Tuesday, February 22, 2011

J.Crew Reviews {straight from the JCAs!}

This is the weekly "J.Crew Reviews {straight from the JCAs}" post, to help each other share our reviews.

So if you have recently purchased, or stopped by a J.Crew store to try on an item (or two) from J.Crew, maybe you might be willing to share that information with us in this post.

Also, this request is not just limited to clothes. Please feel free to discuss bags, shoes, jewelry, accessories, etc.

In particular, if you could mention a few of the noteworthy details like fit, size, fabric, and the like— that would be fantastic! Thanks in advance! :)

72 comments:

  1. Silk Blythe blouse (item# 37871) pics on my blog :)

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  2. A 3 parter on my blog. Parts 1 & 2 are JC and Part 3 on Madewell.

    www.onetoomanyclosets.blogspot.com

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  3. has anyone tried on or own the ankle length toothpick jeans in white denim??? I was wondering how the fit is/sizing/are they flattering. Thanks so much! Also any tips of how swimwear sizing is! My measurements put me in either an XS or a S - and trying to decide which. Thanks!

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  4. has somebody seen the venus flytrap crystal neclace IRL?comments?

    i also would like to know how the color "hawthorne green" looks IRL?
    is it olive? i am thinking of buying the jackie in that color.
    TIA

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  6. ina, I have the flytrap venus necklace and I find it very versatile. If you have the crystal colletto from last year it could be a little redondant but I like that the hardware is gold-toned and almost invisible so you can wear it with everything. It is very bling-y though and kind of festive. Personally going towards the spring-summer I prefer to wear more natural-looking jewelry (so I would wait for it to go on sale). I wore it around the holidays if you search my blog. HTH!

    MsHark, I don't have the toothpick but I find that in general overdyed and white denim runs small (I have the white matchstick and bought a size up). I would go a size up. The swimwear runs definitively small. I am a 0 in top and pants and a S or a 4 in swimwear. HTH!

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  7. MsHark-

    I have the toothpick white denim from last year and I find that all J.Crew denim runs a bit small. I wear a 0 in almost all J.Crew bottoms and I got these in a 26 I think. I have the dark pair in a 27 for some reason, and they are not huge, but a smidge big. I usually wear a 26 in jeans elsewhere but sometimes a 25.

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  8. I just wrote a pretty long and detailed review on the Rainy Day Military jacket if anyone is interested:
    http://rufflesandsequins.blogspot.com/p/j-crew-reviews.html


    Tasia
    rufflesandsequins.blogspot.com

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  9. I got the maureen cashmere sweater in navy, M, and it was meh. I fantasized about the shirred shoulders and the different knit on the arms, but in real life it was boring. The arm knit is very loose, so you can't wear a long sleeved shirt underneath b/c you can see straight through it. And the body is so big and baggy, it was a pass for me. I returned it as soon as I got it.

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  10. OK, not actually a J.Crew review but kind of related so I will add it here anyway. I had a stylist do some digging for me and they contacted J.Crew to confirm that this is Marissa's jacket from the "Meet Marissa" email. Apparently she had the sleeves shortened, which I don't understand, but maybe she likes bracelet-length sleeves. The J.Crew rep said that there were quite a few inquiries about the jacket so maybe they will make a similar version for F/W.

    Anyway, I bought the jacket while I was on my European trip last week and wore it quite a bit, it is really lovely. Just wanted to pass on the info since there was a bit of speculation around it last week.

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  11. Here is the link the JCA post Alexis made for the Meet Marissa email, in case anyone is interested.

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  12. Has anyone tried the Dotted Tulle Fineline Cami? I'm interested in the sizing (I am usually a 0 but sometimes size down to 00) and how sheer it is. Thanks!

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  13. I went to the B&M hoping to scope out the Lula spiked ballet flats
    in person. I fell in love with them when I first saw them online, then looked closely and realized that they're canvas - canvas for $138! - and that they looked pretty cheap close-up. I was hoping they'd redeem themselves in person...but they didn't. If anything they were worse. The studs ARE awesome but the overall shoe just looks cheap, the brown sole looks like something you'd find at Payless. I couldn't even bring myself to try them on :( Considering their other leather flats were the same price or cheaper it was a major disappointment.

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  14. OT: The skirt from this JCA post last Friday is supposed to be online this coming Thursday for $75. The colors offered will be Toffee, Alabaster, Modern Red, and Dragonfly Blue.

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  15. xoxo: Beautiful jacket! Congrats on getting it! :) I read an interview with Marissa last month where she mentioned having her jacket sleeves shortened to bracelet length because she likes that proportion on her. Here is the complete interview.

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  16. ETA: Just back from J.Crew and came home with some brand new arrivals -- some adorable things you guys! They were just starting to put them out, but my PS grabbed a few things for me that she knew I'd love, like a cotton gingham jacket, and white eyelet sheath. Didn't see the new skirt that's been discussed (she checked the back too.) Also, she said she just got off a conference call for personal shoppers and they told them they're really looking back about 3-4 years and bringing back some classic Crew!! Yahooo!!! Will post pics of new pieces asap on my blog.

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  17. Fabulous Florida Mommy, thanks for the link to the Marissa interview. I remember the post now but didn't remember her comment about the jacket sleeves. There are lovely functional gold buttons on the sleeves and I would not want to lose that feature. I might roll them up for a different look but I would never shorten them. I guess that's why I'm not in fashion design as I am loathe to take even minor risks. LOL

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  18. Quick reviews of two shirts I recently ordered. Both fit TTS. First the good, then the bad!

    Harbor Paisley silk tunic (34745), size L. This comes in only one color, "melon spice". Advertised as a beach cover-up, but no way would I ever take this delicate silk to the beach and pull it on over a wet bathing suit. Detailed paisley pattern, muted colors and luxe material add up to a truly elegant effect especially with jeans, even with the drawstring neck which I'm not usually keen on. Perfect Bohemian casual chic for summer; a keeper.

    Delaney eyelet shirt (38507) in "spiced olive", size 12. I prefer the simple banded collar over the usual pointed ones, and liked the idea of eyelet embroidery away from the face. But it turns out this shirt is cut straight with zero waist shaping, the cotton fabric feels cheap not crisp, and threads stick out from the seams and embroidery. Not flattering at all. Returned.

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  19. Ina:
    I saw the hawthorn green this weekend and would say that it's more olive than the dried parsley from a few months ago.

    **
    Also, I received my factory medallion dress (sold out online) a few days ago and love it! The color scheme and weight will be fabulous for spring/summer. To wear it now, I'll be pairing it with my foxtail orchid cardigan, tights and tall boots. I'm 5'7" and find the length to be just above the knee.

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  20. Just received the dulcie mini. The colors are beautiful and the length is great. I would say that the skirt is much more shinny that it appears on the website. It is 52% metallic thread and 48% silk. It runs TTS if a bit on the larger side. Since it is a novelty skirt and quite shinny, i would i have to have the occasion to wear it and could not dress it down for work.

    I will have to try it on with a few combinations to decide if it's a keeper.

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  21. shopwithm: Did the store you visited have the new March catalog out yet?

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  22. The no. 2 pencil skirt in the yellow color is much more of a lime yellow in person than it looks online for anyone considering it.

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  23. Caitlin,

    I'd say the dotted tulle fineline cami is TTS. I have to size down to a 00 sometimes too, but this one definitely has a more tailored fit than their other blouses. If you've tried the retro shell, I would say they fit similarly. With a nude bra under you can see through just a tiny bit. Some might prefer a cami underneath but I don't think it's absolutely necessary. Also, it was $49.99 in my store (Tysons in McLean, VA) as opposed to $59.99 like online. HTH!

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  24. Cleo -- Gah, was worried the Dulci would be super shiny, and I won't be able to dress it down enough. Sadness. Mine is due to arrive today, so we'll see, but it sounds like it's a return for me. I guess now I don't feel too bad about the pieces I picked up today. :)

    shopalot -- I didn't see the March catalog out and forgot to ask if they had them, rats!

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  25. What do peeps think is the chance that we'll see a % sale off soon?

    I tried on the Trouper pants again in my B&M today and as with the last effort, the 10 is about 2 inches too big in the waist...which stinks because I really like them! It might be comical once I try the 8's on, because the bottom part of the legs are super-tight. We shall see...but I'd rather have them at 30% off, lol.

    I went into the store today to try on the red striped perfect-fit henley and EEEEEEEEEEK it looked terrible on me! I'm so glad I tried it on and didn't buy it online. Ick. It just looked bad. The color didn't look good on me, the armholes seemed cut sort of deep ... just not good.

    Tried on the vintage cotton v-neck striped tee in a black & tan stripe (which I don't see online) ... I adore the print but I didn't buy it. I'd love to see that stripe replicated on a different item. I think I'd love the tee if the neckline were different.

    Also tried on the Reve tee and just wasn't feeling it. It was blah. :/

    So I walked out with an ivory u-neck painter tee for $19.99 and that's it. Boo hoo.

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  26. Has anyone bought and worn the Oxford Ballet flats? I don't usually like ballets but I'm a sucker for wingtips and these are so cute. Saw an IRL photo on jcbellmarie's blog but she said she returned them in hopes of a better price later so of course had not worn them. I ordered them with the 20% off this weekend but my size is backordered until May. Would love to know how comfortable they actually are to wear.

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  27. xoxo: Audreybella reviewed them on her blog earlier today. Click here. :)

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  28. Fabulous Florida Mommy, thank you, I follow her blog and saw the review after I posted here. We are so fortunate to have the blogosphere to meet our every need! Looking forward to see how she wears them.

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  29. The Dulcie skirt arrived, and as Cleo said, it's super metallic-y. No dressing down this baby. It's pretty for a special occasion, although a bit itchy from the metallic threads. Ah well. I'll post pic a bit later.

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  30. OT: Went to Ann Taylor on lunch break. Tons of stuff marked down final sale -- super cheap. Tees 9.88, pants 19.88, cute merino cardigans 14.88. Lots of jewelry, dresses and suiting, too.

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  31. Ordered the Sawyer hobo in both the green and pink. Both arrived and were much darker than what they appeared online. The green was so dark it was almost black. The pink was dark mauve. Colors aside I didn't like the bag. It was pretty large in size. The zippers on the sides would more than likely snag things and when the sides are zipped up the bag is small inside. Returned both.

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  32. For anyone wondering about the Crosstown tee, it was a disappointment - I returned the two I ordered online. The seam which I thought would hit under the bust hits in the middle of the stomach instead, which creates a very awkward look, and the bottom panel isn't really long enough for the top. I'm not quite sure what sort of body type it would look good on, but certainly not mine.

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  33. Did some reviews today...

    Natalie Studded Sweater, Lace Scallop Shell, Vintage Foil Print Tank, and the Stripe Button Back Tee...

    Here: http://mysuperfluities.blogspot.com/2011/02/j-crew-reviews-finally.html

    :) enjoy!

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  34. aumander:
    Did you find that the Factory Medallion Dress fits true to size? I ordered it in two sizes to see if I can get some extra length without the rest of the dress being too big (I'm 5'11"). Thanks.

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  35. Blue, I LOVED the crosstown tee! I didn't review it here because I returned for a smaller size. I found my normal J. Crew size small to be too big, so I'm awaiting an XS. I didn't think the picture showed the elastic as under the bust so I was expecting waist elastic and that's what I got. I think the drape is wonderful, the v-neck is super flattering and I really like the twisted cuff treatment on the sleeve. That elastic hits me at the high waist, a perfect spot and it will look great belted. I can wear that tee casually with shorts and capris and I can wear it under a jacket to work. I highly recommend the crosstown tee. I wish it had worked for you.

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  36. AwakeningMW:
    I would say the medallion dress is true to size. I'm a medium/8 top/10 bottom and the dress fit exactly the way I expected it to (I bought a medium). It's perfect across the bust, a little loose around the tummy and just right around my hips. I didn't care for the way it looked using the belt that came with it, but I actually like it better unbelted anyway. HTH!

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  37. Well, today was not my day. Matinee trench arrived, my normal coat size. Or not? I'm 5'4, and the belt is up under my armpits. If I tie it there (leaving aside the strange appearance), the hem comes to the top of my butt. If I take the belt out of the belt loops and tie it at my waist, the hem of the trench hits mid-butt. Is it meant to fit like a jacket? If I try it without a belt, frankly, it's still very short. Only a couple of inches shorter that the Buffalo Check. I must say, I don't like the trench as a jacket, and I don't think sizing up one size will address the problem. Sizing up 2 or 3 seems like overkill. Sadly, it will have to go back.

    And the driving scarf (floral) arrived in same package, chemical smell, scarf all twisted & pleated into a little lump. You'll see me tomorrow at the B&M, lower lip quivering. I really wanted this stuff.

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  38. Jackie - thank you, that's exactly what I wanted to know!

    xoxo - I have the Oxford Ballet Flats and find that they dig into the top of my foot a little bit. I went with my normal size and they are just a tiny bit tight, but I'm confident they will stretch out after a couple of wears and be quite comfortable. HTH!

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  39. Ran into my store today for a few minutes. I got that super comfy rust plaid shirt. Love it! I splurged and got it FP b/c I was told it was selling well. Jeans were $20 off, so I got a pair of Matchstick crops that fit amazing. Tons of new stuff out. They were still unpacking. And I picked up the new catalog. Some things I like in it, but some were totally weird IMO. I didn't have a ton of time to look around. I saw a lot of eyelet. An eyelet blazer that isn't my style, but some may like. Some really pretty skirts. A couple pencils in that cotton sateen material in great colors - a bright dahlia type of color. A couple floral dresses. I saw the Liberty pattern in something. Can't remember! It was overload!

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  40. JRuby18 -- Ooh, wish I would have seen the new pencil skirt colors at my store this morning!

    I just posted review and pics of the Dulcie Mini here.

    Tomorrow I'll post some more new item pics/reviews. Too tired to load them up tonight. :)

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  41. Over the weekend, I went mad with the 20% off and ordered the avenelle wedges and milano gladiators. Due to arrive on Thursday. Then, last night in a last minute fit of shopping madness I ordered the silk henley tunic in mauve, silk utility chemise in seaweed, cotton bell skirt in toffee (was that the only skirt they had when they photographed the models in all the other tops, blouses and sweaters? The image must have got into my subconscious because I had to have it), and the studded leather belt. For some reason I am feeling confident that my orders are going to be maigical when they arrive, not sure why. Anyone with feedback from planet earth on these items?

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  42. Caitlin, thanks for the feedback on the Oxford ballets. I am so fixated on these shoes for some reason! Glad to hear they should be comfortable in the long run. My PS said to go up 1/2 size so I did and I hope that is the right move since they will likely be sold out by the time I get my backordered pair. I am hoping to wear them with shorts and minis this spring and I would prefer to skip the socks if that won't make them too large.

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  43. Can anybody give me a review of the J Crew Boucle moto jacket? It is finally on sale and wondering if it would be worth the price now and at final sale.

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  44. Xoxo I got my normal size in the oxford ballet flats and impound them to be tts!!!

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  45. I received the Collins platforms from my 20% order in dusty cedar. Really liking these - tts, a nice dark tan color, reasonably stable for such a high heel given the platform. They work with a lot in my summer wardrobe, a keeper for me.

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  46. jcrewlove, I am starting to really second-guess sizing up on the oxford ballets, even though my PS said she tried them on herself and had to SU and we wear the same size shoe. I emailed my PS to see if she will let me order another pair in my usual size and give me the 20% off that was available on the weekend since I placed a large enough order (and then some) to qualify for the discount. She's usually pretty good about things like that and I would return the one pair that doesn't fit anyway so it's no loss for J.Crew.

    As I type this I am thinking about how much I am obsessed. Bartender! Another round of Crewlade if you please! :^P

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  47. Xoxo I totally get it! I'm obsessed too and I want you to get the correct size too! I know jc sizing can be all over the map.... However I have six pairs of jcrew flats from the past two season all the same size. My ballet flat size seems to be one of the few things that is standard at j. Crew! I did try on the half size up at our store because we sold out of my size (then we got more and I snatched them up!) the half size up was too big for me and my heel kept slipping out. Surely she would let you use the discount?!?

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  48. jcrewlove, I'm sure my PS will help me get the right size for the discounted price. She is really awesome and always goes the extra mile to make sure I'm a satisfied customer. I expect to hear back from her when she's back at work tomorrow.

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  49. I just received the lattice sequin sweater vest and am in love. It has a little sparkle and is just different enough to be totally charming. I can see wearing it over a blouse to work and over a t-shirt on the weekend. It was expensive, but totally worth it. I got an xs and it runs TTS.

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  50. I got the Cece Leather and Tortoise ballet flats last week which is an instore item only. It's cute! The tip is the tortoise shell part and the rest is a nude/pinkish color that is versatile to match with a lot of things. I originally went to the store to try the oxford ballet flats but somehow it looked like these flats make my wide feet look wider. I'm glad it has worked well for many of you.

    I'm interested in the cadabra cardigan in provence pink. has anyone tried it?

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  51. I am a size 4 in older J.Crew coats (Bella and Lille pique) and found the size 2 in the Icon Trench to be perfect. At 5'2", petite sizes for coats work well for me, so I ordered the Matinee Trench in a 4P. It fits very well, though I can see how anyone with longer arms will find these sleeves a bit short. Although I'm happy with mine, I keep wondering if a regular size 2 would be slightly better. I think the one tiny thing that bothers me is that the sleeves seem a little big around compared to my size 2 Icon Trench. My arms are on the sturdy side and I think the narrower Icon sleeves make them appear quite slim. I think I'm the only one who really notices this difference in the coats while I'm wearing them, but it is enough to make me curious about another size.

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  52. Just posted some reviews: new white eyelet dress, new b&w gingham jackt, Maritime, pink Retro Shell, Sequin Bib cami
    here.

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  53. sue bolster: I purchased and returned the Moto jacket. At the time i really liked it but it didn't fit my lifestyle.

    The fabrics J.Crew used are fabulous. However, upon reflection, it looks heavy as in the details make the jacket look heavy, but not in a way that flatters the design. Yet it is also quite delicate. The mohair was already shredding when i received mine. The cut is rather boxy and cropped. It could be considered flashy by some. I think it looks best half zipped. It fits TTS, my usual size in jackets/coats. (I have pics i could post but need some time to put them up.)

    In summary, a beautiful concept, but better execution in a more timeless, classic design. If you really like the style, though, it may work for you.

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  54. I cannot tell you how much I HATE HATE HATE the Quoddy shoes which I bought and am promptly returning. There was a weird arch support that was too bulbous and rigid and hurt my sole. And omg they are so ugly. They make me look like a North Pole Elf. Epic FAIL - In BAD company, J Crew!

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  55. I have to give a mention to the Holland cardigan. With the % off, it's a really great price. I was nervous since it's listed as an acrylic/wool/mohair blend, but pilling has been absolutely nil. And it is insanely warm! The color is not too yellowish or grayish, and although I'm not normally a fan of the shawl collar look (i.e. "grandpa" look on me!) this one is flattering for some reason.

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  56. Julie, I've been wondering about the Holland. How is the fit? Did you get your normal or go up one? TIA :)

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  58. Cleo,

    Thanks for your response on the moto jacket. I've been admiring it since it came out. There is a size 2 and according to the measurements it should fit me. I normally wear a size 4 in J Crew jackets. If you can, post some pics, just because I am curious. Thank you!

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  59. mommydearest,

    I vary between XXS and XS in JC cardis, depending on whether I plan to layer anything underneath. I find it's usually the sleeves that are tight on me. Anyways, I got an XXS in the Holland because I planned on not doing too much layering with it because of the style and not wanting to look top heavy. It's just a very little snug in the upper arms, but everywhere else fits well. Length is about right, not too short and certainly not long. Hope that helps.

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  60. Thanks, Julie. That was really helpful :)

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  61. I would love love to hear a review of the Oleander lace dress from anyone who has seen it and tried in on IRL!! It looks like it's to die for! Love the black lace! Has anyone seen or tried this one on yet?

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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! :)