Where Did 'Jenna's Picks" Go? {answered}

"Thanks!" to Disco George who shared with us the following article from NY Mag's The Cut (click here to read in its entirety):

Are You Wondering Why We Haven’t Seen ‘Jenna’s Picks’ Lately?
By Charlotte Cowles
April 18, 2012

Has your in-box been looking empty lately? Do you stare off into space sometimes, wondering how to fill the void left by an absence of J.Crew's frequent e-mail blasts about Jenna Lyons's impeccable sweater choices and current obsession with hydrangeas? Well, it turns out that "Jenna's Picks" is "currently on hiatus."

Reports Business of Fashion: J.Crew isn’t afraid to take a real stylistic point of view, most famously with ‘Jenna’s Picks,’ a wildly successful section in the company’s catalogue and website — currently on hiatus — featuring products hand-picked by Lyons. [Says Lyons,] “It was totally not my idea, just for the record. It was actually the person who ran marketing at the time, who’s no longer here, and wanted to do something that felt a little bit more personal. We were trying to make people feel like there was a selection of things.”

In the meantime, J.Crew seems to be diversifying their tastemakers, introducing picks from fashion director Gayle Spannaus and other stylish, orangey-lipstick-wearing staffers who offer tips on "borrowing from the boys" and other Lyons-y pearls of wisdom. (Of course, let's not kid ourselves: The e-mails we're most likely to open are the ones titled "30 percent off + free shipping.")

Well now we know why we have not been getting those "Jenna Picks" emails recently! It got me thinking that this is a good idea (to involve other members of the retailer in their marketing). J.Crew probably does not want the brand to be associated with one executive only.

I had to laugh at the last line of the article, because it is so true! Honestly, I only care about the sweet deals being offered at J.Crew.

What are your thoughts on the "Jenna Picks" emails on hiatus? What other taste-makers should J.Crew include in their marketing campaign?

J.Crew Email: Jenna's Mother's Day picks (plus, EXTRA 30% OFF sale items & FREE SHIPPING ends today)

"Thanks!" to many of you, who shared J.Crew's most recent email, which showcases all of Jenna Lyons' picks for the latest catalog. Click here to view all the items selected.

The theme for these picks is: "Since this month's theme in the catalog is all about love, I had to include my first love— Mom. She's an amazing piano teacher and the most young-at-heart grandmother I know. Her students are her toughest critics, and she takes great pride in looking great for them. This is a special 'Jenna's Picks' for my mom and maybe yours..."

The picks also include something really special, that I really love... The inclusion of photos from the private collection of the Lyons family. They are a super nice & personalize touch.

Now for the actual picks... The item I love from her picks is the Casbah Bandeau Tank (Item 44507; $92.00). I am loving the Casbah print— such vibrant hues matched with a delicious print.

The item I could not disagree more with is the Flak Trench Vest (Item 44125; $168.00). It is an expensive piece that seems difficult to wear. At first I was intrigued by it. However, every photo I have seen it styled with looks "meh" at best.

Last, but not least... J.Crew is reminding customers to take 30% off all sale items (no min) and free shipping on $150+ with promo code OURTREAT. This offer ends today!

What are your thoughts on the items selected? Which items would have made your top picks that you are loving?

J.Crew Email: Jenna's luxe holiday picks

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta, Cass, Just Visiting, & Irina, who let us know about J.Crew's most recent email, which showcases all of Jenna Lyons' picks for the latest catalog. Click here to view all the items selected.

The theme for these picks are:

My Luxe Gift Picks. I admit, I'm playing favorites with a few items in our yearly roundup of gifts. So since you're one of our best customers, I wanted to share a few of these extra special pieces with you. Click here to see the items at the very, very top of my must-give list.

What made her list: the Tweezerman® Luxe Edition Swarovski® Crystal Slant® Tweezer (item 40193; $100.00). I will say, the Tweezerman Tweezars are very good. (I personally own two and love them! The company will even sharpen the tips for free for life. All you have to do is pay for shipping.) But I do not need one with Swarovski crystals on them. ;)

What are your thoughts on the items selected? Which items would have made your top picks of luxe gifts that you are loving?

J.Crew Email: Falling for Jenna's Picks (plus, FREE SHIPPING)

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta, who let us know about J.Crew's most recent email, which showcases all of Jenna Lyons' picks for the latest catalog. Click here to view all the items selected.

The theme for these picks are:

Dip into our treasure chest of tactile delights featuring a few luxe highlights from J.Crew Collection– A bit of fluff, a smidgen of silk, a little lace and some sparkle, of course, buttery leather and so-soft flannel help round out the mix.

From her selections, the one I like the most is the Crystal Parade Necklace (Item 31569; $150.00). It looks super glam with all its crystals. Can you imagine how amazing it would look under a crisp white blouse? Loves it!

But why, oh why, did she select the Martinete Feather Jacket (Item 29084; $1,200.00)?!? Let's overlook the ridiculous price tag for a second. The jacket would make anyone (including that fabulous model posing in it) look like a rejected Muppet character from Jim Henson's Dark Crystal.

What are your thoughts on the items selected? Do you like the color palette? Which items would have made your top picks of new arrivals that you are loving this month?

J.Crew Email: Jenna's picks

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta, who let us know about J.Crew's most recent email, which showcases all of Jenna Lyons' picks for the latest catalog. Click here to view all the items selected.

The theme for these picks are:

July Begs For Cool Comfort– so I'm reaching for easy navy and white pieces that have a nautical bent without being too obvious (think unexpected sparkle and out-of-the-blue pairings) anchored by seasonless, time-and-again favorites.

J.Crew is also letting customers know about their latest promotion. Open a J.Crew Credit Card and get 20% off your first purchase. This offer expires 7/4/10.

What are your thoughts on the items selected? Do you like the color palette? Which items would have made your top picks of new arrivals that you are loving this month?

J.Crew Email: Jenna's vacation picks

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta, who let us know about J.Crew's most recent email, which showcases all of Jenna Lyons' picks for the latest catalog.

Click here to view all the items selected, including the following:

Jenna's Picks
"Inspired by a family trip I took last year, we shot this month's catalog in Turks & Caicos. I'm still taken with the beauty and ease of island life. Here's what I'd bring if I went back."

1. Cozumel Tunic (Item 26153; $78.00)
2. Gladiator Sandals (Item 26415; $110.00)
3. Double-Chained Mesh Bracelet (Item 28021; $75.00)
4. Jeweled Jardin Jacket (Item 26115; $495.00)
5. City Safari Pant (Item 27099; $69.50)
6. Luxe Terry Bloomer Short (Item 26449; $45.00)
   
7. Caden Leather Cork Wedges (Item 25624; $150.00)
8. Linen Charter Skirt (Item 26135; $79.50)
9. Linen Silk-Pocket Cardigan (Item 25772; $88.00)
10. Coral Reef Tank (Item 26236; $110.00)
11. Dahlia Cluster Ring (Item 27943; $58.00)
    
12. Jericho Tote (Item 26082; $258.00)
    

The Jeweled Jardin Jacket (Item 26115; $495.00) is already sold-out! I think I read from fellow JCAs on this blog that it was practically sold out a few minutes after the website updated with new arrivals last week. Incredible!

The Luxe Terry Bloomer Shorts (Item 26449; $45.00)... I can't decide if they are cute or dated. I would love to see these in-person to find out. Although, just looking at the online images I can tell they are too short for me to wear out (but great for in-side the house).

What are your thoughts on the items selected? Do you like the color palette? Which items would have made your top picks of new arrivals that you are loving this month?

Jenna's Pant Picks {mailer insert}

A big "thanks!" to Elizabeth who not only shared the following news, but also scanned the images for us to view!
In one of her orders, she found a tri-fold brochure with Jenna's Pants Pick. The front shares the following:

The finest fabrics. The best fit. A pant for every need. From our favorite matchstick jean to the magical Minnie, here are the season's can't-live-without pants. Own them all.

The first section features the Minnie & Skimmer Pants. They share the following advice:

The Minnie. Otherwise known as the magic pant (because it looks that good on everyone). Since our original stretch twill Minnie was so popular, we now offer the same amazing fit in lightweight stretch Italian wool and denim styles. Jenna Says: This pant is so versatile. Pair it with a crisp button-down for work or a feminine top for a night out- either way, finish with a cool military jacket.

The Skimmer. Your new go-to in seven stylish colors for every day of the week. Jenna Says. Wear the skimmer with your boyfriend's chambray shirt (untucked with the sleeves rolled) and a wedge sandal (they're back and better than ever).

The second section features the {questionable} choices of the Painter Scout Chino & Matchstick Pants. They share the following tidbits:

The Painter Scout Chino. A stroke of genius, splattered and distressed by hand, then washed for over 300 minutes. It's this season masterpiece. Jenna Says. Try pairing this distressed scout chino with a delicate sequin top- works for day or night. P.S. We love our classic scout chino too.

The Matchstick. Our much-loved matchstick, now in a repaired indigo wash. Looks and feels like a well-worn vintage pair, without the time investment. Jenna Says. Style this destroyed jean with more polished pieces for an unexpected high-low mix.

Overall, I like the concept of the marketing piece. I think it is great to offer some styling suggestions. I just question some of the choices (like the destroyed jeans), and the high-low pairings (of painted chinos with a delicate sequin top).

Did you receive this mailer insert in your recent order? Do you agree or disagree with the advice offered? Do you agree or disagree with the "pant picks" that Jenna selected?

J.Crew Email: Jenna's picks...spring eye candy

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta, who let us know about J.Crew's most recent email, which showcases all of Jenna Lyons' picks for the latest catalog.

Click here to view all the items selected, including the following:

Jenna's Eye Candy. This month, our creative director (or as we like to call her: the commander in chic) picks her favorite fashion treats– minus the calories (plus an extra something sweet from our sister store, Madewell).

What are your thoughts on the items selected? Do you like the color palette? Which items would have made your top picks of new arrivals that you are loving this month?

J.Crew Email: Jenna's picks...holiday gifts + FREE SHIPPING

"Thanks!" to many of you, including HeidiG & Marietta, who let us know about J.Crew's most recent email, which showcases all of Jenna Lyons' picks for the latest catalog.

Click here to view all the items selected, including the following:

Jenna's Gift Picks. My favorite kind of gifts are those special pieces your frients or family might not get for themselves. A pair of silk PJ's, statement jewels, a silk t-shirt, or a great find from our sister store, Madewell. Plus, half the fun is knowing you can always borrow them later!

1. Skinny studded belt (Item 19682; $35.00)
   Superskinny satin belt (Item 21396; $25.00)
   Skinny tortoise patent-leather belt (Item 17318; $39.50)
   
2. Washed silk pocket tee (Item 21817; $68.00)
3. Marché Tote (Item 21458; $278.00)
4. Pearl-and-crystal avalanche necklace (Item 22681; $135.00)
5. Printed silk habotai sleep shirt (Item 21386 ; $98.00)
   Printed silk habotai pajama pant (Item 21385 ; $88.00)
6. Infinity earrings (Item 22660; $65.00)
7. Jacquard ballet flats (Item 20323; $135.00)
8. Madewell Cropped Tux Jacket (Item 20738; $170.00)
9. Metropolitan suede ankle boots (Item 19995; $250.00)
10. Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Red Square
    (Narscosmetics.com)
11. Crushed glitter magic wallet (Item 20986; $16.50)
12. Sequined starland tank (Item 22401; $138.00)
13. Toothpick zipper jean (Item 24351; $125.00)
    

For the most part, I don't care for Jenna's picks. They are just not items I would select for me (let alone give to anyone else).

I really don't like the Toothpick Zipper Jean. It reminds me too much of the 80's, and not in the good way (Strawberry Shortcake, Jem, CareBears = Good | Scrunchies, Jeans tucked & rolled, Zippers everywhere = Bad). With that said, I do like the Jacquard Ballet Flats and Infinity Earrings (both are cute, cute, cute!)

The email reminds us that they are offering (1) 30% off all outerwear & (2) free shipping on orders of $150+ with promo code WINTER. This offer expires 12/9/09. :)

What are your thoughts on the items selected? Do you like the color palette? Which items would have made your top picks of new arrivals that you are loving this month?

J.Crew Email: Jenna's picks - my forever pieces

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta & HeidiG, who let us know about J.Crew's most recent email, which showcases all of Jenna Lyons' picks for the latest catalog.

Click here to view all the items selected, including the following:

I'm loving versatile, elegant-meets-easygoing pieces that go anywhere (and look great, season after season).

1. Marlene Crisscross Platform Heels (item 20358; $228.00)
2. Metallic Aran Isle Scarf (Item 20404; $49.50)
   
3. Pearl Pastiche Necklace (Item 22596; $135.00)
4. Silk Taffeta Belted Short (Item 20103; $118.00)
5. Madewell Slim Slouch Jeans (Item 18653; $110.00)
6. Ruffled Collier Top (Item 19685; $89.50)
7. Boyfriend Fatigue Jacket (item 19985; $148.00)
8. Infinity Earrings (Item 22660; $65.00)
   
9. Ryder Satchel (Item 20310; $298.00)
10. Superskinny satin belt (Item 21396; $25.00)
    

I am not overly excited with Jenna's picks. In particular, I don't like her choice of the Silk Taffeta Belted Shorts. I know those silk shorts are a very popular look right now, but I can't help but think "clown shorts" when I see them. They are definitely *not* a "forever piece". However, I do like a few of her choices including the Infinity Earrings and Ryder Satchel. Both items I would like to see in person. Especially the earrings. As much as I like J.Crew's earrings, they tend to be very heavy (which means I can't wear them for more than 10 minutes).

What are your thoughts on the items selected? Do you like the color palette? Which items would have made your top picks of new arrivals that you are loving this month?

J.Crew Email: Jenna's picks {for October!}

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta, who let us know about J.Crew's most recent email, which showcases all of Jenna Lyons' picks for the latest catalog.

Click here to view all the items selected, including the following:

Jenna's Picks: Right now our creative director is obsessed with unexpected pairings– sweet with sleek, soft neutrals with black and a shot of red.

1. Ankle stretch toothpick jean in twilight wash (Item 16719; $125.00)
2. Silk pleated posy top (Item 18679; $89.50)
3. Leather gloves (Item 18178; $49.50)
4. Selima Optique® for J.Crew crystal-clear glasses
   (Item 98388; $325.00)
5. Skinny studded belt (Item 19682; $35.00)
6. Rugged Lexi tote (Item 18427; $395.00)
7. Donegal shawl cardigan (Item 19247; $148.00)
8. Katy suede heels (item 17325; $178.00)
9. Crystal thornbush necklace (Item 20735; $135.00)
10. Crystal supernova necklace (Item 21060; $128.00)
11. Belstaff® leather bomber jacket (Item 22896; $1,195.00)
12. Paisley perfect shirt (Item 18053; $78.00)
13. Essie® nail polish (Item 22678; $8.00)
14. Rebekah perforated-leather platform Mary Janes
    (Item 17496; $215.00)
    

This time around, I am not a big fan of the items Jenna selected. Is it just me or does the tip of Kay Suede Heels remind anyone else of a sneaker? And I mentioned this before, but what about the Belstaff Bomber Jacket for $1,195.00 (did I read that price tag right)? Not sure what to make of it as it doesn't seem to belong in the Women's section.

What are your thoughts on the items selected? Do you like the color palette? Which items would have made your top picks of new arrivals that you are loving this month?

J.Crew Email: Jenna's picks--the classics remixed (+free shipping)

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta, HeidiG, & Jaden, who let us know about J.Crew's most recent email, which showcases all of Jenna Lyons' picks for the latest catalog.

Click here to view all the items selected, including the following:

Jenna's Picks: I'm infatuated with ladylike classics styled with an edge: natty tweed paired with crackled metallics, a pretty print coupled with a utilitarian jacket, denim and megagems. The look is elegantly off-kilter yet totally polished–perfected imperfection.

1. Stretch flannel Olive top (item 17710; $98.00)
2. Luciana minaudière (item 18336; $148.00)
3. Leather gloves (item 18178; $49.50)
4. Crystal thornbush earrings (item 19519; $75.00)
5. Galaxy ribbon-and-chain necklace (item 19526; $78.00)
6. Crystal dangle ring (item 19502; $55.00)
7. Bobbi Brown Sheer Color Cheek Tint (in Sheer Pink)
   
8. Bettina wool-patent T-strap heels (item 17194; $225.00)
9. Double-cloth camino coat (item 17505; $278.00)
10. Blushed tweed pencil skirt (item 17446; $158.00)
11. The downtown field jacket (item 19034; $148.00)
12. Tissue stone necklace tee (item 18528; $125.00)
13. Shimmer paisley lawn dress (item 17535; $150.00)
14. Cadogan leather ankle boots (item 18122; $225.00)

One item missing from Jenna's list in the email (but included in the catalog & online list of Jenna's Picks) is: the Harper crackle-metallic platform heels (item 18944; $238.00).

J.Crew is also offering free shipping on orders of $150+ with promo code NEWFALL. This offer expires this Wednesday, 8/26/09. :)

What are your thoughts on the items selected? Do you like the color palette? Which items would have made your top picks of new arrivals that you are loving this month?

J.Crew Email: Jenna's picks for fall

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta, MissMasala, love2shop4bags, & XOXO, who let us know about J.Crew's email from yesterday, which showcases all of Jenna Lyons' picks for the latest catalog. There is even a categorical link on J.Crew's website with her selections (click here).

According to the email:

Fall is about mastering the mix. Pretty pale hues amped up with bold brights and feminine flourishes offset with tomboy touches. Last but not least- jewelry (pile it on).

Items chosen include:

1. Silk Evening Primrose Brynn dress (Item 18137; $158.00)
2. Wool flannel schoolboy blazer (Item 18271; $188.00)
3. Heirloom flora necklace (Item 19492; $98.00)
4. Skinny tortoise patent-leather belt (Item 17318; $39.50)
5. Merino Maya cardigan (Item 17854; $88.00)
6. Jeweled garland bracelet (Item 18030; $95.00)
7. Lexi tote (Item 18262; $325.00)
   
8. Tiered crystal libretto necklace (Item 18013; $98.00)
9. Golden-orb ring (Item 19499; $50.00)
10. Nottingham ankle boots (Item 16940; $250.00)
11. Tissue beaded necklace tee (Item 17629; $49.50)
12. Scattered petals tank (Item 17207; $88.00)
13. Vintage matchstick cord (Item 17046; $79.50)
14. Spencer patent-trimmed suede Mary Janes (Item 17197; $215.00)

Do you agree or disagree with any of the items selected or Jenna's quote about Fall? What's your favorite and least favorite item Jenna selected? What are your thoughts on the color palette? Which items (or colors) did you hope to see?

J.Crew Email: Instant heirlooms

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta & love2shop4bags, who shared J.Crew's latest email.

J.Crew is featuring several new arrivals from their jewelry collection (click here). According to the email:

A Shining Moment. We're inspired by the timelessness of vintage jewelry. Our designs are custom-colored, hand assembled and one of a kind. It's no longer about adding an accent, it's about making a statement.

As mentioned in an earlier post (click here), "It's a little bit of a candy moment," says Jenna Lyons, J.Crew's creative director. "You don't have to try it on. You can just take it to the cash register."

What are your thoughts on the pieces shown? Do you have any favorites? Which pieces do you think are the most versatile to wear?

What To Expect From J.Crew's August Catalog

A big "thanks!" goes to Meredith who shared the following {wonderful & interesting} news about J.Crew's latest catalog.

... I stopped in at my B&M and one of the SA's was nice enough to slip me a copy of the new catalogue after I had noticed it...

Anyway, the back has a note that says "Postmaster: Please deliver July 25-29", so I assume that's when they'll be shipping out.

I don't have access to a scanner, but the theme is John Steinbeck/East of Eden. It's set in Northern California and is gorgeous. The color scheme seems to be lots of lavender/dusty blossom tempered with slates, charcoals, and tortoise prints.

Jenna's Picks include:

• Silk Evening Primrose Brynn Dress (Item 18137; $158.00)
• Merino Maya Cardigan (Item 17854W; $88.00)
• Velvet Flower Pin (Item 19374W; $29.50)
• Wool Flannel Schoolboy Blazer (Item 18271W; $188.00)
• Heirloom Flora Necklace (Item 19492W; $98.00)
• Skinny Tortoise Patent-Leather Belt (Item 17318W; $39.50)
• Jeweled Garland Bracelet (Item 18030; $95.00)
  
• Vintage Matchstick Cord (Item 17046; $79.50)
• Tissue Beaded Necklace Tee (Item 17629W; $49.50)
• Lexi Tote (Item 18262; $325.00)
• Tiered Crystal Libretto Necklace (Item 18013; $98.00)
  
• Nottingham Ankle Boots (Item 16940W; $250.00)
• Scattered Petals Tank (Item 17207W; $68.00)
• Spencer Patent-Trimmed Suede Mary Jane (Item 17197W; $215.00)

They seem to be pushing jewelry very hard this issue, as well as shorts.

As a 20-year old college student, I am very excited about this collection! I think it balances fashion-forward styling with pieces that are very much wearable. But I do agree that there are things that are going to set people off--for example, ankle socks (!) are a "trend alert".

"Thanks!" again goes to Meredith for sharing with us!!! :) All the items listed sound fantastic- except for maybe the ankle socks. ;) [Sidenote: The items listed above with a bold item number, have a link to its item page at JCrew.com.] I can't wait to see them in person! Who knows, I might end up lovin' the ankle socks.

Also, I can't wait to receive a catalog & I hope I do too! (I know some of you are facing similar issues, where J.Crew is no longer sending catalogs to some of their regular customers. It seems like they are cutting back on sending them to customers at their homes. I use to get multiple versions of the same catalog, now I am lucky if I get one. Why J.Crew, why?)

Update: "Thanks!" to many of you, including Lilac Cupcake (in this post), who let us know that Shannon has several images of this catalog at her blog (click here to view).

What are your thoughts on the upcoming items for August? Are you excited for the Fall lineup, or are you still thinking about Summer?

J.Crew Email: Jenna's Picks (summer edition)

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta, who let us know about J.Crew's most recent email, which showcases all of Jenna Lyons' picks for the latest catalog. (That image is super long. To see it larger, click here.) ;)

Do you agree or disagree with any of the items selected? What are your thoughts on the color palette? Which items (or colors) did you hope to see?

J.Crew Email: Jenna's Picks

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta, who let us know about J.Crew's most recent email, which showcases all of Jenna Lyons' picks for the latest catalog. (That image is super long. To see it larger, click here.) ;)

My least favorite item Jenna selected has to be the Crystal Bow-Tie Necklace (refer to the "Questionable Item of the Week: Crystal Bow-Tie Necklace" post). My favorite item Jenna selected is the Bamboo-Tassel Ballet Flats (Item 15444; $158.00). What can I say, I am a sucker for J.Crew's ballet flats. ;)

Do you agree or disagree with any of the items selected? What's your favorite and least favorite item Jenna selected? What are your thoughts on the color palette? Which items (or colors) did you hope to see?

J.Crew Email: Jenna's Picks For Feb New Arrivals

J.Crew sent an email showcasing Jenna Lyons and Gayle's (women's stylist at J.Crew), picks of what they are "loving this month". Click here to view all the items they selected, including the following:

This season we're loving boyfriend styling- a tomboy touch that's still utterly feminine. Gayle (our women's stylist) is taking classic pieces and adding in unexpected twists of color, detail and softness for a less predictable, more modern look. It's a new way to do chic and it's all in how you wear it.

1. Solid Silk Garland Cami (Item 11527; $88) - A sweet little confection, perfect with rumpled boyfriend chinos and heels.
   
2. Spectator Belinda Heels (Item 12340; $225) - The mix of shimmering linen and neon makes this our go-to shoe.
   
3. Pearl Necklaces (starting at $55) - More pearls, please: pile them on and twist for a clustered effect.
   
4. Cotton-Linen Seaside Shorts (Item 13052; $49.50) - Our favorite alternative to a skirt. Wear with a pretty top, strappy heels and top it off with a blazer and loads of pearls.
   
5. Essie Nail Polish In "Mini Shorts"
   
6. Molten Metallic Tank (Item 13616; $62) - Layer in a cute metallic tank for a bit of shimmer.
   Tissue Painted-Strip Tank (Item 12671; $32.50)
   
7. Broken-In Boyfriend Chino (Item 12953; $69.50) - Perfectly slouchy - never sloppy (there's a difference).
   
8. Large Metallic-Leather Gallery Hobo (Item 13334; $325) - The gallery bag: we're wearing it messenger-style for a tomboy look.
   
9. Jack Purcell Distressed Sneakers (Item 85554; $65) - The classic makes a comeback and still looks fresh (even with a suit).
   
10. Cluster Ring (Item 14674; $65) - The season's statement piece- (day or night).

What are your thoughts on the items selected? Which items would have made your top picks of new arrivals that you are loving this month?

Packing Tips From J.Crew's Jenna Lyons

Over at Travel + Leisure, they have an interesting slideshow (click here to view) of items J.Crew's Jenna Lyons considers her vacation "must haves".

Packing Tips From J.Crew's Creative Director
When she heads for the beach, J.Crew creative director Jenna Lyons keeps it light.
By Clark Mitchell
From February 2009

For this 18-year J.Crew veteran, there’s no place like Turks and Caicos to unwind with her two-year-old son, Beckett, and husband, artist Vincent Mazeau. It comes as no surprise that Lyons packs a lot of J.Crew—she designs with her lifestyle in mind. Here, her vacation bag must-haves....

Once you click on the slideshow link (click here to view), you can see her choices including the following text:

1. “The sherbet colors of these jacquard pants and gauzy cover-up [on the next slide] are part of my new J.Crew collection, which was inspired by the pale-hued houses in Turks and Caicos.”
2. Sherbet-colored gauzy cover-up
3. “I never have time to read, except on the beach—right now, the book I’m carrying is In an Instant by Lee and Bob Woodruff.”
4. “We created this raffia hat to collapse for easy packing.”
5. “My everyday watch: a Rolex gold-band Oyster bracelet.”
6. “I’m drawn to things that are timeless, like these Marni sunglasses.”
7. “Our garment bag comes in bright colors and makes me happy when I’m on the road.”
8. “I slather California Baby sunscreen all over myself and Beckett—it never washes off.”
9. “The jersey Lomellina bikini uses a thick rubber strip rather than elastic in its waistband, so you can avoid the dreaded ‘muffin top’ effect.”
10. “Metallic-gold J.Crew sandals are a great summer neutral."
11. “Nothing sets off a light tan better than pink Bobbi Brown lip gloss.”
12. “It’s meant for under your eyes, but I put Kiehl’s eye cream on my entire face, especially during a long flight.”

What are your thoughts on the items she selected? Do you like or dislike any of the items chosen? Which items would you have on your vacation "must have" list?

J.Crew Email: Jenna Picks Her Favorites...

J.Crew sent an email today letting us know about Jenna Lyon's picks (6 of 11). Her choices are also available in the current catalog (all 11 picks), as discussed in an earlier post (click here). Jenna mentions in the catalog that "these are a few of my favorites for the season... new neutrals inspired by soft makeup palettes- nudes, pinks and champagne- and pops of bright, happy color (with just a bit of shimmer)."

I am not going to lie, when I saw the email I was a bit disappointed- not in Jenna's picks, but because I was hoping to see another promotion. (Perhaps free shipping on $100+, maybe an offer to save an additional 20% off sale items?) I guess I have been spoiled by all the holiday offers, that I expect to see a promo right after another one ends. ;)

Incidentally, there is a {great} review & discussion of Jenna's No. 5 pick here: Product Review: Golden Bird's-Nest Ring.

Do you agree with Jenna Lyons picks and color palette for the upcoming collection (especially since we have now been able to see a few items in-person at stores)? :) Which items are your "love its" and "leave its"? ;) When do you think a new promotion (& what kind) will be offered? :)