Referencing {FAQ}

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

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! :)

84 comments:

  1. Purchased the J Crew Confetti Tweed Jacket and did a more in depth review on fit and the specifics.

    Please check it out here: www.aprettythought.com

    Thank you and don't hesitate to ask questions!

    Kim

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    1. Thanks for the review; I've been keeping my eye on this for awhile and hoping it will go on sale. :) I love the jacket on you; it's adorable. You found that it ran smaller than the schoolboys? I wear a 0 in the wool schoolboys, but I"m wondering if I need to size up to a 2 in this. Thanks!

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    2. I wear a 0 in Schoolboy as well and sized up to a 2 for this one. :)

      Fingers crossed that it will go on sale! Hopefully J Crew comes out with a coupon too.

      Thanks for checking the review out!

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  2. I loved the eyelet skirt in chili. The regular length worked well for me, even though I'm a 5'3" petite. Very lovely color, well made. It doesn't look cheap as bold reds often do.

    I'm tempted to buy it now in case it sells out, but that would be the 3rd full price item I've bought this spring. Usually, I never, ever pay retail. Pigs --> flying.

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  3. A quick review and some pics of the factory chambray addison trouser and i'll have some reviews up soon for the factory perfect shirt in faded chambray 21779

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  4. Has anyone seen the pink eyelet pants in store? I love the look in the new catalog with the pink sweater but am afraid it will be really,really bright.

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  5. could somebody please review the jersey maxi skirt?
    is it TTS and how is the quality?
    i am petite and i am not sure i can pull it off,any opinions?
    TIA

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    1. Hi I bought the jersey stripe maxi skirt, I am 5'2" and it worked for me. I bought the xs, so maybe that helped with the length a little not sure. I love the skirt. HTH

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    2. may i ask what your regular size with pants or skirts is?
      TIA

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    3. Sure I am normally a 2-4 in skirts depending on the cut of the skirt because of hips I am a 4 in pencil skirts and a 2 in full skirts. I take a 2 in the minnie pants, 28 in jeans and cords. I might be larger then you but I do really love the skirt!! HTH

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  6. I have the Bureau skirt and the Jacquard Dot skirt on the way, will review when they arrive.

    I would love to know about the Ribbon Tweed pencil skirt that is only available in the collection store in NYC. Has anyone seen it?

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    1. Can't wait for your reviews - I'm curious about both of those skirts. Which color Bureau skirt did you order?

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    2. I ordered the navy bureau skirt. Since the jacquard dot is also navy, I will need to return at least one of them!

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    3. How was the bureau skirt? I just ordered it.

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  7. @ mini: I would have replied directly to you but my work computer won't let me.

    One of my neighbors in my apartment building actually has the pink eyelet pants, and yes, they are very bright. Not obnoxiously so, but you definitely notice the color. She was wearing them with a plain white button-down, gold jewelry and gold shoes (I think she was on her way to dinner). She looked fabulous.

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  8. I tried the "long" paisley skirt, the purple and neon green... maybe instead of making a whole set of "long" skirts, they could just offer all the skirts in petite, regular, and tall. What a concept. The "long" skirt hit me where I want a pencil skirt to hit - at the knee. Any shorter and it is just not work appropriate! Sigh.

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  9. Has anyone purchased the green Villa dress. How's it fit? Is it flattering?

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  10. Thumbs down for the Factory Dorrie skirt. The description online says it's cotton, but it is a linen/rayon blend that has a slight sheen to it. I don't know if it's just the fabric content that is different in the alabaster. The fit was horrible at the hips because there was this weird poof that stuck out on one side of the skirt. I sent it back and wrote that the online description was off in regards to the fabric.

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  11. I went to Madewell last week and I was very impressed with their collection and surprised how much I liked it, I never bought from them before. I tried the Academy blazer, Charade blazer, Rouge dot midi skirt, roseblossom midi skirt, some other whiet summer dress that I don't see on the website, merci stripe tee, troley stripe sweater and more. The quality was better than J.Crew and the collection was more exciting. If you are looking for t-shirts that are not so thin and hole prone, def check it out. Sizing is the same as J.Crew on me. I posted about it HERE with lots of pictures.

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  12. @dagmara

    i ordered the villa dress in warm henna... but it's due to be delivered later today... i'll post a quick review when i get it.

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  13. Has anyone seen the natasha top in wildcat size 0 in stores?? It's on sale now and I love that print and top but I can't seem to find it.
    TIA

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    Replies
    1. Memphis B&M had some in sale section on Sunday, but I didn't notice what sizes.

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    2. @MB If your local doesn't have it, ask them to do an inventory check on the computer of stores nationwide. If they see some stocked somewhere, they can all and do a send-sale for you! The new inventory search abilities the stores have now rocks my socks! :)

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  14. Just posted some new reviews including the Attache Dress in Linen Canvas on my blog megancrewreviews.blogspot.com

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  15. I bought the deep lagoon and royal violet Super 120s Pencil Skirt. Gorgeous colors and I love the fit. You can read the full review with outfit photos HERE.

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  16. @MB - I wasn't able to reply to your comment so I'm posting here... The Burlington, Vermont b&m had a number of Natashas in wildcat last week. Not sure if they had size 0 but may be worth a call. HTH

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  17. I was able to get to a factory store and a retail store this weekend. Here are the main points and sorry if this is long:

    Colorblock-stripe slash Henley: Nice colors, but the fit was a bit odd. My usual small was a bit snug in the arms, but the medium was really baggy, like it was almost a size large. And what was odd is that the navy size small fit better (slightly bigger) than the bright flame. Maybe I got some odd ones in my store.

    Mini delicious apple short: Love! I get that this print won’t be for everyone, but I adore the print since it had a slightly mod feel to it. I took my usual chino shorts size (6) since these are 100% cotton. I can see myself pairing these shorts with a black tank and big black sunglasses for an updated modish look or a breezy white button down and black patent flip flops.

    Colorblock Maritime: This is in-store item right now, but it is the colorblock version of the Maritime dress in navy and a bright coral. This was a major pass for me. The bright coral was just not flattering on me, but even the color blocking may have been working against the dress on where it hit my body. Oh well…I’m hoping for a lighter weight dress to pop up soon, so good thing to save my money.

    Factory Leopard Print Pencil Skirt: In-store only. Vibrant pattern, unlike the washed out retail version. Shorter hemline too…major plus me petite girls. TTS. It was $80 this weekend, which was still too much for me since I have no need for skirts now, but it is a wonderful skirt. To me, so much better than the retail.

    Factory solid bazaar tunic dress (Navy): Online and in stores. $55 in stores this weekend. I love the shape and simplicity of this dress. It is short, so anyone over 5’3..beware. I love the length…think it is perfect with flat sandals for a beach party. I had to size up to a 6 (from a 4). The neckline lies a bit odd as you can see online and the linen had a snag or two, so I'll wait for super sale on this dress.

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    1. Re the colorblock-stripe slash henley in bright flame seaport, for me the size small fit was fine, it fit perfect but whoa! The 'slash' is scandalousy low cut, to middle of breast low! If you have cleavage you need a cami unless you're wanting to show 'em off. ;)

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  19. Hi there!

    I was wondering if anyone got the Palma leather platform wedges? I checked them out, but the one I saw was coming apart (glue all over the insole). They're so adorable, but I was wondering if they're comfy and worth the 200?

    Thanks!

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    1. Review and more pics of the Palma wedges.

      Not worth the $200 in my opinion.

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    2. Thanks, Rose. I guess I'll be waiting for a sale:)

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  20. Has anyone tried or purchased the Factory polka-dot pleated maxiskirt? LOL at it being called a maxiskirt; it will be knee length on me! But anyway, it looks adorable, and it is at least partially silk... just wondering if a fellow JCA has tried it! They never get the cute items at my factory b&m, hmph.

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    1. I've been wondering about that skirt as well! Haven't seen it in my Crewlet either. And yes...definitely looks more like a midi-length!

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    2. I ordered that skirt. It's a viscose blend with a small amount of silk. It falls just below the knee on me and I'm 5'4". It's really cute but the creases coming out of the package are a problem. They are impossible to iron out or steam out, and I think I may have to take it to a professional cleaner to get it pressed. The colour is a little less vibrant than you see on the website, more like a cantaloupe orange. Fit is slightly generous, I took a size 4 which is the smaller of my two dress sizes. HTH!

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    3. Thanks Louise! Crap, I sized up because it said "fits above waist" which usually means tiny, tiny waist... hope it isn't ginourmous!

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  21. OT- I need help identifying the name of a necklace- can you help? Many thanks!

    http://s776.photobucket.com/albums/yy44/jbird1026/Necklace/

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    1. FFM is right. Definitely the crystal brulee. The necklace & bracelet were available online, but sold out. They came in blue & pink as well.

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    2. It is actually an in-store only necklace - a hybrid of the martha and crystal brulee. I bought it about six months ago and I love it! The crystals are bigger than the martha, and the crystal settings are smaller than on the brulee. It is longer than both the martha and the brulee. Also the connectors between the crystals are different than both the martha and brulee. I noted below- it was around $80. I can try to dig up the receipt to find the item number. HTH!

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  22. jbird, not sure but that may be the Martha necklace?

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  23. @jbird - I have that necklace - it was an in-store only item available about six to eight months ago. I love love love it!! I don't know what the item number or name of it is... I can dig few my receipts and see if I can find it. I think it was around $80. Hope that helps!

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  24. Not J.Crew, but I reviewed the Madewell polka-dot Film Noir pumps here.

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  25. Bought the Peyton Popover in Striped Crepe de Chine and LOVE it : outfit post here

    Also purchased the Factory Camp Blouse in Silk Crepe de Chine in Neon Azalea. I don't see a huge difference in the quality of the fabric, although it's a bit thinner, but the buttons are dark brown instead of the pearly color at retail and I'm not sure I love that... they kind of stand out. Overall, I am happy to save a few bucks on a nice silk shirt. The $130 or so at retail kills me. Posted here

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  26. Seville espadrilles in flax: I normally find that J.Crew shoes are way too narrow for my wide foot, but these are great - perfect length, and after some slight breaking in will be perfect in the width. Also the heel is a comfortable height, which is crucial for me. I'll get a lot of use from these this season, because they are comfortable to walk in and the flax color is a nice neutral beige. I usually refuse to pay full price for a J.Crew shoe, but I actually felt like these were comparable to something I might find elsewhere for a similar price. That, combined with the fact that it is difficult for me (with feet like mine) to find a cute, comfortable shoe, led me to just bite the bullet.

    The Seville espadrilles only come in whole sizes, and I actually sized down in them. My normal size at J.Crew is a 9. I took an 8.5 in the Drea peep toes, and now an 8 in the Seville espadrille. I'm not complaining, but the shoes sizes do seem to be all over the place lately!

    Anyway, I hope that helps someone!

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    Replies
    1. I got these in the modern red and I love, love, love them!!! The height is perfect for wearing over longer periods of time, and I can't get enough of that shade of red.

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  27. I bought the apple skirt and adore it. I took the smaller of my two Crew skirt sizes (one size down from the Flair). It is very well made and looks great with wedges and a tank for summer casual.

    I also purchased the navy dot skirt. It is pretty and well made except the skirt I received was cut a bit on the diagonal and it ruined the skirt. The dots are big enough that they needed to get them lined up parallel to the waist band and hem.

    My final item was the navy eyelet. I tried this on the the store in the red and it was a miss for me. The lining is sewn to the outer layer and it made it lie funny around my hips and caused some unsightly shadows. The navy looks much better and is a keeper.

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  28. Did anyone order the mini brompton hobo in straw? If so, could you please review it? I'm interested in it, but not sure if it's worth full price. Thanks!

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  29. I posted April rollout preview pictures and reviews from concept store HERE.

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  30. Reviews of Factory Ballet Flats, Keyhole Sweater, retail Lila Wedges, Olympia Sandals, Drea Peeptoes, and Palma Wedges HERE.

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  31. OT: Does anyone have any reviews/strong feelings on the Minnie pants in stretch wool vs the twill? Or the "winnie" pant from the factory store?
    Thanks!

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  32. It's not the Brulee or Martha necklaces, but it looks similar to both of them. Mack, I think you're right- it seems like a hybrid of the two :-) If you ever find the name, I'd be grateful! Thanks ladies!

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  33. has anyone tried the tiered lace raindrop dress?

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  34. Took a chance on ordering the Fanfare Wide Band Halter Top and Wide Band Hipster on FS, and they actually worked out perfectly! The blue is much brighter than it appears online - more royal than navy. I purchased the bottoms in medium (I'm between 4-6 in pants/skirts) and used the size chart to estimate that I'd need a large top. It covers everything that I need it to cover, haha.

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  35. Can anyone give their opinion on classic ballet flats in leather vs. the cece flats in leather? Are they equally comfortable?
    I walk a lot and have a toddler to run after. I can't decide which I like but they will be brought over to me from the States so I can't try on or return. The article on the Cece mentions comfort and walking were factors in the design.
    Help!

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    1. The ceces are infinitely more comfortable. They are cushioned and very flexible. The classic leathers are more flimsy and lack cushioning. Cute, but not as good for walking.

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  36. I received the navy eyelet skirt tonight. I agree with other reviewers that the fabric is much nicer and less fragile than expected and I like the navy a lot. BUT is anyone else bothered by how see through this skirt is??? The lining is translucent so if I put my hand on the inside of the skirt, I can see right through. Maybe I'm just paranoid, but I'd be afraid to wear it outside on a sunny day.

    I received the eyelet tank top in red too. For me it's a little blah - not as nice as I was expecting. The eyelet part doesn't stretch at all either, which makes it feel a little delicate when taking off. There's nothing wrong with the tank, but it doesn't wow me for the price.

    I also got the heart throb blouse (I'm way behind on this one, I know). I love it. I usually size down to a 0 in boy shirts but the 0 wasn't available so I got a 2. It's a little baggy, but I'll probably keep it anyway if I can't find a 0 via store locator.

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  37. Suzy Babar: Personally I find the Ceces to be much more comfortable than the classic ballet flats. There is a tiny, tiny wedge and the sole is thicker, so they are more comfortable for walking. I also find that the backs of the classic ballet flats rub my feet where the strip of grosgrain (that runs vertically up the back of the shoe) meets the top/inside of the shoe.

    That has just been my experience, and of course everyone's feet are different, but I hope this is helpful!

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  38. I received both the bureau skirt and the jacquard dot skirt today. I'm sorry to report that both are going back.

    The bureau skirt fits well, TTS, is a great length (I'm tall). Unfortunately the fabric feels like burlap, it's rough and does not have a nice hand feel at all. It's going to wrinkle like all get out. I felt rumpled just trying it on.

    The jacquard dot skirt has nicer fabric than the bureau skirt. It's a poly/wool blend and I didn't care for it. It's too stiff. The fit is good with this one too, also TTS. The front patch pockets are nice, I love pockets on a skirt. The front slit is a good length, doesn't go too high and the skirt is office appropriate. The trouser style front closure makes a pooch on me when viewed from the side. That's enough to get me to send it back right there.

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  39. I know there are tons of reviews on the schoolboy in flannel, but what about specifically the tall sizes? They are now $99.99 and I am dying for a red blazer. Decadent red happens to be in stock in my size. I generally dislike shrunken blazers because that usually means they are SUPER shrunken for me being 5'10"... and usually talls aren't offered in most of the blazers.

    Have any tall JCAs tried the tall schoolboy and if so, what did you think? Flattering? Sleeves/body long enough to not look like you're wearing a too small blazer?

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  40. Suzy Babar:I tried the classic ballet flats in store and they didn't feel as comfortable as the Cece.I also have a toddler and the Cece Suedeare the most comfortable shoes I've ever own. I have two pairs, in Sapphire (like Jess in New Girl) and Bright Flame.

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  41. I reviewed the linen button front skirts today on my blog. I like them though the colors (modern red and glazed pecan) may not be for everybody.
    I found they ran slightly big, but the length is great (to the knee) the lining is nice and they have pockets. The modern red is a perfect match for the apple sweater.

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    1. I bought both colours and I'm in love. They do, of course, wrinkle a touch but not terribly. I find them really versatile and great for all seasons.

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  42. A few weeks ago I bought the Colorblocked stripe tee (item 62774) in Cerise. I'm 5'8" and this tee is long enough for me.Very pretty!
    Also bought the Signature Leggings in black and they are amazing! The fabric is really high quality and thick enough so you don't see through. Usually I don't feel comfortable wearing leggings but those are perfect.And unexpensive.

    Has anyone tried on the D-CUP ruched bandeau tank?I think the fanfare is so pretty but I'm hesitating wondering if this one is gonna give me a "flat-chested" effect?Then again, I tried D-Cup underwired tops and it made my chest looked WEIRD (like...super big and round). It's so hard finding the right swimsuit!
    And what about D-Cup tops that aren't underwired, like the D-cup feather paisley ruched lido halter top?
    I'm completely lost here, help!
    thanks

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    1. I bought a few new swimsuits from JC last year after a few years of not buying them and IMO their D-cup sizing now runs large. I am a 36D and I used to not be able to wear anything but a D-cup top for one-pieces and two piece suits (mostly non-underwire tops).I ordered the ruched banded tank in a D-cup last year and it was HUGE. I probably could have fit a whole extra cup size there. I can't speak for the regular ruched tank since it looks like that one doesn't have an underwire (the banded does) but I have to say overall I've found JC's swimwear to run large. HTH.

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    2. I tried several D-cups in the past, and they were hilariously large. I think they may have finally fixed the sizing though. I am a 34D, and a 34D has always been HUGE.

      So this year, I tried a 32D in the apple print bikini top, and the cups were too small, meaning they may have actually corrected the sizing this year. The 34C was also too small. In past years, a 34C or 32D was my solution to having a top that actually fit even though I could never wear that bra size.

      I hope that helps! It may be worth it to try the D cup swim again this year as it seems to be different from past years.

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    3. ...so I think I'll try a D (as usually I could go DD with Bras) but what about the swimsuit sizing (because you have to choose the sizing too)? Usually with JCrew I'm a 8 or 10, is it TTS?
      Thanks so much for your help!

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    4. I am a 6 with J.Crew clothing and I need an 8 in one pieces. A 6 is uncomfortably small. The exception is the Lomellina swimwear; it tends to run a little larger.

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    5. Great thanks!
      ok so now I'm just waiting a few hours to see if I'll get an email with a discount.

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  43. To everyone who responded to my Sperry post, thank you! I ended up trying on the only size down they had in store and it fit. Sadly it was pink and while adorable, not as wearable for me as Navy. So, anyone that is wondering about this shoe - I am a 9 or 9.5 usually and I take the 9 in these.

    Ended up returning for a gift card... he pushed the red phone because of shipping but I knew they were in stock online and I wanted help getting my cart to the free ship limit.

    I am holding off until tomorrow for my purchase though... Wanting the Cotton No.2 and Classic Cafe capri which are both on promo, and while I hate purchasing things without a coupon I will probably swallow that pill tomorrow if there is no discount. Must. Have. New. Spring. Clothes.

    Also, tried on the Cotton #2 and Superfine pencil skirts for the first time yesterday and I must say that everyone praising the Superfine is spot on, I definitely liked the fit of that better! I am getting the #2 for the color (warm jade is calling my name) but I will be picking the Superfine up in Navy soon. I struggle with the issue of skirts usually fitting tightttt in the legs and ok in the waist, or ok on my legs and super loose on my waist. The Superfine is much more forgiving with this problem!

    I keep telling myself one day I will actually activate a blog and post pictures so my posts don't have to be this long...

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  44. @ Steffi, shopmurphy, J.CrewJD: I'm so glad to see D-Cup feedback! The Fanfare bikini that I just bought is the first bathing suit that I've purchased in, like, 5 years, and I just had to cross my fingers that a large top would fit a 36D. My J.Crew D-Cup halter from college finally died, and I had read other people's posts saying that the current D-Cup bikini tops ran *really* large. I live closer to the beach now, so maybe I'll buy another swimsuit if they fixed the sizing problems. Thanks!

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  45. @J.CrewJD - I am 5'9" and have several schoolboys in "regular" size. I just rescued a schoolboy off ebay in a tall - thought I'd try it. I LOVE it and wish I had purchased all my schoolboys (when offered) in Tall! The overall body length is a little longer (inch or two) and the sleeves are longer - almost too long - which I love - this never happens! I don't have it with me at the moment so I can't give you measuerments to compare - but from a taller person - I love the tall sizing and will buy all my schoolboys (umm.. if I buy anymore) in tall!

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    1. Thank you so much mack! I really appreciate your insight! Talls really do make a difference.

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  46. I feel this way every time I end up buying something in Tall! I purchased the Wool Cafe Capri in stores, then decided I wanted the longer length featured on the model. Sometimes I fear that I am not quite tall enough for tall sizing (5'9" too) and things like the Cafe Capri will be too long... but they are perfect!! Love my tall Blythe too. Kinda makes me wonder what the rest of my clothes would be like cut proportionally...

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  47. Thank you all for your input about the Cece flats. I was leaning towards these over the classical ballet flats and now I feel my hunch was correct after hearing your input! Most helpful.

    Anyone can tell me if the Talitha silk blouse washes well? Jcrew site says it is machine washable. Finally something not dry clean only!!

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    1. Hi Suzy, I washed mine in the washing machine and it turned out beautifully. Can't even tell it was washed and I haven't even steamed it yet. As long as you use the hand wash cycle and a washing bag, you should be good to go!

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    2. great good to know! I got the Talitha in Red AND Wreath as I couldn't decide. let's hope they fit otherwise a very expensive mistake. (i also got the Cece flats! yeah!)

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  48. I posted a quick pic and review of the Foulard capris on my blog but can't link it from my phone (broken computer). Click through my profile to find it! :)

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  49. the foulard capris are so pretty and they fit you so well!!! good buy!

    I don't live in the US and we received aprilCatalog this morning.So many cute stuff I want to buy everything.
    Still confused about swimsuits.It would help if they have like ONE PIC of a model with boobs wearing a D-Cup.Not happening.

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  50. curious if anyone has tried the clearance ipad case ($9.99) on the new ipad3? i'd like to know if it fits... even though the description says ipad2, i know the dimensions are nearly the same. though maybe the camera hole is off center?

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  51. AdAstra, I returned the bureau skirt. Sizing is spot in, true to size. I liked the shape and especially the length. The fabric killed it for me. It felt like burlap.

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