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! :)
Subscribing
ReplyDeleteMerino stripe sweater (43513) - love the shape on this one and found it to be TTS. The stripe and buttons remind me of a similar JC sweater I had from spring '06. However, the merino is thin (14 gauge) and the neck binding is also thin, so you can see the stripes right through it (you can kind of see this in the item picture). Won't bother most, just something I noticed right away. Not worth $78, but if it goes down to $30-40 it's a cute spring staple.
ReplyDeleteSubscribing
ReplyDeletesub
ReplyDeleteI posted on another thread last week, the crosstown tee is a keeper. Size down one from your regular size.
ReplyDeleteThe maritime dress is confusing. It's a fairly heavy weight cotton with long sleeves, yet it's quite short. Since the fabric is thick, it's not flattering belted. I think it would be a great bathing suit cover up. It would really warm you up after getting out of the water. I don't see the use value as a dress.
sub!
ReplyDeleteWould love to hear a review of the Toluca tunic. In the March catalogue someone's wearing it like a regular dress shirt and it looks quite nice. Is this possible? (I'm 5'5).
Has anyone tried the maritime-stripe hoodie, item 37225? If so, would love to hear your thoughts on it. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete@ Laura
ReplyDeleteI tried on the Toluca tunic and found it quite awkward - not long enough for a tunic but not short enough for a shirt. I guess if I had sized up it would have been blousier and more tunic like but I tried on my usual extra small. I found the hips a little tight which made the pockets stick out in a rather unflattering manner. But, again maybe a small would help that. Couldn't think of a use for it since it was too long as a shirt and too tight in the bum for a tunic. I am 5'4'' for reference.
I purchased the merino striped sweater and actually it is one of the only full price purchases I have made in months. It is perfect for the mild weather where I live due to it's light weight. The neckline is very flattering.
ReplyDeleteI also bought two new superfine pencil skirts as the price was great with the extra 30% off. They are nice, but the fabric is less silky and lacks the subtle luster the ones from previous years have had.
The suckered gingham shirts are nice and run as perfect shirts usually do. I love the papaya.
I had a few failures from my recent order. The biggest disappointment was the Blythe blouse which is big and shapeless and too long in the sleeves and too short overall. I have seen more flattering and similar options at other stores lately. The fineline cami was huge and boxy in my usual size. Another disappointment was the Saturday sweater which is nearly sheer and a vile citron shade in the marled alabaster. It was also very long and greatly oversized. It wasn't at all as it appeared online.
sub for now, but will review my 30% when it arrives :)
ReplyDeleteI posted couple of jcrew fitting room pictures including dorrie skirt, liberty bouquet dress and I heart chambray shirt,cotton bell skirt.
ReplyDeletehttp://imshoeshopping.blogspot.com/2011/02/jcrew-fitting-room-pictures.html
maxi check shirt and stripe back zip painter tee IRL pix are also on my blog.
Spannaus purse: My favorite thing about this bag is how lightweight the material is. I still have everything in it that I had in my previous bag, but after toting my old bag for about half an hour, my shoulder was killing me. Not so with this bag. The only downside is I wish there were magnetic closures instead of the leather straps.
ReplyDeleteLighthouse cardigan: I've had this for a few months now and it's gotten so much wear. I can't wear the vast majority of wool/alpaca/other animal fibers so this cotton/silk combo is wonderful on my skin. I'm petite so it's long on me, but just long enough to be a "long cardigan".
I received the Jackie twinset in neon azalea. The color is a gorgeous, saturated bubble-gum pink, slightly darker than it appears on my monitor.
ReplyDeleteClosetCrisis did mention that she felt the Jackie's were a bit thinner this season and I have to say that they might be, but the difference is very slight. I "felt up" my old and new Jackie's and they are pretty similar unless I compare the ones from a few years back when they were definitely thicker and softer. Fabric content listed on the tag has not changed:
66% cotton
29% nylon
5% spandex
Trying to decide between radiant orchid and bavarian blue for the next one. Can anyone comment on the bavarian blue color IRL?
sub
ReplyDeletejessie, thanks for sharing the link to your blog - love it!
ReplyDeleteI ordered the Liberty shirtdress this morning as it looks like it is selling out and I love a cute spring dress. The price is pretty good for a Liberty print too, even in cotton.
I have reviews of some new items here, including a gingham jacket that is so cute but seem to be in store only for now. If anyone has some more info on the jacket, that would be great.
ReplyDeleteI spent some time in the Collection Store this weekend and will be posting reviews: here.
ReplyDeleteDenise - I agree with your comment on the Spannaus purse. I purchased one with my rewards card but then returned it because I was frustrated with the leather strap closure. While it is a great size and cute purse, I don't have time to fool with the strap closure. A magnetic one would have been much more practical and convenient.
ReplyDeleteCan anyone comment on the Tulip Ruffle cami? Would it be work-appropriate under a jacket or cami? Will it even fit under a jacket or cami due to the ruffles?
ReplyDeletesub
ReplyDeleteWould love to hear how the new Eyelet Pencil Skirt fits...I wear a 00 in skirts and am hoping that it runs small so I can wear a regular 0! Thanks!
ReplyDeleteJessie -- the Liberty Dress is so cute on you! How was the sizing?
ReplyDeleteI take a 4 in JC pencil skirts and a 2 in Perfect Shirts, so I'm thinking a 4 in the dress? Any advice?
Clicquot, I bought that dress in the same size as my jcrew perfect shirt, so I would say try a size 2 first. For me, the dress still has extra room in the waist and sleeve,but I don't know if sizing down would be too tight or not... I never own a jcrew pencil skirt, so I can't relate the sizing of that with the dress.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteHas anyone tried the Sequin lattice sweater-vest?
ReplyDeleteCan anyone comment on the Corsa tote??? THANKS!
ReplyDeleteHi! Received a one time use code for Madewell - free ship and 20% any order. If you want it - email me @ marymoo86 at live dot com
ReplyDeletewish it was for the crew :)
still drooling over the green mj's on the pic for this post - still taunting me!
Clicquot: I asked for measurements on the Liberty Shirtdress last week. Here is what the CSR gave for the size 2:
ReplyDeleteFor the size 2, the shoulder is 14.75", chest is 35.75", waist is 30.50" and the hip is 52.25".
I don't know the measurements on the size 4 but do have them for the size 0. It appears that the shoulders went up .25 inch, while the bust, waist, and hip all went up 1 inch from the 0 to size 2. So if you add .25 to the shoulders and 1 inch to the bust, waist, and hip of the size 2 it should be the measurements for the 4.
I am a size 0 or 2 in perfect shirts depending on the cut and ordered the size 0 in the shirtdress last night.
code claimed!
ReplyDeleteOrdered and tried on Several Spring Items:
ReplyDeleteSun-drenched Sweatershirt: Love. Bought the Blue and Orange in store and see that the Blue is almost gone from stores already. Ordered the White too. I'm between a Medium and Large but here the Medium is better.
Side-zipped sweater: The zips annoyed me but I loved the neckline which falls away from the neck but still gathers around the neck. After trying on the Medium and the Large, I ordered the Large in White because I want a White beachy cotton sweater to wear with jeans and sandals.
Slim-Boy jeans: Bought two pair, a size 28 and a size 29 that I will need to have the waist taken in an inch. I wear a size 6 Waverly chino for comparison. The leg fits straight down which is perfect for me as the calf is slim without being too tight. The denim is good.
Maxi Check shirt in Blue: Two SAs were wearing this shirt in the store. I loved it too and found it to fit like like a Perfect Shirt. bought in Size 10.
Blythe Blouse: The pockets fit right over my ample chest. No.thank.you.
Deveaux Sandals: Bought in Aged Driftwood and Toffee should arrive today. Love these and love the mid-heel height. The ankle strap fits comfortably.
Giovanna Sandals: Ordered these, hopefully they arrive today. I loved the whole look on page 48 of the catalog.
Navy Peacoat (cotton): Cute, not lined, buttons look cheap. If it goes on sale, I would consider and replace the buttons. It is cute, just not $148. cute.
Thanks Jessie & FFM -- I think I may be in-between the 2-4, so I ordered the 4. The chest and shoulder looks ok for the size 2, but the waist of the 2 might be a problem. Fingers crossed that the 4 works, it's such a darling dress!
ReplyDeleteFFM...is the hip measurement you posted correct, 52.25"? That seems awfully big for a size 2?
Free shipping on $100+ orders code ZC5KMA exp. March 18.
ReplyDeleteClicquot: That's what the CSR said. It's probably due to the fact that the bottom of the dress is full and a slight a-line cut. If you look at back and side view of the picture online you can see that the hip area of the dress is significantly larger than the waist.
ReplyDeleteOther observations while trying items on in store:
ReplyDeleteThe Scout Chinos seem to fit larger in the waist than last year. Is this vanity sizing at play?
Featherweight cardigans: They seem even thinner than last year (if you can believe it) and also seem to have increased in size. I'm a Large in Jackie and a Large in the Featherweight seemed a full-size larger.
Perfect Fit Tees: The cotton seems to have gotten thicker which is a good thing but the neck is no longer close to the neck. It's not scooped but it is cut lower than last year. I sort of prefer the closer to the neck fit but I like the thicker cotton of this year.
I also have a one-time Madewell code to give away. Offer is good for 20% off and free shipping through March 8th. Email melissamolasses@gmail.com to claim.
ReplyDeleteThe Madewell code has been claimed.
ReplyDeleteI, too, have the 20% off Madewell coupon with free shipping. Please email me at amykmdillon@Hotmail.com if you are interested. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteHexicon - I have links to 3 bloggers' irl pics in this post on my blog. I also have some measurements listed for size 4 & 6. Search "tulip cami" to jump down to the links.
ReplyDeleteThe cami looks really cute, esp in dragonfly blue. Not sure about the v. I think it's going to be different based on size & body type. I'm guessing too low for me, at least for work situations.
Madewell code claimed.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Amy
I posted a ton of reviews for JCrew and Madewell dresses last night
ReplyDeletehttp://summerilla.blogspot.com/
The oleander lace dress being one of them. Would love to hear others reviews and takes on this dress.
Jessie, glad to see the Dorrie skirt looks so good on you, I ordered it a few days ago.
ReplyDeleteI received a couple of things from the 20% off-
Collins platforms in dusty cedar, which is slightly lighter in color than it looks on my monitor. A nice medium tan, darker than nude. TTS, very cute.
Red striped perfect fit henley. I love this and will try to pick up another later in navy. Probably not worth full price, though. Runs slightly small.
New cafe capri in cedar plank (yes, I'm trying to recreate the look in the catalog with the gray blazer). I much prefer the new cafe capris to the old ones, think this is a personal preference/body shape issue. I like this color, a little different than the standard khaki. Took my usual JC pant size.
Hexicon - Roxy did a review of the Tulip Ruffle Cami on her blog within the last week or so. It looked cute on her.
ReplyDeleteI'm still patiently awaiting my FABFEB and 30% orders. Will review when they arrive, but I'm guessing my 30& won't arrive until next week. Crew shipping is really slow for me. :(
I am very hopeful that my Liberty shirt dress fits when it arrives. I LOVE how it looks on Jessie...I was also inspired to get the Dorrie skirt in modern red too! :-)
ReplyDeletesub :-)
ReplyDeleteCaitlyn (& others): I ordered the Eyelet pencil skirt and it should be at my house when I get home tonight. I'll be sure to post my thoughts on it asap! I'm so excited to try it out.
ReplyDeleteMadras popover (39258) - FFM, I think you'd like this. The material was thin but not overly so, and I liked the popover style. I found it to be TTS - I usually wear a 4 in perfect shirts and a S in this fit great, just a little "relaxed".
ReplyDeleteIndigo pea jacket (39331) - I loved the style of this, but agree with Elizabeth that $148 is too much for it. It has a sheen to it but is not too shiny. Really cute as a button.
Dorrie skirt (37781) - I actually don't hate the length (and I'm a hair under 5'5")! I don't know that I'd wear heels with it, though. The shape is cute and if it was an inch or two longer, I'd probably pay FP. I didn't find the pockets to be too noticeable. Fit TTS and it right at the waist on me. I don't know if I'd consider sizing up to gain a quarter inch in the length.
Chambray schoolboy blazer (36897) - I like the darker blue of this better than last year's version. Very cute, but I'll watch to see if it goes to markdown. Fit TTS.
Chambray Belmarin pant (37278) - if these were a trouser leg, I'd be all over them. The straight, almost tapered leg just didn't look that great - perhaps if they were rolled up with heels or something. Fit TTS.
Thanks Gigi for including me in your roundup!!
ReplyDeleteHexicon -- I wore the Tulip Ruffle Cami under a blazer yesterday and it looked great! I think it would work well with any kind of open jacket, blazer or cardi. :) Hope that helps.
silver_lining: The Madras popover is one of the items I'm interested in, so I'm glad to hear that it's nice IRL. Thank you for the sizing information, too.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I'm expecting the Dorrie to arrive today, but think I may have ordered the wrong size. What size did you get?
Maritime dress I'm actually a fan of the Maritime! It's a thicker knit dress so I'd wear it with sandals in our moderate California spring or fall. Definitely skip it for the summer/beach! I'm 5'6" and it hit mid thigh. Size S (one size down)
ReplyDeleteMaxi- check perfect shirt A little gaping between the center chest buttons, but that's expected. Very soft. Looks great rolled up at the sleeves. Gorgeous graduated blues. Same sizing as perfect shirt. Size 8.
Gingham mini This is on sale in the B&M but not online ($39.99). Very cute. The waistband is a very soft elastic, so I was able to try on all sizes from 4-8. I mega sized down for the skirt to hit midthigh and to reduce bulk at hips. Size 4 (two sizes down)
Boathouse shirtdress Very comfortable cotton dress. The material was thicker but not heavy, if that makes sense. I like the different set of stripes at the waist. Pretty sailor blue color which I argue is more of a grey. Unfortunately, with my large chest, the dress hung over me like a straight tent. But it does have vertical pockets. Size M.
Stripe Mandarin Tee I like the length of the sleeves. The material is also an expensive-feeling cotton. Very cute but since the medium was a little loose around my waist and small too tight in the shoulders, I had to pass. If I didn't had broad shoulders, it would fit perfectly one size down. Size M.
Is it me or is the entire Spring collection blue?
Side note: Returned online items and SAs were very pleasant and happy about it. :)
I tried the Dorrie skirt Friday when I went to make some returns. The camel color was very pretty and the length was actually good (I'm 5'4). However, the pockets on the one I tried on weren't finished too well. Honestly, I thought it looked like one of my home ec projects and was a pass at full price. I would buy it on
ReplyDeletesale.
I also tried the cute purple and blue tweed skirt that isn't on the site yet. It made me look pudgy as it was a bit clingy. My double serges and superfine cotton ones don't do that, so I am not sure why it looked the way it did. Definite pass. The leaf print one looked well made and the fabric is lovely, but it didn't look springy to me, so I didn't even try it.
Hi FFM - I didn't get the Dorrie, but I tried on the 4 (I'm usually a 2 in pencil skirts and 4 in pants). It fit perfectly at the waist but because there's no elastic, it couldn't be pulled down at all to try to gain length. A 2 would've been too snug for me.
ReplyDeleteThe SA recommended sizing down before I tried the Dorrie on, but if I did that, the 2 would have been too high on the waist for me, closer to the bottom of my ribcage (I'm quite short-torsoed). If I were to purchase I'd go with the 4, but may try a 6 just for comparison first.
You're getting your Dorries soon, right? Let us know what you think of them!
Madras popover (39258)- so cute! I got it this weekend and already wore it, and I usually wait forever to wear new stuff. Runs a little on the big side I'd say. I am a 0 or an XS and the XS was a bit baggier than normal. It is thin but not see through and very airy and comfy for spring. Colors are great!
ReplyDeleteJ.Crew shareholders voted today to approve the buyout. The WSJ story link will only work for subscribers but the Winners and Losers article can be viewed by all.
ReplyDeletesilver_lining: Thanks! I have been a 0 in the pencil skirts this year and ordered the size 2 Dorrie, so maybe I ordered correctly after all. UPS is supposed to deliver them today so I will be sure to post my thoughts on the skirt when I get the chance to try it on. :)
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone have a review on the Artisan pant(item 37041)?
ReplyDeleteThanks!
I have a madewell code for 20% that I am willing to trade for a jcrew 20% coupon. If interested email lbelleconner@yahoo.com thanks!
ReplyDeleteSummit buckle ankle boots (36299) - the leather seemed nice on these, but I'm ambivalent about the style. Maybe it's because I'm mentally done with winter, but these seemed to be... I guess too trendy. I don't know how I'd feel about them in fall 2011.
ReplyDeleteSuperfine cotton suiting - I ordered the nouvelle jacket (21324) and the pencil skirt (21325)in smoky graphite. Kitsmommy nailed it - they're nice, but not as "luxe" as the superfine cotton pieces from years past. The color is a grey/taupe with maybe a smidge of light violet undertones, IMO. I'm not sure if I will keep these, as I was expecting a "cooler" grey.
@Hexicon - Tulip Ruffle Cami. I went a size down on this to avoid gaping at the underarms. It fits under a blazer, but looks best with cute skinny jeans. Definitely a summer top. I bought it to wear to work but will probably find myself wearing it with a blazer *to* work and then taking the blazer off because it hides the cuteness!
ReplyDeletekitsmommy and silver_lining, thank you for the reviews of the superfine cotton suiting. Too bad it is not as nice as past years, those pieces were really special IMO.
ReplyDeleteTook the plunge with the shimmerveil tee. Bottom line, I do love it, but since I plan on wearing it a quite a bit, is worth it to me at near full price (had a coupon when I pre-ordered)...maybe worth it to you all at a sale price. (If the sale price comes before the month is up, I may return and re-buy.
ReplyDeleteIRL on blog:
http://mysuperfluities.blogspot.com/2011/03/j-crew-shimmerveil-tee-irl.html
Hope that helps someone out there...
UPS finally delivered my Dorrie skirts. I ordered the Toffee, Alabaster, and Modern Red all in size 2. The Alabaster fits larger than the other colors. I'm not sure if it is the color or just this specific skirt that runs large though. The size 2 fits nicely, and while I can size down to the 0 to fit me at the waist, I plan on staying with the size 2 since it gives me a little bit more length. I am 5'4" and do not find the skirts to be too short. They are about the same length as some of my J.Crew knit dresses and my Bazaar Tunic dress from last year. The skirts are lined and seem to be well made. I personally love the pockets in front and my favorite color is the modern red...love! It reminds me of the color *Bright Flame* from several years ago. It's a bright orange that I plan on wearing with a navy and white stripe tee for starters. Like silver_lining, I doubt I'll wear it with heels, but it will be a great spring and summer skirt to wear with flat sandals or flip flops. I also think you could wear it now with tights and knee boots. There have been many skirts priced higher than this one that weren't as nice, IMO. I personally really like it and the modern red will be a keeper for sure. :)
ReplyDeleteI also tried the Dorrie skirt today and I agree with FFM. I tried the 0 and the 2 and I think that the fit was better in the 2 and it hit just above the knee on me (I am 5'2"). I also liked the modern red color which as FFM said is a bright orange. The only thing that I was expecting the fabric to be 55% linen (very substantial). I will go back and re-try with more summery clothes, I can't decide if it is worth fp for me (but I love the color). Will post pics!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the responses on the Tulip cami!
ReplyDeleteMy second (eek) 30% off order arrived today. 3 out of 5 items were clearly customer returns; the tags had been cut just enough to snip off the retail price. No matter, everything seems to be in order.
ReplyDeleteOh deardeardear, I'm in love with the Origami Shift Dress! I'll have to stalk it now and buy it in black (or whatever the other color was) because it fits like a glove. I put it on and felt like a million bucks, same as with the Silvie shift dresses I bought at 40% off sale. Stretch flannel apparently is my friend! The Heather elm color is more brown than green IRL, imo.
I'm a little befuddled by my Prince of Wales Heidi dress, which I kept missing on popback and then I finally snagged it. It seems to fit a bit differently than my solid black one. I'm seeing some caving-in action in the chestal area (or maybe it's just excess material?), and while this is not new for me, it's especially noticeable with this dress. We shall see if an even more padded bra solves the problem! :)
Another win with the City Safari Pant. This is what I really want the Trouper pant to be, except that they're cropped. I think I'll be wearing these a lot this spring.
Got another large silk blossom pin, this time in Melon Spice. I definitely get some odd looks at work when I wear things like this, but oh well. I like them!
Last but not least, I have to withold judgement on the Superskinny Belt in glitter brown until I see if it starts shedding glitter. :)
xoxo,
ReplyDeleteI still would give the superfine cotton high marks and feel that this is one of the better things J Crew has even with the changes.
I would have been delighted with the new skirts, had I not been comparing them to last year's models which were actually a good buy for me even at nearly full price. My old ones have held up nicely, but get worn so much that I wanted backups for when they are at the cleaners.
The beechwood is the same color as last year, but I agree the graphite is very different. It is lighter and has almost a greenish tinge where last years was a clean, cool grey.
I am keeping the beechwood, but not the graphite.
I also wanted to mention that the Modern Red Dorrie skirt looks really cute with the floral version of the Silk Driving Scarf.
ReplyDeleteHi xoxo - ITA with kitsmommy that the superfine pieces aren't bad, they're just not up to par with the pieces from years past if you've got those for comparison. I have the navy jacket, pencil skirt, and bistro pants from 2009 and wear them a lot. They have really cute pink scallop-edged trim on the inside lining of the pants and jacket... just the little touches that JC no longer does (unless it's an exposed zipper but ha, I won't go there!).
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't be surprised if the graphite goes to a more substantial markdown eventually just because of IRL color differences. I should've snagged the beechwood pieces but by the 2nd day of the sale when I decided to go back, they were back to FP. Live and learn - JC wants you to check the site constantly! :)
Got the Eyelet pencil skirt in shadowyesterday, and I love it. It's very well made and of course is a perfect fit. I bought a size 4, which is my usual size, and it fits perfectly for me. I may have a slight bit of room around the waist band, but I would not size down. It fits fine everywhere else. I highly recommend!
ReplyDeleteI also had a chance to try on a Dorrie skirt yesterday. I tried on the Toffee color, which is beautiful irl. The fit of the skirt, however, just wasn't doing it for me. I don't know if it was because the fabric was wrinkled or what, but it poofed out oddly at my hips and a little at my butt. I wanted to love it so badly and almost bought it anyway so I could bring it home and work with it. I may try it again later on, but I didn't really have time yesterday to think too much about it.
ReplyDeleteOH! sorry to clog this thread all of a sudden, but I also noticed what appears to be an in-store STRIPED version of the sun-drenched sweatshirt. They have it in gray and navy stripe. It was freakin' adorable...TTS and so comfy. I was seriously considering bringing it home until I was shell-shocked into reality that I couldn't pay $65 for a sweatshirt. Cute though...will pick up at sale!
ReplyDeleteAppGal, the 0 was pouffing on me too probably because you can't pull it down. You should maybe try one size up the next time. It could also be a bad crease in the one that you tried, the fabric wrinkles easily and that's the main reason why I am not convinced about it.
ReplyDeleteAppGal thanks for the heads up on the striped sun drenched sweatshirt, I'll keep an eye out for it. They have a store only version in a mottled grey. I tried it on and it looked bad on me, like it was old and dirty.
ReplyDeleteI loved the Striped Mandarin Tee but the Medium was just slightly snug and the Large was like a huge tent on me. Probably the Medium would work but I didn't want to chance it, wash it and regret it.
I forgot to mention that I saw the grosgrain straw hobo bag yesterday, in both the colorways. It is beautiful but I think that the straw will rip off after a few wears, unless you only put a lipstick in your bag (it is loosely woven and I thought that the bottom would be reinforced with leather or that the inside would be doubled with fabric for the price but not at all (it lays flat when you take the paper off). Also the strap is very short and I am not sure that you can carry it at the shoulder (but I had my coat on and I need to try it on again). All in all a super sale buy for me.
ReplyDeleteMy haul from last week's 30% off FS promo has come in. Hm... is anyone on this board still interested in Fall 2010 stuff? I love these pieces and they are still available or popping back. Hope the reviews help someone!
ReplyDeleteLisette lace shell, heirloom pink and black colors: I had never tried these on, but for $21 apiece took the FS risk - and am so pleasantly surprised! The Lisettes are well made and fit TTS (in contrast to the oversized and sloppy Twyla and Tulipe camis). They look fab on, by themselves or (the pink one) under a black linen blazer. The pink color looks IRL as it appears on my screen, a nude-pink. Lingerie loops keep bra straps in line. The polyester lining is non-scratchy. The exposed back zippers are superfluous, but well matched to the silk; nothing garish about them. I like black in summer as in winter, so these tanks will work for me in all seasons.
Gemini hobo in black: It seems this bag never got thoroughly reviewed on the blogs. I saw it in a B&M a few weeks ago, otherwise would not have taken the $140 plunge during FS. Very nice pebbled leather with a substantial feel to it (no, it's not Borge Garveri, but still feels good). The seaweed green and seattle gray colors are also beautiful and would give the bag a spring vibe. (The seaweed was very tempting!) Love the streamlined shape, the simple and useful outer front pocket and the low-key hardware. Twill lining with more inside pockets than I'm used to, but I shall learn. I doubt I'll be using the extra pockets in the outside side seams, but those zippers and their little leather straps are a nice, again low-key, design element. The bag is oversize (15 1/2 x 17 x 4 in) and overweight (1.38 kg, or a smidge over 3 lb; I put it on the kitchen scale for y'all!). But hey, while we tall ladies can't wear J Crew dresses (see today's "vents" thread...), we can certainly rock their oversize bags.
It does have a couple of bugs (that I can live with). First, the large size and relatively short handle drop make it uncomfortable as a shoulder bag. I'll find and/or make a strap (or several) for it to hang lower, maybe even crossbody. Macrame, crochet, chains from hardware store, braided leather all come to mind :)
Second, the turnlock sticks *away* from its keyhole, so to close the top you need to fold over some substantial leather that doesn't really want to be folded over. That's dumb IMO, but clearly a feature, not a bug, in the designers' eyes: they inflicted the same weirdo arrangement on the current Sawyer hobo. (Look at the top-down picture of the Sawyer online to see what I'm trying to explain.)
As an aside, the Sawyer is also a nice bag, same pebbled leather and twill lining, also quite heavy, four very nice colors including black, and it even comes ready with a long canvas strap. I just happen to prefer the Gemini's simpler lines and minimal hardware.
I was super excited to get the BEAUMONT BLAZER delivered today. The aged driftwood is the same color as the current B&M store bags, a sage/gray. The fit is tts, I usually wear a sz 2 in perfect shirts and the size 2 fits the same. It's a boxy fit and hits right at my hip. I'm wearing it over a recent Talbots purchase, a light peachy pink sleeveless blouse with the mulberry leaf pearl mix necklace for an upcoming local magazine feature. I had also ordered the agate color but the aged driftwood will get more wear. My limited fashion imagination...
ReplyDeleteReceived my 20% of FP goodies:
ReplyDeletePerfect shirt in dock stripe
Extremely soft, looser fit than other Perfect Shirts (which I like), & a little darker blue than it appears in promo pics.
Navy schoolboy blazer
I can't believe I waited so long to get this classic blazer. Fits to a T and goes with ton. Better to purchase this blazer online, as I've seen them not well maintained & slow moving in store.
Herringbone schoolboy blazer
Got this in Aged Driftwood. Fit worse too small & itchier compared to the one I tried on instore. Irregular? Was not as impressed as the first time I tried it on instore. May go for this in Hthr Charcoal when on sale.
Factory tiered lace cami
I've lusted this cami for so long, after seeing many bloggers sporting it. I even bought/returned the Robert Rodriguez knock off that's pretty much the same price. This one is so much nicer by far. Just as lovely as I imagined it would be. Ordered this twice b/c of 30% off sale. One fit better than the other in the same size. Looks great w/ Navy Schoolboy, and if I can ever find the Heather Carbon Schoolboy I'll wear it with that as well.
@JS
ReplyDeleteThe Madras popover looks very similar in color to last years Guava Sconset Plaid Shirt. In your opinion do you think that is the case?
Wolfy, I tried two Herringbone Schoolboy blazers in the store. Same size, but one fit beautifully and the other fit boxier. I totally believe that the one you got online was not as good as the one you tried on in the store. I also ordered the Heather Charcoal and it did not fit well when it arrived so I returned it.
ReplyDeleteThere is a slight scratchiness in the sleeves of these jackets. I kept the first one because I found one with a good fit, I loved the wrinkly linen-like fabric, and I really wanted the Aged Driftwood color.
This jacket will probably be marked down so future buyers should just be aware :)
I also LOVED the navy schoolboy jacket.
Now if they would just do another promo :)
Elizabeth,
ReplyDeleteThanks for chiming in. The widely varying fit on this jacket may have something to do with the material, donno. I am worried about repurchasing it FS b/c of this.
Loved the Aged Driftwood when I first saw it, but less enthused when it arrived. It sort of washes me out & don't think it's as wearable for me.
If I picked a lighter spring jacket it would have to be the Striped Schoolboy, which wasn't available when I bought this one (hmm). I also love the Windowpane trenchlet, but it may be a little too cropped.
I know there's been a lot of hype about the tulip ruffle cami but not too many reviews, so here's mine:
ReplyDeleteMy usual 0 was too tight; the 2 was much better. I am always a 00/0 (P if available) in their tops, but this one fits teeny tiny! The buttons were gaping and I'm only a 34A. It was also pretty short on me and I'm only 5'. Aside from the top running small, it's gorgeous! Nice silk and seems well-made. Dragonfly blue color is beautiful and I can't wait to wear it! One of my few full price purchases this season as I doubt it will make it to sale.
Also tried on the in-store leaf printed skirt. Love! Fits TTS and has pockets! Nicely made too. Selling out quickly according to my PS, so another FP buy for me.
Received my 30% and it's both hit and miss:
ReplyDeleteMISS
Siren dress (35702) - Length was perfect on me (5'6") and my normal size was a good fit. But it was too drapey - as in shapeless. The rest of the dress flows straight down from the empire waist and it was just too bulky and shapeless. Very disappointed - was really hoping it would work. Oh, the straps are plenty wide for bra straps and have a hook.
Amie dress (37091) - Again, normal size was fine but the blouson top was a no-go. The belt didn't help me - again, it was just shapeless. Nice that the belt loops are long, so you can place the belt either just under the bust seam or a little further down.
Cadabra cardigan (37719) - Normal size was pretty big, including in the arms. I can't quite figure this sweater out. Untied and uncinched it is a huge billow-y sack. Untied and cinched the ties look stupid hanging down. Tied and cinched is fine, but it's very slouchy. The provence pink was disappointing - didn't seem very pink, more coppery-peachy. I liked the fatigue color but am on the fench about the cardi in general.
Factory summer twist dress (27656) - Normal size was a good fit and the orchid shadow is very pretty. But the twist front was too low on me.
Factory twisted chiffon cardigan (37026) - TTS, but a little too cropped for me and the pale blossom was too peach.
HITS
Lighthouse cardigan (34746) - LOVE LOVE this cardigan. TTS. I know some JCAs thought the sleeves were tight, but I have not found that. The silk-cotton blend feels very luxe. Can't wait to get the ash color with the next promo (hint, hint, JCrew ;)
Factory jaspe zip-up hoodie (36451) - TTS and I really liked the stone melange color which was more brown than grey. The knit is very thin, which might be nice in summer.
Factory jersey promenade gown (27656) - Sizing was tricky. I ordered my normal size and one bigger. Normal size fit perfectly, except in the chest, which was completely obscene. Would work fine, I think, if you're up to a B/C. Length was perfect. One size up fit my chest ok, but is too long. Still, I thought it was quite flattering. You'll need a strapless bra - the twisted dress straps didn't cover my bra straps.
Hi everyone,
ReplyDeleteI just got a huge order and tried some items on in store as well, so here goes:
Love love love:
39063 - Stripe mandarin tee, sz small, modern red and dragonfly blue: I absolutely love the style, cut, color, and fabric of these tops. I think this is the first knit top in a long time that I've loved from JC, and something that will fill a huge void in my closet. The fit was spot on - draped nicely without being overly fitted but not too loose as to be sloppy. True to size to slightly larger depending on your chest/waist. The colors were great, and one of the more important points is the fabric. I've been staying away from most of JC knits because they always felt too thin and light for me, and were too clingy and stretched out. Also, they would get holes easily. This is one great knit top that I can layer underneath or over, tuck or untuck.
Also, love and my #2 fav:
39258 - Madras popover, sz small - Fits pefectly, true to size to slightly large. I perhaps could size down, but will be keeping it in small becaused I'm a bit larger chested. I think the airiness adds to the madras and summer vibe. The most loved aspect of this top: the colors - beautiful! I just saw this one in store now too.
Cece flats - overall, love the fit of these and this comes from someone who has sworn off previous JC flats due to lack of comfort. Took my usual JC flats/heels size.
28699 - Cece studded ballet flats, sz 8h, anchor gray - the color was unexpected for me. It looks more taupe to brown IRL. I was hoping for a more true gray. So it's definitely more of a brownish gray vs. a blueish gray
32007 - Cece leather ballet flats, black - basic black shoe, might not be enough wow for me at the price, but the fit is great. I do like the slight patent-ish cap toe, but still does not add enough wow. If you're in the market for a new comfortable, basic black flat, then this is it. If you want something speciall, then I'd pass or wait til it hits sale.
38126 - Bahia hobo, honey brown and black - style and idea are beautiful, especially the honey brown. I really loved the colors and design of the honey brown IRL as much as I did on screen. However, execution seems lacking to me. The quality of the "paper" is very poor and I worry how it will hold up at this price point. I think it costs a ridiculous amount of money for what it is, and I feel that the seaside totes are better quality for half the price. Unless you absolutely need the colors in the honey brown, I would pass or wait til sales. I'm returning. The black one - nothing special at all, a definite return.
More reviews:
ReplyDelete38803 - Tulip ruffle cami, sz 6, pearl, dragonfly blue, and spiced olive - Seems to run on the smaller side for those with a chest. I usually teeter between a 4 and 6, and the 4 was pulling at the buttons and across the back. I'm usually a 4 in most JC silk blouse (Frances, Victoria, etc). So, I'd say go with your usual JC silk blouse size or size up if your in between. The little tulip bottom did not flatter my short waist - made me look larger. I totally could not pull it off. It did not balance out my larger chest at all. However, it did look cute under a blazer, and I had it on under the chambray blazer. The colors of all three camis were beautiful. One of my SAs who is my size, but smaller chested, had the pearl color on under the chambray blazer and she went with her usual JC blouse size. However, these are definite returns for me.
36897 - Chambray schoolboy blazer, sz 4 - I think the fit is off. The shoulders seem too boxy and perhaps big, which is usually the opposite problem for me in JC blazers and jackets. I usually need to size up in jackets. However, sizing down to a 2 would mean that I cannot button it. My SA who usually wears a 4 in blazers did size down to 2 because of the shoulders. I do like the fabric and color, and appreciate that it's a deeper blue than previous years. So, definite return for me. If you're narrow in the shoulder or even average I would consider trying a size smaller than your usuall blazer size or go with your smaller of your 2 usual sizes.
38835 - Lace and tulle cami, sz 4, pale blossom - Looked awful on me. The seams were totally off. Also, way too short and it felt boxy. The color of the lace was beautiful, but a definite return and not even getting on sale.
More reviews (part 3 of 3):
ReplyDelete41024 - Ete short, nightfall blue, toasted wheat, black - size 6 seem to fit okay, but with the stretch in the fabric I'm afraid that the front clasp area will bulge out more than it already is. The 6s seem to add fabric to my stomach area. I am very happy with the length, color and fabric of these, but would have liked a flat front design and side zip like the Carsons from last season. However, the fabric on the Ete are so much better than the Carson. The carson fabric felt very thin and wrinkled and creased easily. I took a 6 in the Carsons last year, so they could fall a bit on my hips and gain length. However, I am going to try a size smaller in the Ete to see if the clasp doesn't bulge out so much. The nightfall blue is beautiful and I would recommend buying that one first before the black or wheat.
37353 - Suckered plaid shirt, blue orange - size 6 - I loved the colors and soft fabric, but I think it runs big. It looked too sloppy on me in a 6, and made me look heavier. It fit okay on my chest, but the waist was huge. I will try it in a 4. If the 4 fits, then its a keeper. I usually take a 6 in button downs/perfect shirts. So, if you're between sizes, go with the smaller, or consider sizing down in general.
36954 - Lace over tank, shore pink, ivory, and taupe - size SMALL; this tank ran huge. I usually don't size down to an extra small because of my chest, but it was so loose and boxy in a small. Very very unflattering. I love the lace design and henley style, so hopefully the extra small fits. But, the smalls are definitely being returned.
Dorrie skirt - modern red, sz 4 and 6: Loved the color, but not the style on me. The length was great, and the 4s just fit around my waist to the point that it may be uncomfortable. The 6 just seemed poofier, but fit better in the waist. It sat at my true waist. I though it was too wide on me overall and poofy in front, sides, and back. Made me look heavier. The color is beautiful, and I really did love all the colors available. I really wanted it to work for me :(
New cafe capri - the darker brown color. I think I am a fan of the old capris. I thought these were a more "curvy" waist to hip fit, and the old cafe capris were more of a straight fit, which is my body type. I have a very short to nonexistent waist.
Silk pocket tank - just marked down, sz 4. Awful fit, definite no. Ran too boxy on me, and very wide at the waits. Size down in this one.
Hope this helps someone!