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! :)
ReplyDeleteSome reviews here.
OT - Can JCAs help me decide if having a VPS would be a good fit for me? I've recently come in contact with two VPS's, not by my choice, and they've offered their services, which I am rather curious about, but don't know if I will end up wasting their time. I've never sought out a VPS because I prefer placing my own orders on my non-JC card, which have to go through the card's website if I want bonus rewards points. I also prefer to wait for sales/percentage off offers. I would only want a VPS to consult on sizing issues and product information. Would it be better for me to just stick with regular customer service? It doesn't seem too cool for me to use the VPS as a resource but then not allow her to make commission on what I buy since I prefer to go through my credit card's website.
ReplyDeleteI don't think it matters if you use a JC card or not. I suspect VPSs get commission either way, if they receive commission. Regardless, the VPS is there to help you whether or not you make a purchase or they get commission. That is what they are paid for. I personally prefer to use VPSs on an ad hoc basis when I need assistance, for example if I need to track down an item at a store that's sold out online. They have always been helpful. I don't use a regular VPS as I prefer to do my day to day shopping on my own but I know many JCAs have one VPS they work with, visit regularly, etc. I find that when I need a VPS it is something that I want looked into right away and I don't want to work around the VPS's hours.
DeleteYou don't need to use a JC card to have the services of a VPS. When they first startedout w/VPS's, I had a couple great ones. They all kept leaving, then the ones I had weren't great and their hours were erratic and if I was stalking sale stuff, I'd be out of luck waiting for them to get back to me. Some lovely JCA here (can't remember who) gave me the the name of her VPS whose been great, but I hesitate to contact her b/c I'm a sale stalker for sure and I feel like it's a lot of work for her and not much payoff. So, I pretty much am my own VPS. I track down items for myself by calling stores and having them give me which stores have what I'm looking for and do the legwork myself. It usually works out pretty good. Of course, it's a bit time consuming but not terrible. As for my in store VPS's, they suck. I used to have a great one, but she quit. And the rest of them I feel don't care and don't even try to pick things they think I'd like. I've contacted them on occasion looking for things and they won't even look around for me. I feel they're just out for their commissions. I admit, I go to my local b&m a lot w/returns b/c I purchase more online than in store, but I don't think I should be treated like a second class citizen for it. Don't get me wrong, the in store VPS's at my b&m are very nice, but just don't seem real interested in helping me out too much. So, in short, my experience w/the VPS's has been a mixed bag, mostly not terrific. But I know others here have had phenomenal VPS's who've gone above and beyond for them.
DeleteMy former VPS assisted me in stalking sale items. Honored the sale price if an item restocked after a sale ended. Even honored any store price or discount I read about here. My new VPS doesn't offer ANY of this service. They seem to vary greatly. If you find someone you like it is a fantastic experience. They take care of returns, exchanges, anything you can imagine. Good luck.
DeleteI had the most fantastic VPS ever, who was based in the San Francisco Westfield store. Sadly, he left the business a few months ago, and since then, I've been bounced around to other VPSs who don't hold a candle to the first guy. He would search sales, honor free shipping, stack the educator discount (I work at a university), accept returns of final-sale items (since I don't live close to a retail store), answer emails in a prompt manner, etc. No one else with whom I've worked does all of these things. It's a bummer because he was so fantastic--and he didn't care that I really only bought sale items. Throughout time, I ultimately spent a lot of money with him. Wish these new VPSs could figure that out! It can be a great service, if you get the right person.
DeleteActually, if anyone out there knows of someone good, I'd love to be put in touch with him/her. My email is leahklevar@gmail.com, if you are willing to share a name or email. Thanks so much!
A new J.Crew opened nearer to me last fall so I've been shopping there mostly and have not run across a VPS there. Before that at the other store I shopped at, a VPS happened to be the person who let me into the fitting room one day, offered fabulous outfit advice, and after that I'd go to him for styling conundrums--e.g., I'd bring in something I was having trouble styling and he'd help me out (regardless if the particular item was J.Crew or not). In my personal opinion, that's what the in-store VPS's are best for: styling and fit advice.
DeleteThank you for your thoughts, JCAs!
DeleteI was lucky enough to snag the Featherweight Cashmere Cardigan in black on sale! It's hard to get the basic colors of their cashmere staples on markdown, so I feel like I lucked out a bit. JC does do many of their basics so well. This is the perfect sweater for wearing w/so many things, especially dressier outfits. I have this sweater in navy as well and I've worn them w/dresses to more dressy events and it's the perfect cover up to use that doesn't overwhelm the dress or look frumpy and inappropriate. I don't have much occasion to wear dressier dresses, or I'd buy more of these cardigans. If I worked, they'd be in constant rotation in my closet to wear w/dresses or work pants. They're super lightweight, but yet really give that warmth you need w/o overheating. And it's a classic style that I can't see ever being out of fashion. I sized up to a Medium. The sz. S fit, but I felt the M gave a smidge more room and would work over sleeves whereas if I kept the S, the sweater might have bunched in the arm if I had been wearing a sleeve as they run a little narrow in the arms.
ReplyDeleteI managed to snag the Metallic Suede Slingback pumps (item a1463) in the gold chocolate at the incredibly low price of $95 CAD (incl. taxes) a couple weeks ago, and have been meaning to write a review...it's not often I will say this about a pair of high heels, but I LOVE these shoes! The metallic finish gives the shoe a really nice edge. Right after I got them, I wore them to a fashion party downtown and felt they were perfect for the occasion. After a few hours of wear, my feet were still fine. Despite the pointed toe, these are actually pretty comfortable as the heel is not so painfully high, and the slingback gives my foot some breathing room. I usually take US 8 in J. Crew heels, and the size 8 were perfect on me (this is a half size larger than what I normally wear in J. Crew flat shoes).
ReplyDeleteSome other reviews:
ReplyDelete- Collection silk gazar top in overblown floral: LOVE! The print is so gorgeous, and well worth waiting for this item to pop back. I vary between size 4 and 6, and I took the size 4. I've worn it a couple times already and gotten so many compliments.
- Collection silk shantung wrap skirt in photo lace - another stunning print. I took size 6 in this one, which is my usual skirt/pant size at J. Crew. The wrap front shows a hint of leg as you walk. Also love the thicker silk/cotton fabric, it gives the skirt structure and a very sharp line.
Last 30% off I purchased the Panama Hat with Contrast Ribbon in citron and it is beautiful. The colors of the straw and ribbon are very summery. The material is soft and flexible, it is authentic, and it is overall a lightweight hat (I kind of wish it weighed a bit more.) I got s/m and it is true to their sizing chart, meaning it measures the largest of the mdm size. My head is very small, like 20", so at 22 1/4 this is large for me but it is so pretty I am going to try to band the inside with ribbon to shrink the circumference.
ReplyDeleteOn a side note: looking to hear feedback on their Linen Sweaters. Item A524- v-neck linen sweater in garment dye. How do these hold up? thx :)
I don't know about the long haul, but so far so good. I just got the garment dyed, linen v-neck and I really like it. It feels pretty soft for linen. I went down one size and I can still easily layer it over a tank. If you want to layer it over something with sleeves, I would stick with your usual size. I bought the light pond, IRL it looks like a pale turquoise blue, not as green as appears on my monitor. Slightly sheer, but I expected that. Definitely considering buying another, perhaps in the yarn dye.
DeleteReview of the swiss-dot flounce sleeve dress.
ReplyDeleteThe pearl and petals bracelet is still reg price online vs $49.99 in-store, review here.
..and addtl 40% off final sale was still going in-store as of yesterdayy, 6/2.
DeleteI can't believe I'm saying this but I'm so bored with jcrews offerings these days. Anyone else with the same sentiments? Sorry this should be in vent section. Still love all u jcas though :)!
ReplyDeleteYep. Nothing for me in stores. Saving for fall.
DeleteCan anyone comment on the sizing of the Hugo Guinness Ts? I usually wear an XS in Perfect Fit/vintage Ts and a S in the Painter Ts. I know the Hugo Ts are linen, and the last time I bought a linen T from Factory in XS it was huge. Thinking of buying the sold out Blah Blah Blah T on eBay and worried the XS might be too big.
ReplyDeleteI usually wear a S in all shirts at jcrew, but I always have to get an XS in the linen tees. I recently got the Hugo "Yes Yes Yes" tee and the XS was perfect.
DeleteI just got the Blah Blah tee on a lucky popback day. I usually wear a 4 in boyshirts, 6 in perfect shirts, small in cotton tees & sweaters and got an Xs in this.
DeleteI am a true size 0 and got the xxs in the blablah tee. It is a perfect fit.
DeleteYesterday I saw signs for the linen chevron maxi, on promo for $89.50. Retail is $148.
ReplyDeleteJust a quick heads up: I was quite excited to see this promo and emailed my VPS to see if she would match it and it turns out the promo is for the Crepe Maxidress and the Stripe Tank Maxidress. The linen chevron maxi is still FP - but it does look great on you Gigi!
DeleteI just called and my store gave me the same info. I came to report back but you beat me to it Luxette! Looks like I'll have to stalk a little longer!
DeleteLuxette & Jamie - They totally have $89.50 price point signs right above the chevron dress and the maxi tank dress in stripe is the one that's actually on promo.
DeleteIf you notice I said "I saw signs for," so I'm glad you ladies scoped it out. Thanks for posting the update. J Crew is so bad with signage and pricing it's downright absurd.
Definitely no worries Gigi! When I called, the sales associate immediately corrected me with information for the two other maxi dresses. I got the impression that she had been correcting people all day ha. I'm so happy for JCAs and the online wishlist feature, it makes stalking so much easier!
DeleteJamie - I think the SAs are confused, too, and signed the chevron in error. The correct dress was who knows where in the store. It definitely wasn't under the sign.
DeleteHappy stalking ;)
Sorry this is such a late review, but it hadn't been warm enough for me to wear the shorts and tee until recently. And I kept forgetting to do a written review here before today. :)
ReplyDeleteAnyhow, I posted some photos with fairly brief reviews of the factory printed pull-on shorts (the Vacationland shorts dupe) and the factory umbrella collector tee. Cute items, and like I said in the post, I am really glad I waited for the Factory versions versus buying the "real" versions last year.
Following are a few of my latest purchases.
ReplyDelete1. Boy shirt in stripe gauze (a5360)
I own about 5 or 6 boy shirts and so far all of them have been a perfect fit on me -- fitted, but not tight, no gaping or bunching. Expecting the same great fit in this shirt, I was initially a bit disappointed because it felt looser and there was some bunching in the lower back area. (You can see the bunching on the model's back shot, too.) I figured the looseness was intentional, and I didn't mind it for most part since I like that roomy, flowing, casual style, but the bunching fabric in the back bothered me a bit. The shirt fits well in the shoulders and arms. Despite the bunching issue, I decided to keep it because I loved the feel of the fabric and the print. As mentioned by others, the blue color is not "true blue" as it is called on the website, but is rather a gray blue. Nevertheless, the color is beautiful and I actually prefer it. I also love that the stripes are of uneven widths, further emphasizing the casual vibe of this garment.
2. Linen popover in stripe (a3578)
Classic linen fare, so prepare to embrace the wrinkles :) Fit is looser in the body, but I didn't mind it in this style. The fabric is not too thin, and I got away with wearing a darker bra underneath without revealing too much. What I love the most is the blue color and the thin white stripe -- pretty and classic at the same time. I like to imagine myself wearing this top on the beach with white linen pants and a big hat. Oh, the dreams of a landlocked Midwesterner! :)
3. Baseball cap in liberty Nina Taylor floral (13398)
This is an older purchase, but since it is still on the website I thought I'd include it here. Simply put, I love this cap! At first, I wasn't sure about the print, thinking that it might look too juvenile on me. But I'm here to tell you that it has quickly become my favorite cap for outdoor activities, walking my doggies, etc. What I appreciate the most is the light (white) color background that just feels summery, and the fit is spot on. The cap is cute without being overly sweet.
4. Downing tote in english saddle (a4399)
I have been going between the downing tote and the transport tote from Madewell forever. Finally, I decided to grab the downing tote on a recent promo mainly because it is smaller than the transport tote and I didn't want the bigger bag overwhelm my fairly small frame. The downing tote is the perfect size for me; roomy without dwarfing me. The leather is sturdy, but soft and I'm not ashamed to admit that I've been sneaking sniffs of the wonderful leather smell since receiving the bag :) I own the newsstand tote in leopard from a few year ago and love it, but I don't like that it sags so badly. To prevent any potential sagging in the downing, I'll ask my hubby to cut a sturdy bottom out of cardboard or something like that for the bag. I wish manufacturers would do a better job reinforcing the tote bottoms to begin with. There's a small wallet included with the bag; not sure what I'll use it for, perhaps some change. There are no interior pockets as the bag is left unlined, but I'm ok with that. I'm planning to organize the contents by dividing the smaller items I carry around into a couple of ziplock bags. Overall, a great summer tote.
I hope this helps someone. Have a great day!
1. Collection Eyelet Flounce Top in Black
ReplyDeleteSuch a cool top! Fits TTS - a tad snug on the chest area (for reference I am 36B), but I could still move around it. I chose black because of the eyelet on the shoulder and I like how the layered ruffle is not as obvious in that color, although the white is pretty as well; I just think it's hard to maintain - cleaning, keeping it white...
2. Scalloped Shirt in Stripe
Ordered this in size 2. Fits TTS. The scallop adds a touch of cuteness. Although it was a little cumbersome to fasten the buttons because it's behind the placket, but I didn't mind it. I'd probably wear it casual with white jeans, with the sleeves rolled up.
A few factory reviews on my blog:
ReplyDelete-floral embroidered mini in neon-
cami dress
-printed cover up
-printed blouse
-roller girl skirt
You can see it here.
This is a review of an actual JCrew store. I visited the sore on Lincoln Rd in Miami today. This is a "specialty" store. I did not like the way it was merchandised. It was by colori think. They had many items I had not seen before but I really couldn't make heads or tails out of the store. No sale section...Really? They had sale stuff but half of it wasn't marked and if you didn't know it was on sale you wouldn't know. It was just mixed in the racks. The SA told me to come back tomorrow as they would have markdowns tonight. How would I find them??????
ReplyDeleteHas anyone tried the bib tunic in bell floral? It looks so awesome in the catalog with the white skinny zipper pant in the catalog...
ReplyDeleteI tried the pants and they were super sheer.
DeleteBeautiful print though.
I tried the bib tunic in bell floral. The neckline is low so I think it is probably meant as a cover-up, but you could make it work as a top which is what I wanted it for. It is sheer but airy so it's not that noticeable that it's sheer, if that makes sense. It would be great to wear on a hot day when you want some coverage. The low neckline is my only hesitation.
DeleteReview for:
ReplyDelete- Piped Andie Chino, British khaki: My first online order of Jcrew bottoms. I was hesitant due to the final sale (aka non returnable) but now I'm so glad I bit the bullet. I'm 5'2, usually a 27 in Toothpick, 26 in Matchstick, between 26 and 27 for AG Stilt, and usually 2P for Gap jeans. I went with the 0 regular and the fit was perfect. I plan to wear them as normal length instead of the cropped look and the 28" inseam is perfect. It's a tiny bit small in the waist, but I do expect it to stretch out over the day. The fabric is a sturdy, thick one, but did not make me sweat.
- Peasant top in Flowerpatch print: Got in a size 0. I'm usually XS/0/2 for the top. Size 0 fits perfectly and hides all my not so flat tummy. Long sleeve but very lightweight and airy. Will probably wear with rolled up sleeves over the summer.
Update on the Peasant top in Flowerpatch print: the opening cut in front is a tiny bit low. I used a safety pin to pin the two sides together at about half an inch up and it was fine. The top is double layers at the neckline too, so the outside part isn't rruined by pinning. I imagine it should be easy to sew them together, too, if you worry about decency.
DeleteI finally received the Point Sur jeans that were mis-marked last week. They were about $53, normally 198 and not final sale. I grabbed two pairs - size 29 and 30. I'm a 29 or 8 in almost everything and these were true to size. They are very, very soft and stretchy. It almost feels like I was wearing leggings. I wasn't too sure about the fact that they were SO high waisted (like cover your bellybutton high waisted), but I tried them on with a tucked in blouse and heels, and they look great. I'm not sure I'd wear them everyday, but they are going to be my "going out" jeans. They are definitely slimming. This is off topic, but I have only been shopping at JCrew for a short time, but I am amazed at the number of website problems they have. No reviews, then reviews, mis-marked items - You would think a company of this size would have it together by now. Ive been shopping at GAP for a lot longer, and I've never experienced any errors like this. Anyway, not complaining, just sayin'
ReplyDeleteAren't there some new items on the Factory website?
ReplyDeleteFactory printed bow-back top - item A5819
Factory camo collector tee - item A5147
Factory printed strapless peplum top - item A7015
Factory strapless peplum top in eyelet - item A7094
Also, Ann Taylor has an umbrella tee - style # 340423
A few more items that just arrived...
ReplyDelete1. Kiki studded ballet flats in bright kiwi (a1088)
These are currently final sale, but at that price point I thought what the heck. I already have and love the same Kikis in mineral grey, so it was a fairly safe bet. The fit is TTS. These shoes are some of the softest leather kicks I own and oh so comfortable! Like slipping your foot into a buttery soft glove. The color pictured online is very misleading though. It's not yellow or even yellow with a greenish tint. Rather, it's neon yellow, as in highlighter yellow, so beware. Oh well... I'll keep them and wear them with some of the punk floral items I own or I'll try to tone them down with some dark blues. I love the tiny studs that appear to be rose gold in this particular colorway.
2. Evie metallic midheel sandals in metallic platinum
Love these sandals. I took my usual size 7 and they fit TTS. I have no idea why they named this color platinum, but IRL they are just gold. Maybe light gold. But, I already knew that from the website as the color pictured is pretty close to IRL. The leather upper is a bit stiff, but I imagine it will give a little with wear. Cute little sandals for summer, I just need to get my pasty skin tanned.
Saving the best for last :)
3. Collection Etta printed cap toe pumps in foulard silk (02933)
After reading Audrybella's review last year I was sold. So were the pumps. However, recently they've popped back online a couple of times.The first time I ordered them, they didn't ship and I decided to take it as a sign that it wasn't meant to be. Then they appeared online again. In my size. And NOT on FS! So I jumped on them and lo and behold, they shipped.
These pumps are gorgeous IRL. Fit is TTS, and unlike some of the other Ettas I own they don't feel tight in the toe box. The foulard print and the colors are fabulous. Love, love these shoes and can't wait to wear them.
I just receive the same Evies. I thought the leather was too stiff and will rub with wear. I wanted to wear them today, but felt nervous. I don't wantto get stuck with torture shoes. If you wear them, would you mind letting us know if the leather gets softer? Thank you.
DeleteIvanka & A - I would guess a shoe stretching spray would work well on the inside of the of the strap and wherever else you feel the Evies need to form better to your foot.
DeleteI ordered the Evie Midheel sandals to try but they rubbed badly just during try-on (high up on my heels). They were definitely going to be a problem on me so I didn't keep them. I liked the style a lot, though. Maybe I should have tried working on them like Gigi suggested.
DeleteCate, I agree the leather on the back was so stiff. That's the part that had me the most concerned. I don't know if that can soften over time because its so stiff. What a shame. They are so cute.
DeleteLadies, I'm always willing to suffer (to a point) for my shoes, lol. As I said, I haven't worn the Evies out yet, just tried them on. The leather is definitely stiff, but didn't feel that uncomfortable to me. It's all relative, right? :) I'll have to wear them around the house for awhile to see if there's any rubbing that might become painful if worn for an extended period of time. Gigi, always a source of great info, thanks!
DeleteHooded Basketweave Jacket. This is oversized, shapeless and bland. I hope I can return it, I really dislike it.
ReplyDeleteLinen Lace-Trim Tank. This is wonderful. I bought it in the navy on navy color.
Aloha Tee. This is very oversized and boxy. Kind of cute, but not my style.
Sundry La Mer Tee. Very strange shape. I thought it would be a muscle tee shape, but did not expect the armholes to be gigantic. Clearly it's meant to be worn over something. Will return.
Linen Baseball Tee. Very cute.
Linen Cargo Pant. Cute but like a commenter on the web site said, the back pockets are lumpy, especially after putting them through the washer and dryer (but they didn't shrink). I like them enough to figure out some way to improve the pockets. Even before I washed them, they were a bit lumpy looking.
I posted a few J.Crew reviews with pics on my blog here.
ReplyDeleteA few new cuts this morning -
ReplyDelete* arrow-print dress (review) - now $79.99
* cove floral surf dress (review) - now $119.99
* photo floral sweatshirt (review) - now $49.99
Today is the last day for an addtl 30% off w/SWEET.
Thanks for the sale update on the Arrow-print dress, Gigi! I plan on buying the flax color. I was inspired by Ema's review when she mentioned about cutting it, and making it into a top. I would love to that since I'll be able to wear it more as a top.
Delete*...would love to DO that...
DeleteJSR - Ema's idea to alter the arrow print dress was genius.
DeleteNew Photo Floral D-Cup bathing suit review on my blog:
ReplyDeletehttp://jcrewgal.blogspot.com/2014/06/d-cup-bathing-suits-at-j-crew.html
Has anyone tried the Jacquard Back-zip sweatshirt? I am wondering about the sizing. Thanks,
ReplyDelete.
Click here for some of yesterday's cuts. I've listed the store prices for many of them as well. The good news is that in-store prices and online prices seem to be matching up for the most part. Remember the stores have been offering an addtl 40% off final sale.
ReplyDeleteFactory - Reviews of the long-sleeve stripe dress in grey, short-sleeve stripe anchor popover & coral tweed blazer...right this way.
ReplyDelete