shopping online impossible.
If I didn't love the clothes so much, this ad would have pushed me over the edge. The sale we've all been waiting for? It's like they are mocking the customer.
Ok, I know you guys are really not going to like this comment, but... If Final Sale offends your sense of retail fairness then DON'T BUY ANYTHING. J.Crew has set their policy; you can choose to participate or not. If it hurts their business, then that is their problem. I don't think it's going to.
ReplyDeleteIt is just that simple.
Tanya:
ReplyDeleteI have the vintage trouser cords. This is the first year I've bought JCrew's cords. I tried the bootcut in 26S and the vintage trouser cords in 0P. I am very thin too and I looooove the fit of the vintage trouser cords. They are not too roomy, whereas I found the bootcut cords to be look ill-fitting and sloppy.
audball- did you find a Mackage coat you like? I found one (Isa in black) for a killer deal on Bloomingdales and I LOVE IT! It is amazingly warm and soft and I love the cut. mmmm - yummy. I also found a killer Burberry wool/cashmere car coat on Bloomies - also for a great deal. I think I tried every J Crew style this year and they just weren't panning out for me. I'd say I'm set for awhile. :)
ReplyDeletefor sad-teapot:
ReplyDeletethe same thing happened to me with my TURKEY order. I suggest e-mailing a personal shopper and letting them know your situation. they are far more helpful then the regualr CS phone operators. Mine not only found out what happened, she refunded my cc, re-ordered what she could, gave me free shipping and sent me a $50.00 gift card for all my trouble. I love her and now only order through her.
sad teapot: Are you sure your tracking# is not a fedex number?, some people had this problem earlier this week. I would not rely on CS some of them are newbies.
ReplyDelete