"
Thanks!" to many of you
, including Lisa T &
Dmitri (in this
post), as well as TeriLynn13 (in this
post), who let us know that J.Crew had an update to its website this morning (click
here to view online).
There are some new arrivals for
men (click
here) &
women (click
here). {
wahoo!} It looks like
Crewcuts (click
here) has been updated, as did the
J.Crew Collection (click
here).
The
Holiday catalog (click
here to view) is still up. Wondering if they will put up a new catalog anytime soon...
Early Spring is not my favorite season for clothes in general. Retailers want to switch to warm weather clothes and I am still living in my cold temperature coats. With that said, I did find a few items I am interested in...
The Structured flutter tee (item
C0770; $55.00) is cute on the model. Will be curious to see if the fit is just as cute in real life.
I am a sucker for cute accessories and pouches. Of course the Eyeglass Case (item
C1395; $19.50) called to me. This will be mine!
I am still in sweater weather mode so of course the Mixed-stripe sweater (item
C0370; $89.50) caught my eye. Stripes? Yes please!
I love the Rose gold crystal necklace (item
C5170; $45.00) for its simplicity and delicateness. Just a stunning necklace to wear with jeans or with that little black dress. Perfection!
PROMO TIME! J.Crew is offering 40 to 50% off Sale items using promo code
SALETIME. This offer expires February 1, 2015. They are also offering
free shipping on all orders for just today.
What items are you most excited
about and why? Which items are you surprised (or not surprised) to
see? Which items did you hope would be included? Were you
expecting a bigger roll-out? Also, did you receive the
latest catalog? :)
I like the new pink petal color for swim suits. they did alot of the same styles but I really like the pink color but will wait for promo to order it.
ReplyDeleteThere is nothing I like that I'm dying to have. I am underwhelmed. I went yesterday to make a return and my B&M had new stuff out, and nothing looked fresh and new to me. Same zippers on skirts and on sides of tops AGAIN. Sparkle sweaters, really? That firework floral print that was made in shirts, pants and dresses; the print is not that great in person. I kind of like the grosgrain ribbon blouse, but it looks so trendy that it'll be a copy for factory this fall..
ReplyDeleteAnd I can't believe there are no shoes to love. Not a single one that I'm lusting over.
Oh well. Money saved.
The sparkle sweaters for a spring rollout are definitely perplexing, but not nearly as much as the blue metallic sweatpants. There is also a longish (calf-length?) full pleated skirt made out of the same material, which, as I mentioned in an earlier post, may have worked much better during the holidays. It's a very rich jewel tone, which doesn't really scream "Here comes the warmer weather!"
DeleteThere are still a number of nice statement necklaces that aren't on the website yet. Many with jewels and little pink flowers. There's also a green version of the crystal foliage necklace (or very similar) that is really beautiful. I bought the full spectrum crystal necklace, which pops a lot more irl than online. Looks great with the peacock blue Ryder pant (also MUCH better irl - the photo doesn't do the color justice). Ryder pant is great, but size up. The rule seems to be that if you buy the black, size up one size. Any other color, you may want to make it two.
Inkblot sweatshirt - meh. Very short, and it looks exactly like that slouchy old sweatshirt that you wear every time you do some painting around the house. "I ruined this years ago when I painted the ceiling white, so now I just wear it anytime I do a home renovation project."
Shoes - there's a cute pair of Vans loafers in silver coming out. Not the dark-ish silver that's been there for a while, but bright. The metallic silver d'Orsay also looks cute, but I haven't tried it on. Maybe today.
There's still another rollout (maybe next week or the week after) that features much more mint with navy. Not too crazy about that combo, but I hear that most people are liking it.
there's a few things I like... but I can hold off on ordering them until there's a promo and my rewards card (which does anyone know when they're arriving? )
ReplyDeleteI hope there is a disappointing lack of sales for them today. I will not buy anything without a % off full price.
DeleteSame here. I was hoping for some kind of discount promotion on the new arrivals today.
DeleteAlso sad no new Cece colors. I need a new Navy pair and have been obsessing ever since they announced they were bringing them back.
ReplyDeleteI thought the sale section would be overflowing today...probably soon but not today.
ReplyDeleteNothing is calling me....again. It does not look like spring to me!
ReplyDeleteJust a couple of items I like... the mushroom leather cuff and the rose gold crystal necklace.
ReplyDeleteI did go to my local store last night and picked up the Nike New Balance in the metallic gold/salt and the champagne/lime colors. I was able to use the third party 20% on them.
minniemousemiami, it sounds like we have similar taste! The only two things I want from this rollout are the mushroom leather cuff and the gold/salt New Balance shoes. I haven't tried any of the New Balance shoes from jcrew. Did you find that they were tts? Do they run more narrow or wide?
DeleteI actually bought my regular shoe size. I have a few of the older colorful new balance sneakers from J Crew last year so, from previously sizing down a half size I ended up giving them to my daughter. They are a tad bit narrow too. My regular size is perfect! Hope that helps.
DeleteMy personal shopper told me that the metallic gold sneaker was selling quickly.
I like both of these as well. Will be curious about your review on the leather cuff.
DeleteI did not see the leather cuffs at my store last night but, they hadn't finished unpacking the boxes. I will be sure to if I see them later this week:)
DeleteI have an old one from Banana Republic from years ago and it's really similar. Hoping JC cuff will be nice too:)
minniemousemiami, thanks for the reply! I have my size on hold at the local store. It's weird that they aren't showing up online and the other color is saying it's sold out because the sales associate said they had plenty in stock and she doesn't think she has sold a single pair since they arrived Monday. Also, I asked about the leather cuff and she said they didn't have it yet but they were supposed to get another shipment on Friday. So, maybe check your store again next week?
DeleteLauren thanks, I'll try on Friday (the jewelry was 25% off last night in the store) hopefully, it will be the same on Friday especially if the get that cuff. Also, I do believe the metallic gold NB will sell out faster than the champagne/lime. Weird about online right? I saw that as well. They (NB) also come in a red/blue color I only glanced though.
DeleteI purchased all three metallic sweaters from my CS a couple of weeks ago. I really like them and think they work well even on a cool summer night. I'm going to style them on my blog soon.
ReplyDeleteBut, I agree with you that spring is not my favorite season. I'm still pretty shopped out from Christmas. There isn't much that's calling out to me. I do like the nautical looking Rope Cord Earrings and Floral Cluster necklace/earrings.
Heather
Partial to Pink
Hi just wondering, are the metallic sweaters true to size? Thx!
DeleteYes, TTS. I styled the lilac one on the blog today. I popped into my CS store, and they were almost completely sold out of all colors -- only had the slate gray one left in a few sizes.
DeleteThe sweater looks great on you! I have the metallic cardigans in silver and gold from a few years back and love them. The slate gray is definitely the color on my radar now. Thanks for posting your review.
DeleteI talked about the new arrivals today, in this post. I don't get the side-zips on the shirts, either. Let that go. I'm not interested in the ribbon shirt now that I know it's poly. I just picked up a $15.80 top from F21 last week. No fancy ribbon details, but the poly fabric feels nice to the touch and the short, flutter sleeves are pretty. J Crew retail has become very J Crew factory. It's odd. That said, I do like some of the stripe items and I see some definite improvements overall.
ReplyDeleteI'm not exactly sure how any of this works, but isn't it going to take a season or two to dump the dropped shoulders, side-zips, oversized/wide tops and coats? Isn't everything preordered months ahead?
DeleteSo due to my profession, I like the side zips- finally get to wear cute tops with out bunching behind my weapon or tucked in. Disappointed in the new collection though: broken in chinos- I still can't wear those to work..they have fraying...not work appropriate (bring back the everyday chinos). The others are two slim or too cropped- if I'm in the office fine I can wear them (not frayed though) but if I need to out in the streets i'd look so stupid...
DeleteCece flats- where are the colors? these are dull and more fall thatn spring
Fire work popover- sleeveless? not interested.
The ribbon top- I liked that but didn't really LIKE LIKE it...
Jewelry was nice but bummed some necklace are so close to the neck...I like them to hang down a bit so they dont' interfere with collars.
I'm gonig to go to a B&M today to see if there's stuff not offered online. But really want a promo before purchasing anything.
I think the ribbon shirt in poly is my biggest disappointment from this roll-out. Nice, saturated colors that lend themselves to great combinations (I love the brick red with the yellow coffee cup in the Pinterest photo), but I am not interested in polyester. At all. If that shirt was silk, it would be on its way to me in a couple of colors.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteHi st - from my understanding it probably won't be until Fall '15 that we'll see any design changes. I think by the time they realized the huge loss, this stuff from today's rollout was already produced and well on its way to stores.
DeleteMeh. I guess it is too soon to see a turn-around in design. But it is also hard to see just more of the same blech that is driving me away from Crew. Oh well, I've had really good luck lately on Ebay, Poshmark and Tradesy finding vintage Crew in my size. That is where my attention will stay until Jenna and Co get act on all our suggestions.
ReplyDeleteI hate all of the polyester. I understand it is everywhere now, but I'm not paying $98 for a poly top. No way, never. I agree with Federal Agent Fashionista, we need stylish pants that can actually be worn in the workplace. The firework popover was really pretty in person but cheesecloth thin and sheer. So tired of dropped shoulders, zips, sheer fabrics and POLYESTER!
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThird time is a charm! A review of the Sleeveless Sequin Firework Floral Top here The print is stunning in my opinion. HTH!
ReplyDeleteGigi mentioned the great markdown price on the Ludlow gold linen pants. I bit, hope they ship! I also grabbed a waffle knit cashmere "funnel" scarf for $44 on the RL site, will be good for days when a giant infinity thing is too much. I hope. Anyway that's not FS. No thrills from this morning's JC rollout, sigh.
ReplyDeleteHi, anyone have sizing advice on the Ludlows? I like them but they're final sale. Thanks.
DeleteI recall a JCA mentioning that she bought tem but had to have them really 'reworked' by a tailor because the fit was so strange.
DeleteThey were given to me as a gift and I had to return even thought they were very cute in concept. Too large in the waist and tight in the calves....
DeleteLiza - I tried on the Ludlows w/the sequin stripes. They're like performance band pants. As if I were playing an instrument in a parade. They have that vibe a little bit, but I tried them on today and thought they were cool. Thank goodness because I bought them last week on final sale. I wear 6, but chose a 4 based on measurements and (I think) reviews said they stretch out with wear. The 4 I tried today were just a little tight, but if they stretched out a little bit, they'd be fine. I wish I could see the 6 because I wonder if I would like a slightly slouchy fit. However, I don't know if that would make the sequin stripe sag a little. Check them out on Ema -> front view & the side view.
DeleteWendy reviewed the gold Ludlows in this post. She said she has a flat rear and had them taken in on the sides. I haven't seen them irl, but I tried on the shorts and I think the fabric/color are the same as the pants.
Ludlow pants in gold linen & Ludlow pant with sequin tuxedo stripe
Size 4 - waist = 33", hip = 39.5"
Size 6 - waist = 34", hip = 40.5"
HTH
Nothing that screams out I need it immediately! The pieces I am interested in are poly which I will not buy at the price points offered. As others pointed out I will just wait until it gets knocked off in factory in four months made out of more poly if I really feel I still want it. Still disappointed. Oh well at least my credit card bill has been non existent. There were some nice additions to the sale section today and I grabbed two cashmere sweaters on sale that are not final sale. About 100 items added.
ReplyDeleteI haven't really had time to look much yet but I really like the look of the COLLECTION CHIFFON FRINGE SWEATER
ReplyDelete$228.00 item C0368 COLOR: wheat. I would love to see a try on!
i'm interested in the tilly cardigan- but not without a promo.
ReplyDeletei did pick up the heather lavendar tippi. the color is gorgeous and is on sale.
Quite a few things I love in this roll-out! Love that the colors are lighter (tan, beige, ivory, pastels) and more spring like. Also loving the jewelry, feels like the J Crew we used to know;-)). Love the Reese pinstripe pant, the midweight stripe tee, the new Regent blazer and the d'orsay flats.
ReplyDeleteI like the dark cognac and blue tones of the firework floral top, but I think it was a huge mistake to make it in poly- in the past, these kinds of tops would be silk and not that much higher in price.
ReplyDeleteI am very interested in the Tilly cardigans- I hope they make some more colours! Sometimes I want something a bit warmer than a Jackie cardigan, and I didn't like the thick neckline of the tippi cardigans (though I love the pullovers)
The only things I liked from this rollout are the classic chevron one-piece swimsuit and braided leather cord bracelet, neither of which I'd pay FP for. The rest of the rollout was pretty disappointing to me with the cheap fabrics and more-of-the-same design elements. The overall cheapness of the construction keeps becoming more apparent, especially in the not-long "long sleeves" of the indigo gauze popover, the elastic waistbands on the boyfriend shorts and drapey chinos, and whatever that seaming is on the bonded reversible sweater that looks not really reversible!
ReplyDeleteThe descriptions do seem more amusing than usual this rollout. It looks like the CFS is working overtime to sell some of this stuff.
Agreed about the chevron one piece - unique and cool. The leather bracelets are nice too.
DeleteAgreed about the crazy descriptions - the Collection encrusted necklace sheath should be worn to the office? What office is that exactly?
Does anyone from this site actually follow fashion! J crew's new arrivals are exactly on trend for spring 2015 and they do it in a very wearable way. Shiny metallic fabrics and fringe were everywhere on the spring runway. Extra details like, zippers and dropped shoulders are currently in style and modern. The oversized fit is still on trend and everywhere. Is j crew suppose to make clothes that aren't in-style because i truly don't understand some of the comments on here. Polyester is everywhere today, including very high end designers that charge a lot more than $98 for a shirt. There are also a bunch of silk blouses in the new arrivals for people who prefer silk. the COLLECTION CHIFFON FRINGE SWEATER is gorgeous, the regent blazer is a classic with an updated clean and modern appeal, the COLLECTION STANDING-COLLAR LEATHER JACKET is perfection and will sell out, the martie, ankle-zip and reese pants are all current cuts that are office appropriate, love the COLLECTION SLOUCHY WOOL PANT that is very modern and looks cozy yet chic, the DOUBLE-TWILL FLOUNCED DRESS is so feminine yet simple, love the DRAPEY OXFORD CREPE SHIRTDRESS which was everywhere on the spring runway, the METALLIC PLEATED MIDI SKIRT is gorgeous and was also all over the spring runway, the swing skirts are so delicate and feminine for spring, every collection piece is beautiful especially the COLLECTION TROPICAL WOOL JUMPSUIT which is my absolute favorite, love all the D'ORSAY FLATS especially the mirror metallics, every CYPRUS SANDAL is a perfect simple slide with a clean modern appeal, the EATON SUEDE ANKLE BOOTS are a basic must have for every closet...... I could go on, but as usual j crew nailed it! combining what's happening on the runway and making it practical and wearable for the masses.
ReplyDeleteWe do follow fashion, but as many on this blog have commented, part of what we used to love about Crew was that it was timelessly stylish, not trendy. We liked it because we hate polyester and poorly-cut clothing. Just because something is trendy or stylish doesn't make it a good idea.
DeleteAgreed, Sarah. And the huge sales section (and poor financial results) back up what we on this blog have been commenting about for the last few years. The old Crew is sorely missed. The new Crew desperately needs to figure out what it wants to be. And I suggest that Mickey take a good long look at Men's Crew; it is everything Women's isn't. Of course they have wonderful Frank. I dream that Frank will someday ask him to do the Women's line...
DeleteKatie I agree. There is a lot to like in this roll out that is on trend. I don't get all thee complaints. I enjoy coming to this site for inspiration and reviews but am dumbfounded that so many want outdated "classic" wear. Go to Land's End or Loft. Whatever, I am glad that JCrew is on top of the trends because most of what they offer -- and some of it is straight off the runway--I can afford.
DeleteAnd BTW, what is "old JCrew" ? I have been shopping with them since 2003 and I've yet to come across something that will hold up for the ages.
DeleteKatie - I am with you. They are very on trend, and there are many similar styles at high end designers. However, even though I do buy plenty of clothing from designers outside of j crew, I still will NOT buy polyester at any price from any designer. I am not the old school J Crew customer - never wore crewneck wool sweaters with critters or plaid shirts in any form. It is obvious when a J Crew Metallic Side Slit sweater made of a poly blend that is rougher than burlap is priced at $128.00, that they KNOW it will need to have promos and mark downs - and I predict you will see this sweater - especially the disco 80's lavender one - in the clearance section. The cost cutting use of cheaper fabrics is not being embraced on the higher end, as it is at H&M or Forever 21, and as you can tell, this group of JCA's are rejecting it season after season. Although I am a customer that orders many Collection items, the majority of members here cannot afford to buy those. The business clothing, including pencil skirts, and classic cardigans are being missed at JC, as well as longer pants. Not everyone works where trendy clothing for work is ok. My daughter (age 25) can not wear most of the JC line where she works - and she is in Miami! She has also figured out that the polyesters do not work in Florida at all. She always thought it was me and 'my age' lol.
DeletePlenty of us here shop at J Crew for the classic timeless pieces or so we used to. A Tippi sweater or cotton pencil skirt will never go out of style. I will say these items are by no means trendy but will stand the test of time. If I want an on trend poly piece that will be out of style in a year there is no need to purchase at the price points J crew is charging. F21 or h&m are just fine for cheap trendy pieces. I guess we are just disappointed to see j crew moving in the direction of trendy pieces when that never was there bread and butter. If it was working for them I would say great but by the massive loss they posted, tons of items in the online sales section and plenty more shop worn lookng sale items in the store I would say it is not working for them. Just my two cents.
Deletemo and suzy- i'm so glad to have found other people on here with similar thoughts! so thank you for your reply and understanding. I agree with the polyester-i'm not a fan either. my only point was that it is everywhere including high end designers, so it's not just a j crew thing. There are a bunch of brands, like equipment, that make beautiful silk blouses if you want to spend the money. But j crew is NOT going to increase the quality of their fabrics without highly increasing the prices- its no longer cost efficient for them and they're not going to increase their prices in this economy either.
DeleteAs for j crew being too trendy i still don't see how. The majority of their pieces are still basics, like denim jackets, pants and jeans, blouses and perfect shirts, the tippy sweater and all the cashmere sweaters are timeless and basic, the majority of skirts are all classic cuts. Nothing in fashion is timeless! Even a simple black dress changes- cut, style, length and drape change over the years. you can tell if someone is wearing a black dress from 8 years ago-it looks dated! Even if a pencil skirt is "timeless", who wants to wear a pencil skirt every year for their life? the entire point about art and fashion is that it changes! f21 and h&m are cheap and look cheap! J crew still looks 100 times better because their fabrics and cuts are better overall. I'm not arguing that j crew is perfect, there are a lot of things they could be doing better like any store. But no one comes close to doing want j crew does at this price point. I think the reason the numbers are bad is because the economy and shopping trends- it's all changing. Even Malls are closing across the country because people aren't shopping in malls anymore. people aren't spending their money either and many stores and businesses are hurting.
Nope, don't follow fashion/runway, don't really care what's on trend. I either like something or I don't. In this rollout, some I like, some I don't. I think they're trying to offer something for everyone.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteSuzy summed it up perfectly for me.
DeleteI am not an " old school" jcrew shopper amd never liked preppy or the the Lands End-isch look.So glad Jcrew is keeping up with the trends! That doesnt mean though that i like everything they bring out It would be so boring if they stay the same.
I agree that natural materials like silk are preferable,but i do love so e of the poly pieces like the pleated lattice skirt.
Just playing devil's advocate here, but one could argue they're behind the fashion curve when it comes to their denim. Flare jeans are making a comeback and they're nowhere to be found at JC.
DeleteYou're right; J. Crew is totally on trend with what it's offering, but that doesn't mean I like the clothes. I know the fashion gurus say that this is what's in style right now, but I feel free to disagree with them and say that these clothes don't look good. Given the sales slump, J. Crew needs to decide if it's going to appeal to the market or to the fashion industry.
DeleteSo why isn't JC's "on-trend" clothing selling?
DeleteAnd how long is a trend? JC has been offering the zippered stuff for-eeeeeever.
Um, do you? Just because they throw in an oversized drop-shoulder coat doesn't make them Stella McCartney. The bulk of J.Crew's clothes nowadays are hideously outdated. Their jewelry has barely changed in a decade—I get chunky rhinestone collar necklaces have an audience but they're old news. Studs, zippers, cheap lace are all years old. Every other retailer's dropped them but J.Crew produces the same items items years on end. Each season used to be fresh but now you can't even tell the difference between summer and winter. Metallic Floral Sailor Tee? Sorry, but that's just hideous. Looks like something you'd find at Old Navy in 2005—about as far as you can get from high fashion. Same with the studded metallic tee, the soaring birds tee, and those awful repetitive graphic tees with the bad French. The tee with the floral shoulders and striped sleeves is aesthetically astounding. The drawstring top in cotton oxford? Oy vey. Sorry, but it looks like a bad 2008 throwback had a love tryst with a hospital gown. The outfits manage to make the models look frumpy—can you imagine what they'd look like on the normal woman? The metallic pleated midi skirt would make anyone look shapeless. Absolutely nothing sleek, nothing modern, and definitely nothing forward thinking. The few items they do include that are somewhat recent—like the oversized coats—are terribly cut and cheaply made. The yo-yoing, misguiding pricing structure doesn't help. J.Crew didn't go the way of it's competitors in the '90s (Gap, BR, etc.,) over all these years because they produced classic, gorgeously colored clothing that fit any trend and didn't go out of style. I know she has her fans, but Jenna Lyons destroyed that and I can almost guarantee J.Crew will be out of date within the next decade. Seriously, no offense to anyone, but if you asked teenager from a very fashion-free area what "cool clothes" look like, I imagine this is what you'd get.
DeleteA- i actually do follow fashion and have a degree in fashion. i never claimed they were stella McCartney, in fact i said they are combining what's happening on the runway and making it practical and wearable for the masses. They are hideously outdated? All you talked about were tee's and jewelry, neither which i addressed in my original comment and I don't wear tee's and don't consider them "fashionable". I personally don't wear costume jewelry so I'm not going to comment on that, other than to say that the orb pendant, tassel earrings, pendant necklaces, rope cord necklace, threaded choker necklace, raffia cuff bracelet are just a few new arrivals that are on trend and were all over the spring runway! pleated midi skirts were on every major spring runway which looked beautiful on every model and look great on many women. not sure what you mean by "normal woman"? FYI-All clothing goes out of style at some point. You might want to look at what was shown on the spring 2015 runways because it wasn't j crew from 10 years ago and you seem a bit lost. I'm not sure what your comment about a teenager even meant? The fashion industry designs for the younger generation so I really don't understand your point.
DeleteWe go through this same conversation here with many a rollout… No one is going to convince anyone else to change positions. If someone doesn't like something, they don't like it. If they do, they're going to keep liking it.
DeleteI don't mind the poly, and I think some of the styles/cuts are an interesting departure from the "classic" jcrew aesthetic and are on-trend. Of course, Katie, fashion evolves and retailers do too. But, it's hard to argue with the numbers (and I do not think it's accurate to say it's because of an overall slump).
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
Deletekatie, I admire the strength of your conviction and I'm sure JCrew does too. But I offer, for your consideration, the drawstring top. I think this one is worthy of a new weekly category: the JCA style challenge. Can anyone possibly make this top look good???
DeleteI am a diehard JC fan. I even held off ordering anything from any other retailer until I had seen this morning's rollout. I was hopeful, and my hopes were dashed. In the end, JC got $30 from me, which I spent on a t-shirt to replace the one that sprung a hole yesterday. Talk about loyalty, and throwing good money after bad.
The other $$ I spent today, more than 6x as much, went elsewhere. I suspect from the comments that I am not the only JCA who is doing the same. As they say, money talks.
No designer will ever convince me to buy a polyester shirt.
Deletei agree with rcb.shops. the debate as to whether jcrew is on-trend or not is sort of moot if whatever they're putting out--regardless of whether it is trendy and fashionable--is not being embraced by the consumers, as seen by the dismal sales numbers. and since jc's men's line is doing well, it makes you realize the pieces we're seeing in the women's side is symptomatic of a large disconnect between the women's design team and their target demographic.
DeleteI have to say that I am another who likes the fashion-forward aspect of JC over the 'classic' - I like the zips and hi-lo hems and don't have any issues with drop shoulders or dramatic patterns. I don't wear plaid or tweed or chambray and only own one pencil skirt (the dramatic porcelain paisley). But I realize that not everyone has the same tastes, and some of the offerings in the past year have been just a little weird or poorly considered in their fabrication. There are varieties of poly that are better than others (frankly I'd rather see rayon/modal), but so much of it just feels bad on which is why I've gone off BR lately as well. I like a few things in this rollout, I hate a few things, but have learned that I need to see things in person as they often make quite a different impression irl and I haven't managed to get to any of the stores yet. I hope JC carries on doing interesting things in design, and that they can strike a balance that satisfies those who want the classics as well.
DeleteAmy- thanks for the reply! i agree with the drawstring top, although weirder things have ended up looking good on;) Believe me, I'm not suggesting j crew is perfect and i definitely wouldn't wear a lot of things they sell, but that goes for every store/designer i shop at. I guess my point is that overall they do a really great job at taking runway trends and making them affordable and wearable while keeping that classic appearance. They also continue to sell a lot of great basics. And just because a specific trend doesn't look good on me, i don't dislike it and complain why they're making it. I'm usually jealous of the people who can wear it and look great! My biggest complaint with j crew is the feel and fabric content of some the garments, however I'm getting use to it as most designers are doing the same. Michael kors has $1000 sweaters that are cotton and polyamide or tory burch has a $700 dress that's polyester- I guess i'm not that shocked when j crew charges $98 for a poly shirt. But I agree with a lot of people here that some of their garments feel terrible and when they make a design that no one buys they should leave it there and not continue to remake it every season. I'm just happy to find some people on here that like the current trends!
DeleteKatie, I agree with some of your points, notably the price points that other retailers are charging for poly. I don't know which other retailers people on this blog are looking at but my feeling sometimes is they are not the same I am looking at. While I love it, H&M is good for a reality check and for those trends that are probably going to look ridiculous in a season or just once you get to actually wear the item out (I am looking at you, overalls). But we can't always compare JCrew to HM and downward you also have to compare upward. I am thinking Rebecca Taylor, Milly and the likes. What I know is that I am drooling over the pre-spring Collection at Maje and a poly shirt goes for $300 there (that includes a huge EURO markup that I don't know if they can sustain anymore given that the Euro is super weak right now). They call it "crepe" but it's poly. BTW, as you pointed out, everything evolves in fashion, even poly. Poly these days can be a very refined material and I am not really sure if it is THAT cheap to make. Anyway, my point is that I would happily blow $300 on a poly shirt at Maje but not $98 at JCrew. Why? That's where I disagree with you. This stuff just isn't appealing, the styles are reharsed and there is very little runaway to begin with (where are the suede, the A-line skirts, the flared jeans and, more mysteriously, the gingham, which should be one of JCrew workhorses. Ok, they gave us a bit of fringe). Not only the styles aren't new but they aren't even flattering. I used to go to JCREW because everthing used to fit me perfectly but this last season there wasn't a single thing that gave me a wow moment in the fitting room, especially the sweaters (truth to be told I didn't try a lot of skirts because I don't wear those in wintertime but the pants were terrible and I am easy to dress). In fact I think this is the real reason of the bad results. You could be fashion forward or classic or whatever and find something for you at JCrew but the clothes that you buy should make you feel good about yourself while you are wearing them. I found that I was often trying to justify the ill-fitting sweaters and tops vis-a-vis of an hypotetical scrutinizing exterior eye. We shouldn't be doomed to fashion, fashion should make us feel at our best. Hope it makes sense for someone.
DeleteI also applaud Katie for her convictions and sticking to her guns. I have over the years felt a little shocked by how much complaining there was by those who were clearly fans of and ardent shoppers of the brand. What's funny is it's been years and the same complaints are still being made (often from some of the same people!) and yet they're still here so...(shrugs shoulders)...I kind of got over it. Sometimes we need to vent I guess.
DeleteWhat I think sets JC apart is in the ability to style those classic pieces--they offer a lot of interesting, fashion forward ways to style those classic pieces. I feel like you can go so many different directions with their pieces--from uptight preppy Muffy Tepperman all the way to downtown, edgy SJP looks. I tend to the more edgy side of the spectrum and often my friends are completely surprised when I reveal that I buy all my stuff at JC. I think that's sort of the genius of the Crew---you can make it your own. We all win!
At the end of the day, I truly really feel that J Crew makes great classic clothes that are, all in all, well made and of good quality for the price. I never pay full price so what I pay for and how the pieces hold up, I am quite satisfied. There's always a reliable level of quality and sizing. I am also very satisfied with customer service. It's super easy to order online and then return directly to the local B&M. That's why J Crew is MY brand and I rarely buy anything anywhere else.
I truly appreciate the many points of view given here even if some of them differ from mine.
DeleteThe one thing I miss terribly, and where I feel the company lowered its standards in a big way, is the overall quality of the merchandise. And I don't mean just that they're going from silk to poly, but also the quality of craftsmanship and all the special details that used to set them apart from everyone else. The beautiful linings, the finishing details, such as piping, inside pockets in jackets, beautiful buttons, pants that don't rip at the seams (I was shocked to read the reviews for the campbell capri in stretch cotton!) or stretch out so badly they're unwearable, etc, etc. If I could paraphrase Jenna's famous motto it would go something like "business on the outside, feeling special on the inside." Saying that the quality isn't missing would be untrue.
I, as a consumer, deem myself intelligent enough to understand that prices can't stay the same as they were 20, 10, or even 5 years ago and therefore the cost of beautifully finished garments will be necessarily higher. Plenty of JCAs have stated on this blog that they miss the craftsmanship and attention to detail and would be willing to pay more for it.
So do I think the company will offer more wearable pieces that are beautifully finished in quality fabrics? Some middle ground between the trendy/cheaper merchandise of which there's plenty and the high-fashion collection pieces? Unfortunately no, I don't think that will happen anymore. And maybe that's ok. Given the size of my closet, I no longer need to buy a whole new wardrobe at JCrew every year (or so my husband tells me :) but I know I can still manage to find the occasional piece to complement the stuff I already have even if what I buy anymore is mostly shoes and accessories. For quality clothing that I feel great in I'll be looking elsewhere.
What Cate said. That poor dead horse (that probably doesn't follow fashion either)...
DeleteOkay - first a solid love: I'm really excited about the Collection cotton trench coat. The icon trench wasn't right for me, but this one is sleek and really attractive. I'm going to hunt it down IRL before I buy (if possible).
ReplyDeleteSecond, here are some items that might be appealing to me, not sure yet: tipped twill jacket (not pleased that it is poly), striped ikat dress (which is either masterful or hideous, not sure which) and the uptown tote in blue (I'd like to see how the snaps work).
Finally, the inexcusable: what's with all the unflattering and undignified swimwear? The zipper boyshort and zipper bandeau bikini might work at a strip club but I hadn't understood that to be a J Crew market. And the gathered halter one-piece? That's a heckuva "keyhole"! Perhaps this swimwear is designed to attract the man that you later marry wearing the Brianna gown from this rollout as well (check out the back). Yowser.
Regarding swimwear, the easy-access Gathered Halter One-Piece and the many zipper-front pieces _are_ balanced out by a several lots-of-coverage bottoms. Which can be a good "bring back the retro sexy thing" - hello Firework Floral Brief! But that Italian Matte High Waist Bikini Brief does remind me of a girdle :-)
DeleteNicely said!
Deletecousy, I have given up on their swimwear. They sometimes have nice prints and fabrics, but the fit is always bad on me. Lol about the stripper suits. They're kind of all stripper suits on me because the front coverage isn't supportive enough.
DeleteThere wasn't a ton I loved but I am interested in trying some of the new pants styles, namely the Martie and Ryder pants (both backordered for a few more weeks). I'm sad about the lack of pencil skirts (or decent length skirts) that don't have zippers on them. I also like the double face wool crepe dress, but I absolutely don't need another black dress, but I may try it so I can wait for sale.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to see the dark peony color suede (currently on the Dulci heels) on a pair of scalloped Harper flats and I did see IRL pics of the full spectrum necklace and love it, that's definitely on my list.
Aside from that...I agree that I would like to see more pastels and would be excited if we have some in coming rollouts.
If I was still working, I'd grab that Double - faced wool crepe dress. It looks gorgeous! I also love the Mixed leather strappy high heel sandals. Gorgeous, but another item I have no use for, unfortunately. On the more possibly useful for me front, I like the Gauze cabana pant and Baja sweatshirt for super casual/beach wear. Way too soon to be thinking about that where I live, though!
ReplyDeleteI love that dress! It's gorgeous and perfect for an office. I also like the Marden pants in the Super 120s. In both colors. They are on my wish list. I'll definitely bite on both of there's some kind of global or cardholder promo. Or maybe when we get our rewards.
DeleteI did order a few collection items (they always sell out b/c my VPS says they only make 1-2 in my size) - the Collection Sequin Firework Floral skirt, the Collection Floral Eyelet Top, and a few others which I will try to review when they arrive. I went into the store on Monday was underwhelmed. I also veto most everything in polyester, and I am still finding fabrics that just feel awful to the touch. I DID love the shoes, however, and have a group of photos on my blog, Bichonluvr's Closet (You can click on Alexa's link in the blog list on the right) of a pair I had to have. The mules everyone loved on IG and pinterest previews are adorable in person, but sadly just too high for me to even try on. The SA was trying them on, however, and they looked fantastic! They did not receive their jewelry or pants when I was there due to the problem I also mentioned in my blogpost. I ordered the pieces I did, even without a promo, but am hoping a promo will come soon! because there are still items to love, despite another large group of rejects. Yes - PLEASE - let's hope they will return to natural fabrics.
ReplyDeletelooking forward to you review of the floral eyelet top! it's one of the new pieces that really caught my eye.
DeleteI think it's the time of year for me too, Alexis. This rollout is pretty nice for the time of year, but there is nothing I really want. I like the color palette, although that rusty/maroon background in the firework print feels like fall to me (and would have sold well last fall). The whole rollout is more cheerful, less gloomy than the sad baggy drop-shoulder-y stuff from the fall (and early winter). Moving in the right direction, I think!
ReplyDeleteI honestly cannot believe they didn't do a global promo. When I first started shopping J.Crew in 2010-2011ish they never did, but in the last year and a half they have conditioned us to expect a global promotion often, and especially when there are new arrivals (free shipping doesn't count, at the minimum anyone can get that by asking for a "one-time courtesy"...). That said, I did by the sleeveless trench jumpsuit. My size was on the dreaded "only a few left" section of my wishlist. Hopefully it's cute! I would have bought a lot more with 25% off though!
ReplyDeleteJust wait, HollDoll129...with dismal sales from these not so stellar offerings, they'll be desperate to offer a global FP promo, soon.
DeleteWon't JC's next quarterly profit & loss report be interesting? I'm not sure what is typical after a blowout like the November 1st numbers. Seems like we should hear some results by late February.
ReplyDeleteI went by my store today at lunch today. I was not impressed. I didn't even like the Baja Hoodie when I saw it in person. I did pick up a pair of the suede Vans in Fuchsia that went on sale for $39.99 less 40%. I think they are a good color for now and spring and they are comfortable. I also picked up the mohair striped sweater now on sale. I am sure that I will like some of the new stuff once it gets marked down.
ReplyDeletebummer about the Baja Hoodie. I thought that one looked cute.
DeleteI thought I'd like that too, but it looked short and boxy and I didn't love the fabric. Maybe I'll try it on some day and change my mind. It's a cute idea.
DeleteI saw it in store today. Not good. Didn't love the material and it looked super wide and short. I didn't try it on, but that was because it looked so bad on the hanger. Cross that one off my list.
DeleteThere's a cute little anorak in Crewcuts - cute zip, cute hood warm & possibly water resistant fabric . And short sleeves.
ReplyDeleteAnd another kids' tee with glaringly wrong "French."
I actually liked a few things this rollout! The zipper pencil skirt is just enough edge to add some spunk to my corporate attire. It doesn't say what the lining is. If it's not the noisy poly, it could be a buy for me especially because it comes in tall. I love both the leather cuffs. The collection bonded trench is so chic. Wow. I don't need a trench and I'm still thinking about it!
ReplyDeleteI do echo the polyester complaints. I live in the desert southwest. There is just no way you can wear it without dying of heat prostration. Besides that, I hate the feel and the sound of it. It is ubiquitous though. It's Forever 21 through mid price like Milly and ALC, all the way up to designer like Michael Kors and The Row.
For that reason, I'll pass on the sleeveless trench jumpsuit, even though I think it's very cool. But wait, they are redeemed by the back zip shell and Marsden pant in my favorite super 120s wool. How stylish is that outfit? With pumps and a great cuff? Okay a few points deducted for the exposed zipper but I can deal with that. The flounce dress is too MDAL for me, I would snap it up if I were younger.
Has anyone ordered our reviewed the leather standing collar jacket in navy?
ReplyDeleteEma @crazyaboutjcrew has a pic and a review on her IG!
DeleteHTH
For the DMV j.crew aficionados the Chevy Chase/Friendship Heights store is close for renovations from now until the end of Jan. I was so excited to go see the jewels....but dreams crushed :P
ReplyDeleteYes apparently they are adding crewcuts to their store.
ReplyDeleteHere's an article from Fashionista, J Crew is losing another exec to Avon
ReplyDeletehttp://fashionista.com/2015/01/james-scully-leaving-jcrew-for-avon
I tried on a bunch of new arrivals yesterday at J. Crew. I'll be posting individual reviews w/pics over the next week. For now, here's an overview in this post.
ReplyDeleteI always like seeing other's take on things. Check out the Girls of a Certain Age blog. She commented on some of the new arrivals.
ReplyDeleteI am late to this but I love the super passionate debate going on here. Clearly J.Crew is loved by both sides of the argument, otherwise we wouldn't bother with our 2 cents. <3
ReplyDeleteSpeaking of my 2 cents... I think J.Crew is missing the mark with their overall collections. The narrative (in their lines as well as catalogs) is not cohesive and it shows. I don't know how to describe it, but its like the tale of two J.Crews. One wants to be on the runway of Fashion Week and the other wants to be in the upscale Mall. Perhaps they should go back to making two different catalogs: the Collection and regular.
I have done my fair share of complaining about J.Crew but I have kind of given up on J.Crew in certain areas (like the catalogs and categories like skirts) and focus on the pieces I truly love. And they are there.
I can't say enough good things about the Chateau Parka. That coat never really went on sale and I bought two of them! Glad I did too because there is just limited sizing now. I have yet to see someone not look amazing in this outerwear piece! I won't even begin to tell you how many scarves and gloves I bought from J.Crew this Winter. Like every Winter. My collection is disgustingly large. But I love them!
J.Crew definitely does get things right and when they do, I buy buy buy! But there is no doubt in my mind that things aren't moving as fast as they did in previous years (both regular and sale priced items). Something is off at J.Crew (as reported in the recent news earnings report) and I know J.Crew is trying to address it (by blaming Jenna, but its a company wide issue I suspect, starting with Mickey all the way down to the fashion buyers).
Lastly, J.Crew is still the only brand for me. I can't get into the Gap (beyond their basics like tees) or Banana Republic (where the fit isn't just right) or Nordstroms (where there are so many labels to keep track of) or the higher end lines like Michael Kors, etc. J.Crew is my love.
Not sure where I am going with this, but there you have it! ;)
I think your "tale of two J.Crews" is an really interesting point! Maybe they should create different stores like gap inc. did to reach different consumers, but i like your different catalog idea where they could show different styling options. And thank you for giving us a forum where we can have these debates. It was a great discussion with valid points from both sides. I found some people on here who actually agree with me and those who didn't agree were very polite and didn't beat me up;)
DeleteDid I miss getting a reward card?
ReplyDeleteI enquired last week and was told they should arrive first week of Feb (next week).
DeleteI made a quick trip to my local store last night to check out some of the new arrivals. I tried on the Firework floral top, the Xoxo tee, the Grosgrain ribbon top, Mixed print tee, and some older sale items.
ReplyDeleteI sized down in the Firework floral top and it was still a tad big under the arms. Poly material is thankfully a bit steadier than most shirts out there, which is nice…except on 90 degree days. Loved the colors…beautiful. Not a huge fan on the closure on the front, but that’s a personal preference. The Xoxo tee was cute. TTS and soft material, but reminds me of a shirts from Old Navy almost, so a pass right now until a super sale. I had to size down again for the Grosgrain ribbon top. Pretty light weight, almost too delicate for the price. And the mixed print tee…oh gosh, this was awful on me. Tried it on in the gray and it looked like just like a pajama top, but at least it also felt like one too…super comfortable. So big and boxy, not for me…but looked so cute on the table. I usually love spring at J.Crew…so holding out hope!
A review of the Regent Blazer in Chambray here HTH!
ReplyDelete