J.Crew sent an email reminding us (refer here to original post) that their latest promotion is ending tomorrow. J.Crew is offering 20% off your entire order of $175+ with promo code SECRET. This offer expires 3/13/09.This offer is receiving mixed reviews. While some of you have been waiting for an offer just like this, others are disappointed that the minimum is not lower, there is no additional free shipping, or that it does not last longer. However, I think we can all agree that we are happy J.Crew has offered another promotion, so quickly after the TULIP offer (refer here). :)
Do you think you will take advantage of this offer during today and tomorrow? What do you think the next promotion should be? ;)
As a loyal JC shopper from Canada, I've been affected by the exchange rate - I need a 30% off just to get the current price. I've been holding off for such a deal to get the absolute must-haves.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteAnon 9:11: Me too. It was so much easier to buy when the dollar was at par; now not to much. Those 80$ pants are more like 100$CDN, then add on the shipping.. no thanks.
ReplyDeleteNo deal for me - I'll be too busy shopping the Gap/ BR 30% off sale! Sorry J Crew but this doesn't tempt me.
ReplyDeleteAre the J Crew retail stores offering additional % off sale prices too?
ReplyDeleteWith the Gap sale timed to coincide with this deal? I'll pass. I can get better pants and other basics for about half the price at Gap or BR, and the charities get a little something too. The timing of these two sales really says something about which companies are in touch with the reality of their consumers' lives these days... I grow less and less impressed by the day with my old favorite JC.
ReplyDeleteAgree on the Canadian dollar bit
ReplyDeleteAnd for those Canadian shoppers out there I did ask JC about the tax rate & here's the answer I got;
"The amount of duty can vary, depending
on the country of origin for the items you purchase, and is collected
when the order is placed, if the order is being shipped standard ground
delivery. If you request to have your order sent via Canadian Post or
express delivery, the duty is collected upon delivery by the carrier. "
They are charging the correct rate for GST.
I don't think there are enough items I want to come up with 175.00these days. There are a lot of lower priced items I have been sitting on because I can't stand spending like 8 bucks on shipping for a 30.00 marked down item. Maybe if I only had to spend 100.00then I might think it would be worth it. I may head on over to the Gap and check out their sale...Lately Old Navy's items have been priced very well and are a relatively decent quality for the price. Not to mention 5.00 or free shipping!
ReplyDeletei just saw the update and there wasn't anything i HAD to have. happy shopping everyone!
ReplyDeleteIs the gap 30% of a secret promotion/code?
ReplyDeleteI just went to check out the website and don't see any mention of 30% off.
the sale update shows so many things that aren't actually available... does not allow you to chose size and color. frustrating. I haaaate that. :/
ReplyDeleteTo Anonymous at 9:44am -
ReplyDeleteThanks for investigating this. I can understand the variable rates for duties, however, the receipts I am sent with my orders are consistently reflecting a 7% calculation and not 5%. Is 7% correct somehow? Were they able to explain that?
snow,
ReplyDeletein a way i think it is a "secret" promo for friends and family aka email subscribers. i have a print out coupon if you'd like. just email me i'd be more than happy to share it with you. (its not for online though)
sbash123@yahoo.com
Agree w/ Anon 9:35 ~ BR and Gap ON have a much better deal; gonna hit those stores & spend my hard earned $$, but, I did break down w/ the free s/h and buy the chiffon rose T ~ it totally sold out of BM weeks ago & it is super cute.
ReplyDeleteThere are 17 things in my shopping cart, waiting for a real sale, not a fake sale with a high minimum. The Gap/BR sale is great, and I have a gift card, so that'll be where my money goes this week! Sorry J. Crew :(
ReplyDeleteI took advantage of this sale in the following manner. Coincidental to the sale, my PS let me know an item I had wanted was in the store. I said Oh, I had been looking at it on line because of the sale. She said Oh, we can honor that sale in the store.
ReplyDeleteSo, I got fresco cardigan, fresco beach cover up (which I will wear as tunic) and Michelle merino cardigan in dusty rose. Plus socks to get to $175.
Anyone have any reviews on the crisp cotton plisse dress? I'm on the fence about it but haven't seen it in my local store to be able to try it on before succumbing to the dreaded final sale.
ReplyDeleteTIA!
They updated the site and added some new items, unfortunately it seems that the web interface isn't working on the things that I want, what a shocker.
ReplyDeleteI got the dreaded "Forbidden" message. Guess I'll just wait it out...? I've never gotten it before, so I hope this doesn't last too long!
ReplyDeleteAnd, to the Canadians - has anyone tried using Canadian post or express to ship? I noticed that you don't pay the tax upfront in the checkout! I'm guessing canada post will collect all duty/taxes from you. If you've ever done that, let me know how it goes! If it's just 5% GST it might be worthwhile to ship that way because Canadian ground by UPS has high duty & GST amounts. hmmm...
This sale came at a perfect time to purchase a bridesmaid dress (cotton cady erica), which i had been putting off in hopes of a sale like this... Otherwise, i don't think i would have taken advantage
ReplyDeleteI have to say that I just don't get why JCrew always has to have a "minimum" purchase in order to score a %off or Free Shipping. In my opinion, it comes off as being reluctant to make offers to their customers: "oh, alright...I suppose we'll give you a sale, but you can only get it if you spend X amount of dollars". Not everyone has $175 to spend each month. That being said, it seems like you only need to buy 2 or 3 items these days to add up to the purchase minimums.
ReplyDeleteI am taking full stock of my wardrobe these days, replacing basics that are wearing out, and purchasing only really special items that jazz up what I already have. Needless to say, that means I'm not going to take advantage of this "offer".
9:54, the gap/br sale is a coupon that went out to people on their email list, and it can be forwarded to friends. If you list your email address I can fwd it to you.
ReplyDeleteConnie, yes, they'll collect it when they deliver.
ReplyDeleteI am on a JC hiatus for a while I think (unless its weekly exchange). I am also a little tired of rounding the price up by 40% when you consider shipping, tax, exchange...
Remember that brief window of parity last summer?? That was sweet. For x-border shopping, that is. Not so much for industry, from what I understand. (:
Sherbie -
ReplyDeleteThe reviews on the crisp cotton Plisse dress have been unfavorable, at best. If you click the link to Slastena's blog on the right side (About All and Nothing At All) she has some IRL pictures... pretty much everyone who has tried it on agrees that the gathering on the backside gives your butt a really odd (and unflattering) bumpy look. I tried it on myself, because I reeeeeally love it (on the hanger) and think that it might be able to be saved, with the right undergarments/maybe some tailoring. I am hoping it will continue to get marked down - if so, I might give it a whirl and hope my tailor can work some magic in the back. HTH!
Canadian JCA - how about a weekly exchange withing Canada I'd love to avoid the international shipping rates this way.
ReplyDeleteThank you, thank you, thank you. You've been a voice of reason in my uncontrollable urge to buy Patent Cates!
ReplyDeleteI always manage to "forget" the exchange, duty, tax, extra shipping etc.
Sorry this is OT -- I'm looking at bidding on a pair of Tenley mid-calf boots on ebay. Do these fit TTS?
ReplyDeleteThanks!
OT, but...
ReplyDeleteAny more TJ Maxx/J.Crew spotting?
Wow, I had no idea how many Canadians were on this blog! A Canadian weekly (or biweekly) exchange would be great too.
ReplyDeleteI have another order coming this week and I'm going to check the GST again. If it continues to be too high I'm going to switch to Canada Post and pay the tax & duties on receipt of good.
Belle du Jour, I know what you mean! I willfully have to 'forget' or I would never place an order. Also, the JC total, all in, is still always USD, so I can continue to delude myself until I see the credit card statement in CDN!! Gah!!!
ReplyDeleteAnthropologie.com uses the 51 world system, so it calculates Canadian orders in Canadian dollars. It is always a shock to the system - but its good because I rarely go through with my orders after I see my total!!!
*sigh* Cate is so cute. Be strong!!
Wow, there are a lot of Canadians on JCA!
I just spent a considerable amount online for the Gap/Banana 30% off. I picked up great basics, plus newborn infant clothing for my nephew, who is arriving mid-May! Unfortunately I could not use the extra10 code on top of it (could not combine coupons with the 30% one), but I did get free shipping as a luxe cardholder.
ReplyDeleteI also did take advantage of the 20% J.Crew promo. I ordered the dazzling dots pencil skirt and reordered two Slub cotton ruffled scoopneck tees to save 20% (I had just ordered them the previous day at full price, so those are going back).
Oh! And I also ordered the patent Cate slingbacks in bronzed twig, and the cocktail capri!
ReplyDeleteLadies - any recommendations on must get for the GAP/ON promotions?
ReplyDeleteFor those who can get the educator's or student's discount, isn't it a better deal to wait for a free shipping offer? 15% + free shipping is more savings than 20% + shipping, right?
ReplyDeleteAnd to my fellow Canadians, I just have stuff shipped to my family in the US, and they forward it to me. Otherwise the prices, duties, taxes, "handling" charges, etc are piracy.
I'm another Canadian grousing about the exchange rate... I'm also always shocked when I see the credit card total...Ack.
ReplyDeleteNow I'm forbidden again, happened last week too. What's the deal.
Guess I'm going to gap/ON to spend today.
Promotions are fine if there is something to buy. There is nothing I would buy right now, except on deep discount. It is more of the same. Please, please, JCrew--bring us pretty, fun clothes to wear! Please bring us some prints and some colors to get excited about! If I see another navy jacket or ruffle, I'll cry!
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone have an online coupon code for the GAP event? Would love it if anyone is willing to share coupon code! Pls. email me at gumleygumley@hotmail.com
ReplyDeleteTIA.
Here's another Canadian.I would love to have a Canadian weekly exchange.
ReplyDeleteAbout a month ago, there was a big jump in my tax rate on J Crew, almost 30%. Yesterday, I started placing an order that was $150. $48 of tax was added plus $20 in shipping. When I saw that the total was $220, my browser window was quickly closed. Does anyone else get this high rate?
How do I get my items shipped with Canada Post? They sometime do not bother with duty with smaller amounts so this might be cheaper.
KMSB: The Tenley boots fit TTS, meaning I got the usual size I get in other J.Crew shoes.
ReplyDeletePlease also email me the BR/Gap 30% off coupon currently going on. I appreciate it greatly.
ReplyDeletekiatokice@comcast.net
Hey everyone, I know this is OT but maybe someone will want these pants I have.
ReplyDeleteSize 2 NWT (the brown tailored by JCrew tag they put on their suiting these days) Black fully lined favorite fit suiting pants, 96% wool 4% spandex. I tried to pretend I was a 2 but clearly I am not and these are too small for me. The white JC tag is missing so I can't find the item number but I think they might be the Favorite Fit stretch wool trouser, item #99223. They look exactly like those. If they aren't those they are last season's version... I will send pictures if you want! So if anyone wants them, they are yours for $32 shipped.
emilyeeg at gmail.com
Re: Canadian weekly exchange... I live in the US but am more than happy to ship to Canada. I am curious though how much taxes you Canadian ladies have to pay when you get something shipped to you from the US? I am a longtime eBay seller and have always shipped internationally and I've always wondered about this. It must cost alot because people are often asking me to mark things as a gift (which I don't) or write a lower dollar amount for the value than the item is really worth.
ReplyDeleteOT, but how do the palermo sandals fit? I am a widish 9, trying to decide btw 9 and 10. Jcrew shoes are usu on the narrow side for me. thx!
ReplyDeletei'm contemplating some sandals... with the coupon; but, wish they would go on sale as well. :)
ReplyDeletei made my online gap order this morning too. yay for tall in every style and pants with pattern at reasonable prices (that i don't feel like people will specifically notice every time i wear them)!
To help understand the duty and taxes Canadians pay.
ReplyDeleteDuty and taxes are calculated based on country of production. These amounts are highly variable and depend on trade and production agreements wiht each country and loss of production for Canadian workers.
We also have our own unique tax amounts for each province in additon to a flat tax rate for the whole country (ie. my provincial amount is 6% plus the standardized 7% for Canada equals 13%).
So, in effect, we have 2 sets of "fees" to pay; plus shipping plus the extra $5 brokerage fee J Crew charges us.
Then multiple all of that by whatever our poor dollar is trading (exchange rate). Today that would be 28.8%.
Namaste
For the Canadians, I think the extra taxes etc are the cost of buying from American companies. I visited Toronto last year and noticed that the prices in BR in Canada for example, were a lot higher on the same items than in the US, even taking into account the exchange rate. I asked my then-bf (who's Canadian) why it was so much more expensive and he said it was because import duties get incorporated into the price tag. So if JC had stores in Canada you'd probably still be paying as much as if you had to have it shipped from the US.
ReplyDeleteTo answer the question about taxes, duties, etc for items being shipped from the US to Canada (to the eBay seller who asked): sometimes the total charge for taxes, duties, and brokerage/handling/service can actually exceed the value of the item being purchased/shipped; this is why people might ask you to mark the item as "gift" or mark it as a lower value. If the seller is unwilling to do this, the buyer in Canada has to be feeling very wealthy to take the risk that his or her package will be held hostage to such high charges.
ReplyDeleteWhile it's true that Canada Post sometimes doesn't bother with duty etc for smaller items, and even when they do, they often charge less than UPS, Canada Post is unreliable. They have lost three of my J Crew packages entirely, and on another two occasions, the packages were delivered approximately 2.5 months after the time of ordering. UPS charges more but is more reliable. Either way it's a bummer.
ReplyDeleteThe palermos are narrow. I would recommend sizing up.
ReplyDeleteAnyone have any reviews of the Twyla midheels? I received a pair today, I tried walking in them and the strap on the heel immediately falls down (even after tightening it to the last hole). Based on the length of the shoe I probably wouldn't be able to size down. Is it just me having this problem?
ReplyDeleteI used the Gap Friends/Family code online this morning. I just copied the numbers/letters at the bottom of the UPC code and put those in the promo box when checking out. 30% off and free shipping with my Luxe card. If JC had a deal like that online I would spend some serious $$. Oh well, their loss!
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone own the Jacquard treasure blazer. Wondering if it is as beautiful IRL? How is fit? Thanks
ReplyDeleteI think J Crew is in recession denial. The Obamas aren't going to make the company immune to its effects. Give a us a better deal and we'll buy! Otherwise, GAP, Banana, Old Navy. . . here we come.
ReplyDeleteI also woud love a weekly/bi-weekly Canadian exchange!
ReplyDeletePlaced an order with Gap FF late last night/this AM: 2 prs Pj pants, 5 tanks/camis, 1 BR ring (similar to one of jcrew's), and a robe for $100 (free shipping). Not too shabby..
ReplyDeleteToday's exchange rate:
ReplyDelete1 USD = 1.28827 CDN
1 CDN = 0.77624 CDN
Of course, the credit card companies will give you a poorer rate and often charge a fee on top of it too.
musthavejcrew,
ReplyDeleteI do not own it, but I tried it on in store. Sleeves were too long and didn't fit close enough in general on me, but that's b/c I am petite and this jacket is regular sizes only... I tried on a 2, maybe a 0 would have been a better fit? Additionally, I don't think the images online convey the shininess of the jacket very well. It also looked darker in store, but that could have been due the lighting. On both accounts, seems like the lighting in the pic online fades the coat out.
^ Whoops! The second one should be:
ReplyDelete1 CDN = 0.77624 USD
And I have the nerve to say I'm correct. Geez!
I am a loyal Canadian J.Crew shopper and I will be purchasing using the promo. There are several items I want and some of them are already discounted, some not. I live in Alberta so at least do not have provincial sales tax added to the bill. It does get expensive but some seasons I don't find much I like and other seasons I buy a lot of J.Crew, this being one of them. I get my bonus tomorrow and each year I use a small part of it to buy new J.Crew suiting and at least one spring jacket that I enjoy for years. I am hooked on the suiting, jackets and coats.
ReplyDeleteI also have had packages lost by Canada Post, both as the recipient and the shipper. I much prefer UPS as it is faster and more reliable. Even though faster, UPS still takes about 2 weeks to arrive.
I had a VS order lost by Canada Post that arrived on my doorstep almost 2 years later. No kidding. The box was beat to crap but the contents were OK. I called VS and they said to keep it as the case was closed long ago and they were reimbursed and did not want to pay me to ship it back.
ReplyDeleteI spent $600 at Gap/BR/ON last night with 30% off. I bought my boys their summer wardrobe (ON shorts & tees), some capris and jeans for me, a few dresses and tees. The best part of it all? I can RETURN anything that doesn't work! No risk involved. And now they offer free mail returns if you can't make it to the store. No, they don't have the same awesome factor J Crew does, but wow - I am shopping there more and more from a cost and convience standpoint. Oh yeah, and free shipping. And awesome card member benefits.
ReplyDeleteI spent $125 at Gap/ON this morning....a total of **19** items! I love that they already had a sale on 'fundamentals', had free shipping on $75, and a 30% discount on top of that. I bought lots of spring outfits for my son and myself. I can't can fathom having 19 items in my shopping cart at J Crew for $125. Way to go Gap/ON. AND a portion goes to charity.
ReplyDeleteAnon 12:11, I think that is sometimes true, but not always. I notice that a pair of pants I've been looking at the GAP is selling online for 54 USD. It is the same at price at the retail store in CDN. I pay the exchange but I don't have to pay duty etc.
ReplyDeleteIn Canada we really don't have a choice but to buy from American retailers. We don't have as many of our own. Especially not for [nice] clothing!!
Drewablank: Thank you!
ReplyDeleteWow, there are some good deals at GAP. I have been an avid JCrew shopper over the last 6 yrs. But last week, I had a second look at GAP and I was impressed with some of their basics. The boyfriend cardigans are better quality than JCrews. I also tried the Tshirt dress and I ended up getting three.
ReplyDeleteWith the current promo of 30% off, they are certainly getting a lot of my business. I used to spend a bundle at JCrew for our family (including crewcuts). But JCrew isnt trying hard enough to keep my business.
OT:
ReplyDeleteI have a coupon for Piperlime, $15 off $75 purchase. It ends today. Email me and I will forward the code. I think it can only be used once which is why I'm not posting for all to use.
enstowe@hotmail.com
I'm glad to forward the F&F coupon for Gap, ON and BR to anyone who asks. Please be aware- it is for in store purchases only.
ReplyDeleteIf you want the coupon, email me at
redhed_01 at hotmail dot com
I'll email you the coupon tonight after I get home from class.
I just forwarded the Gap/BR coupon to the 2 ladies who requested it here.
ReplyDeleteI placed a ~$1150 BR order this morning (~$850 after 30%) with free ship. I am probably not going to keep all of it, but I was not hesitant to order everything that interested me b/c I didn't have to pay for shipping and I know I can return what I don't like. That is how to stimulate sales!!!
ReplyDeleteI got some great monogram pieces for occasion/work.
So how many people have been successful in adding their teacher/student discount to their Private Sale order?
ReplyDeleteSo how many people have been successful in adding their teacher/student discount to their Private Sale order?
ReplyDeleteJust pulled the trigger on the white denim high-heel flare jeans, the Slub cotton-silk Melody dress
ReplyDeletein sweet lavender and the Silk-linen V-neck sweater in tea rose (such a pretty color!). I hate to buy things FS, so I made two of my items returnable, at least.
I spent about $160.00 @ Gap/Br w/free shipping last night. I love that I can return what doesn't work with no loss of money to shipping.
ReplyDeleteI will pass on the BR/Gap/ON promo. I cannot stand the crowds and lines no matter what the savings, it is not worth fraying my nerves.
ReplyDeleteA few clicks at home with JC and I'll be happy.
anon 9:44: J Crew is still charging duty on Made in USA items i.e Matchstick Jeans. You have to email them after the order is shipped and then they will refund the duty. Forget it!
ReplyDeleteanon 9:11 & Snow: The exchange rate is 1.33 as of last night, just too expensive to shop right now.
Does anyone know of a blog that reviews Gap or Br stuff? I'd love to hear some reviews before pulling the trigger.
ReplyDeleteMy fellow Canadians - try Tristan for some nice, quality clothes, many of which are made in Canada. We also have Le Chateau, which is lower-end than Tristan, but has some good pieces from time to time, lots of them made in Canada.
ReplyDeleteI was going to purchase some boots from Revolve recently and found them in Canada at Gravity Pope dot com for $100 less.
There are good Canadian-made clothes and Canadian shops that are reasonable. It takes some effort to find them but they are out there. Try your local boutiques and designers as well.
HTH
Old Navy reviews - mostly dresses. Start on my home page and go to February. The majority of them are there: http://gigisgoneshopping.blogspot.com/
ReplyDeleteI am still waiting for an email response from GAP with the charity I selected -- Teach America. In the meantime, for a printable F&F coupon:
http://gigisgoneshopping.blogspot.com/2009/03/gap-friends-family-312-31509.html
And to the Anon who wanted the COTTON PLISSE dress review/pics:
http://gigisgoneshopping.blogspot.com/2009/02/j-crew-cotton-plisse-strap-dress.html
I try to list the item names exactly how they appear on the website. So if you do a search in the upper-left hand side it should take you to items you seek that I have reviewed.
try Canadian: I always look to shop in my home city first, Zippo, nada that interests me, too high priced, everyone has it, or it does not fit right. If I lived in a bigger city my shopping experience would be different, there is not much selection here.
ReplyDeleteI've already used by BR/gap/ON online code. I have all 3 stores within easy driving range, so I added some things I've never tried on knowing I could easily return them. Best of all, no fussing with any stupid "final sale" bs. Not a cardholder, but then, shipping for EVERYTHING came to $7. Yes, a nice, reasonable, flat-rate $7.
ReplyDeleteJ.Crew, IMO, really needs to get with it when it comes to offering promotions, especially as we're in a recession.
Anon @ 12:16
ReplyDeleteI have the Twyla Midheels (which another JCA so generously sold to me after she got them at TJ Maxx)and I totally see your problem with the strap. I also had to tighten to the smallest hole and even then it sometimes falls down. I think I am going to get some of those foam strap things that you can stick in your shoes to stop them from rubbing... I am hoping that this will help them grip the back of my heel more. I will report back on how that works!
And thank you to everyone for explaining the Canadian taxes/duties!
I agree with many others that posted- Gap/BR/ON received my business today! Spent $70 for FIVE tops/blouses! Plus I received free shipping for being a luxe memeber. And I also had a $20 rewards card. A portion of the proceeds going to charity was also a big factor for me. Cha-ching, Gap/BR, Cha-ching. Way to stay in tune with your customers!
ReplyDeleteWhile I still love the "look" of most JC pieces, I am less inclined to pull the trigger these days (unlike the TURKEY/HOHOHO days). The promos just haven't been as swoon-worthy. That's fine for me, since I am attempting to "shop my closet" as much as I can.
Anon at 2:01 - It seems that BR is stimulating just as many returns as sales in your situation. Maybe that is what J. Crew is trying to avoid by keeping shipping from being free.
ReplyDeletecasual-crew I am in Calgary, which used to be considered small but definitely has been getting a wider variety of stores the past few years as the population was exploding.
ReplyDeleteI find Club Monaco style to be similar to J.Crew and several pieces each season are almost exact replicas of the other brand. One thing is that CM often sells out of popular items so you may see it on someone else, but not on everyone. Their clothes are well-made, with a reasonable price point, especially if you factor in duty, exchange and shipping for a comparable item at J.Crew. Bonus, you can try it on in-store and if sold out, for $7 they will ship your size from another store directly to your home with 2-day FedEx.
If anyone needs a friends and family Gap code I have one and I can send you the friends and family coupon. I am not going to use mine as I don't see anything that I must have.
ReplyDeleteemail- dkdkgse at yahoo dot com
Club Monacco is lovely, so is Jacob, and Tristan. But neither of these stores offer online shopping. Neither have B & Ms in my province. I am forced to shop online. I'll shop JC because it is convenient for me, and one of the few that will ship to Canada. Gap/BR won't. I don't want to hunt for local dregs. I don't have time or the inclination, sadly. [Shopping isn't fun for me - its a means to an end!] My city is notoriously horrendous for stylish working woman clothing. We have: Gap, ON, AE...that's it! How would someone be able to put together an entire wardrobe on that? Oh, we have Le Chateau, but I refuse to wade through the over-stuffed racks of stretch satin for the over-priced 1 in 100 work-appropriate thing. Sorry to be so negative, I just hate Le Chateau!!
ReplyDeletetry Canadian: Thanks for the recommendation, my city is smaller than yours and the shopping experience sucks here (Ottawa). I was lucky and ordered alot of my spring/summer stuff on the last % promo last month before the change, that saved me a bundle. Now I am on a shopping ban.
ReplyDeleteanon 2:38pm-
ReplyDeleteGigi's blog has great reviews for ON & F21 stuff and J. Crew! Worth checking out.
I reviewed a couple of tees from the GAP a while back on my blog:
http://champagne-and-cupcakes.blogspot.com/2009/02/showing-some-love-for-gap.html
3:07, even with returns, BR is still making money on the stuff I keep. And with easy returns, its better for the company that I order and potentially keep something I'm not sure about than not order it at all.
ReplyDeleteSo, an $850 order of which I keep $500 worth of stuff, or no order at all? I'm sure BR would rather have the former.
Sorry to go totally OT, but does anyone have any opinions on the BR non-iron fitted button-down shirts for women?
ReplyDeletedo other women have problems with the rises of jcrew's shorts? since they don't come in petite I order the regular size but the crotches always look a little droopy. maybe this is an issue for non-petite folks as well? any suggestions for other places to look for shorts would be appreciated. juniors' shorts work in the crotch, but are a little too short for my taste.
ReplyDeleteMy fellow Canadians... just got my order from last week and looked closer at the invoice... it looks like they are charging the correct GST rate of 5% on the subtotal+duties as opposed to just the subtotal before duties.
ReplyDeleteI'm going to send an e-mail but I doubt I'll get to far with them.
The bummer for us with US retailers in Canada (and this includes Club Monaco too) is most of the product is shipped from the US to Canadian stores as opposed to Canada directly from the factory. Which means we're paying US duties + Canadian duties in retail stores.
The exchange rate is killing me more these days.
I almost placed an order today but with $22 in shipping and almost $30 in taxes I couldn't do it.
Oh yeah, and I live in Toronto and still have a hard time finding any B&M retailer that carries "tall" sizes in store for things like dress pants, shirts & jackets.
I bought 4 dresses from BR. Each in two sizes. Plan on keeping two. free shipping, plus 30% off, plus I had a $40 rewards card. What a great deal!
ReplyDeleteMedium Double Double I used to hate Le Chateau as well, until I found an organized store. Made it much easier to skim through and find the hidden gems. Yes, there is a lot of junk in there, but some good stuff too. I have a jacket and dress from there that are almost 10 years old, both made in Canada. Definitely the rarity though.
ReplyDeleteI grew up in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan so I know all about the lack of options. Try putting together a wardrobe from Sears or *gasp* Woolco. Yes, Woolco!!! $1.44 day and all! I was so excited when we went for a shopping trip to the big city - Regina! Living in MJ is where a stylish friend introduced me to J.Crew and of course, I was hooked. I saved my hard-earned dollars from my part time job and bought those wonderful J.Crew clothes using money orders and catalogues. And the exchange rate back then was about the same as it is today. Crazy.
So, I totally understand where you are coming from...
I'm going to Banana Republic or Old Navy. Seriously, this promo is a joke.....
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone know of a review on J. Crew's Metallic-diamond jacquard skirt (color: sweet cantaloupe)? I am interested in the fit, in particular. I adore the fabric, but I am not sure how I feel about this type of fabric in an A-line style. It's on Final Sale right now for $99. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteThe thing that gets me about these promos is that people compare them to each other. I mean, either you want something at J. Crew or you want something at BR. I can see a slight overlap for classics, but the pieces and stores are really so different in design aestheic these days. I was in both today, btw. I can't just go to BR because they have a better propmotion, I do not care for most of their clothes. Are people buying things because they really want them, or because they are saving so much money on them? If you save $300, you still spent $800. There must not have been $800 worth of stuff you wanted at J. Crew. I don't really care if you have the $800 or not to spend, this is not an ecomomic issue for me. Style-wise, how is this stuff so interchangable for other people?
ReplyDeleteJust got back from BR. Wanted to find things I liked with the promo!!! Instead, my impression: ugly kelly green and orange everything, cheap-looking prints, huge cheap plastic buttons on everything, shapeless knits. Then I went to JC. Beautiful soft colors, silk, ruffles, shimmer, pearls, cashmere. The contrast was so stark to me. I complain, whine, hate it sometimes, but today I saw why I love J. Crew.
ReplyDeleteThis is slightly O/T:
ReplyDeleteI was in the Banana Republic store today and saw those sweater stones that were discussed in the J.Crew sweater-washing blog.
They are normally $5.00 and are on sale for $1.00. With my 30% off I got two for 70 cents each.
I also went in the J.Crew in South Windsor CT and they had some things on sale but no additional % off. They also didn't have my size in anything I really wanted.
I know J.Crew, Gap and BR are different - but not enough to pass up 30% off. Cardigans, t's, tanks - they are pretty much the same to me.
BTW - one sale item I got at J. Crew (previous sale) was the high heel jean. I love them! I got the tall in size 30. I'm 5'9" and weigh about 135. They fit perfectly and the length is just right with heels.
I don't care if I'm tall anymore - I've got to wear my heels!
I'm the one that spent about 160.00 on the BR GAP promo. I'm not in love with most of their stuff, but I love certain items. Gap classic capris are boring as sin, I know, but at 17.50 a pair with this deal, I know I'll get plenty of use out of them. Will I be wearing them for $12.00 cocktails at Le Spendy Bar on a night out with the girls? No, but they're great for the more mundane aspects of life. I also splurged on both colors of the surplus pocket pants at BR because of the soft heavy weight fabric and the super flattering cut. It was all pants all the time for me on this one. I still love J Crew....it's not either/or. It just so happens that at this exact moment in time, J Crew stuff looks uninspiring and their promos are Scooge-ish.
ReplyDeleteI do think they are being tight with the promos for a purpose: They do NOT want people thinking they are going to throw out deals like TURKEY.....etc... on a regular basis. That was done out of desperation. The want to retrain us. Otherwise, everyone would sit around waiting for TURKEY all the time.
Anony@11:35
ReplyDeleteJCrew does NOT allow you to combine free shipping and the student/educator's discount. You can only use one promo at a time.
We all agree, I think, that JC quality has declined on many items. But I'm wondering what others think of BR quality ... I find it worse than JC. I can cherry-pick a few items there,I like their jeans, but overall I'm not a fan.
ReplyDeleteUsed to ship at BR, but not as much anymore...I don't think their items have a good fit. In addition to jcrew, now i shop at club Monaco and anthropologie...they all offer good quality, excellent fit, and unique styles!
ReplyDeleteTo the Canadians who struggle to find good clothing stores, try Martin & Osa. They have a small, sometimes basic line, but the quality is great and they have free shipping and returns.
ReplyDeleteFollowing my post about the downside of shopping J Crew from Canada, please be under no mistaken impression that I don't or won't shop there. I will!!!!!
ReplyDeleteI agree with some of the other Canadians. There are very few shopping options in most areas (outside the big centres) that offer the quality, detailing and "originality" of J Crew.
My Cate's are on hold for that magic 30% or a further price reduction. Cross your fingers for me, and hope I'm fast enough on the click to purchase ;-).
Try Canadian, thanks for your advice, and believe me, I totally relate. ha ha, $1.44 days!! I think I had erased that from my consciousness until you brought it back up!!
ReplyDeleteI agree with some other people that anthro is great. They ahve beautiful things and ship to Canada, but I find I always revert to JC because I know my size there. Anthro is such a crap shoot if you are ordering exclusively online! Three orders in a row I have send back because I guessed the sizing wrong. I wait 2 weeks for it to come, and then like, another 3-4 weeks for my refund!!! Not worth it.
i used the promo and got the ripple-ruffle slub t in tea rose, the ruffled scoop neck slub t in sweet cantaloupe, the cotton-cashmere ruffle cardigan in light pewter, and the metallic leather twisted sandals in metallic blush. sure the 20% didn't save tons (basically shipping and tax), but it was better than not having a coupon at all.
ReplyDeletei also enjoyed the gap promo on two shirts, a sweater, pants, and a skirt for $146. excellent.
I've read positive things on here about Lands end - can anyone tell me whether this applies to their cashmere, too (if they offer it)? I just spent 20 minutes de-pilling a bateau sweater I bought from J.Crew in January. It looks like @#$%. I'm so glad I didn't spend more than $40 on it. I'd love to hear recommendations for good, quality cashmere that holds up. TIA :-)
ReplyDeleteAnony 4:44 - They are definitely not interchangeable for me. I find the occasional thing I like at BR. J.Crew I am folding over every other page corner in the catalog. I spend quite a bit at J.Crew, will be placing an order for around $800 before the promo is over. I would add likely $88 to that total if the Mila cami would ever show up!
ReplyDeleteAnd Anony 5:18 - they definitely don't want us to be "waiting for a turkey" (cute!). The military jacket was totally sold out in XS and S yesterday and M had only the green. Today it has been replenished but only in the grey and the ship date is in June so I'm guessing it is a reorder only because the item flew off the shelves. I think they are getting the inventory balance right, as I have stated before. Of course, there will still be some things that get discounted but they are retraining us for sure! If it's good for the bottom line, I'll support it. Maybe I won't get another Shipley coat for $79 this year but it did happen once and I'm thankful for that.
O/T: Just received my latest order from JC. Fellow male JCAs - I highly recommend the new urban slim-fit broken-in chinos. I typically buy the classic fit (formerly JC's most trim fit) but am now a convert.
ReplyDeleteI admit I was hesitant (afraid they would be too slim - I don't want to look like an emo kid) but they weren't. They were just slightly more tailored than the classic fit.
Just thought I would share my experience since pants shopping can be difficult (you never know what fit or slim means to some designers - it's a relative term) and a recommendation can be helpful.
La Belle Helene: Yes Lands End has great cashmere you can even hand wash it.
ReplyDeleteThe promos will be what they be, but in the end, I really believe JCrew trumps BR for fashion. The pieces are always more interesting and I absolutely love their design concepts (most of the time.) No other brand (at this price point) compares!
ReplyDeleteAs for the Canadian tax topic. boy did I open up a can of worms :) I'm so glad we can all discuss it here though, because I've always wondered about it. Here's my conclusion - it's always best to ship by Canadian Post (and to KBear - you can do this when you checkout, just select it as your shipping method.) Even though Canada post is less reliable, the tax you pay is significantly less. I think the tax for shipping UPS is exorbitant because, if you go look up the UPS Ground cross-border brokerage fees, they increase with the amount of merchandise. (a rough estimate would be 15-20%). Then, on top of that, you get charged your 5% GST. So totally you are looking at 25% tax. Whereas with Canada post, they only charge a $5 brokerage fee + 5% GST, but only when it crosses the border. (ie. you pay on delivery). And, I was lucky last week, my $100 package came untouched by customs so I paid no tax at all!! -I don't expect this to happen all the time though. Canadapost is quite inconsistent. Either way, I'd rather take the CHANCE of not having to pay tax/paying LESS tax with canadapost than always paying 25% with UPS. Though granted, canadapost as a service is far inferior to UPS. But as a lowly student I do what I can to save my moolas.
Thanks to everyone who's been helping with this thread! I've bought quite a few things from US JCAs through weekly exchange, most will ship here, which is so awesome. And they have all been so cooperative about declaring the value and marking as a gift. (Also a note - you are allowed gifts of up to $60CAD tax free, and merchandise of $20CAD tax free. So if they write "gift" but still declare $100 or whatever, you will get taxed on the remaining portion.) - I know this because I buy everything on ebay :) -well, besides J Crew that is.
And, in light of other Canadian clothing retailers that are awesome - I vote Club Monaco, and *sometimes* Aritzia, though their quality is poor. Oh, and I am really proud of lululemon.
PS - there's a sweet sale at Club Monaco - I went 2 days ago and there were 2 racks of $19 pants.
Haha, I got an ivory Shipley for that price, but it ran a full size large. Also I'm 5'!0" and it looked ridiculous on me. Back it went. I was so sad.
ReplyDeleteAnon @ 9:40,
ReplyDeleteYou can get better pants at the GAP?
Granted you can get CHEAPER pants, but BETTER?
I haven't been to the Gap in years, but I highly doubt it.
J.Crews pants (typically under $100) aren't that expensive for DESIGNER pants.
Thanks to Christina and gigiofca for their help with the cotton plisse dress. I had a feeling something was off about it...
ReplyDeleteKBear: I almost ordered from there, I got put off by their CS, they would not give me the mesaurements for the jeans.
ReplyDeleteIs it true it takes 5 weeks to get a refund if you have to send things back?
La Belle Helene -- re Lands' End cashmere sweaters. Personally, I like LE's cashmere. I still buy JC cashmere, but the trend toward "lightweight" or "featherweight" is starting to bother me, especially given the high prices. I recently bought two cashmere Keyhole sweaters from Land's End -- they fit great (read: not frumpy, and surprisingly sexy!), the weight of the material is heavier than JC cashmere, and the color choices are not half bad (although, not as great as JC, of course). I also have a v-neck LE cashmere sweater in blackberry that fits very well. I have not noticed any major pilling in my older LE cashmere items, unlike JC! On the negative side, I find the LE cashmere cardigans rather boxy and boring. I have one in kelly green, and it doesn't do much to flatter the figure. Hope this helps!
ReplyDeleteagreed that jcrew is better quality vs. gap...and at the end of the day i am much happier to have one thing i truly *love* (even if it costs a bit more) vs. a whole bag of clothing that was on clearance!
ReplyDeleteHmm...There are definitely comments on this thread today that sound like they come from a J crew employee. Just sayin...
ReplyDeleteOT but I just got my Jeweled Palm Leaf Necklace in Metallic Rose from ebay win. I also had purchased the Mint color as well and I prefer it to the Rose. Asking $120 shipped.
ReplyDeleteEmail me at chadwick_kelly@yahoo.com.
This is O/T but: I remember there were some ladies who were interested in the Joley flats. The Copley store in Boston, MA has them all on 25% off, and select colors (orange and bronzed twig) were on sale for $79.99. Most of the $79.99 ones left were in sizes 8 - 9.5, but there was one pair in orange for 7 and one in bronzed twig for 7.5
ReplyDeleteHere's the store number for anyone interested: 617 236 5950
Oh I miss Club Monacco!! I am transplanted from the Toronto/surrounding area to (almost) the middle of nowhere. When I visit the family back home I always stop at my old faves: Club Monacco, Jacob, BR. I went on a work trip to Ottawa last spring and went crazy-town at the Rideau Centre!!!
ReplyDeleteI love to shop online for the convenience of it, but you don't get the instant gratification of just buying off the rack. I suppose this results in more returns though (cooler heads prevailing!), and that is nice for the wallet.
To someone asking about refunds, I find JC takes between 3 and 4 weeks. I sent back my first Anthro return about 3 weeks ago, no refund yet. I was hoping that would be quicker because it was only going to the return centre in Ontario, but no such luck.
For LE cashmere just size down. I wear a medium in JCrew and a small in LE cashmere and the fit is fine for me. Unless you like super tight sweaters you should be fine:)
ReplyDelete5:54, since when is J.Crew "designer"?
ReplyDeleteAnother thing better about BR (online) is that they have extended size ranges in practically every style, petite and tall, 00-16. I am loyal to BR b/c I can always find my size, whereas for JC I feel like they only *sometimes* want my business when they feel like making an item in my size.
haha, anon at 6:21 we had the same thought!
ReplyDeleteThe 'designer' terminology makes me think a rep from JC is posting here today.
ReplyDeleteOT: If anyone wants a $15 off $75 online code from Gap email me. It's one time use.
ReplyDeletejcsusan87 at gmail dot com
5:51--re the Men's urban slim fit.....
ReplyDeleteAre the waist sizes exact? Like... does a 28 mean that the waist is actually 28"? I'm a super tall female, so the boyfriend chinos at 31.5" are way too short for me. These urban slim fits might be the answer.
Connie, thanks for your advice about Canada Post. I am for sure going to ship with them from now on. I actually prefer Canada Post as I get tired of UPS chucking 100s of dollars of merchandise on my doorstep. I like to go to the post office to pick up my package. Now that I know how to decrease the tax, I'll probably be ordering tomorrow after the update. Oppsie :-)
ReplyDeletecasual-crew, I'm not sure how long it takes for a refund. I sent two items back about 3 weeks ago to exchange for another size. I have yet to get my new items. I should really call about that. But I think I remember reading that it could take 4 weeks for the refund to be posted to your credit card.
I was a diehard JCrew shopper till recently but seriously, I now question getting plain tees for $30+ when they are available much cheaper elsewhere. But recently, I have rediscovered GAP. I now find GAP's basics to be of better quality than JCrews.
ReplyDeleteI bought a fleece peacoat from GAP, on sale at $18 (down from $50+). It is a great casual piece to wear in the transitional days. I also have the boyfriend cardigan and get a lot of wear out of it.
Though ON's quality leaves a lot to be desired, some of their designs are looking like JCrew knockoffs. Their peacoat sweaters look good online, but in person the quality is poor.
I have never liked BR, somehow it was never my style and I found the stuff cheaplooking and poor finishing IRL.
I'm bummed with M&O. I just called to see where my exchanged items were. They don't do exchanges with Canadians, just refunds. So instead of clearly stating that so I could have re-ordered the items I wanted, they sent me a form telling me how to exchange them. Now the items are off the site. Poo!
ReplyDeleteAnon @ 6:29:
ReplyDeleteMy waist is a size 30 and the pants fit perfectly. And after seeing your question I measured them and they were true to fit/exact. Hope that helps.
P.S. I'm also the one who's getting hit for calling JC "designer." (I don't always take the time to sign-up to comment).
JC may not be technically designer. But, to me, it's sad that people are suspicious of my posts (thinking I work for JC when I don't) for saying nice things about JC (rather than BR or the Gap) on a JC site.
-Connor
Anon 12:15pm I have two pairs of the Twyla midheels. The pair I sized down in the strap was not an issue but the larger size was to be expected. I put an full padded Dr scholl insert inside for a better fit. I always use foot petals in heels for the bottom and the back of closed heels. I love the Tywla's and have already worn them several times.
ReplyDeleteAnon 4:37pm I am waiting for a review on the diamond Jacquard skirt also. I do not know if it is available in store. I have it in my basket too. I do want to try it on first if I can.
I will check out BR to see if I can use my coupon. I love both JCrew and BR. I don't think JC's quality is better than BR's in the least. JC needs to step back up.
I don't know if anybody needs a 30% GAP online code, but I am not planning on using mine. So, here it is:
ReplyDeletePQKFF6WK4HGL
I think it said it is a one time use only. You can email me if you want the email to print out for the store.
lesliegordon15@yahoo.com
Thanks all for the info on LE, I really appreciate it. I do love J.Crew's color choices - I bought the bateau in the gorgeous purple - but if it is only going to last one season, that's a real turn-off. I don't think I should have to be de-pilling a sweater two months after I bought it.
ReplyDeleteconnor-thanks. 6:29
ReplyDeleteWow! We need to rename this blog BR/GAP/ON:)
ReplyDeleteNo doubt their sales beat JCrew right now.
I love their clothes...just as well as Jcrew's right now as JCrew is rather bland at the moment.
i have an extra online gap F&F code if anyone wants it :)
ReplyDeletelindsay dot paternostro @ gmail dot com
GAP F&F Code PQKFF6WK4HGL is taken
ReplyDeleteThanks a bunch Leslie!
Anon@4:05 PM - I wear and like petites in J Crew & Banana Republic shorts. I have more BR shorts, though. ON has shorts in petites now, I think. I haven't tried them though and admit I am not a fan of their bottoms on my figure. I also love Ralph Lauren petites that you can purchase at Macy's. I don't have any of their shorts, but the trousers have been fantastic.
ReplyDeleteI hear what someone said about not comparing J Crew to BR. I don't think they are exactly interchangeable, however, J Crew has some glaring issues right now that have prevented them from making the bounds they've been seeking.
It probably irks them to be named in the same sentence w/BR but they still have a lot in common. I think BR is lacking on design overall right now, but they are smokin' in promos, shipping, product availability in petites/regular/large, good phone customer service, special in-store events and their WEBSITE. J Crew seems to not want to play the mass merchandising game yet have put out some runs of some awful basics in the past 6 months. I didn't go to FIDM, but it seems they would benefit from a temporary shift. They can win shoppers over w/better deals -- not crazy ON $10 bargains -- just better deals for at least the cardholders, fix the website and flip the script later. Now is not the time for alienating shoppers, Michelle Obama in their pocket or not.
Oh -- and speaking of quality...I wore my painter tee (fall 08) in forest green yesterday. I had a little perspiration and the undearms were super dark. Thank gawd for cardigans. I'll be happy of the stains come out. J Crew tees don't last as long as tees from ON that I wash and dry without a care. I don't always drink the Crew Coolaid.
ReplyDeleteAnother good thing about club monaco is that their student discount is 20% all the time and hemming is free. I guess that's two good things.
ReplyDeleteI have a very flattering suit that I bought at CM years ago. It is fully-lined wool and still looks like new. Of course, I have some wonderful JC clothes that I will be wearing until the end of time too.
Bought some cute tissue t w/ rolled sleeves at the Gap for $12.95, super cute and quite a bit cheaper than JC. Tomorrow hitting Banana w/ 30% F/F coupon, a good deal.
ReplyDeleteCan someone please explain to me exactly how/why shipping via Canada Post is cheaper? For example, I just did a mock order of $288.50 & I'd charged $51.15 in tax when shipping via Canada Ground (ie. UPS). If I ship via Canada Post, I don't get charged tax at all & I have to pay for it when it arrives. I live in AB, so it's only 5% -- $14.42. So far so good.
ReplyDeleteBUT if you ship via Canada Ground, jcrew covers the duty -- NOT when you ship via Canada Post. I think duty would likely be more than the difference ($36).
Up until a few weeks ago, jcrew charged about 6.5-7% tax. I thought they raised it to cover some of the duty. Afterall, their website says that jcrew charges you duty, but they have not been doing that since their website change (they used to prior I believe).
So how exactly is it better to ship via Canada Post? What am I missing here?
Gigi, J. Crew Koolaid, that was hilarious!
ReplyDeleteLand's End cashmere quality is superb!
And for basics, I don't drink the J. Crew Koolaid either!! Honestly, Target has perfectly functional khakis and white tees etc. IMHO. I don't need to spend $89 on JC capris, that's ridiculous. It's the special pieces - my rosette tee, snow leopard cardi, double serges - that make me swoon and get out the credit card.
gigiofca,
ReplyDeleteI am saying this with all seriousness....try Avon deoderant/antiper. It is the best and contains an active ingredient that is NOT in store brands. It is the only kind that works and it is super cheap! I swear you will love it!
My hubby has an ON tee that refuses to die. The quality is great and it still looks great wash after wash. It is amazing!
ReplyDeleteI just got my J.Crew order containing a bunch of sale merchandise so I thought I'd post some comments on the items.
ReplyDeleteSaturday pant 10697 and 13702.
I bought this in gray and navy, size 4R. The gray fits fine, the navy is really short. I checked the label and it says 4R. I will have to send them back as they are floods. I also bought these in the dobby-stripe and these are 1" longer than the gray, as stated online, and slightly looser, not even 1/2 size though. Overall they fit TTS except for the length on the navy.
Stretch wool pinstripe pencil skirt 95728 size 6 and jacket 95730 size 10.
This skirt fits a little loose but that's OK because it is a pencil skirt and I can tuck shirts or sweaters into the skirt and I don't know that I would be comfortable in a 4. It's less prone to wrinkle when it is looser anyway. It's a different cut with the seam running diagonally and two back vents rather than one. The jacket pairs with the skirt to make an attractive suit. The cut is nice and the seaming details make the fit, although I may need to take it in around the waist. I need a size 10 on top because I am busty but I have a small waist so often need tailoring. This suit offers comfort and style in a classic look. The fabric is lightweight and very fine with a nice striped pattern. The fabric sold it for me, I love lightweight wool for summer. Overall TTS
Textured Hemp skirt 10059 size 6 and jacket 10058 in navy size 10.
I've wanted this suit since it came out and it disappeared from the website quickly. Once it came back I had to buy it and I'm glad I did. Very substantial yet comfortable fabric. Classic pencil skirt and boxy jacket in a summery style and fabric. The skirt fits perfectly, like it was made for me. The jacket requires tailoring as the waist is too large and it's flopping around but that is often the case for me as I need to size up. Overall the pieces fit TTS.
City fit Marina strip slim trouser size 4.
These pants fit small and I should have sized up. I believe they are from last year so perhaps are really the same as this year's size 2 with all the vanity sizing. I used to always take a size 6 in jcrew pants, now I'm a 4. Anyway, the fabric and cut are nice but I'm not sure I will lose enough weight this spring to wear them so I will wait a few days and try them again and make a decision. I would say size up in these pants, if they appear on FS again.
Short sleeve cotton cardigan in shell 13471 size M
I love this cardi. It is see-through, which I expected since the tea rose on the model is somewhat sheer, but I'll likely throw it on over a cami, tank, tee or wear over a bikini around the pool/beach. I did not realize there were plastic, glass-look buttons and they add a feminine, vintage look. The fabric is soft and fine with a body-skimming fit. I am considering one in a second, darker color.
I also bought a pair of the flannel-lined camp pants for my husband. I bought him a pair for Christmas and he loved them. This latest pair goes into a rubbermaid tub in the basement storage where I put all kinds of great deals on items for NEXT Christmas. I do this every year and I already have two shirts, a pair of flannel sleep pants and a pair of gloves.
I was also able to pick up a few pairs of men's Nantucket flip-flops for $2.99 each. These are great to have on hand as we have a hot tub and pool and sometimes people bring their suit yet forget the flip-flops.
OK, my novel is finished. I really have to start my own blog with IRL photos so I don't have to bore people here and those that visit maybe want to read my long post. ;-)
Have a wonderful day everyone.
anon @6:21, (and others below)
ReplyDeleteI read 5:54's comment and I was like, 'huh'?
I have looong been a fan/buyer of jcrew, but designer it is not. Sorry.
Another Canadian JCA here... I only use UPS because mail without tracking (ie Canada Post) can be unreliable and with UPS I get my package in 4-5 days.
ReplyDeleteIf Canada Post charges duty then there would be no real difference in the shipping methods. Sometimes duty gets overlooked, if so you'd save if you chose Canada Post.
I love JCrew so much which is why I have paid 30% exchange + almost 30% in taxes plus shipping to shop there. It's pathetic how expensive an item gets but there's no JCrew in Canada and it's my favorite store. The worst is when you return an item because Visa refunds you at a much lower exchange rate.
Anon@8:09PM - Funny! I was totally going to mention that I had purposely worn Certain-Dri, which you *not* supposed to wear daily because it is strong. It was a day of nerves and I guess I just got too hot to trot.
ReplyDeleteI know an Avon lady and will try it! Thanks for the tip :-)
I did! I bought the following:
ReplyDelete1) cotton argyle socks
2) Original Fit Chinos in white
3) Sophia dress in sunflower
I saved a total of $20 on my order.
Wow, I hope JC reads this blog topic, so they can see all the business they have lost to BR,gap, ON & do a % off all for f/f to benefit charity, and get off these minimum $$, and quit the final sale schtick.
ReplyDeleteI used the code to buy the gray chambray shit. To get to the 175 mark I bought one Fleece full-zip track jacket and a Clean fleece full-zip hoodie. Not bad@
ReplyDeletegigiofca: That's funny you say that you had a day of nerves. I am working on my masters in pharmaceutics and in one of my cosmetics classes we studied antiperspirants. One thing I never knew (majored in molecular biology but I guess I never studied sweat glands hehe) is that when you sweat under your arms and groin it's not because of over heating. That's completely due to being nervous and things like that going on in you chemically. When you get hot you sweat on your face and back and other random places like palms and feet. Too funny as I am studying for my final right now. BTW I LOVE your blog!! You shop very similar to me as I love bargain shopping at Target, ON, GAP, BR and esp the Crew! To go along with your Felix Rey for Target post...have all you JCA's out there seen the new Miss Trish of Capri sandals coming out at Target???? Soooooo cute (and cheap)! Have a great day everyone!
ReplyDeleteI took advantage of this offer to purchase the Herringbone Hayward coat. The website does not do it justice, it is a spectacular transitional coat that is absolutely gorgeous and a pleasure to wear.
ReplyDeleteThank you for posting Alexis.
and4mynexttrick how do you know the website doesn't do it justice and it is a pleasure to wear if you just ordered it?
ReplyDeleteTo all those who are in doubt about Gap pants, I'll say this: until this winter I was always pretty anti-Gap; whenever I went there the pants fit poorly and the style was generic, unimpressive. But I looked there one day this fall in desperation, and I found that their jeans have REALLY improved and come in an extremely wide range of styles, fits, etc. The hip-slung pants they currently have for spring fit very well and are actually quite stylish for basics. I bought several pairs, including a medium/dark blue linen-cotton pair and a seersucker pair with cute horn button details. I recommend a second visit to the Gap. And for Canadians it is of course dramatically cheaper than JC.
ReplyDeleteAnon @ 9:57 pm - I used next-day shipping for my order. It works very well.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous at 9:11 and 9:24 am; I'm right there with you. At first I was disappointed in the sale and promotion offerings. But now I'm almost glad. With the Canadian dollar trading at about 77 cents the deals must be impressive before I jump off my wallet.
ReplyDeleteThat being said I did order the Sperry boots, but they are waitlisted and expected to ship at the month's end. And well I did get the esppresso chinos and the chmbray shirt, ouch, time to layoff for a bit.
I spent $90 at Anthro today on one top. I would have spent that at JCrew had they offered a sweeter deal. I just can't afford a $175 minimum and I get the feeling A LOT of people are in the same boat. When they put restrictions on their promos they limit so many people from buying. Why would they do such a stupid thing?
ReplyDeletethanks gigiofca for your shorts advice!
ReplyDeleteThe majority of the posts has nothing to do with the topic, or J Crew for that matter. This blog is called J Crew Aficionada, not BR, or Gap Aficionada.
ReplyDeleteNot meant to be rude, but I would like to see some J Crew item reviews.
I placed a rather large order today at the store for full price items so I can get both 20% off and free ship. I got a swimsuit in the color that I want as usually when they go on sale only the questionable colors are left.
Also got some shoes. I love the magdalene and am surprised that they dropped into a promo price pretty significantly already, and with the 20% off they are now at $134.
I love J Crew, usually think BR looks cheap, and Gap had lost me for a while.
ReplyDeleteBUT!
The new straight leg chinos from the Gap are great. I bought three pair. They have nice soft-washed fabric, well cut pockets that don't bug out, and an inseam length in their regular that's just a bit longer than J. Crew's "short" length.
I also have a Gap dress on order that j. Crew should have done. It's a pleated cotton, lined dress, pretty much an a-line shift, adorable. 39.99
I like to think that my favorite old Gap things were from the Mickey Drexler era. Maybe Gap's getting back in the groove after several years of cheap, wrinkly stuff.
fidele: that dress is cute! What's your build? How long is the dress? Thanks!
ReplyDeleteGap is VERY strong when it comes to pants right now--some very flattering cuts.
ReplyDelete11:26, on any given day, all of the posts on this blog are about JC and JC item reviews. Right now there happens to be a kick ass promotion at a major competitor, so people are talking about it. We all love JC (or wouldn't be on this blog) but get frustrated when we feel that JC is playing games with its customers with unfriendly promo policies. We are just giving kudos to another retailer for a job well-done in this area.
ReplyDeleteEven ON has kicked it up a notch, I agree with Gigiofca the basic tees are better than JC, and I picked up a cute sweater on sale for $20.00. For that price I don't care whether it last one season or not. The sweater quality was comparable to J Crew sad but true.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tips on the Gap jeans I will check them out. The Gap also has cute Boyfriend card at a good price and a decent RANGE of colors unlike JC.
Anon 12:12 am - so right on. I haven't purchased from jcrew.com in the month of March, and am not on a no-buy, just uninterested in the promos that they're offering. Plus, it's been so cold in the Northeast it'll be at least another two weeks before I could wear any spring stuff. There are a couple pieces that I want, but am willing to wait it out.
ReplyDeleteAlthough... if we're talking about other stores, I do have to say that Cole Hann has 30% off their sale merch and free shipping. I got a gorgeous leather platinum bag (fully lined, hello JC!) that looks fantastic and looks like it will hold up to 3-season use. I'm thinking about giving their "Air Elly" ballet flats a try - they look similar to the Joley. Sale goes until 3/16.
Anon 11:26 - I can't wait to read your reviews. Please post them when you receive your items.
ReplyDeleteUpdate on my review of multiple items from last evening.
ReplyDeleteStretch wool pinstripe pencil skirt 95728 size 6 and jacket 95730 size 10.
I put this on today with the intent of wearing it to work. The skirt is really too large and I will have to exchange it. I should have known that last night after dinner, things would be tighter. I tried it with a belt but because of the seaming it didn't look right. I would say SD in the skirt. Jacket still fits though.
City fit Marina stripe slim trouser size 4.
Too small and if I starve myself to fit into these then nothing else in my closet will fit. Back they go. Too bad, the fabric and cut are nice but I am not a size 4 without vanity sizing.
Saturday pant 10697 and 13702 size 4.
Navy are still too short. Imagine that, I didn't shrink overnight. I'm not so sure about the dobby stripe pair. They are somewhat see-through and the print looks lower-end, even though it is decent quality. I think these are going back. I'll try them again on Monday and see what I think.
Everything else is a keeper.
Anon 12:12: Could not have said it better myself. So true.
ReplyDelete^ the comments about other topics are not stopping people from posting about J.Crew. If they have something to post, they will.
ReplyDeleteI think J.Crew is not so exciting right now. People are wishing there were better deals or a new release of interesting items. The number of posts in general seems to be decreasing, except for the weekly exchange or when people go OT.
xoxo re: striped saturday pant. I returned these pants because I didn't like the look. The stripes show every curve, and not in a flattering way! The solids are much better and nicer fabric too.
ReplyDeleteWhile I have always liked GAP jeans better than JCrew they always seem to be out of my size b/c they are so popular. So I have more JCrew jeans by default alone!
ReplyDeleteI am so glad to hear the news about the great GAP promos. It is nice to see a company offer quality clothes and great deals:)
Silver Lining: Is there a promo code for Cole Haan for the 30% off sale and free shipping? There is a handbag on sale that I just love and with an extra 30% and free shipping, it would actually be reasonable.
ReplyDeleteTIA!
Hey -- we *are* talking about other retailers if we've made it all the way to Avon! *lol*
ReplyDeleteLINDSAY -- I loved reading about your studies. I definitely am not hot when I have nervous persp. My hands and feet are ice cold. All the nerves are sending blood to my freaked out brain *lol*
And here is a link to a Miss Trish of Capri preview --
http://target-addict.blogspot.com/2008/11/miss-trish-of-capri-for-target.html
Anon 11:13 - it's SPSALE09, I think - actually says right on the main page. It applies to sale merch, but not to "Great Values". I think that the free shipping is automatic (and for a limited time).
ReplyDeleteGood luck!
Just to throw this into the mix LOL:)
ReplyDeleteAvon Glazewear lipgloss is amazing and inexpensive...beats department store brands for not being sticky but having great coverage:) Enjoy!
Thanks Silver Lining for the heads up about the Cole Haan sale.
ReplyDeleteAnother JCA who just saved & got a great pair of clogs from Cole Haan.
Thanks again for sharing!!
Silver Lining -- thanks for the Cole Haan code. Duh, I totally missed the sale notice at the bottom of the home page. I'm going to order my purse right now!
ReplyDeleteAnony 11:35 and 5:29:
ReplyDeleteI used the free shipping code instead of the private sale code, and I was allowed to combine educator's discount with free shipping today. It turned out to be better than the 20% off.
I guess I got lucky.
Chance
OT: Just a shout out to Smarty.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the Target clustered pearl necklace. Smarty was so generous and nice to send me one after I couldn't find it at my local Target. She didn't even want to be paid for it.
Love this blog and the fine JCAs who frequent here.
Chance
Can anyone give a quick review on the grenada palm halter dress? Thanks!
ReplyDeleteChiffon Cupcake,
ReplyDeleteA Bigger Closet did one recently, just search her blog
Packola,
ReplyDeleteWas that the dress or just the cami?
Oh sorry it was the cami...
ReplyDeleteBut I guess you can still get an idea how the colors look IRL
Thanks, Pakola and Ms. Anon! I was looking for reviews on the dress. I just called J.Crew and found out the dress measurements is vastly different from the cami!
ReplyDeleteI got the cami in size 0 = 35" chest and 37.3" on the bottom part of the top.
For the dress, I would need to get a size 4 = 34.3" chest, 27" waist and 37" hip. Even that, I am afraid if the hip area is going to be a little tight. Size 6 would be 35" chest, 28" waist and 38" hip.
J Crew isn't very competitive, but I am addicted as I love their style and quality wise on average it's better than Gap and Old Navy. I get so many compliments everyday for my J Crew outfits (which I hardly never get while wearing BR, Gap, Ann Taylors or Talbots). Something about their style is just interesting enough without being too out there. It's great to be able to find stuff that matches from head to toe with colors that compliments each other season after season.
ReplyDeleteAnyway, for reviews - I found the madgalene in the guava/sandstone to be a very pretty shoe, with very spring like colors. I can see it being perfectly paired with a nice dress for easter. The stitching on all the straps are good, and the heel height is not sky high. I haven't worn it out yet but trial run around the house is promising. It's TTS.
I saw the D-cup twisted bandeau swing top review on a swim suit post a few weeks ago and decided to give it a try as I can use a swimsuit with more coverage. To my surprise the suit fitted perfectly and the swing covered my mid section well without constricting my gut like a one piece. I liked it with the strap on. The strap as reported is very well constructed, somewhat thick and really provided a good outline for my non-athletic and not well defined shoulders. I tried 4 colors - white, aqua, pacific blue and orange. For my lightly tanned skintone, orange was the surprise winner, even for my hubbie with ultra conservative taste.
Hope that helps somebody!
Old Navy & Gap surpases J Crew quality.
ReplyDelete