"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta, who let us know about J.Crew's most recent promotion.J.Crew is offering 20% off purchases of $125+ when you make an appointment with their personal shopper. This offer expires 3/31/09. Click here to make a personal shopper request online.
J.Crew has had similar offers in the past (refer to this & this post) and it seemed to be a wonderful experience for many Aficionadas.
Will you be taking advantage of this offer and using a personal shopper? Do you have a personal shopper? If so, what are your experiences with the service?
I just signed up....I am very curious about it. It sounds like fun. But I would really like to hear others opinons that have done it. Is it a pretty intense sales pitch?? Thanks :-)
ReplyDeleteI wonder if this would be valid at our ladies luncheon on the 29th??
ReplyDeleteI have not found the PS to be a professional stylist. They are not in my opinion. They can be nice to get to know and helpful but no way are they any more knowledgeable if you have some fashion sense to begin with...
ReplyDeleteNathan,
ReplyDeleteAnd yes, some have a very strong sales pitch and others will truly just be helpful. Luck of the draw...
These aren't professional stylists, just store employees who get tagged as personal stylists. Their priority is to sell, sell, sell. I wouldn't put much faith into their opinions, as those will be based on the outfits put together in the catalogs.
ReplyDeleteI agree with the others. Most, if not all of the personal shoppers have an extremely intense sales pitches, as they work on commission, whereas regular associates don't. They might be pretty good at styling according to the J. Crew style, but don't count on them to cater to your personal style.
ReplyDeleteUgh.....so they dress you like the model's in the catalog huh....I could do that myself.
ReplyDeleteI would like to think I have a little sense of my own style, but sounds to me like that does not really matter.
Thanks for letting me know. Plus I hate getting hassled...I'll spend a grand if you're not on top of me pushing it down my throat. KWIM....
The PS could be helpful if you don't have someone to shop with you and you want some advice. Granted, it may be biased but you can always try it out at home and get opinions. Or, post the IRL photos and ask fellow bloggers to weigh in.
ReplyDeleteThey may suggest something you would never try and it could be a good experience. I think I will try it. I prefer to shop alone, but sometimes would like to get advice.
I agree with Anonym @ 11:08 AM. I have done this before with a PS at my store, and I guess while some sales associates are really knowledgeable, most of them are trying to get business. I have to say though, they've never pressured me into buying anything and you can try on as many items as you want.
ReplyDeleteAnon at 12:25
ReplyDeleteThat is good to know!!
So do they pick out everything for you ready to go (like take sizes before you get there etc...)and ask you more of what you like. Also how long do they usually last??
Thanks to everyone....you guys have been super helpful
Anon @ 12:43 PM:
ReplyDeleteI'm glad to share my experience! It's really up to you...I went in not prepared as to what I was looking for, so my PS asked me a few questions, and we walked around the store and picked all the items I wanted to try on. He was completely fine with it.
I think you'd benefit from this experience more if you go in prepared. For example, maybe you need to pick an outfit for a special occasion, or you're trying to revamp your wardrobe, then I think they would be able to really help.
HTH!
Oops, my previous message was for Nathan, not Anon @ 12:43 PM!
ReplyDeleteHi Nathan again...
ReplyDeleteAs far as whether they pick out everything for you ready to go, that's up to you too. If you prefer it that way, then you can tell them before your appointment. Tell them your likes and dislikes. Then they'll have everything ready when you go in.
I would do it just for the sale- but I don't really like working with sales people. Plus I really only shop on sale, and I wouldn't want them pushing the $158 dress because I just can't afford it!
ReplyDeleteI have had really great experiences with my PA. Granted he is just another sales associate and does make commission, but the first time I made an appt I was looking for a suit and he had stuff in different sizes and styles waiting for me while when I got there (and a Starbucks coffee)! I do trust his opinion (he definitely let me know when the skirt was too tight or if something was the wrong color) and he gave me stuff to try on or pair with different items that I never would have tried on my own. Without him I would never have gotten my silver Penelope Mary Janes which I love love love!!!
ReplyDeleteI totally think this promo is worth it if there's stuff in mind that you want (hello floral skirt) or if you're looking for more creative styles, especially since the $125 is on the low of JCrew promo totals.
Does any know if this is combinable with the student/educator discount? I'm thinking no, in which case it's not that great a deal for those of us who can already get 15% off. But I'd love to hear otherwise!!
ReplyDeleteMy PS is very fun, lets me know when things I want come in (of course, I had to tell her first and her store is NOT the main store around here so often it doesn't have things), puts things aside in a room before I get there, is NOT pressuring me to buy, herself has very fun style (anthro plus jcrew, just like me!), and I think would be honest about fit if I asked her. I have not used her to style anything. I also bet she would give me this discount if I just called her and said I want "X, Y, Z" and made a semi-appointment.
ReplyDeleteoh and the post says this expires 3/21 which is today but it expires 3/31...according to the coupon
ReplyDeleteM
I have a personal shopper in WC. I think the experience is a process. We are still getting to know each other. I think there are ppl who probably have better memories. She doesn't nesc remember the pieces I have purchased and that makes me wonder how much she's paying attn. However, she has a lot of customers. I like that she doesn't mind one bit that I tend to buy 80 - 90% sale items. She always tells me what looks good on me or what to pass on. I trust and value that. As far as putting outfits together I always like what she has on and it inspires me to purchase certain pieces. I think I do fine on my own, though, with my final looks. My main needs are being satisfied -- honesty & also putting things in the room that I might never try. She is really good abouot that and I appreciate it.
ReplyDeleteMy experience working with a PS has been really good. I've been working with the same PS since last fall, when the first PS sale offer came out. I have to say that I have been more satisfied with my purchases since I started working with her. I am ending up with more pieces that work together and fewer random pieces that linger in my closet because I can't figure out how or what to wear them with.
ReplyDeleteIts nice to go into the store and be recognized. She grabs any catalog returns I have with me and processes those while I browse. She clues me into where the new stock is so I don't have to roam the whole store. (I usually have one or two kids it tow, so efficiency is a priority for me.) She always gets me a large room that is in a less heavily used fitting area, which allows me to relax and take my time checking fit.
Overtime, she has learned my likes and dislikes and what works for my particular body shape. She has a great sense of color so she gives me suggestions for color combos to experiment with. And she watches for returns of items that are out-of-stock that she knows that I am interested in.
I buy a combination of sale and full price items. She understands that budgets are not unlimited and I never feel pressured to make purchases.
I love my PS--have been going to him since September. The first time I went to him my goal was to buy a classic suit --and make sure I actually get the right fit for me. He was very helpful--I finally figured out what were the right sizes on me in different styles.
ReplyDeleteI actually just came back from seeing my PS and I used the discount--student discount can be used on top of the regular discount. I am in a Graduate fellowship program so I definitely combined them.
I agree that generally it helps to identify a purpose when working with the PS---I also do not feel pressure to buy. Sometimes my PS will say--"yea, you can wait until this goes on sale".
I dont use the PS shopper every time I go to the B&M, but my experience is always better when he is there.
On another note...is anyone interested in having a jcrew event in MD...I know there is one at Pentagon City Mall and I know that is a bit far from some of us MD folks...so I spoke with the manager of the Columbia Mall store and she is really open to having an Aficionado event there. It also is a beautiful store (skylights)--and huge--so it would be perfect for an event.
For those would be interested, please email me at lyssaf at gmail dot com. We can figure out a date and time...I think it will be great as the weather starts warming up.
Lyssa
Do you tip a PS?
ReplyDeleteThis is so embarrassing to admit here (thus anonymous this time!). I let the PS at J.Crew 900 North Michigan pick out possibly 50% of my clothes (total, not just JC). He never steers me wrong, no pressure unless he thinks I am making a bad choice, and gets me to try on things I would never in million years try (like the Victoria blouse, now my favorite item of clothing). Just my 2 cents on one excellent PS.
ReplyDeleteAll - I am an SA, not a PS. However, I do want to let you all know that there should not be a "hard sell" associated with the process. Also, a one time visit will not allow you the full scope of what this person does. They help you develop a wardrobe over time. Most will not care if you buy items on sale or not. One thing I will tell you is that if you live in an area with several B&Ms - try to go with the store that receives the most items. It is much easier for the PS to wardrobe you in a larger store, the breadth of merchandise in the smaller stores creates quite a challenge. Albeit one that a good PS can overcome. I joined the company because I had such a great experience with my (now previous) PS. When you go for your appointment make it completely clear to the PS what you want out of your time with them. Outfit ideas, wardrobing, see a few new peices. It will make the experience happier for all. Good luck and enjoy.
ReplyDeleteSorry - I also wanted to say: If you have pieces in your closet that you LOVE, but do not really get to use often, take a few with you. The PS will see your style and maybe you will add things to your closet that help you wear the clothes you already have. That is what kept me coming back the the same PS.
ReplyDeleteI work with a PS, but I am too far from the store to visit one and so their help is invaluable to me. I ask questions about fit an how various cuts are done along with colours and pattern. The help I receive enables me to decide if I should size up or down and if the colours shown on line and in the catalog are true.
ReplyDeleteAnd best of all I simply email or phone and get what I need. My PS really works for me.
Hi Everyone !
ReplyDeleteI made an appointment this evening as soon as I saw the 20% off event thing.I knew what I wanted ( a trench)and the PS showed me different trench coats they had in the store and gave her opinions.She was great ,wasnt pushy at all. I ended up buying the travel trench and the zebra tee. I LOVE them
Unfortunately, they couldn't apply my student discount on top of the 20%
Rups
I live in Baltimore and would definitely be open to an event in Columbia.
ReplyDeleteKeep me posted!
stacy7005 at gmail.com
My sa/ps mentioned this yesterday and told me that I couldn't use my teacher discount with it. And, he told me I had to call to make the appointment - why couldn't I make the appointment while I was there? Anyway, I haven't decided if I'm going to. I've got a trip coming up and I want some money to spend there.
ReplyDeleteWhen I started reading the comments, I was positive my response to this would be "not a chance" - unlike most other people (it seems), I really don't enjoy having others giving me opinions and suggestions while I'm trying to shop.
ReplyDeleteBased on other's comments - It does sound helpful if they have stacks of items in your size, in a dressing room before you get there - and if they can pair up items you wouldn't normally think of to give you outfit ideas.
But more often than not (and true, it's never been with a PS - always regular SA) - they don't know my personal style or what I'm comfortable with. They'll suggest styles I would never in a million years wear, or colors/styles that I consider as "trendy" and might get one use out of, tops. And, maybe they weren't trying to do a hard sell, but it always feels like I am disappointing them if the pants or shirt doesn't work and I end up not getting it.
In addition to that, I'm terribly shy and let's call it "standoffish" - and as I stated before, dislike for additional "help" when shopping. I just don't think I could enjoy the PS experience. **I do have an online Personal Shopper who I LOVE! She's helpful in so many ways - though I don't always agree with her style suggestions.
Maybe I'll give it a go. You guys certainly make it sound appealing!
Anony 11:09, I also bought the travel trench recently and I LOVE it too. I was able to wear it yesterday. Today we have another winter storm with at least 8 inches of snow and it is still coming down. Life in Canada can be so frustrating when you're waiting for spring.
ReplyDeleteRatsOnParade - Everyone's experience is going to be different, but mine has been positive overall. My PS tries to hang around if she can to see me try on at least the first item. If she can't, she bails. She always comes back and at least asks what I have on. I like to shop alone, but it's nice to have opinion. She provides an honest one.
ReplyDeleteI think the PS can read the customer really well and tell if you need a lot of help or not. So if you are shy, they will read that and respond accordingly. I think it's a matter of finding the right person to gel with. And give it a little time until they figure out what you ilke & don't like. In addition to an honest opinion, I find that my PS always puts a few things in the room I wouldn't dream of trying and at least one is a huge win. Also, she emails me about store events and either calls or emails me when there is an additional % off. Thumbs up.
Can anyone tell me how contrast silk tunic fits? Is it worth it? It's on sale (cream w/black)-but since it's final sale I wouldn't be able to return it. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteAnon from last night - I do not know how the contrast tunic fits. However, it is NOT final sale. Items ending in .99 are final sale.
ReplyDeleteD.C. Aficionadas - I just received confirmation that, yes, we will receive 20% off $125 during our private shopping event. I am so eager to get there and shop! And I cannot wait to meet everyone!
ReplyDeleteFor the 20% discount on personal shopper purchases, does it apply to anything ordered from the store? For example, if I want to buy a wedding dress which I know they don't have in the store, would I still get the 20% discount through a personal shopper? Thanks for any tips/advice you can share in this area. --Kate
ReplyDeleteIf anyone reading this is able to go to Towson Mall I would strongly recommend you make an appointment with Tonya. She was incredibly helpful and had an impeccable sense of style/fashion. What I liked the most is that she was able to tell what looked good on me and what didn't from the very start. She helped me come up with outfits that were interchangeable, fun and that totally fit my style.
ReplyDeleteBy the way is anybody interested in having an event at the Towson Mall (MD)? I spoke with Tonya and she said she'd be willing to host it for us! How about Sunday March the 29th? That way we can take advantage of the 20% off. Suggestions for another date?
I must say that PS appts are great. If you are uncomfortable and have a price range in mind then tell them your budget so you wont feel pushed or obligated to buy items (she's even bought a calculator into the fitting room so we can total up everything and if we have to take some things out). My PS is great (she works in the Newport, RI store), she's really honest and caters to my own style.
ReplyDeleteI usually tell her what I'm looking for, work clothes that can be both work and play, going out outfits etc. She will pull a couple of outfits for me and then I walk around and pick up some things that I like.
I was lucky and got along with her great and she got my style. Sometimes people dont get as lucky, there are usually a couple of PS to one store so if you aren't meshing well with one, try another!
Overall my experience with PS has been great and I highly recommend it to anyone!
I just posted yesterday about having an event at the JCREW in Towson Town Center. If you are interested in coming please email me at khatt13@hotmail.com. Thanks :)
ReplyDeleteI went to a PS appointment last night and was a bit disappointed. The Personal Shopper wasn’t around (it was 7:30 pm) but she did set up a series of outfits for me to try on. I ended up buying a few items from her selection, plus a few more things from the sale section to take advantage of the discount.
ReplyDeleteSo what did I expect? I expected a Personal Shopper – someone to understand the types of things I like to buy and who will let me know if there’s something new I’d like or if something I’ve been eyeing goes on sale. I expected to form a relationship with this person. All I got was a fitting room full of clothes, most of which I didn’t even like. I expected the person at the store (the manager for the evening) to jot down what I liked and didn’t like style-wise but that didn’t happen. I guess I won’t be using this service in the future.
The discount was worth coming into the store but I’d pass on the PS experience. Not worth it if you can’t work personally with the PS.