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! :)
A smackdown review of the keeper chambray shirt and the faded chambray popover!
ReplyDeleteThis has been around for a while and done before but I bought the silk-collar tee, photos on my blog. I think if fits true to size. It's quite a prim looking number and the sleeves are longer than a normal tee and on the narrow side for my chubby arms. The collar sits quite high on the neck for me at about the height of a mandarin collar. I am going to see if I can flatten in by taking the stitches at the back out will update my blog with the results of that latter.
ReplyDeleteSome reviews here and here.
ReplyDeleteLinen Crewneck Sweater. I don't see it online. In the store, it comes in white, tan, a bright royal blue, and a bright peach. It is a very boxy fit, has three-quarter sleeves. My regular size was too big and a size down was the better size. The material is a bit scratchy, but I liked it overall.
ReplyDeleteOh, yay, linen! Was the sweater a little Tippi?
DeleteRosie, I don't think it was a Tippi because of how boxy/oversized it was.
DeleteCollection Embroidered Eyelet Top (item # 85024). I was excited to order this when it popped back in my size during the 25/30% off sale, but it was a mess on me. I returned it so fast I might forget some details. I believe it had a side zipper, but I still got stuck in the top. It has a cotton cami to line it and the straps are attached at the inside shoulders somehow. Once I eventually got it on and zipped it up, it looked terrible on me. It is very high-waisted and it was too short on me too. Just a hot mess all around, too bad because it looked so pretty in the catalog shot. I still think it's a really pretty top, but it had major fit issues on me.
ReplyDeleteOn me too!
DeleteI'll be the lone voice of dissent on this one. I thought it was beautiful in photos and ordered it with the 30% off. I agree that its a bit short, but I am short, so the bottom hits right at my waist. I didn't find the band to be overly high-waisted, although it generally is supposed to hit somewhere below the bust. I thought the lace / embroidery was stunning. I wear it with higher waisted pants and jeans. I love the "fancy" bohemian vibe of it (not really what J. Crew is known for - haha).
Delete(its sold out, but pops back periodically).
@Blakemdjohns: No you are not alone! I bought this top and I LOVE it. It is the best fitting top I've found from J Crew in about a year! I am large chested, too, so was shocked to see how beautifully this fit (Although knowing that, I did size up one size). I find it to fit very well, the band is NOT riding up to my chest as sometimes happens, and it is not too short
DeleteTHe lace and embroidery are absolutely beautiful, AND very comfortable as well. Maybe some jca's should try it sizing up a size.
Sizing up isn't so easy, I got it as a pop-back. A size up might have been better, but I'm not optimistic enough to bother stalking it :) I'm glad it worked for you guys though, it is a beautiful top.
DeleteReview of the Denim Western Shirt and Petite Pinwheel Eyelet Pencil Skirt here
ReplyDeleteReviews of the New Dresses here
and if you didn't see last week - new arrival tops and bottoms here and here
I got the tartine tote 30% off. It is going back. Bit too toothpastey for me and the leather seems cheaper than a 300 dollar bag. Stitching is a bit rustic ( I.e. not refined) and it looks like it will scuff easily. It is a little too boxy and structured to fit comfortably in my life. The attached coin purse is a nice touch. I think it would be a stretch to ask 200 for this bag.
ReplyDeletebummer, i had high hopes for this one, it was on my summertime wishlist. thanks for the review, you saved me some time!
DeleteI noticed that same problem with the material of my Tartine purse. I am hoping they will bring back the Tillary...preferred the leather of that style over the Tartine.
DeleteI posted several reviews and styling ideas HERE, for new items I received late last week.
ReplyDeleteI will also post later about the Linen Soleil tee that's currently on sale.
Linen Soleil tee now added to my review line-up.
DeleteReview of the chambray seville wedges,bandeau halter tank and sunflower neclace here.
ReplyDeleteI tried the new toothpicks in the blue thistle print yesterday (BTW, where did they go? They suddenly disappeared from the website). I tried my regular 26 and they looked great but were skin-tight. However the SA told me that she regretted going up a size because they stretched out. I had previously tried the matchsticks in the thistle print (the ones that are on promo) and I prefer the fit of the toothpicks (the matchsticks were also skin tight but were less flattering so I would go up a size. Plus I was disappointed to see that the color of the print isn't orange-y but more like a neon rose.)
ReplyDeleteHi Ema,
DeleteI'm confused. Do you recommend going up a size in the matchsticks or the toothpicks?
thanks.
I sent back the thistle print bc the print was meh IRL. It was more pink than shown as well. I ordered two sizes to try and felt they ran TTS, bc the larger size was too baggy in the legs. I also ordered the Tresco floral toothpicks, and I'd recommend sizing up in those.
DeleteMy Brompton hobo arrived yesterday and I am thrilled to pieces with it- even though I purchased it at 25% off the sale price and it is now going for 30% off. However I am willing to swallow the 13 dollar difference as it is, at long last, the bag I have been searching for and needing for so long. It fits everything I need for the day, including my lunch bag and a book which is a problem I have run into in my past bag searching. The cross body strap makes it ideal for subway commuting (I don't see how women hold a bag any other way down there, I really do not). I love this bag. If you need an every day bag that is on the large size, don't hesitate and bring this beauty home. It is very well made and the leather is sturdy yet soft. The zip back wall makes a great secure spot for your wallet while the open body keeps everything accessible. It fits your essentials with room for a sweater, but this is not some crazy overnight satchel type purse. In my opinion, it is perfect.
ReplyDeletethanks for the review! i've thought about it a few times, it sounds awesome! may have to try it one of these days
DeleteYou should. Everyone should. Women, men, children, dogs, cats, we all need this bag.
DeleteI had never considered this bag, but I'll take a look next time I'm in a store, it sounds great. I wonder how heavy it is, though. Cross-body style is what I carry every day, but this one seems like it would be very heavy as a cross-body. What did you think about the weight? Thanks!
DeleteHi cate. I don't find it to be particularly heavy, even with all of my items in it. It feels weighty and substantial, the way you would expect a well-made leather bag to feel.
DeleteThanks Unknown!
DeleteThis bag has been at JC since the spring of 2010, when it first appeared. It never went on sale until now. I think this must be a record. And I agree, it is not a heavy bag despite its size.
DeleteThanks Rose! That took a long time to go on sale didn't it.
DeleteI got the Brompton mini-hobo in animal print last summer on sale and love it. When I was looking at it in the store I remember that a salesperson noted the feature of the large zip pocket being close to you to keep your wallet and other valuables--it's a really good design feature because it gives you the benefits of a zip-top bag with the flexibility of an open top too when you really want to shove lots of things in it :)
Deleteema, my toothpicks were skin tight, too. i figured i'd put on a few pounds or something, lol. here is my quick list from the weekend.
ReplyDelete- Linen Baseball Sweater: cozy and super comfy. really cute on. Fit pics
- Embroidered Wildflower Top: The arms are super super tight! not good. Fit pics
- Short Sleeve Chambray Shirt: Adorable, great fit. Very comfy. Fit pics
- Postage Stamp Mini in Scattered Dot: a little big, cut gave me tummy pooch. Fit pics
- Linen City Mini: love. just like the other regular city mini's. Fit pics
- Cargo Scout Chino: totally gave me flat butt. maybe size up? Fit pics
- Toothpick Jean in Garment Dyed Twill: i'm not a toothpick fan, much prefer the matchstick. these were super tight. Fit pics
No new purchases here. Holding out for something I really love.
Great reviews, thanks!
DeleteMarina Mini-Wedge Espadrille in Chambray (item # 53412). This one has been covered, but I'm putting my two cents in because I didn't care for them (I think I'm the only one!). I expected to like them, because I liked the Lillian (suede) Wedges and these look like a more casual version of the same style, but the ankle strap on the Marina Espadrilles bothered me. The buckles hit me in a bad place and dug into my ankles. Granted, I haven't worn the Lillian Wedges yet because they have not arrived in my correct size, but it was a night and day difference in the at-home try-ons. The ankle strap on the Lillian Wedges is wider and thicker and the metal buckle may be more buffered from the ankle. I also think the ankle strap on the Lillian Wedges could be a bit higher up (I don't have the Marina Wedges any more to do a comparison).
ReplyDeleteCate, 100% agree. I was really disappointed in these because I thought the chambray and style would make these super versatile. I found the same fit issues you did. Style-wise, I thought the color was more washed out and grey in person, not a flattering tone. I also thought that for some reason -- maybe the washed-out color -- this style looked kinda frumpy in the chambray.
DeleteI also sent my Marinas back. The straps didn't bother me, but the footbed was very stiff with no support at all.
DeleteHas anyone tried or does anyone own the Nilota Jacket in Indigo? Do you like it and does it run TTS?
ReplyDeleteDo you mean the Nolita denim jacket?
DeleteI reviewed it here.
HTH
Another review of the Nolita jacket in indigo.
Deleteand another review for the Nolita jacket. I liked it, but they didn't have my size. I'd wait for sale, tho, not worth full price, imo
DeleteHi, all!
ReplyDeleteEven though the website says the Barbados dress is sold out, I have 9 of two sizes sitting in my shopping basket (I like to watch prices fluctuate), so call your personal shopper if you want one. I think J. Crew is screwing with us, again. Blegh.
Anyhow, I did a review of the Barbados dress and Peony Tee (long sold out, but hey, ebay!) here at this blog post.
I saw one Peony tee at my store (Lansing, MI) in I believe an XS. In case anyone is searching.
DeleteHas anyone done a review of the sleeveless shift dress in stretch wool? Not sure if I should buy it or not... Also any opinions on the Super 120s suit collection vs. the stretch wool suit collection?
ReplyDeleteI haven't tried the dress, but I have tried the No.2 pencil in both fabrics and thought the two fit differently. I don't have much in the way of curves, and the super 120 version works well on my straight up-and-down frame (no waist gap, no pulling at the hips, nicely fitted without any excess fabric throughout). The stretch wool version seemed a bit baggier, even tho it measured nearly the same across the hips, waist, etc as the super 120. I'd guess that either the fabric drapes differently, or that it's cut for slightly curvier frames. Either way, the stretch fabric was nice and with sale and discount, the price is pretty reasonable. Hope that helps!
DeleteI asked a VPS about the super 120s versus the stretch wool and she indicated that the super 120s is lighter and better for summer. I received a pair of Paley Pants in super 120s yesterday (and while they didn't fit) I do agree that the fabric is well-suited for year round wear.
DeletePromised Pearls, I ordered the sleeveless shift dress in stretch wool a while back during a promo. I got the tall, which is a perfect work appropriate length on me. It's a great dress, I think. Very versatile. Slim enough that it looks good under a jacket, forgiving in the hip/tummy area. The only flaw in my eyes is no pockets. I would love it even more if it had pockets.
DeleteI have quite a few items reviews on my blog: http://www.fitfabfunmom.com/category/fashion/
ReplyDelete1) swoop dress in punk floral
2) intarsia-knit blooms sweater
3) mini skirt in neon floral
4) polka dot jeans ... ...
http://www.fitfabfunmom.com/category/fashion/
FYI: I washed and dried my Linen V-Neck Pocket Tee and it shrinks in length by about 2 inches. I am actually happy with this result since it was a bit long on my torso for my liking, but heads-up to anyone else who prefers the longer length and hasn't washed their linen tee yet. The weave also tightened up a bit, making the shirt less sheer, and I was happy with that result as well.
ReplyDeleteThat actually makes me happy! It was very long on me, but fit fine everywhere else. I was hoping it would shrink a bit in the dryer.
DeleteWhitney thanks for posting this! I like mine long so I may put it in the dryer for just a little bit and then hang it dry.
Deletethis happened to me with the linen tee's from years past. they're super easy to stretch back out if you prefer that, too :)
DeleteGood to know. I finally got my hands on a popback linen peony tee this morning and can't wait to have it!
DeleteHi-- OT question, please
ReplyDeleteis it Ok to return madewell and j crew items in the same box? any issues? thanks!!
I have returned JC and MW items in the same box (just once) with no problems!
Deletethanks!
DeleteMadewell/JCrew Returns
DeleteI don't do it. The one and only time I returned items from both stores in one box, the Madewell returns were not processed. I had to call Madewell, & they processed the returns over the phone. It doesn't make sense, JCrew, Factory & Madewell items go back to the same warehouse. Just my experience over a year ago...
I know this has been reviewed before, but I just received the Memo dress in green. I found it very cute and flattering, although quite tight in the sleeves. Also, I agree with other reviewers that it is rather low-cut for work. Trying to decide whether to keep it or not!
ReplyDeleteI also got the Heartbreaker sweater in grey/navy on popback. I bought a size smaller than usual (because it was the only size available) and found that it fit fine! I do like my sweaters pretty fitted. However, it is itchy, so I'm on the fence about keeping this one as well.
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ReplyDeletesome of them did. i remember i got a couple of them and they fit differently. here's the stripe vs the bright yellow
DeleteThey fit bigger than the merino versions, though I take the same size in both. I don't mind, though, since I think it's nice for summer sweaters to be slouchy for layering.
DeleteAD MD, how is it otherwise? Cute?
Delete@AM MD -- How did you get a linen Tippi? Are they in stores? I'm not seeing them online.
DeleteIt's so cute! I think it will be on the website tomorrow. I have a picture, I don't have a blog but I can email it to Alexis!
DeleteAD MD, is there some kind of mini rollout tomorrow? thanks!
Deletecate, I think so!
DeleteI take a S in wool Tippis and XS in the linen since they stretch a lot. HTH.
DeleteOh, funny... now I understand why everyone's talking about the "whale" linen tippi. I thought y'all had ordered the gray color, not whale critters. (I was thinking I couldn't believe J Crew would name heather gray "whale" after Target's manatee fiasco).
DeleteIt's cute, but I was hoping for solid linen tippis. I've still got a plenty of critter items hanging out in my closet from last decade. :-p
OT--Alexis, you may already know this...but JCA is listed under cool clicks on the jcrew blog (about 3/4 of the way down on the right).
ReplyDeleteThanks for letting me know ReaganFlowers! :)
DeleteOT- Its been a big month for my CC with all these promos! LOL I'm trying to limit myself to one more thing. I'm torn between the Edie bag in Vintage Violet and the Etta Pumps in Champagne Can anyone comment on these, help me in my dilemma, or link me to past reviews? TIA!
ReplyDeleteI bought the Edie bag in vintage navy as a present for getting a big promotion. I love it. Its smallish -- doesn't fit the iPad, but fits full-sized wallet, sunglasses case, keys, and a couple of lipsticks. Its a really adorable bag. I like to carry it with the top handle and leave the strap hanging, but it works well on the shoulder, too. I just think its classy and lady-like and pretty. I love the gold hardware and the very structured shape.
DeleteI have the Etta Pumps, too, in the leopard calf hair and I wear them often for parties, date nights and other fun stuff, but to me, the bag is really special. The Ettas are nice, but they don't feel all that special to me. They kind of look like a lot of other shoes.
I had an Edie bag but got rid of it recently. I loved the style and the shape, but the stiffness of the bag made it difficult to get anything out without unpacking the whole bag. I also didn't like the fact that you have to undo the flap anytime you want to get into the bag. The stiffness also made it near impossible to fit anything other than my tiny card wallet, my phone and my keys into the bag. There are no outer pockets.
DeleteMy replacement for the Edie is a vintage Coach "Court" bag I found on Ebay. It's the same shape and design as the Edie, though it doesn't come in the same fun colors. The leather is more supple, it has a back pocket, and it cost half the price.
Tartine purse in vintage navy here:
ReplyDeletehttp://thepetitefittingroom.blogspot.com/2013/05/j-crew-tartine-purse-review.html
I just received the skinny fleece pant in heather steel, xxs in the mail. A review will be up on my site soon. Just some quick info...fit is good, but color not as pictured on the site. My pair is lighter.
I should add...the fit of the xxs for me is good for lounging around the house, but I will not be wearing these out like the model. Some fit issues there that I am writing up in my post.
DeleteHi Michelle, beware the dryer with the skinny fleece pants. I returned mine after they shrunk 2-3 sizes (including length). I don't mind hanging shirts to dry, but sweatpants should be able to go in the dryer IMO. I hope you have better luck with yours.
DeleteThank you for the heads up! That is quite a change! I will let them air dry.
DeleteLong-sleeve tee in stripe (01875) - I ordered this forever ago when they had the last 30% off everything (March, maybe?). It had a June ship date but I got it today.
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, it has 3/4 sleeves and says so in the description, so I'm not sure why they're calling it long-sleeved. That's fine by me, I like 3/4 sleeves. It looks white/navy on the site but is definitely ivory/navy. Fit is flattering - I took my usual S and it was not at all fitted, maybe even a teensy bit of slouch but I liked that and wouldn't size down. The fabric is substantial enough that it's not see through and felt like it would hold up in the wash. Unlike the vintage bateau top from a few years back, this one has a reinforced neckline so it won't roll over after going through the wash. I'm pleased with this one. For $45? Eh... but $31.50 is easier to swallow.
silver_lining Thanks for the review! Darn, I cancelled my pre-order. The product description states "(Luckily it comes in a slew of bright hues.)", so more colors may be on the way!
DeleteMine will be delivered on friday:)
DeleteI love the polka dot matchstick and received them last week. They feel a little bit too big but I'm afraid to size down. Those of you who have these, do they stretch? (Silly question as most JC items do, but I want to be sure.) TIA!
ReplyDeleteThe J. Crew Factory chambray boy blazer is great. I think it runs slightly small (I got the bigger of my two sizes) but the cut and fabric are perfect. I also really like the J. Crew Factory skinny ankle jeans, the Factory version of the retail toothpicks. This run slightly small too (I got one size up from my colored skinny ankle jeans from the Factory) but are really flattering and the classic rinse is a nice wash. I wore both these pieces here
ReplyDeleteMatchstick in Marquette- These are are soft and lightweight, perfect for the summer. I like the dark wash as well.
ReplyDeleteLace stripe and scallop dress - I think these both fit similar, more sheath like. This works for me since most I don't like most JC dresses with a high a dress. The scallop dress is an interesting stretchy material that is comfy, loving the poppy.
Tortoise necklace- This was larger than expected. It would be too overwhelming to wear at work. Wish it was smaller.
Jeweled collar short sleeve shirt - Much better fit than the Tilda. Took my perfect shirt size. Jewels are white and clear so it is less blingy. I think it is quite versatile and you can wear it under cardis/sweater.
Just put up reviews of the daisy lace skirt and cyrille sandal in alabaster here:
ReplyDeletehttp://onecantgetoverthehabit.blogspot.ca/2013/05/style-question-wednesday-do-you-hem.html?showComment=1368007645828#c5060330340897563216
the skirt is really lovely - a tad too short for me, but really great. The Cyrille's are wonderful. I found the strap across the toes too tight so sadly must send them back..
The tiniest of New Arrivals update today, including the Seahorse Tee I bought over the weekend and the Whale Tippi in Linen.
ReplyDeleteI tried on the seahorse tee today and thought it was cute and true to size in my usual S. It's now on my (ever growing) list.
DeleteI received in the mail yesterday the Paley Pant in super 120s in navy and the Waverly Chino in dark oak. I have the Waverly from 2 seasons ago in gray and ordered the same size--I found that the fit was consistent. And the dark oak is a traditional darker khaki color.
ReplyDeleteI was very pleased with the Paley Pant fabric, as it's definitely an all-season light and smooth wool. Unfortunately, I ordered the same size I wear in the Waverly Chino and in Cafe Capris and found the Paley to run a bit small. They technically fit, but they were too tight to tuck a shirt in and underwear lines were an issue. I'll be returning them to the store and waiting for another promo to reorder in one size up.
Call CS and they will ship the new size to you and honor the price you paid
DeleteYes, definitely call customer service, they should be able to help you exchange for another size for the same price you paid for the first pair.
DeleteThanks, will give that a try!
DeleteReview of the indigo floral cropped matchsticks.
ReplyDeleteOkay ladies I need your help...I ordered BOTH (oops!) the Sienna and Black Brompton Hobos during the 30% off promotion. The Sienna one has a hang tag indicating that dark denim may transfer to the bag due to the leather's delicate nature -- somewhat annoying but understandable. The black pebble leather Brompton has a hang tag that says the dye of the bag may transfer to clothing -- WTH??? I took a paper towel and rubbed the bag rather vigorously and a tiny bit of dye was visible...but I'm more concerned of the rubbing and friction of the bag against my clothing causing issues -- heaven forbid I get caught in a rainstorm, this bag will be bleeding all over me -- I'll be one hot mess!!! Can anyone with a black (or other similar dark color) J.Crew bag comment on dye transfer??? Help me, ladies! Keep or return the black pebbled Brompton?
ReplyDeleteI know I am probably late to the game on this one, BUT I ordered the Cece flats in my normal size 9m in tawny sand. After wearing for ten minutes they left bright red marks along the side of my toes and back of my heel. Beautiful color, would love to keep them. But does anyone know if they stretch out at all? The length is fine but the width on me seems a bit narrow.
ReplyDeleteHas anyone seen or tried the boucle jacket in black/ivory? The description says cotton. I'd really like to order, I would love a review first!
ReplyDeleteDesert Flower - Review of the boucle jacket on Amber. I tried it and it's much heavier than expected. It felt heavier and better constructed than the micro tweed jacket in pink or navy. The boucle smacks of a fall release more than spring, imo. It's cute, though.
DeleteThanks, Gigi. I need to decide if I should order and keep for fall. It's just starting to warm up around here so I won't need anything substantial for a long time. Glad to hear its good quality. And thanks Amber for the review!
DeleteI just received the Teeny Edie Purse in neon pink. It's very bright, bright enough that I'm considering sending it back for that reason alone. The bag is almost too lightweight for the stiff strap, so it doesn't really function well as a crossbody unless you have something a bit heavy in it to weigh it down. The small size does make it perfect to carry as a clutch. (The strap is easily removed and, surprisingly, easily replaced.) With the navy piping, it matches the neon pink magic wallet exactly. The construction is decent but not overwhelmingly impressive, and the strap arrived wrapped in a tight, flat loop, which makes sense for packaging but created kinks throughout the strap spaced about five inches apart. They're set enough that it'll probably take quite some time for the strap to smooth out. (I don't know the best way to accomplish this besides letting it "rest." Ideas?) The bag shipped without a dust bag, which I wasn't expecting - does anyone know if this is par for the course for J.Crew now?
ReplyDeleteReview of the Collection calf hair Janeys & golden gears necklace.
ReplyDeleteReview of the gilded dot brocade dress.
ReplyDelete