A big "thanks!" to many of you, including Rebecca (in this post), as well as Marietta, who let us know about another offer from J.Crew.J.Crew is offering customers 20% off any purchase from their Final Sale {no minimum} and free shipping (over $150 *after* discounts applied) with promo code OURTREAT. This offer is good through 8/29/10.
It seems like J.Crew has been moving a lot of new arrival merchandise to the Final Sale section. Perhaps it is to make room for more Fall merchandise. Here's to finding some great deals! :)
Off topic: The chat feature on J.Crew is now available on the top of its homepage. (The only way to access it before was when it randomly popped up on your screen.) It's great that J.Crew took the initiative to make its website more user friendly. Kudos J.Crew!Will you be taking advantage of this promotion? Are there any sale items you are interested in getting?
Ugh... of course I bought my things yesterday with my rewards card.
ReplyDeletetyyyyypical!
AAAAAAAAARRRRGGGGGGHHHH of course I bought 2 belts yesterday! I felt like extra % was coming on, but I couldn't take a chance that the belts might sell out. I want to punch someone right now. ARRGGGHHHH.
ReplyDeleteIn the style of Chandler Bing, "Could I BE any less interested in this sale?" Nope. Blah. Bring on Fall sale minus the final!
ReplyDeleteThere are some interesting popbacks. The bazaar shell in a size 4, the Jaipur perfect shirt in a few sizes, the watercolor potpourri mini ... a chance to get a few things you may have missed out on before.
ReplyDeleteThe stupid Victoria tissue cami that I fell in love with popped back in pale lilac in my size, so I snapped it up. BAAAAAAAA. BAAAAAA. I'm so ashamed.
I called on an order this AM and asked the CSR what's up with all this Final Sale business. There is definitely a lot of merch they're trying to move. She said the normal, non-final sale won't be back for at least a few more weeks. For what it's worth...
ReplyDeleteThere are several "want!" items I've been eyeing but had to resist those and my shopping bag on work items. I picked up a few pencil skirts and shirts. Boring! But actually will kick up my transition wardrobe quite a bit.
ReplyDeleteI hope some of you are nabbing your favorites you've been waiting for!
I'd love to try the Valerian Cardi but final sale scares me!! No-can-do.
ReplyDeleteWool gabardine suiting and open merino sweater in lagoon.
ReplyDeleteI went ahead and ordered the beach cardigan in navy and the pearl and silk wrapped necklace...already had them in my cart!
ReplyDeleteHate final sale. Will probably buy at the retail store so I can return. And not pay exorbitant shipping.
ReplyDeleteChris (or anyone) - do you know how the wool gabardine fabric compares to the Super 120s or the Stretch wool? I love the super 120s (drapey, soft, slight sheen) other than the pants not being lined, but I'm not a big fan of the stretch wool (I find it rough, "noisier" than the Super 120s).
ReplyDeleteAppGal - LOL! I agree with you completely.
ReplyDeleteBeware to anybody that's eyeing the Katzy cami... even though the description says it's "fully lined", it is actually unlined.
I ordered the Falling Ruffles tank in navy and the featherweight bling-button cardigan in warm peacock.
ReplyDeleteFigured the prices were so low that it wasn't that big of a deal and s/m/l sized tops are usually easier to fit -- I still won't buy anything with an actual numbered size on final sale though!
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ReplyDeleteI already spent God knows how much this summer, probably 20 items with tags still on it in my closet, had to restrain myself from pulling the trigger on the 5 items in my cart. On a side note, the perfect pencil skirt is back in pearl gray, size 8, I want it so bad!! good luck whoever gets it, sad face for me, and I can't spell today, happy Friday!
ReplyDeleteI'm waiting for a 30%, haha. Nothing I terribly want. I already snatched up the retail-only things I thought would run out in my size so for the rest of it I'll just wait until it goes on sale online. Plus I spent too much going crazy over the summer sale (that was the fervent beginning phase of my J. Crew obsession) so I'd do well to sit still for a while, lol.
ReplyDeleteI thought I wanted to buy when the extra discount came...But oh darn FS red note makes me stay away...There are a few things I want to try, but don't want them bad enough to be stuck with them even if they don't work out. So I guess this will still be a pass for me. Still believe FS should be dirt-cheap!!!
ReplyDeleteI know it's been said before, but I can't stand how J Crew removes certain items from final sale when they have the extra 20/30 promotions. It's awfully petty.
ReplyDeleteI was waiting for this, almost placed an order last night but thankfully I held off. For once I timed it just right! Bought a couple more bling-button cardis that are a deal for 20 bucks, a double-serge cotton pencil skirt, a couple of belts and some polos and tees for my husband. Nothing overly exciting but some decent buys on items I know are going to work out - if they are in perfect condition, of course.
ReplyDeletexoxo,
ReplyDeleteI hope your stuff arrives in perfect condition. I know that feeling only too well. I used to think so positively and get disappointed. Sending lots of postive thoughts your way! :) Happy Friday:)
Snore . . . it will take a lot more than this to get me to part with my $$ -- like maybe one of those fictional "cardholder-only" sales??
ReplyDeleteReginaO, this is JMO, but I saw the Valerian cardi IRL and thought it was unattractive and not as depicted. The colors were mainly flame-orange and yellow-olive rather than the taupe and coral-orange shown in the photo.
ReginaO,
ReplyDeleteI want that sweater too and there is only one left in my size online according to the counter so I doubt it would even ship. So scared of the colors being off. I called my local store and they only have a medium left and I need a large. I figure not meant to be and will wait for another pretty cardigan. I wish it had not gone straing to FINAL SALE in two weeks.
Feel for both of us!
I had my store hold the medium in hopes it might run big????
Hexicon,
ReplyDeleteJust read your post right after mine! Oh, those colors would not work with my complexion at all. So are you saying it looks nothing like online?? B/c if it doesn't I would definitely be stuck with a product that would wash me out to the MAX!
Like the horrible sour lemon final sale items still sitting in the JCrew box in my basement. My hubby keeps telling me to just pitch it but I should at least drop it off at GoodWill. I have 3 items....
Michelle, I haven't purchased any suiting this year, but I buy several pieces every year (at least I used to), and I find that the wool gab is nice and not too different than the 120s. It has a little more crispness and a very fine twill texture.
ReplyDeleteGenny, I thought it looked a lot different. I am still peeved about the Ikat streamers cami for similar reasons. I know sometimes the item is cut from a different part of the bolt or dyelot, or the "real" run didn't match the sample, etc. etc., but as a mostly catalog customer (and formerly frequent FS customer) I've been disappointed several times by similar discrepancies.
ReplyDeleteI know that some JCAs liked the cardi so there may be room for different opinions here, but that's mine.
Thanks Hexicon :) I think I'll do it - I actually noticed that it isn't on FS, so I might as well go ahead and order them to check out the fabric.
ReplyDeleteAnother question about fit - I'm looking at the Fleurette Bow cami. I got the skirt in my usual size and found that, since there is no stretch/give in the material, it felt a full size smaller than it should 0 is this true of the cami? I am usually a 10 in camis/tops, but should I go for the 12 instead?
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ReplyDeleteI placed an order yesterday evening! Darn! Oh well, 20% off isn't worth the hassle of dealing with customer service trying to get a price adjustment - if it's even possible.
ReplyDeleteSorry, another fit question - the Marseille cami is only available in 12 (but again, I'm usually a 10) - any advice on whether it's TTS or one size up would be do-able?
ReplyDeleteThanks!
Didn't think FS would start this week but I guess there's a lot of inventory to move out.
ReplyDeleteHow about 40% off FS with free shipping, JC like back in the days?
Things are still overpriced considering it's FINAL SALE!
I want Fall Sale or a promo on full price items. Nothing for me this time.
@Michelle: I took my normal perfect shirt size for the Fleurette Bow cami. The fabric doesn't have any give but if you size up the chest area might be too loose. I think I could have actually sized down but then the hem would have been a bit tight. HTH!
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand I tried the Calista cami the other day and I had to size down since it was still huge with my normal size.
This vanity sizing is driving me crazy since many ladies will be sized out and I'm not petite myself.
oh and BTW I called to see if they'd apply the discount to the order I placed yesterday. denied, citing the wording around final sale that the discount was not applicable to previous orders. GRRR
ReplyDeleteI took the opportunity to buy another pair of the Ares Platform Sandals. Even though summer is ending, I LOVE them and want to have a fresh pair for Spring. Heel not too high, just a great shoe. There are about five items I want back ups for and this is one.
ReplyDeleteAndrea, thanks for your fitting room pictures, I like the Palo Alto store when I travel for work (SF is even better because they get everything). That plaid shirt is the Herringbone Plaid. It is online, you have to search the J. Crew website for "plaid" and click "Womens". There are a couple of plaid shirts that fell off the site including that one and the Seth. Both are really cute but you need to size down. It looks great on you!
I must be a sucker because I found myself looking for long-lost button downs I wished for awhile ago. Found a Jaipur perfect shirt and watercolor perfect shirt. I ordered the Jaipur in one size larger than I normally take because I love the pattern so much. For $24 I can roll up the sleeves or use it as a casual shirt.
ReplyDeleteI don't think I've bought something retail from JC in months...maybe the skimmers when they first came out a few months ago?
Re: Valerian cardi. I thought it was quite pretty IRL and loved it. For anyone looking for one, there were several in the Christian, DE store on sale a couple of days ago.
ReplyDeleteI've been in the two Denver area J.Crew stores three times in the past week and have encountered only scowl-y can't-be-bothered sales associates.
ReplyDeleteI'm not feeling like giving Crew any business right now.
Thank goodness Talbots has stepped it up.
W/V: "cater." What the J.Crew crew is not doing for me.
I am a little less fearful of final sale than many. I still return them. If the sizing is off, that isn't fair, and it's a reason to return. I bought the silk motorcycle jacket in a 4, I am almost always a 4 in numbered tops, but I am nervous about this one. $56 IS a lot to risk in the event that my local B&M won't take it back. I wanted to get a bling button cardi, but something about it...my heart just isn't into that sweater. I also picked up that cami with the big flower print from last season, in like a blush and white color. Oh, and, shamefully, I waited until about 5am for popbacks b/c I am so in love with my scalloped zipper cardi (heather) that I need/want a backup/duplicate. That is truly sad. I also finally caved on the bettina cami in the blush color, even though my BF says it looks hippie, and not in a good way.
ReplyDeleteHas anyone seen the Stripe Marche' jacket in the stores? Any reviews? I keep looking at it but would love to know more first.
ReplyDeleteGenny, thanks for sending good thoughts my way. I've only ever had one defective item and the items I bought today still had lots of sizes and colors so hopefully they will be regular stock that just hasn't sold to expectations and not returns. I already have them in other colors so know how they fit and the quality is fine for the price. I would never take the plunge on a "one and only" popback when it is final sale.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if all these final sale items will end up on the outlet site if they don't sell off pretty soon.
Like others, I am really looking for a promo on full price items. Suiting and coats in particular.
I used the coupon to buy the Taryn silk chiffon dress in Vintage Blue for my engagement photos, the Katelyn ruffle cardi in spiced chartreuese, and the ruffle shell in dark pewter. I've been wanting the Taryn dress for a while now but I didn't want to pay full price for it so I went with one of the colors in the lowest price range ($129.99). I can't wait to get it and try it on!
ReplyDeleteOk, after all the talk about Talbots I finally looked. I am actually surprised that anyone who likes JCrew would like that store. Holy moley. And the prices are just as redunculous as JCrew's full price items often are. I wasn't even tempted by the jewelry, which is a miracle. When is the last time you saw a skirt cut like this, this length?
ReplyDeletehttp://www.talbots.com/online/browse/product_details.jsp?id=prdi24234&rootCategory=cat70018&catId=cat90030&sortKey=Default§ion=Sale&conceptIdUnderSale=cat90030
Or worse yet:
http://www.talbots.com/online/browse/product_details.jsp?id=prdi24233&rootCategory=cat70018&catId=cat90030&sortKey=Default§ion=Sale&conceptIdUnderSale=cat90030
And don't even get me started on the cuts (long, shapeless) of the tops, and the COLOR PALETTE! Ann Taylor Loft is half the price and much closer to JCrew.
Amy, I have to agree on Talbots vs. J. Crew. On the good side, if everyone goes to Talbots and Ann Taylor, maybe I'll get more "Insider" coupons and have more choices for my favorite items before they all sell out. Having to use WWFI to get something I want because they're all gone online just puts me on pins and needles until it arrives.
ReplyDeleteMichelle, echo Hexicon on the wool gab - very subtle difference with a slight twill texture. It feels really soft as well.
ReplyDeleteAmy-
ReplyDeleteI agree.I don't understand the sudden draw to Talbot's. The catalog is cute and I'll admit that sucked me in but I just walked past my local talbots this morning and didn't bother to walk in because when I walked by it just screamed old lady! Perhaps my local store is just geared towards the older market- not sure. I did get a cute swim suit from Talbots this summer but everything else just isn't right for me. I did stop in at Loft and found a couple of cute items that I may go back and get with a 20% off coupon I have. :) And the last time I saw that skirt on someone was my 5th grade teacher back in the 80's!
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ReplyDeleteFYI: I just got an email saying that a 20% off promo for opening a JC credit card is going until Sept 7. I may bite, mainly for the free alterations. I have to hem everything! Question: has anyone purchased items online and taken them in to a store for free alterations? I usually order petites but sometimes even those need a nip here or there. Also, I'm assuming the free alt is for full price only, yes? Anyone use this perk?
ReplyDeleteRebecca - yes, I have ordered online (or using the in-store phone) and brought in for alterations. It is only free on items that were not on sale, but has been ok if they were bought using a promo. (I.e., when I opened my card and got 20% off a bunch of stuff, I still could get the free alterations.) Normally I don't think 20% off of regular price is a great deal, but if you figure that you'd have to pay an additional $15 for hemming elsewhere, it's not bad.
ReplyDeleteAlexis, I don't see the chat feature on the home page. Checked with Firefox and IE and it isn't there for me. Maybe they haven't got all the bugs worked out yet or perhaps it is displayed only if there is a PS available to chat.
ReplyDeleteNothing I want to talk with them about today anyway but this could be really useful at times.
all of you guys that think Talbot has a 'grandma' vibe, you must have some very cool grandmas... I know mine could never rock sparkly sequin vest, denim jacket, skinny ankle jeans and lace up platform booties or the luggage pencil leather skirt and fur collar look. On the other hand, I can picture my eccentric old aunt in the 'Eddie B Goes To Camp' get up.
ReplyDelete:)
I kind of disagree with the idea that because someone likes J. Crew they wouldn't like Talbots. While I'm a college student and find some of Talbots offerings a little too mature, there are things that I have my eye on that I could get altered and make it work. Not everyone has such monolithic Crewcentric style where they can't incorporate things into their wardrobe with creativity and maybe an alteration or two. As far as price points go, at least the quality is a lot better than J. Crew right now but according to Talbots aficionadas, it has gone down.
ReplyDeleteAlthough I'm glad J. Crew is offering a percentage off, nothing is really catching my eye right now at the Crew. Then again, I've been a lot more conservative about clothing purchases lately because I don't want to pay for shopworn and disposable items. But good luck ladies finding great items at great prices!
Elaine - *lol*
ReplyDeletexoxo - In my experience it takes awhile for the chat feature to show up. It definitely doesn't just show up when I go to the site or am on an item. It seems to be if I am sitting online with a browser open it will pop up, asking if I want to chat. I don't like that I can't minimize the chat window. I have to chat or click out of it in order to keep shopping online.
I have revised the final sale guide and included measurements for some items.
My verif word is insizess, but I am not falling for the Crewlade. Still don't want to place an order.
Also, I find it hilarious that the code is "Our treat". Oh yes J. Crew, it's a treat to purchase first cut sale merchandise that's still overpriced for the quality. It's a privilege to not be able to to return it if it doesn't fit or if the colors are off. I still love J. Crew's aesthetic but they must be crazy if they think I have the money to spend on disposable wares. They're definitely courting a new type of customer and my pockets aren't deep enough or wasteful enough for the mindless spending.
ReplyDeletenomoneyfun,
ReplyDeleteVery nicely said; enjoyed reading your post. Agree with your comments. I think you can love JCrew and Talbots at the same time.
gigiofca, thanks for the online chat tip. If I need to use it I'll just linger and see if pops up. Too bad it takes over your sesion though, I would definitely want to continue shopping while chatting. Maybe open a second session or one in another browser?
ReplyDeletenomoneyfun, I was wondering when the promo codes be something other than EXTRA20, EXTRA30. It was only a matter of time. Winks to those who know what I'm talking about.
Rebecca, on free alterations, just be aware that they have now limited this to basic hemming. Previously, it covered everything including hemming sleeve length of coats and blazers.
ReplyDelete20% off FS time again, time to pull out my calculator. Seriously, this is the only online retailer which requires me to do several computations and permutations to qualify for free shipping. $150 minimum? OK I have to look for $187.50 worth of items that I love so much that I'm willing to risk being stuck with them. Considering they temporarily pull out the bestselling sizes & colors during these promos, that's a lot of money to gamble.
Michelle, I'm a 10 or 12 in tops and I bought the Marseille cami at the B&M for $20 over the summer. It really is a smidge too big on me, but I make do. I'd say it's a little on the big side. HTH.
ReplyDeleteAnyone pick up a double serge pencil skirt? I'm thinking about maybe the natural or the nordic blue. Any advice for length? The regular will be a little too long...should I have it tailored or try a petite? TIA!
ReplyDeleteOT: I have a Talbot's sale code:
ReplyDelete20% off
$5 shipping
for September.
If you're interested, let me know. I'll forward to the first person who responds. Thanks!
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ReplyDeleteTalbot's code has been claimed.
ReplyDeleteCan't recall whether anyone's discussed this in the reviews thread lately, but I love my Coralie cami so much I'm surprised to see it further reduced with so many sizes left in stock. For $39.99 less the 20%, I highly recommend pulling the trigger if it's something you've been considering. Why they make it look all wrinkled and frumpy on the model I can't say, but it is not like that at all in person. It is fully and opaquely lined and very flattering and even has those tiny snaps inside the straps to hold your bra (I love that they seem to be doing this consistently now!) I have the wild mushroom color which is absolutely gorgeous in person. Everytime I wear it I feel so pretty and girly :)
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone have the silk cord cami? It looks really cute, but it could turn out to be a mess. Just curious.
ReplyDeleteI also hate final sales and only bought what I have already tried on in-store: 3 bettina camis (love these!), 3 victoria ruffle tissue camis (so happy they popped back in my size this morning even though I didn't get to checking the website until 7 am :) ) and the lace panel tee, which is really pretty in the grey.
ReplyDeleteAlso got the marled jersey scarf (30521), which is a steal at $19.99 less 20%. I LOVE jersey scarfs -- so soft and smush-able, and they look good however they hang.
Anyone seen the bib necklaces IRL? There are a few on sale (NOT final sale) that will also get the 20% off, but even at the sale prices of $90 and $100, they aren't inexpensive, and I so do not need anymore necklaces... Still, that rose/blush color is awfully pretty... Would love anyone's opinion!
No final sale for me (even with the discount).
ReplyDeleteI toodled over to the B&M at (late) lunchtime and they had the Pilar paisley perfect shirt marked down to $29.99 (it's $39.99 + extra 20% off online). I bought it 'cause I tried it on and liked it more than I expected to. It looks super cute with jeans! A lot of women in the store were buying it. I guess $30 was easier to swallow than $74.
ReplyDeleteAlso got a pair of denim cut-off shorts, as the ones I bought at Madewell earlier this summer pretty much fall down on me after about a day of wear (booo). This pair seems to be just a teeny bit higher in the waist, so maybe all my business won't hang out when I wear them, lol.
Store was not offering extra 20% off and SA did not say it was final sale, hmmm.
Also of note: the stores are offering 20% off your first purchase if you sign up to be a JC cardmember (up from the usual 10%).
I haven't ordered anything in months and I was thinking I would really like one of the pencil skirts. By the time I applied the offer and calculated the shipping it's almost as if they off set each other. I know gripes about shipping charges are nothing new but why not just offer free shipping and not worry about which color gets with percentage off.
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone have any feedback on the luxe knit un-sweatpant?
ReplyDeleteI am wondering about size...I think medium would work but this is final sale we're talking about so a ridiculous amount of forethought is required!
I wear a size 29 in the matchstick jeans/cords this season and usually a 6 in chinos; or an 8 in the minnies. I have the toothpick twill denim pants in a 30 and they fit great.
Would a medium work for me? Thanks in advance!!
patsystone, do NOT buy the Mediums. they will be too big for you. i bought them in a Med for myself (i am generall an 8-10 on the bottom) and they're about an inch too big on me all around. it's not awful, but based on your sizing in other JC items, it sounds like you would definitely need a Small.
ReplyDeletethat said, i cannot WAIT to wear them this fall. they are so silky and soft and drapey! the fabric is lovely.
now, how they're going to hold up to wearing and washing, i don't know...
i'm pretty sure i tried on the coordinating zip hoodie in store several months ago and decided against it because it had a really boxy fit. i think i even went down to an xs and it felt big, so thus far i have resisted having the 'complete' outfit. hee hee.
Elaine,
ReplyDeleteThe Pilar shirt is definitely more attractive to me at $30!! Do you mind posting or emailing me the store you visited? I'm going to buy it tomorrow and in case my store still thinks it is $49.99, they can verify the price at your store :)
mommydearestjca at yahoo
Also, anyone notice whether the Pilar cami is down to $30 also? That would make my decision harder!
Thanks!
Bien sur, my mistake, I forgot to say -- it was the Durham, NC store at a mall called Streets at Southpoint. There were several left as of earlier this afternoon. I may have gotten the only 6, but there were 2s, 4s, 10s and 12s that I saw. Possibly others, I flipped through them quickly.
ReplyDeleteIMO, it runs true to size.
The Pilar paisley cami was still $49.99 in store IIRC, but you could ask. HTHs!
Elaine, thanks for the info! I actually did find a blog post or two of JCA's who'd tried them on and it did seem like a small would be a better choice.
ReplyDeleteI'm excited to hear that you like them! I have a girls weekend away on the Russian River coming up...lots of lounging and drinking in our swimsuits and I feel like those sweats would make perfect weekend loungewear.
I’m at a loss to understand the recent spate of nasty comments directed towards Talbots/Ann Taylor/Loft/Lands End/et. al. on here. Some posters are going out of their way to belittle these companies’ clothes, and by extent, anyone who shops there. It comes across as bullying in my opinion. There are two brands of shoes that get mentioned fairly commonly on here, to rave reviews - I’ve looked at the sites for these brands of shoes, and never could I imagine myself purchasing any of them because they don’t appeal to me. But I’ve never felt like coming on here and disparaging those brands.
ReplyDeleteNot interested in this promo - and I agree, it is absurd to call it "our treat" - more like "our plea," as in plea to move all the stuff that didn't sell during the summer. Instead I stopped by the Collection store in my area today, to return the vintage bateau shirt (why on earth was this shirt cut so tightly in the arms and so loosely in the torso? So wanted it to work out, but I couldn’t stand how the small billowed around my stomach nor how the xsmall cut off the circulation to my arms). I consoled myself with a very pretty emerald scarf that will look smashing with all my purples and pinks and greys.
This is OT, sorry, but I'm thinking about ordering some of the new Fall items from Anthropology, and I've not ordered anything from them in ages. Does anyone have any insights to when they have sales, free shipping, etc.? TIA!
ReplyDeleteLa Belle Helene--I understand your frustration as I feel there are many attackers of J. Crew on this blog and sometimes find it offensive. This will be telling of my age but I was taught if you have nothing nice to say don't say anything at all. I TRY to temper what I say here although an occasional whine comes out. In political and professional arenaa I certainly do not follow those guidelines though...
ReplyDeleteDavid-if you have an Anthro card with Anthropologie they are currently ordering free shipping on all orders. I can't remember if it ends at the beginning or end of September. But sign up for an Anthro card and you'll be good!
ReplyDeleteLa Belle Helene: Thanks SOOOO much for your comment about how nasty people have been about companies such as Ann Taylor/Talbots; you're absolutely right.
ReplyDeleteDavid: you can get free shipping at Anthropologie.com through Labor Day if you become an Anthro member.
I have a random question. . .how do you guys tell how many of a particular item are left in stock? I've noticed several comments such as "there's only one left in stock" or "I can see that they have a fair amount of stock left." How are you finding this information out? TIA!
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ReplyDeleteLizzy T, I know your Talbot's code has been claimed. Would you mind indicating how you got it? I'm wondering if it's random on the catalogue like J. Crew, or if there is a possibility I could get one.
ReplyDeleteDesert Flower -
ReplyDeleteThe code was from their recent catalog. I believe it's an on-going promo not for limited release like the J Crew ones. The catalog featured jeans on the cover. HTH!
Thanks Elizabeth! Very helpful!
ReplyDeleteI was chomping at the bit to buy the sequin drizzle tank, and I finally bought it today, as soon as I saw it was 20% off. It's a lovely top, but certainly not worth $148 when you consider it's only sequined in the front. I also bought the tissue sequin spotted tank, which is sequined on the front and back. I would have bought it earlier, however, my store only had one small which was on the mannequin and looked badly abused. I picked up the paisley pilar cami and a ruffled cardigan, too. I've never bought a ruffled item in my entire life, so, I hope it works out because I think it was final sale! I've never had an issue with items arriving from the website in less than perfect condition. I'll have to start paying more attention to that.
ReplyDeleteWith regards to talbots, I agree that the store seems geared to an older demographic. I wouldn't be caught dead in a lot of their pieces, like those tea length skirts previously posted. However, they do have some cool things, like the sequined shell, and the paisley scarf top. Talbots reminds me of eileen fisher because they do have some cool pieces that I'd wear. I've purchased a few belts and a sweater from them, and I'm very happy with these pieces and have worn them often. My only complaint is that EF is so expensive, and their idea of a sale is 15% off their already insane prices! Even though EF uses grey haired models, clearly marketed towards a much older demographic than myself, I'll keep shopping there. I'll just keep my shopping online as opposed to in store. The one time I went in store there was an older woman (60s, 70s?) complaining that all the tops in EF were too low cut! It definitely made me feel out of place, but I do love some of their pieces. In case you haven't noticed, they're using one of jcrew's models, too. In fact, I even saw the jcrew model wearing jcrew's metropolitan booties in one of their catalogue pictures! She's the same model who's modeling for Ann Taylor now, too.
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ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeletePlease think before posting any tips that may potentially be used against JCA's. Remember, Big Brother is watching. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteI don't see to where anyone has been downright 'nasty' about any retailers here, but maybe there's something I'm missing? It's perfectly ok to me to articulate an opinion on why you do or don't shop somewhere. If you think Talbots style is mumsy, well, why is it not ok to say as much? The same person may also appreciate the material or construction or even the service at that store and just not be digging the vibe.
ReplyDeleteGoodness knows people bag on J Crew out the yingyang here all the time. ... and although I happen to largely disagree with most of those people, it doesn't mean I don't think they should be able to say what they wish. I just figure to each her own and sort of skip on to the next post and that's that.
But again, maybe there's something I'm missing.
FWIW, I didn't feel like I was ranking on AT (or anyone who shops there) by saying I feel like something's always a little off when I look at the pieces that closely recall many of J Crew's. It's because I *am* making that comparison, whereas the general public is not.
When I said the fabric choices are usually what keep me from buying at ATL, that also wasn't meant to be a dig, it's just a statement of fact for me because I don't care for synthetics -- it's just too hot here to wear them.
I dunno.
Wow, this and the JC/Talbots posts were very interesting.
ReplyDeleteIts interesting to learn how one retailer works for some and not others, and all of the observations and comments were interesting.
I no longer feel (embarassed!) that I just simply cannot wear those JC short minis...I have small children what would the other Mom's think...those skirts barely cover anything!! It makes me sad that I've passed that point, but its nice to find out I am not alone!!
Thank you Alexis and ladies for a great discussion...hope to continue on with the next few roll outs !!
Would CCS or Elizabeth mind emailing me? ajswirsky AT sbcglobal DOT net. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI've been guilty of JC bashing. But I feel as someone who has spent so much $ (for me) there over the past few years, I can grouse and vent when I get wrong items, defective items, quality control issues, etc. I also post positive reviews and comments, too. I am officially obsessed, with all that brings with it: happiness, disappointment, whatever.
ReplyDeleteI personally find (what I think to be) honest negative opinions about Talbots and other retailers recently expressed here refreshing. There are a few posters who routinely bash JC and tout Talbots, LE, LE Canvas, LLBean Signature. So there's something for everyone.
What I like best here, I have to say, are the laughs. I hope that doesn't stop anytime soon!
I did buy something FS today, a pair of cords. Yes, I succumbed. Will add them to the tottering pile in my closet ;)
I'm sorry, no disrespect to anyone as an individual, but if you don't see how the digs at Ann Taylor and Talbots come off as denigrating, you might be missing the point. There is no problem in expressing your opinion about a brand not being for you but when you declare it an old lady brand, and exclaim you don't see how a real J. Crew fan could like Brand X or Brand Y you're implying that anyone who does like the brand and can find pieces that work are "unfashionable" and "old" and those implications have negative connotations. I've expressed that I find some of the pieces at Talbots too mature but can still make things work. Perhaps others have creative vision to the point where they can shop at a variety of places that you just don't see working for you. Remember that it's not what you say, it's how you say it
ReplyDeleteAlso, as far as fabric choices go, while a lot of retailers have seriously downgraded the quality of their merchandise, you can't call out ATL's merchandise as being full of synthetics when nylon seems to be the most popular fabric at J. Crew this season. People may diss J. Crew here (and let's face it, sometimes the Crew is in the wrong) but we all love the brand. There is a world of difference between criticizing specific aspects or even merchandise from J. Crew on a site where we're fans and dismissing an entire brand as "unhip" and implying anyone who does like the brand is unhip by association. I don't mean to be preachy and dictate unnecessarily on a forum that I don't moderate but I want to clear up a source of conflict on this board that I feel inhibits discussion. While I don't think anyone has any bad intentions, it does help to think about where people are coming from with their opinion and how you express your individual opinion can come off in a way you didn't intend it to come off.
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ReplyDeleteI don't know if anyone else has been trying to get the MacAlister Wedge boots but I loved mind so much I wanted a second color. They were showing as backordered until December at the time (now no longer showing at all) and I thought I would take a chance with "We Will Find It". It looks like it worked. I think Luxe stores in warmer climates that get more stock might be candidates, so this is just a suggestion. When I think I could have waited two or three months while they were sitting in some store, I have to laugh. They are really cute and comfortable.
ReplyDeleteCCS and rynetta-Thanks for the Anthropologie FS advice
ReplyDeleteWell, wow.
ReplyDeleteI'm really just surprised at how bent out of shape people are getting over this discussion. Which is what I thought it was -- a discussion -- but I guess I must be wrong about that too.
For the record, I simply don't buy synthetic fabrics -- or any clothing made of mostly synthetic fabric -- from any brand, not just the ones in this topic. It's a personal preference, and on top of that, it's so hot here 3/4 of the year that I just need fabrics that breathe. If it's not silk, wool, cotton, linen or some combination thereof, I won't buy it, because I won't wear it.
I'm not sure what that makes me, but before today I didn't think it made me anything at all! Hmmm.
But ... wow, ok. Very sorry if anyone took offense at anything I said...? I personally can't see how anything I said was offensive to anyone in any way.
In keeping with my feelings about the Internet in general, I very much feel to each her own -- if you feel that way, then you feel that way, and all I can say is that was not my intent.
Good evening, ladies, and have a nice weekend.
David-
ReplyDeleteSales are usually every Tuesday. Some are bigger than others. Some are just home goods. The past two Tuesdays were great! The sale posts at 3AM on the east coast and midnight on the west coast. On Monday evenings, check out these two blogs: Anthroholic and Effortless Anthropologie. These two ladies do a great job putting together lists of potential sale items. Anthroholic actually goes to her local store and provides a list of items she sees already marked down for Tuesday's sale. I love Mondays and am guilty of staying up late to make sure I get my coveted item.
Also, it takes a little time for the new sale items to post in the sale section, so if there is an item you are looking for specifically, just search for it or look for it under the appropriate category and if it is on sale, it will show the sale price.
Good luck and have fun shopping!
Has anyone tried the Olivia shift dress? It looks like it could be cute and fun.
ReplyDeleteWith all the buzz around Talbot's I had to go check it out online. I actually bought a Jackie-like twinset there a couple of years ago and it is much softer than the J.Crew Jackies. Talbot's seems to have a higher cotton content and it has full-length sleeves, which I like much better for winter. The Talbot's shell fits a little longer than the J.Crew version, which is good for those of us on the tall side.
ReplyDeleteI'm considering purchasing another one of the Talbot's twinsets as I like the cool-toned colors available that I don't see at J.Crew. I also like the Talbot's ribbed cardigan and may get one of those for weekend wear, see how it works out. It appears to be cut like the J.Crew perfect-fit cardis and I love those. Talbot's Loganberry is similar to a royal purple color that J.Crew had a couple seasons ago and I totally love. No harm in trying them out.
I've been to Talbots twice in the last week or so and still found several pieces that I would like to have. I posted them on my blog. If that screams old lady, then that's what I am! LOL
ReplyDeleteTrue confessions: I just bought a bunch of stuff, only one of them being a sale item! I LOVE the skinny riding pant in forest and I also bought the Mongolian stole...the only sale item was a silk cami, which I can always use. So much of their fall stock is out that I thought I better go for it now. Does anyone else think the stole is cool or am I the only one? I'm not really sure how I'll wear it, so if anyone has suggestions, I am open!
ReplyDeleteit's all subjective--let's not get our panties in a twist!!
ReplyDeleteseems some of those unhappy with jc don't realize they have been guilty of bashing as much as those who are now bashing Talbots and AT. It all depends on so many things; everyone wants clothing we think looks nice and performs for our lifestyle, shape and profession. different strokes for different folks. maybe we can all keep our criticism to constructive.
yes, I am old and too tired right now to punctuate or construct a sentence.
I'm sorry, my rant against Talbot's was sassy, when I take my Ambien for sleepy time I get all unhinged. There are a few possible do-able pieces, I guess I was hoping things had changed from my last impression of them, and it does not seem like they did, especially in terms of fit/cut. I am not saying you all look like old ladies from shopping there, lol, I am sure most on this blog have good taste and choose appropriately. Nomoneyfun, believe me, I understand what you are saying. I am in serious debt and probably shouldn't be buying any clothing. In fact, for a long time (years), I really didn't because of my money situation. But then one day I realized that my mood/self-esteem is actually quite impacted by my outfit (a fact that drives me crazy, as a feminist, to admit), and that I could not live life never buying anything. So the debt marches on. Student loans, negative equity, credit cards, etc. So many of my purchases are not J Crew, but things I like anyway (often Gap and ATL). And ALL of the J Crew I buy is sale, almost without exception. So girls, carry on, you are all fashionistas, regardless of where else you choose to integrate clothes from. (Oh my god, Target vernacular has infiltrated my consciousness.)
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry, my rant against Talbot's was sassy, when I take my Ambien for sleepy time I get all unhinged. There are a few possible do-able pieces, I guess I was hoping things had changed from my last impression of them, and it does not seem like they did, especially in terms of fit/cut. I am not saying you all look like old ladies from shopping there, lol, I am sure most on this blog have good taste and choose appropriately. Nomoneyfun, believe me, I understand what you are saying. I am in serious debt and probably shouldn't be buying any clothing. In fact, for a long time (years), I really didn't because of my money situation. But then one day I realized that my mood/self-esteem is actually quite impacted by my outfit (a fact that drives me crazy, as a feminist, to admit), and that I could not live life never buying anything. So the debt marches on. Student loans, negative equity, credit cards, etc. So many of my purchases are not J Crew, but things I like anyway (often Gap and ATL). And ALL of the J Crew I buy is sale, almost without exception. So girls, carry on, you are all fashionistas, regardless of where else you choose to integrate clothes from. (Oh my god, Target vernacular has infiltrated my consciousness.)
ReplyDeleteHave been reading these comments with great interest! I buy lots of different brands - JC, Banana Republic, Theory, Ralph Lauren, and yes, some Talbots. I have bought many nice things for fall, but the nicest by far is Talbot's leather skirt in luggage. It is to die for! The fit is flattering, the colour is exactly as you see online (not always the case with JC!) and the fit is completely consistent with my JC pencil skirt. I have experienced the extra boxiness at times from Talbots and you do have to be careful, but I have experienced similar boxiness in JC on some items. WHat I like is that there are more choices out there and frankly, at 47, there are just some JC that I cannot rock any more - sigh! :-)
ReplyDeleteAmerican Observer I give you all the credit in the world for being bold enough to get the Mongolian stole. I'm not sure exactly how you would wear it other than boldly on top of your cashmere cardigan or outside your coat.
ReplyDeleteI have bought several sale items but keep questioning whether I shouldn't focus on fall. I'm going to make the drive to a larger B&M so I can have a better selection and perhaps see some of the new items I'm curious about.
It feels like Talbots killed the JCA blog. I come to the blog dedicated to J. Crew because it's fun, it's fashion and I shop mostly at J. Crew. I don't have any angst. If people want to shop at Talbots or Ann Taylor or whatever, they should. I don't have much to say about it since I rarely if ever shop there.
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ReplyDeleteWFF-you are too funny, as well as being right on the money. Shopping for my to-die-for fall outfits, has sadly turned in to something alot like trying to memorize ipsilateral synergist muscles. The heart pounding excitement I felt in the past when I tore open my JC box and beheld my bright blue Fleur suede peep toes and ivory Bella wool coat for the first time is no more. Now, a package comes from JC, sits on my dining room table a few days and eventually I get around to opening it. These days I send back over half of what I buy, whereas in the Bella era, I tried it on, jumped for joy and rushed to the website to see what other colors I could order it in. I guess I'm just going to have to sit back in my big girl panties and pray for Mick and Jen to turn it around. Now if I could only get in touch with Talbots designer guy and let him know that in general, women are not shaped like ironing boards.
ReplyDeleteNomoneyfun wrote: "but when you declare it an old lady brand, and exclaim you don't see how a real J. Crew fan could like Brand X or Brand Y you're implying that anyone who does like the brand and can find pieces that work are "unfashionable" and "old" and those implications have negative connotations."
ReplyDeleteLet's be perfectly honest here. Certain brands/stores are targeted towards certain demographics. At 27, I don't shop at Hollister, Abercrombie & Fitch, or American Eagle because they're targeted towards a younger audience. Similarly, I don't shop at Brooks Brothers because it's got a country club vibe to it and the one time I shopped there I was made to feel very unwelcomed by the staff. Eileen Fisher, while I do love some of their stuff, would definitely fall into an "old lady store" category for me. There are more polite ways to convey this idea, but why tip toe around it?
I don't really know what it means to be a "jcrew fan" because although I almost exclusively shop there, I don't consider myself preppy at all, and there are a lot of pieces at jcrew that I wouldn't be caught dead in! It's a leap of logic to say that if someone says 'Talbots and Brooks Brothers are old lady stores. If you like J.Crew, you can't like Talbots, or Brooks Brothers' means that the speaker is implying that Talbots/Brooks Brothers are unfashionable. The logic failure is that you are assuming that the speaker thinks J.Crew is the pinnacle of fashion and is using J.Crew as a fashion rubric. The statement only provides enough information to indicate the speaker thinks J.Crew and Talbots/Brooks Brothers are radically different, and different has not been assigned a value. I think you're being overly sensitive, perhaps because the speaker hit a sore spot.
There is just no way around the fact that certain brands are geared towards certain demographics!
OK, my wishes:
ReplyDeleteThat manufacturers -- not just apparel btw -- wouldn't have to call their struggles to stay afloat in a stagnant economy "creative new vision”.
That fit models would eat better.
That cutters wouldn't shrink the marker,
That offshore quality control would depend less on good will and more on integrity.
That jobs, and agriculture, and soldiers would come home.
That shopping would be fun again instead of dreary research.
But -- it is what it is. So let's put our big girl panties on, whether with sequins, plaid, or cosabella, cotton or nylon, and be glad we have choices, and be glad that at least catalog models and web site designers are finding work. And I have two words for those who think Talbots is scary: Tory Burch.
Tory Burch could buy an island or two and retire from the Reva flat alone. I don't find Tory particularly scary at all.
ReplyDeleteThank you very much Andrea for the heads up on sales at Anthropologie.
ReplyDeleteActually, I think a (polite) discussion of the Tory Burch customer vs. the JC customer could be pretty interesting. JMO, and no offense to anyone, I associate TB with a certain set of women I know who enjoy the JC aesthetic but (IMO) think they're a notch above J.Crew. I completely understand why someone would consistently shop a particular brand in order to get a particular look and quality (that's why I shop JC) but I don't understand why someone would pay 50% more for a pair of ballet flats just because they have a little doo-hickey on the toe. Obviously TB understands this phenonmenon and is laughing all the way to the bank.
ReplyDeleteI fell for J.Crew because the overall look was one of confidence, and while quality of fabrics and integrity of workmanship certainly are important elements of confidence in one's clothes, confidence in oneself is best displayed (imo) by the absence of logos and labels. In lovely tailored wool slacks, black tee and the great JC jacket of your choice, I don't need to be studded with logos or gizmos. In this connection, a few years ago Gucci took a lot of its products off the market because the company felt its brand was being devalued by logo-hunters.
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone own the denim utility shirt jacket (in Railroad wash) that is currently on sale for $49.99 (item # 28333)? I would appreciate any feedback on construction/sizing/fit/styling.
ReplyDeleteAlso considering the linen and silk cargoes....if anyone owns these...how do you style them? I have tried them on so I know the sizing, but not sure what to wear with them!
So I'm torn between two coats the trench in camel http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/outerwear/wool/PRDOVR~28231/28231.jsp and the peacoat in heather gray http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/outerwear/wool/PRDOVR~29060/29060.jsp which ones do you guys think would sell out in sizes 4-6 or the opposite make it to mark down?
ReplyDeleteThanks!
owlsandpie: I love the trench coat! I think the other one - the peacoat will definitely make it to markdown. Not the trench. :)
ReplyDeleteI have been eyeing the Canterbury Bells Carolina shift dress for a while. What do you guys think? Any opinions will be appreciated.
Irene: I tried this dress in the washed clay and loved the fabric, but the color didn't suit my complexion, totally washed me out. I didn't care for the pearl color. I also found that it added volume to my hips :), in the profound rather than wide sense.
ReplyDeleteStill, on the right person, it's a very attractive dress. Oh, and it fit TTS.
Totally agree about logos. A few years back in frustration I thought about marketing a "brand aid" something you could apply over the top of logos to hide them like a band aid covers a wound. One of the things I like about JC.
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ReplyDeleteCleo, do you always avoid clothes that you think are not flattering to your complexion? I thought that was becoming one of the "old rules" that don't have to be adhered to. I hope so, because most of my favorite colors wash me out (I'm pale and love the Crew's peaches, pale pinks, etc.). I made myself look at it differently after many fashion icons and models were not avoiding color based on complexion or haircolor, etc. I am pale. But I like colors that don't necessarily enhance what little "tan" I might have. So what. I will buy what I like and embrace my paleness, because loud jewel-toned colors have just never worked for me. I was wondering how others think of this. Many of the JCrew models are butt-white, and they put them in the pale clothes, but I like that look!
ReplyDeletegem twin, I love your idea of a 'brand aid'! Ingenious.
ReplyDeleteAmy, no, not necessarily. It didn't wash me out, and it wasn't a matter of not being jewel-toned or bold. Simply put: the color didn't do much for me, neither enhance or highlight. My rule: I wear what i believes flatters me.
ReplyDeleteDe gustibus et coloribus non est disputandum. Suum cuique.
Hexicon, I felt the same way about the Revas. It's definitely a brand thing because they are not spectacular in any way and I think the large, blingy logo looks gauche. Personally, I have only one pair of ballet flats that I bought on vacation thinking they would be comfortable as slippers but I've never worn them. Ballet flats are the ugliest shoes around IMO and I read somewhere a few months ago that men hate the look of ballet flats. My husband agreed. No surprise there and not that women should dress for men, although I definitely dress for my husband 99% of the time.
ReplyDeleteowlsandpie, I agree with Irene. If either coat will sell out it would be the Icon. The other is probably not as good a bet long-term either IMO, I suspect the knit collar would pill and it looks very different between the colors. Quality control?
Amy, I'm a fair skinned blonde and I have to be careful with the jewel colors. That Matisse Blue cashmere sweater is so strong on me that it's like a walking sweater. The heathered colors are really good.
ReplyDeleteI loved the model in the lookbook. Finally J. Crew had a fair skinned blonde instead of all the beautifully tanned models that motivated me to buy colors I later found I couldn't wear.
Hi Elizabeth -- I loved the stripe marché jacket and ordered it. Unfortunately, I had to send it back because it was just too long for me. I'm 5'3" 1/2 and ordered a 4. The fabric is really nice, and it hangs well. The shoulders and chest fit true to size, but the waist/hip area is cut wide. It just wore me, instead of me wearing it. I think it would look great on someone over 5'6 or 5'7.
ReplyDeleteThe fabric was very nice, and it seemed well made.
Fidele thank you. I would so love to see it first but I may break and order it. I won't pay shipping so if I don't order today, I'll wait for a ship code. That and the Catena flats are haunting me now. That's a shoe that should come in in rich dark royal blue plus a couple of other colors.
ReplyDeleteIncidentally, it appears "Chat Now" doesn't work on Sundays. From what you said I wondered if ordering a size down would be good. I tried to get Chat to tell me the bust measurements but it gave me a form for them to contact me later.
Fidele, one other question since you've seen it, would you think the Crosstown Peeptoe in Mossy Oak would go well with it for contrast?
ReplyDeleteThank irene and xoxo for your advice on the coats. I'm trying to pay closer attention to when items go on sale and when/if they go on markdown instead of buying blindly!
ReplyDeleteHi Elizabeth -- I think the mossy peeptoe would work well. It's very black and dark grey looking.
ReplyDeleteThe size issue is about relatively how much bust/chest/shoulders you have for your size. I'm kind of a B+ or C, with some muscle in the chest, back and shoulder area, so 2s usually strain a bit if I take a deep breath, if they're cut close. If it's cut broadly in the chest, a 2 works fine for me. So, yes, size down if you're smaller in the chest.
xoxo: You are right! It seems to have disappeared. So weird.
ReplyDelete