Referencing {FAQ}

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

J.Crew Email: Because you're one of our best...

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Dina, Marietta, RatsOnParade, Lilac Cupcake, as well as Sweetsy (in this post), who shared the email J.Crew sent this morning.

The email announces to {select} customers that they will be receiving free shipping (no minimum!) by logging into their registered J.Crew account online. The {unlimited} free shipping offer expires 11/1/09.

Some JCAs have mentioned benefiting from this recent free shipping offer already. (Refer to yesterday's "J.Crew Email: INSIDER SALE. Ends tomorrow. 20% off your order of $150+. Online only." post.) This appears to be the second round of free-shipping-by-logging-in-your-account offers. (Refer to the first reported offer of this kind in the September 25th "Surprise! Log Into J.Crew for Free Shipping" post.)

Moreover, "thanks!" to many of you, including silver_lining, Kat, jcbellemarie, FFM, & IRL (in this post), who let us know about getting a similar (although different) email. Their email came with a one-time free shipping (no minimum!) code. Also expiring, 11/1/09.

I am very excited for those who got the offers. {yey!} I think this is a great move on J.Crew's part to reward some of their customers. (It's also a great incentive to get JCAs to shop!) I won't lie, I am also simultaneously sad about it. I have not received any free shipping offers, pair of {gorgeous} earrings, or VIP card. Instead, I got an older catalog with a month-old expired code. (Which I am oddly happy about, because I at least get a catalog. Some JCAs report not even getting them altogether.) Maybe {just maybe} I will be included in the next round of offers. {fingers crossed!} :)

Did you receive this email? Are you planning to take advantage of this current offer?

102 comments:

  1. I also got the old catalog with a long-expired shipping code...thanks!! I'll be sure to use that!

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  2. I'm tired of not being one of the selected few to get the free shipping code.

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  3. My e-mail and code clearly states that this is one-time use, and cannot be combined with any other offer.

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  4. At least, that's my offer - the email was on a white background and had a unique code.

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  5. I got one email this morning saying that all I had to do was log into my account and I could get free shipping any time between now and November 1. I just got another one with a one-time use code. Weird...

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  6. Mine too, silver_lining. If I get more than one, I'm happy to pass along to anyone that did not receive one. Alexis, often I receive these emails much later in the day than most so chin up! You may get one yet chica.

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  7. I got the free shipping offer last month but no earrings and no email this time around. I guess I was only valuable to them last month. I used the free shipping for at least 5 orders (some were friends using my account to get free shipping) so you would think I would be climbing up the list of "valuable customers."

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  8. I, for one, do not understand the rhyme and reason to J.Crew's marketing ploys (who gets what and when), but I do remember someone saying/commenting that there is a degree to which these are carefully thought through and implemented. It still doesn't explain the seemingly random mail-outs and expired shipping codes. Blegh.

    But then again, I was thinking, without this blog (and others), we really wouldn't know all about what everybody else is getting and not getting, outside of our own circles. I say, "Kudos!" to those who do get whatever and when and "Chin up!" to those who have not gotten anything yet. :)

    **In short: I've about given up on trying to figure out 'Crew-logic.

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  9. Yes, I got the free shipping code though November 1st and also had free shipping yesterday when I logged into my account.

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  10. Maybe some of the promotions are only for cardholders who spend a certain amount? I am not a cardholder but I did receive free shipping last month. But, since I didn't get the earrings or free shipping this time around I wonder if those were specifically for cardholders who met whatever J.Crew's criteria was?

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  11. Yes, I'll use it if the Nov. catalog in online by then. I picked one up yesterday at my B&M and there are a few things I want: Marlene Crisscross Platform Heels, Abby Toe Cap Ballet Flats, Forever Cardigan in at least one color, Tuxedo Scout Chino (why I like these I have no idea). Does anyone know when the Nov. catalog will be available online?

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  12. huh, now I got an email like this but with a one-time use code, cannot be combined. So people who get the one just telling them to log into their account and the FS would be automatic will also be able to use the 20%, but people who got an actual code will not.

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  13. i received a one time code that is not combinable. better than nothing ~ but they would have had me buying up a storm if I received the unlimited free ship with login. I always login when buying, have the CC, and received the earrings.

    agree with others that when other retailers have free shipping and a stackable or auto % off code, this pales in comparison.

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  14. Don't you have to spend a ton of $$ at J Crew to get one of these? *sad face* Would like to spend more but oh well....

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  15. I think the fs code is rotating for anyone who has signed up their info on the website, because the system would not be able to handle the increased business. If you did no get the code this time perhaps you will get in the next time around.

    Who wants to go back to the way things were last Fall when the system crashed?

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  16. I also received the email with the one time use code. If I was able to combine it with the 20% off then I would be making a purchase today. Since I can't I'll just wait until the new arrivals go online to consider using it.

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  17. To those who think these offers lately have been sent to JC CC holders I beg to differ. I am a Silver CC holder and have NOT received any of the special coupons, free shipping email or logging into my account or special surprise gifts (earrings this time) ever! I think I spend a lot with JC but apparently they forgot to thank me so I'll be returning a bunch of my purchases.

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  18. I hope I hope I hope I get this one!! No minimum!!! I'm tired of *inflating* my orders to get free shipping. Hmmmm, or am I?? (;

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  19. I didn't get the free shipping code either - yet, I tend to get the emails later in the day. Anyway, I would think that they would extend those offers to people (like me) who don't spend a TON as an incentive to shop more? I guess I'm just jealous, lol :)

    Congrats to those who did receive the free shipping!!

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  20. I also love J. Crew. Especially the city fit khaki pants. I can never have too many especially in my job.
    I am surprised to see a blog about J. Crew. Good work.

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  21. I for one am thrilled about this new promotion (and the others they've been running as of late) -- because it means their system is FINALLY WORKING! It's been SO long (since summer 2008?) since the website has worked properly -- the fact they're able to roll out these automatic promotions is encouraging, to say the least. And yes, they're selective, but as another poster suggested, once the Nov. 1st date has passed I'm guessing there will be more promotions doled out to others. A whole month of free shipping is nothing to sneeze at! Plus combinable with other codes (like the 20% off) is fantastic. Now, if they'd just do a restock to go along with the % off I'd be one super-happy camper. But beggars can't be choosers. I know it sounds like I've drunk a little too much of the crew-lade, but I really do think J.Crew does a great job of customer service/customer retention. BR's "LUXE" code for free shipping might be nice, but even BR has its quirks -- like ugly poorly made clothes, not being able to use more than 5 codes at checkout (what if you have more than 5 rewards cards? SOL you are. All in all J.Crew does a pretty darn good job. Well done, J.Crew! Well done.

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  22. I'm with you, jcmama. I also have the silver cc but never receive FS codes or free gifts. It leaves me with a poor taste in my mouth. I wonder if I cancel my card that they would try to woo me back? :)

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  23. OMG grape squishee, you just read my mind. I was thinking the same. If I cancel my silver card, maybe they will want me back and then they will give me the JCrew love. So far, I have gotten no, I mean NO, JCrew love.

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  24. Ditto to jcmama and grapesquishee - I'm a silver CC holder and I haven't gotten a free ship code, earrings or even timely catalogs!

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  25. Like others, I am a silver CC holder and received the free shipping card last month, but no earrings and no ship offer this week. The good news is that JC is doing this; the bad news (from my perspective, lol) is that it is an ad hoc offer for a hand-selected group rather than a stated policy for all customers who meet certain criteria (such as holding a silver CC or hitting a certain dollar level).

    I guess in the age of blogging the retailer is in a Catch-22--if it rewards some of its "better" customers it risks alienating those of us who are merely "good" customers.

    Or maybe JC is just punishing me for insisting that they accept that return on the FS sweater that was three sizes too big. :-)

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  26. Did any 'internet only' shoppers receive the earrings?

    I haven't been keeping up on all the posts about the earrings and free shipping but am wondering if there is any chance the b&m's had a hand in deciding which customers received the earrings?

    Also, the email I received today says to log in to my account, and they supplied a one time use code which expires November 1st.

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  27. I didn't get the email, the earrings, or the VIP card, and I also have had no luck registering to get a free shipping code. It's very frustrating. I can't help but wonder if it's not so much a selectivity issue, but if in general JCrew has email issues. I just think it's odd that I'll get all emails for a couple of weeks, then nothing ever again. And I know that has happened to others.

    I'd love to place an order, but won't without free shipping.

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  28. @RatsOnParade I love enthusiasm, but I'm not sure what you're talking about.. In my experience, J.Crew allows a total of one promotion code to be entered per order. 20% off OR free shipping or just S2BU. Have others experienced an ability at J.Crew's website to use even half of "5 codes at checkout"?

    I'm a long-time J.Crew fan, but the functionality of their website (though infinitely improved from last year) is still inferior to those of their competition. Their unpredictability in their promotions offered to select customers is downright strange; I am glad for anyone who gets gifts and special promotions and do not at all begrudge them those benefits, but it is downright bewildering why some get certain rewards while others get ignored, and some receive notifications a day or so in advance of others (based on spending more than others? based on attempting to encourage more spending? seems to be rather inconsistent).

    Of course I still really like their clothes, and I generally really like the people who really like their clothes, but I am increasingly less impressed with their business model and customer appreciation.

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  29. Like others, I got the letter AFTER the expiration date on the offer. No earrings or anything else. Just the no-good free shipping offer. I would have liked it if I could have actually USED it.

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  30. I think it would be helpful for people to post, if they are comfortable doing so, their shopper profiles (online only? B&M? Both? PS or not? CC or not? how much spent per month/quarter?). As I posted on Gigi's blog, I have received nada during this round of promotions, and I must admit to feeling slighted and unappreciated. For those that are interested, I shop: online only; don't have a PS or a CC; and spend approx. $400-500 per month, or about $5,000 total in the past year. I have consistenly bought items from each rollout over the past 10 months or so. I got the red card in April.

    Can someone tell me where I am falling short now?

    For those who are offended by my forthrightness, I apologize.

    For those who are getting the promotions, congratulations!

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  31. Corey, I for one appreciate your directness, and I'm willing to share my general info:
    Silver CC holder
    Spend about $1,000 per quarter
    90% of purchases made online
    One to five orders per month; average is two
    No PS (tried to set up PS at two closest B&M but neither followed up)
    Received ship card 10/09, red card 12/08 and 4/09.

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  32. Guess I'm not one of the chosen ones... oh well, it's their loss, not mine.

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  33. The more I spend here, the less I get. Last year, while I spent a good deal at JC, I did not spend nearly as much as I have this year. But last year I at least received the card for $50 off a purchase and this year.... nothing.

    I usually get JC emails about 4-5 hours after it seems most people on this blog does, so I'll hold out for another couple of hours, but I'm not holding my breath for this one. I love so much of their jcrew.com only clothes but they give me no incentive to pull the trigger and pay $18 on something that weighs 6 ounces.

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  34. OT: I went over to KOP to make some returns/look at the new arrivals. The only thing I really wanted was a light gray wool trench. I ended up taking it home and will post pics later on.

    I will also post pics of some things I tried on. There is this taffeta blouse/cami with diagonal pleated tiers on it that I thought people might like to see, so I will be sure to post some pics of that on my blog as well.

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  35. No freebies for me. Does anyone remember constantly getting codes in the catalogs for $20 off $80 plus free shipping? I miss those days.

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  36. Corry, I'll also share my info with you:
    I have been a regular (non-silver) cardholder for awhile - more than 5 years, less than 10.
    I have shopped with 2 Personal Shoppers in store, and have one online as well.
    My personal spending now is about once a month, maybe about $100. This past summer though, I spent (okay, my boyfriend spent) about $8,000 at J.Crew over the course of two months, both in-store and through online orders. Before that, I was spending about $300 to $500 per month in-store. And before January (when I discovered this blog :)), I maybe placed one order a month, and almost exclusively shopped the sale section, buying my stuff off season at discounts.

    As for what I've received:
    -I received the red card in April.
    -Didn't get any notecards this summer (or any other summer gifts).
    -Just received the earrings, sans free shipping code, last week.
    -Just received the "log into your account for free shipping" e-mail early this morning.

    Prior to the red card in April, I don't believe I've ever received anything from J.Crew.

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  37. Let's see...

    In the past 5 years, I have probably spent about $3,000 a year at J Crew. I only have a green card (I would rather use my regular credit card), I have a PS and I do a combo of B&M and online shopping. I received zilch, zero, nada. No VIP phone number, earrings, etc. I do receive most of the emails that get listed here hours to a day after they are posted here.

    I have been buying more and more of those "ugly poorly made clothes" from BR lately. Actally their offerings this fall have been excellent as far as quality and style goes, and I have yet to have any issues ever with BR customer service. I have only had very minimal issues with their quality over the years. I wish I could say the same thing about JCrew. I just took back another sweater today that I received with a hole in it.... I have returned at least 5 items in the last months with quality issues. Banana Republic has not sent me anything defective.

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  38. OT, but could someone please do me a favor? If someone sees the double serge trench in your B&M, could you please write down the style number, price and color codes that are available in your store? My B&M gets limited outerwear and I really want to see this. It also is not in the catalog :( .

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  39. Corry; I am not a cardholder and only received the free ship card earlier in Oct. P

    -Prior to July 09 I only placed on avg 1 order a mt for less than $90.00, occasionally there were additional orders for less than $150.00.

    -Since then my ordering went up to 4 orders a month, a couple around $250.00, others $150.00.

    -I used an on-line PS for one of those orders in Sept 09.

    I pd shipping for some of those orders and on fp items. I returned about 25% of my orders due to quality and sizing.

    I do not plan on purchasing until Spring 2010, and even then it will be less than $100.00 per mt.

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  40. Corey- I spend approximately $2500-$3000 per quarter. I have a PS,shop in the B&M and shop online. I know spend much more than I would normall if I did not have a PS or read this blog. I also have received the 25% off coupons, heirloom earrings and a necklace last holiday season. I also received the e-mail re: free shipping with login.

    It appears that you have to spend much more than 5k/ year to receive these extras. With quality going down and prices still high, I'm not sure if it's worth several thousand more to receive these discounts.

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  41. Long-time silver card holder. Use J.Crew credit card for every purchase. Spend $1000 per quarter. 95% of purchases online. Did get VIP free shipping card by mail. Did not get earings. Did get free shipping when logging in to my account until current 20% off $150+ promotion began. Haven't received a catalog since June even though I've made sure to update my catalog preference to receive them. Consistently receive e-mail a few hours after they are posted on JCA. Live in Utah and don't know if time zone has anything to do with that.

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  42. kitsmommy: I purchased a wool trench yesterday from KOP. I do not think it is double serge; it is a wool/nylon blend. I posted a pic on my blog: Click here to see. I can post the style number later on. The store had it in gray and black.

    I also quickly posted pics of the other items I mentioned earlier in this thread, like the taffeta cami, if you are interested.

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  43. I have zero insider information from J.Crew, but from e-commerce marketing experience I can say that there are hundreds of criteria that companies dissect. I would caution against thinking that the promotions peeps receive are based on your spend totals. They could be based on age demographics, geography, random multivariate testing...a whole bunch of things. Just my humble opinion.

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  45. You can pre-order from the new catalog today and get the 20% off with Shopfall code and free shipping if you call. I called the number that came on the white card but I don't think that number made a difference. I also pre-ordered from the red phone yesterday and got the 20% off with free shipping.

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  46. Totally OT - but for those who like the Pistache necklace, I saw a very similar necklace at ATL this afternoon, and for only $49.50.

    http://www.anntaylorloft.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=22363&N=1200017&pCategoryId=3361&categoryId=235&Ns=CATEGORY_SEQ_235&loc=TN&defaultColor=Gold&defaultSizeType=Regular#

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  47. OT: How is the Rockville location? I usually shop at Towson but will be in Bethesda tomorrow and thought I'd swing by. I know there are a lot of Capital area JCAs and am just wondering if its worth the extra stop.

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  48. OT - store sale update
    Went to Michigan Ave. today. New markdowns. Carnation corsage tee all colors $29.99. Newer necklace tee with the oval shaped beaded embellishments (lt. heather gray) $29.99. Golden bean necklace reduced again to $19.99. Various cords in matchstick, toothpick and boot cut varying reductions from $19.99 to $39.99. Got a cute silver "patent leather covered" belt for $9.99. I'm sure all of these markdowns will show up on line tomorrow once the 20% off expires!

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  49. ** Marietta - I saw that ATL necklace in person & it's soooo pretty.

    ** In agreement w/Roxy that there are other factors that go into their marketing outreach besides dollars spent. I *do* believe having a PS can be a very good thing. Even if you don't shop a lot, find a SA to connect with. Introduce yourself. Compliment their style if you've seen them in the store regularly. Ask to be added to their personal shopping book. They will notify you of rollouts by email and you can ask for them to pull items for you. I guess this will be an issue if you feel pressure to buy. However, let the SA know up front that you're a sale shopper or whatever your situation is -- and they should want to work with you regardless. The smart SAs will value your business and be happy to have repeat business. You can use the PS service thru J Crew -- they will connect you w/a shopper in your store if you call them, but I recommend finding your own in person. I love my SA. She pulls sale and regular price for me. Once in awhile she'll pull sale only. She has told other employees that I'm a valued customer and it shows in the way I'm treated. $0.02

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  50. I agree with Roxy. Marketing is based on a lot of different criteria and frankly, it often has very little to do with how much someone spends. Where you live, how old you are, your household income, all different kinds of data are used to determine to whom a company will market. Stop trying to figure it out and stop assuming you are being purposely overlooked!

    And 6p - I'm going to call you that because your name is too long :) - thanks for the tip on ordering from the new catalogue with the 20% off and free ship!! I'm going to give that a try.

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  51. I appreciate all those who responded to my query with helpful posts.

    I did not purchase anything with 20% off because I missed out on the free shipping offer, and knew it was out there. So like Alexis, I hope that maybe I'll get something next time around.

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  52. Gigi, I thought the necklace was darling, too, but held off on purchasing it for now because I purchased the Long Cubic Zirconia Fine Link Chain Necklace that you recommended on your site yesterday, and they took my 20% coupon! So, I'm waiting for another coupon before I buy it. I'm wearing the chain necklace today, wrapped twice, with the rosette pumpkin cardi, and it looks great! Thanks for the recommendation!

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  53. No free shipping or earrings over here either. That's okay, I'm perfectly happy giving anthro, ATL, and M+O my money instead.
    I did get the VIP card but not until after the FS expired

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  54. No free shipping codes, no earrings, no catalog even! Continuing with my JCrew ban. I have never gone so long without buying anything in about 7 years! I used buy weekly! (even 2-3 times a week!)

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  55. I buy most of my clothes at J Crew but don't want to even think about how much I spend! I know that some people who read this blog spend much more than I do -- and I would love to be able to spend as much as they do! I have gotten the red cards in the past, and I recently got the card with the VIP phone number. I've never gotten any of the gifts such as the lovely earrings. In fact, I got an order this week, and there was a little box inside. I got all excited -- the earrings! Well, of course it wasn't. It was a small accessory that I'd forgotten about ordering! Ha! That said, I like to think that the gifts are sent randomly. It just seems more fun that way! I have sent two e-mails to Mickey Drexler, and he replied both times. They were silly e-mails, praising my favorite store in Orland Park, Ill., (the people who work there are THE BEST and SO NICE TO ME)and telling him that I think he is really cool. I got a personal reply each time -- very neat. Mickey, you are my hero!

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  56. Can anyone comment on the plain black leggings that JC offers? Do you like them? I know someone on here said they were going back for another pair because they liked them so much. I am looking for some that are tight (less cotton I suppose)so that the knees don't end up baggy KWIM?
    Also, they have SO many sizes (xxs-xs-s) what size did you order?

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  57. I am also confused about the varying gifts/codes offers. I can't complain, since I did get THE earrings.
    I placed a few orders during the EXTRA 20 sale, and can usually get free shipping from my "special number" person (I think we all talk to the same guy!!), but he didn't work on Sunday or Monday - so I placed the orders myself and paid shipping. NOW, I did get this email (which will work on new online arrivals at least), but just paid shipping on some orders over the weekend. It's so RANDOM! Don't you think?

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  58. P.S. I AM NOT A CARDHOLDER, but have received those covetted 20% and 25% off cards from last year, as well as gifts and offers currently - so being a CARDHOLDER has nothing to do with it. Of THAT, I am sure.

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  59. I get emails to my work and to my home. My work is a big company. I get that email hours before I get the email at home. I sometimes (not often) get different emails to each address. I'm not sure when I ever used the work address so that's weird. I use my home address for orders. I order more or less depending on season. I've spent over $2K for Fall and it's mid October. But the summer, not near as much since the fabrics seemed poor quality. I don't use the CC.

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  60. Is the "special number" the VIP number? Just wondering, because I have it and have never used it (I think I called it once a couple of years ago, and it didn't seem like it was any different than calling the regular line... maybe I'm missing something). Anyway, I called the VIP line this afternoon, and she would not apply the 20% off for me because it was a phone order. Would she have given me free shipping, or is that random, too? Let me know, because I'm confused.

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  61. Danielle, the VIP phone number I got is: 800-587-5819. I saved it in my cell phone because it made me feel special -- but I'm sure you all can see from my previous posts that I am pretty easy to please when it comes to J Crew. I haven't used it yet; Did my last two orders early in the AM via the Internet. I, too, don't have a J Crew card, but have been meaning to get one. Will probably wait until I want to make a pretty big purchase so I can get an extra discount.

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  62. Danielle, I also should have said that I have gotten some free shipping lately just by using my on-line J Crew account at the Web site. On the other hand, there have been times when I have asked for free shipping and gotten it. I've also been given it over the phone for no apparent reason -- although I do have a tendancy to chat with the CS folks on the phone. They are so nice that I like to talk with them, especially if I am in a crappy mood. They're cheery but not icky and fake. By the way, Mickey, if you all read this post, I'd love to get a gift the next time you send them out. But even if I don't, I simply like the fact that J Crew does it!

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  63. Danielle: No, you did not miss anything, it is just another example of J Crew's hit and miss CS. It depends on who you get whether they will give you the discount.

    Some JCA's got last weeks extra 20%applied to their orders they placed a day before the promo started, I got refused. It depends which way the wind is blowing.

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  64. Danielle - that is really weird! Are you telling us that you got the earrings with the card with the VIP number, and then they wouldn't give you the 20% off that's going on? WTF?

    Even my PS at my local store can get free shipping - I call her, give her my items, she places the order - I get any discounts available as well as free shipping.

    Well, yes, it's sounding more and more RANDOM. J Crew has NOT been known for their consistency in these matters. I have been treated rudely be some CS people over the phone. But I have written to complain about them, too, and been told that those CS reps were WRONG, and had things fixed. You could always give that a try. Good luck.

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  65. Oh, no, I didn't get the earrings and the VIP card (I have never gotten anything special, but I'm glad other people have benefited from the random gifts!). Back when they sent me the silver credit card they included the VIP number. I called it once, didn't think it was anything special, and then never used it again. But once I started reading that people were using a "special" number, I wondered if it was the same thing. And then I wondered if the "special" service people have been receiving was random. I called the number today and asked her about placing an order and getting the 20% off. She said no (I'm guessing that meant no free shipping, too, but I didn't ask). When I went to the B&M to return an item on Monday I asked about placing an order, but they wouldn't honor the 20% off (I was hoping to score free shipping and the 20% off via the red phone). I've been reading the posts, and it seems like it really is indeed hit or miss with the CS people have been receiving. Kind of cruddy. I don't shop at the B&M much because they don't carry petite sizes, and that's what I need. Maybe I need to get me a PS! Ugh, but I hate shopping at the mall so much...

    I didn't even get the last catalog in the mail, so I have very little hope I'll get the next one.

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  66. So is the VIP card supposed to get you free shipping? I received the earrings with the VIP card, however...I do not have the unlimited free shipping when I sign into my account, but did receive an email with a one time free ship code.

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  67. I placed 5 orders while I had the automatic login free shipping... but altogether spend less than $150. And in one order, I shipped one item to my mom and one to me. If I had to pay shipping, it would have been about $65. Take that, JCrew! It was all sale stuff, of course.

    OT but did anyone notice that one of JCrew's new wedding dresses is on the cover of The Knot magazine? It is the one that has the big loopy thing in the back.

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  68. I have called the number listed above by Rip-a-roo twice today and placed pre-orders for things from the new catalog and have had the 20% off honored by two different people. Because it is a pre-order, the shipping is free. The new things will be online tomorrow and so will no longer be a pre-order. As far as I can tell it only works because it is a pre-order, not a regular order. I also did two "we will find its" from the red phone in the store and they honored the 20% off on those with free shipping.
    Don't know where the long name/number is coming from! :)
    Debby

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  69. How are we supposed to pre order if we don't have a catalogue?

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  70. @Matthew That's what I'm saying! O_o

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  71. I called the number on my VIP card to ask about the Free Shipping. The CSR seemed surprised that I received it without getting the note or unlimited free shipping on my account to go along with it, and allowed me free shipping along with the SHOPFALL code for my order. He also said that the free shipping isn't going out to everyone all at once, but that everyone should eventually get it at some point. I sure hope he's right! :)

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  72. FFM: Thank you for sharing that news from your CSR!!! It gives me hope. {YEY!} :)

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  73. I should probably rescind my disparaging comment re: Banana Republic's quality issues (after reading kitsmommy's post). I actually had a whole closet-full of BR clothes up until two years ago when I noticed their styles and (I felt) quality go downhill. Sharply drastically downhill. And I *have* had my share of poor experiences with BR's customer service and their quality really...at least in my experience -- downhill. I said that already I know, but seriously. Last but not least, the amount of time it takes to ship from the Banana Republic distribution center (in Columbus, OH to Columbus, OH!) is ridiculous. It takes WEEKS for any order I place online to arrive, whereas I can pretty much expect any J.Crew order to arrive within 7 days, give or take. I just have a beef with them -- I shouldn't have voiced it to reflect poorly on anyone else who enjoys shopping there (although all that said, I do still shop there on occasion myself...)

    Aside from everything I just said, after visiting a B&M last week just for the heck of it I ended up purchasing their Monogram collection trench coat -- I am in LOVE. The quality, the fit AND the style -- it's all perfection. But to my point, season after season of puff-sleeves and blousey knotted-front tops just wore me out on the brand.......hmmmmm kinda like ruffles ruffles and more ruffles from you-know-who? Maybe it's a just a natural progression to move from one retailer to another after a certain period of time. If J.Crew doesn't start to mix it up a bit, I might just be taking my business elsewhere too.

    To answer Corry'squestion: I've been a silver cardholder since around 2003, and I purchase I'd say 98% of my J.Crew items online (probably 50% of which all go back as returns!) I've emailed Mickey one time, on what was probably an inconsequential issue, and he responded personally from his Blackberry in less than five minutes from the time I sent my note. I've had an online PS since January, and a real-life PS for the last month. For all the promotions I *have* received, there are plenty I haven't. I also get the emails hours after the blogs do, which makes me quite thankful for the folks who post the discounts/promotions right away!

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  74. Hello all! I have received three emails today with the 'log in to your account and use this code for free shipping' - two at my work email and one at my personal email. I am happy to pass these along to anyone who is ready to place an order so you can get free shipping. I always, always, order thru my ps associate on line and therefore never pay shipping. So I'm happy to pass these along! Email me at boys3@aol.com and I'll get back to you.

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  75. just saw the november catalog posted on the jcrew website! :D

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  77. Shocked and disappointed! Just called JCrew to see if I could get Free Shipping on an order. The SA said he might be able to help me out with that, Cool! He looked up my account and put me on hold...came back and said "umm sorry I won't be able to help you out with that tonight"! Seriously??? Was the $400 I spent in store this last weekend not enough? Jcrew will not give me a break. I have a card, spend about $400-ish/month there, have not received a catalog since about 1995, no special perks or promos. I feel like the desperate girlfriend that won't take no for an answer. I keep coming back for more even though I get no love. I'm even thinking of returning my Marled Wool Cardigan and Merino Crewneck striped sweater(...thinking).

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  78. NEW ARRIVALS ARE ON THE WEBSITE!! :) 9:49 PM Eastern time

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  79. I have not received this email, but I did receive the free shipping through yesterday offer and have been fortunate to receive the 20% and 25% off cards in the past. No earrings, necklace, nor stationary though :). I received silver card status after only a few months having the original JC card (green). I have no clue as to why I was "upgraded". I purchase about $500 per quarter, like many others. DH receives offers as well, but he does not have a JC card (although I just added him on my card to accrue more points).

    Got my bathing suits from the most recent promos ($9.99/piece or $19.99 per suit) and I'm glad I purchased before final sale, as two suits will have to be returned. In JC-land apparently I am a D-cup! But I'm pleased with the deals. The premium stretch twill bermudas (#13669) for $9.99 (regularly $58) was a fabulous deal...they look terrific and can be dressed up and down, so if they pop up again, they may be worth the FS risk. I ordered my usual short size and it worked out fine.

    Just checked out the new stuff online...only two items are really catching my eye (the ruffled celosia cardigan and the vintage cord pencil skirt - love the colors!), but the coats look beautiful...too bad I don't need one!

    BTW, the styled items that were featured before Jenna's picks were really strange to me...is it just me? And Madewell is making a splash on the site too...interesting...

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  80. Oh Stephanie, I hear you. I was laughing so hard when I read your comment. I feel the same way, like the kid who is just trying and trying to get some love and attention and nothing. Then I said, "JCrew, I had, that's it", but then I just saw Sarah's comment after yours and like that kid desperately craving for love I am going to the JCrew website to see the new arrivals. You got me again JCrew! Darn!

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  83. Parroting what everyone else has already said - new catalog is online! AND -- you've still got two hours left to use the 20% off on the NEW merchandise! (I think the SHOPFALL code ends at midnight). I just ordered a couple of the cashmere cardigans (item 18871) in the new shades -- jalapeno and warm burgundy, the silk streamers cami in dijon mustard (item 19939) and the Jacquard ballet flats in lavender. (item 20495) Um.....went a bit overboard...but 20% off brand spankin' new arrivals! I couldn't resist. :)

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  85. As usual when the new arrivals have just appeared on the website, there is at least one snafu-- on the "gunmetal matelasse skirt" the description didn't get copyedited. Right now (10:30 EST) it says,

    "Shimmering printed vintage matelassé adds texture and dimension to our classic pencil skirt. Silk/cotton/metallic threads/nylon. Are there vents? (No need to call out if not.)Fully lined. 24 1/2" long. Import."

    So I guess no one got back to them about the vents! I guess I like these kinds of errors because they give a little insight into how the copy is written.

    Link to page: http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Browse/WomenBrowse/Women_Feature_Assortment/NewArrivals/skirts/PRDOVR~20034/20034.jsp

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  86. I also went overboard when I saw the new arrivals online with a few hours left for the 20% off coupon. I ended up ordering the textured jersey bouquet tee in ivory, the viscose tango tank in black, the luxe tux tissue tee in heather carbon, the dream Gallagher tipped cardigan, the rock and fire necklace in heather petrol, and the studded skinny headband in black.

    Yikes.

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  87. I almost went way overboard when I saw the prospect of using the 20% off on the new arrivals, but only went slightly overboard and ordered 5 things. :) I've been really holding out for a while so I felt justified. Also, I'm so used to JC not making things in my size (14/16) that when something cute is actually available in my size I just have to get it! I got the ingenue coat in dusty blossom, the ribbon ravine dress, the rose print t, the dapple dot cardigan and the charlie suede ankle strap heels, which were already on sale. Pretty miffed that several of the dresses I want only go up to 10 or 12 but I guess it's better for my wallet.

    So used to waiting forever for promo on new stuff that using the 20% off almost feels like cheating!

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  88. J. Crew canceled one of my orders-- 15 minutes after I placed it. Have been stalking this shirt for AGES. What?!?! I called CS but they weren't able to help me; it's now showing that red "sold out but call us anyway!" message.

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  89. PS Refreshing the page like mad-- hoping it'd update at midnight, 12:07, 12:11, etc?...

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  90. Was not planning to buy anything with the 20% off & free shipping because what I wanted were not available. But with that just in time update, spent too much but saved $186 on the new arrivals. Also saved me a trip to the B&Ms. Thank you Jcrew!

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  91. Had been waiting for the new arrivals... so excited they arrived with time to still use the 20% off! So of course I ordered...a lot.

    Anyone else notice there are now some Madewell items available at jcrew.com? You can get to them buy looking through Jenna's picks or searching on "madewell". I ordered the plaid tunic. Nice!

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  92. Alexis,

    The website was updated! It's 11:23 eastern standard time and pretty new things are on the site! Finally!


    Enjoy everyone!

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  94. Yay! Love that JCrew updated just in time for the 20% off and free shipping!! I order a cashmere henley, sequin pocket cardigan, dolce v-neck sweater.

    I'm really lusting over the crinkle cascade dress but I know I'll probably only get one wear out of it and I just can't spend that much on one wear, even with the discount. If anyone gets I would love to see a review. Also love the stardust pencil skirt, I think it's a good price but just not practical. Great for Christmas/New Years parties.

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  95. So... yesterday the Jackie cardigans were regularly $59.50, today they're regular $62 but "on sale" at $59.50. Riiiiight.

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  97. well the new arrivals are up... and i can't say that i love much of it :( except maybe the midnight tweed mini.

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  98. Off Topic- but I am up late working and watching an Entertainment Tonight from earlier today and Mary Hart is wearing the lavender Frances:) J crew is everywhere!
    Thanks for the heads up that the new arrivals are online- I was forced to check them out and purchased 3 sweaters & the leopard Evie. I won't keep them all but wanted to check them out and if I do keep any of them 20% +Free shipping is a nice incentive. I am also somewhat sad that now they come out with a dark gray patent Campo after I have committed to my coconut shell color. I really like the new color-Yikes- cannot justify 2 patent campo bags!

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  99. Whew! Thanks guys! I didn't even try the 20% code b/c it was after midnight - until I read the comments here! Thank goodness for that 1 hr. cancellation window... was able to add more stuff to my order!
    Crinkle chiffon ruffle cardigan (no, I am obviously not sick of ruffles yet), dolce v-neck pullover, merino turtle in light berry, 2 tanks, a tee & that really groovy purple metallic belt. As a matter of fact, everything was in a varying shade of purple - soft tones though. For some reason, this morning when I opened up my armoire full of last year's sweaters all the colors just looked garish & way too bright. I know I'm in the minority here but I guess I've been sucking down the muted-tone 'crewlade. And I thought I was set on sweaters for this season - ha!

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  100. Aww, I didn't get this code either. Which is a shame. I know I don't shop online with J.Crew often, but I would make a purchase - any purchase - if I had free shipping.

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  101. Also, in addition to the email, I received aa surprise package in the mail, with a pair of heirloom flora earrings and a card reading "because you're one of our very best customers...we hope you enjoy this gift". The card contained a VIP card with a special acess phone line to be used 24/7. The card also entitles me to front of the line priority when useing the new special access number.

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Dear J.Crew Aficionadas & Aficionados: Please feel free (and encouraged) to share your thoughts and opinions. :) However, please note that this is still a personal blog. So comments that are considered inappropriate (e.g. obscene, racist, homophobic, personal attacks, rude, and just plain mean) will be removed.

And now back to J.Crew! :)