J.Crew's Jenna on Mochila Bags

"Thanks!" to GemTwin & Rifka, who shared the following article from the New York Times (click here to read the article in its entirety).

Mochila Bags: In the Moment, and Long Gone
By Karin Nelson
June 30, 2010

IT takes the women of the Wayuu tribe of Colombia and Venezuela up to a month to weave a mochila bag, working eight hours a day, every day. It took no time at all for J.Crew, which featured the strappy satchels in its June catalog, to sell all of them. In fact, they were gone before many customers had even flipped open the issue.

“Craftsmanship is something rare and very valuable,” said Jenna Lyons, J.Crew’s creative director, who was not at all surprised by how quickly the bags went. “There are few things that are still made by hand, much less in a technique that is handed down through generations and is a means of support for a community.” On top of that, she added, “It’s a beautiful bag.”

But there is more to it than that. Recently, the mochila has become something of a cult item, toted around town by fashion editors and It girls, and the subject of chatter on style blogs. “It seems to be the iconic tribal bag,” said Anne Slowey, the fashion news director of Elle, who has picked up a few on her travels. “The perfect mix of practical, exotic and chic.

Much of the craze can be traced to November when the Vogue editor Lauren Santo Domingo organized the Mochila Project. For it, 40 designers, from Alexander Wang to Oscar de la Renta, were each given a traditional bag and asked to rework it in their own style. The extraordinary results — the Calvin Klein was trimmed in snakeskin; the J. Mendel, in fur — were then auctioned off at a charity event in Miami that left those nowhere near South Florida somewhat envious. ...

The PS1 bags, each of which takes five to seven mochilas to make, are $1,100 to $2,250 and will be hitting Barneys New York later this month. In the meantime, J.Crew has just received a second shipment of dusty-hued mochilas, which are $175 at its shop at 1035 Madison Avenue. At least, last we checked, they were.

I remember having a mochilla-style bag growing up. It was lovingly made by my Tia Maria as a gift. And thus, no where near these prices discussed in the article. I am actually surprised to hear how fast J.Crew's version sold out too! Those really didn't last long, did they? ;)

What are your thoughts on the article? Did you find any points shared particularly interesting? Do you like the style of the Mochila Bags?

Keeping Time with J.Crew's Classic Timex Watch {DIY style}

Me loveth this watch! I have been wearing it non-stop since I got it over the Holidays. Slowly, I am starting to collect the watch straps (up to six besides the black strap that it comes with). ;)

This blog has discussed J.Crew's Timex Military Watch (Item 10884; $150.00) a number of times (refer here, here, & here, as a few examples). There was even a post about a J.Crew Timex comparable watch (refer to the "Keeping Time with J.Crew's Classic Timex Watch {double take}" post.

A big "thanks!" to A who shared her do-it-yourself (DIY) tutorial on creating her own Timex for J.Crew-comparable-watch. The following is her how-to guide:

I was slow to warm up to the Timex Military Watch ($150, 10884), but I loved how Summerilla and DaniBP styled it so I added it to my (already quite long) J.Crew wishlist. I couldn’t justify spending that much on a new watch when I had just received a fairly nice watch from my husband as a birthday gift, so I did some sleuthing to figure out if I could get a cheaper substitute.

I ended up finding the Timex Men’s Metal Field Watch (#T40091) selling for $34.48 on Amazon.com and ordered it to see how close of a match it was. When I received it, I was thrilled to see it was almost an identical match! Of course it came with an absolutely hideous watch band and I wanted to take advantage of J.Crew’s cute interchangeable bands.

I considered taking it to a jeweler to remove the band, but since I knew I was never going to use the existing band, I decided to carefully cut the band off myself with kitchen shears. After removing the band, I put the watch face onto one of the J.Crew watch bands and voila—a Timex Military Watch for less than a third of the J. Crew price!

I’m including a picture of my watch and the version sold on by J.Crew. One difference I’ve noted is the word “Expedition” below “Timex” on my version, and there are a few other small differences, but the measurements and specs are identical, so it’s easy to use the interchangeable bands.

Also, note that Amazon also sells a version of the same watch with a green face, so make sure you don’t order that one if you want the dark gray face (although some people might like the green, it looks like it could be cute!) Anyways, hope this info helps other people who might be interested in duplicating my little experiment!

I have to say that the watches look amazingly similar. What is even better about A's version, besides the price tag, is the calendar date function on the face of the watch. Fantastic!!!

What are your thoughts on the Timex for J.Crew & comparable watches? Do you like the style? Do you own J.Crew's Timex or a similar version? If so, please share! :)

Cardmember Email: Jenna's favorite necklace

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Rosa In DC & Marietta, who shared with us the latest email from J.Crew to its card members.

The email above features the not-yet-officially-released-online Martha Necklace (Item 28402; $165.00). J.Crew describes this crystal grand strand as:

Dark silver ox-plated brass with Swarovski crystals. Signature spring clasp closure. Part of the J.Crew Collection.

This necklace is actually very similar to the necklace Jenna Lyons had on the Martha Stewart show last Winter (refer to the November 25th "J.Crew's Jenna Lyons to Appear with Martha Stewart {yes, that Martha Stewart!}" post). The necklace she wore on the segment was still in pre-production. Maybe they named it after Ms. Martha Stewart herself! :)

I really like the style of this necklace. I love the look of large glass stones— which is both simple and elegant. The length is just perfect around one's collarbones.

On a related note, I purchased both the Crystal Colletto Necklace (Item 25976; $118.00, in stores for $59.99) and the Small Crystal Colletto Bracelet (Item 26089; $70.00, in stores for $39.99) in Black recently. This necklace is very similar to the one featured in this email. I have to say I love love love them! This set looks so chic and can work with any outfit. I definitely would recommend it.

Incidentally, does this email only indicate that new arrivals will be available online soon? If so, then wahoo!

What are your thoughts on the Crystal Rock Necklace? Do you like the style- from the size to the style with its glass stones & chains?

Product Review: Wool Floral Scarf

I love it when JCAs share their product reviews! I find myself looking for a review from a fellow JCA on the blog roll, before making any purchases now. Not only has it saved me a few returns by purchasing the right size, I have also picked up a new piece or two that I would not have otherwise. :) Now to the review...

The Wool Floral Scarf (Item 23288; $59.50), aka Potpourri Scarf, has been very popular with the JCAs. I can understand why, with both its delicious Papaya & Cotton Candy versions. J.Crew describes it as:

Our classic fine-wool scarf/wrap, updated in buoyant spring florals. We borrowed two of our favorite prints from the women's collection for this style, which adds instant spring glamour to absolutely anything. Plus, we've perfected the wool blend to be floaty and light but still superwarm, so it's as chic over blouses and tees as it is knotted under your Macintosh coat on a brisk day.

A big "thanks!" to Belle de Jour who shared the following review:

There were two colourways for this scarf. This is the one with black, pink and papaya and matches the Ames dress. It's also available in a mini and a jacket.

I loved the colours on-line. As it was sold out, I rushed to call one of the stores listed by some friendly JCA. With some confusion on their part (they haven't done many phone sales, particularly to Canada), they promptly sent my beauty on its way.

I was thrilled when the parcel arrived. But not so thrilled when I opened the package. I'm a redhead with typical redhead colouring. I can wear black beautifully, and the papaya is stunning on me; however, the pink is pink and only makes me look pinker.

The scarf itself is soft and easily maniputable. It unwraps and untwists and unknots without a wrinkle. Unfortunately, this is a print not a weave, and you have to be careful how you wrap it. One side is vibrant and the other is faded.

This is as good as any of the J Crew scarves, just doesn't work for my colouring.

"Thanks!" again to Belle de Jour for her great review of this scarf!

For some reviews & real life images of this scarf, you have to check out:

• "JCrew New Arrivals: More IRL Pics" post
  over at the "My closet, my baby and I" blog
• "New J.Crew Items: Part I (Ruffle Henley, watercolor potpourri scarf, slub v-neck)" post
  over at the "Objects of My Closet's Affection" blog
• "Watercolor, Ruffles, and the Schoolboy: IRL Pics" post
  over at the "Fabulous Florida Mommy" blog

What are your thoughts on the Wool Floral Scarf? Have you seen or own this scarf? If so, what is your review of the fabric & print? Would you recommend it to another fellow JCA?

Madewell Email: Vintage meets modern

"Thanks!" to Marietta, HeidiG, & Jaden, who shared the latest email Madewell (click here) sent yesterday.

The email features the Crystal Collage Necklace ($88.00) which is described as the following: "an artful mosaic of chunky crystals— an elegant mix of old and new". I am usually not a fan of Madewell's jewelry, and unfortunately I am not impressed with this necklace.

I am not a big of fan of J.Crew's overall "go big or go home" slogan for the featured pieces in its jewelry collection as of late. But that is just me & my preferences. And who knows? I might see a JCA, or two, rockin' this or some other large piece from J.Crew which makes me want to own it too. :)

What are your thoughts on the Crystal Collage Necklace? Do you like or dislike the style?

Keeping Time with J.Crew's Classic Timex Watch {double take}

This blog has discussed J.Crew's Timex Military Watch (Item 10884; $150.00) a number of times (refer here, here, & here, as a few examples).

If you flip through J.Crew's catalog, you will have noticed that this watch is *the* accessory to have. In part, thanks to the delicious shades that the Watch Strap (Item 19474; $20.00) comes in, like Neon Rose and Birch.

My initial thought when the watch first came out is that I like it *and* that it is very {very} pricey for a Timex. However, over time I fell in love with it. I tried to find a cheaper alternative online, as well as with visits to Wal-Mart and Target, but found nothing close.

Between the fantastic styling from J.Crew's holiday catalogs & Summerilla's "Sum Sunshine" blog (refer here, here , & here, as some examples), I caved in. I ended up not only getting the watch at J.Crew, but some of the watch straps (in gorgeous Authentic Red & stunning Bronzed Biege).

Sorry for the rambling on. Now here comes the point of this post... A big "thanks!" to Danielle who found a J.Crew-Timex comparable watch for a fraction of the price, from a post over at Trip's "A Trip Down South" blog (click here).

The watch on the left is J.Crew's version. The watch on the right is the Squad Leader Watch (Item #16163; $31.99) from U.S. Calvalry. From the images, the watches are remarkably similar. Even better? Danielle shares that the bands for both watches measure 18mm", so one could use J.Crew's watch straps {in super pretty shades} for the Squad Leader Watch.

What are your thoughts on the Timex & Squad Leader watches? Do you like the style? Do you own either one? If so, please share! :)

J.Crew Email: The statement piece of the season (plus, FREE SHIPPING)

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Dina & Marietta, who shared with us the latest email from J.Crew this morning.

The email above features the Crystal Devoté Necklace (Item 23752; $150.00). J.Crew describes the statement necklace as:

One of our favorites of the season, with a multitextured mix of metal meets glass (and a touch of delicate silk ribbon thrown in for good measure). Finished with a golden fireburst of hand-set Czech rhinestones, it's the one that gets you compliments every time. Hand-set Czech rhinestones on a light antiqued steel chain with 18K gold-plated metal castings. Hand-knotted smooth and faceted beads with silk ribbon. Signature spring clasp closure.

I am feeling "meh" on the overall design of the Crystal Devoté Necklace. I like the two star-bursts & the main chain, but the additional ribbon & beads seem "too much". I would love to see this necklace without the additions. Or the starbursts on a single or double beaded necklace. But that is just me. ;)

J.Crew has some of the loveliest *simple* necklaces at their brick & mortar (B&M) stores. Like the single strand chain with randomly placed pearls and stones for less than $40. I would love to see those get featured. :)

J.Crew is also offering customers free shipping on purchases of $150+ with promo code SHIP150. This offer expires 2/24/10.

What are your thoughts on the necklace? Do you like the design? Will you be taking advantage of this free shipping promotion?

Cardmember Email: Psst. The gotta-have-it spring necklace, just for Cardmembers.

"Thanks!" to many of you, including HeidiG, Rosa In DC, Marietta, Twiga, Cass, & Alisa, who shared with us the latest email from J.Crew to its card members.

The email above features the not-yet-officially-released-online Crystal Rock Necklace (Item 26074; $128.00). J.Crew describes the rock candy necklace (which comes in either Gunmetal or Copper) as:

A bold statement piece, assembled completely by hand with oversize stones (we love the contrast of their heft with the beautiful luminosity of the faceted glass). Equally at home peeking from beneath a button-down shirt or grazing the neckline of a favorite dress, it's the one you'll wear again and again—and again. Round glass stones on a hematite-plated (gunmetal) or copper-and-gold-plated (copper) brass-and-steel chain. Signature spring clasp closure with connector ring.

Frankly, I am not sure if I like this necklace or not. The round glass stones (in both shades) are lovely. However, I am not sure what to make of the stones surrounded by cheap-looking chain. And the size factor... dayum! Is it just me, or does it look huge on the mannequin?

Incidentally, does this email only indicate that new arrivals will be available online soon? If so, then wahoo!

What are your thoughts on the Crystal Rock Necklace? Do you like the style- from the size to the style with its glass stones & chains?

J.Crew Email: Buy now, love forever

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta, who shared with us the latest email from J.Crew this morning.

The email above features the Grommet Parlour Hobo (Item 23176; $298.00). We already got a sneak peak to this bag awhile back (refer to the January 21st "Cardmember Email: A sneak preview from our spring collection (just for Cardmembers)" post). J.Crew describes the hobo as:

Our design team (and everyone else) is mad for this handbag. Part motorcycle chic, part impeccable uptown construction, it's one of our favorite shapes in soft pebbled leather and a tricked-out body with a smattering of studs and grommets. With multiple pockets to keep you organized and an adjustable strap for versatility. Top snap closure with two zip pockets. Shiny gold hardware. Interior front-wall split-patch cell pocket, back-wall zip pocket. Cotton twill lining. Part of the J.Crew Collection.

There are now more colors/ versions to enjoy. Originally it came in either Black or Pale Buff. Now it also comes in Rosy Peach and Soft Dove (grey).

I originally did not care for the bag. After seeing it in person... I actually think the Pale Buff version is quite lovely. The gold tinted grommets actually play quite well against the light tan leather. I also saw the Black version in person and it did not seem that bad either.

What are your thoughts on the hobo? Have you seen it in-person? Has your opinion on the hobo change? Do you like the style- from the size to the style with its studs & grommets?

Cardmember Email: A sneak preview from our spring collection (just for Cardmembers)

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta, DinDin, dinagideon, Elizabeth, Shannon, & Cass, who shared with us the latest email from J.Crew to its card members.

The email above features the not-yet-officially-released-online Grommet Parlour Hobo (Item 23176; $298.00). J.Crew describes the hobo (which comes in either Black or Pale Buff) as:

Our design team (and everyone else) is mad for this handbag. Part motorcycle chic, part impeccable uptown construction, it's one of our favorite shapes in soft pebbled leather and a tricked-out body with a smattering of studs and grommets. With multiple pockets to keep you organized and an adjustable strap for versatility. Top snap closure with two zip pockets. Shiny gold hardware. Interior front-wall split-patch cell pocket, back-wall zip pocket. Cotton twill lining. Part of the J.Crew Collection.

Me don't likey. I don't care for the studs and grommets at all, which dates this bag as a current trend. For this price point, I expect the bag to be a timeless keepsake.

By the way, when I think of J.Crew the term "motorcycle chic" does *not* come to mind. J.Crew, please do not go this route. Instead, think Paris 2007. You know what I am talkin' about J.Crew. {wink}

On a bright note, this email only confirms that new arrivals will be available online soon. {wahoo!}

What are your thoughts on the hobo? Do you like the style- from the size to the style with its studs & grommets?

Product Review: Metallic Beacon Purse

Metallic Beacon Purse
Click here for product page
Item 23189
Regular: $168.00

When this bag arrived online, all I could think was pretty, pretty, pretty bag. J.Crew describes this Collection bag as the following:

This metallic-leather purse has a sporty-chic twist that we're coveting for spring. Impeccable detailing includes the extra-long strap (so it can be worn either flat across the body or over the shoulder), polished gold hardware and a reverse-metallic finish. With enough luxe touches to take you from the conference room to cocktails. (We see it slung across a little black dress.) An interior back-wall zip pocket keeps your lipstick and cell phone in line. Leather handles. Top flap with turn-lock closure. Cotton twill lining.

A big "thanks!" to DinDin who shared her review of the Beacon Purse, as well as some real-life images. Just click on any of her images to view larger. The following is her review:

I think this purse is shinier in person than in the photo on the website. One photo is of the bag compared next to my tv remote so you can see the size comparison. This purse will hold an iphone, a wallet (on the slimmer side), and maybe a few small things like a couple lipglosses.

If you put anything that is round or thick into the bag it will pull at the top flap. This is because the bag is very slim. There is no width at all actually.

I'm short, 5'2". When worn cross body the top of the bag hits at the top of my hips. When I put it over one shoulder, it dropped below my hips. (please excuse my mirror/camera, i don't know what that smudge is.)

The strap is removable, although it would look slightly off with those two gold rings attached to the bag. The bag itself is very light which is a plus if you're going to use this bag for a "going out" bag. As far as the strap, it is studded, little pyramids on one side and flat rounds on the other side.

The inside is lined in plain cotton, beige in color. As for the feel of the leather, it's not particularly smooth, obviously because it is metallic.

Overall, I'm not sure what I think of it. Maybe 3.5 stars out of 5.

"Thanks!" again to DinDin for her great review of this bag! I, along with many other JCAs, had been curious about the size of the Beacon— especially since J.Crew did not offer any additional photos of the purse.

What are your thoughts on the Metallic Beacon Purse? Have you seen or own this bag? If so, what is your review of the size & style? Would you recommend it to another fellow JCA?

Questionable Item of the Week: Dogwood Decadence Necklace {aka: wtf?}

Dogwood Decadence Necklace
Click here for product page
Item 24160
Regular: $135.00

J.Crew describes this necklace as the following:

Czech crystal-studded flowers and masculine oval links, hand-dyed silk satin ribbon and smoky acrylic faceted drops combine to create one of the most elegant statement necklaces of the season. 1" silk ribbon. 18K gold-plated metal casting with steel chain. Signature spring clasp closure.

When I glanced over the Jewelry section of J.Crew's online site, my eyes could not believe the mess that is the Dogwood "Decadence" Necklace. I put the decadence in quotes, because I am not sure if J.Crew was being ironic.

Seriously J.Crew, WTF? (Pardon my language ladies & gentleman.) I don't know what I find more outrageous, the crazy design that is being referred to as an "elegant statement necklace" or the ridiculous price tag of $135!

As for the design, it looks like an art project that either has yet to be finished or was done half-ass (again, pardon my language).

J.Crew can promote the "hand-dyed silk satin ribbon" all they want, but they totally cheapen the necklace with its random placement and frayed edges. As for the "masculine oval links", they are just plain weird. It actually reminds me of my childhood summers rummaging papa's tool storage in the garage for bolts & the like to make a necklace.

Oh J.Crew, you can do better than this. You can do much better!

Do you think I am being overly-critical? What are your thoughts on this necklace? Would you buy it or leave it at the store? Have you see this first hand, and if so, what are your impressions?

Quick Poll: Do you like the Dogwood Decadence Necklace?

Product Review: Ryder Satchel

Ryder Satchel
Click here for product page
Item 20310
Regular $298.00; now $225.00

According to J.Crew's item page:

The ultimate 24/7 bag, crafted in smooth oiled leather that, over time, wears to a unique, one-of-a-kind finish (the more you use it, the more beautiful it will become). The oiled finish also allows the leather to recover—meaning light surface scratches will work themselves out with wear or can be lightly buffed out with a soft cotton cloth. A multifunctional cross between a messenger bag and a sophisticated satchel, with a removable strap and side snaps so you can carry it over your shoulder or as a tote, and it has pockets galore. Top zip closure. Shiny gold hardware. Exterior front-wall and back-wall zip pockets. Interior front-wall split-patch cell pocket, back-wall zip pocket. Cotton twill lining. Part of the J.Crew Collection. Comes with dust bag. Import. Removable, adjustable shoulder strap fully extends to 22". 4" handle drop. 10 5/8"H x 14"W x 5 1/2"D.

I really liked the concept of this bag— messenger bag by day and satchel by night. It was going to move from the office to a night out on the town effortlessly. So when it went on sale, I decided to "take the plunge" and get this bag in the "golden amber" shade.

The leather itself is quite smooth to the touch. Unfortunately, it is prone to scratches. Since the Golden Amber shade is light, the scratches become noticeable in arms-length distance. Not a deal-breaker for me, but something definitely to consider.

The handles of the bag are just long enough to allow me to carry it on my forearm. However, they are not long enough so I could wear it on my shoulder.

The bag looks sharp when the side snaps are closed (as shown in the image above). However, the bag looks a bit weird when it's converted to a messenger bag. (When the side snaps are undone and the leather sides come up for the messenger look, the bag just looks like a plain & weird rectangle.) Moreover, the strap for the bag is super long as the bag hits below my bum (and I am 5'8").

There are not that many pockets. The front pocket is just an empty rectangle space. The inside has the standard back zipper pocket (where it just sags the bag's back wall if you put a heavy wallet in it), as well as the front split open pocket.

I know it's hard to tell from the dimensions, but this bag is huge! Especially when J.Crew fills it up with tissue paper. The interior is extremely spacious. I can definitely see a JCA using it as an alternative briefcase for work.

For my taste, I felt that the bag came off more like a piece of carry-on luggage than anything else. It was a huge turnoff and the sole reason it went right back to the mail for a catalog return. I honestly don't know why the majority of J.Crew's bag tend to fall in the "too small" or "too big" category. Bring back the size of the Jaime Bag! :)

What are your thoughts on the Ryder Satchel? Are you a fan of the style & size? Would you consider getting this bag?

Love It or Leave It: Madewell Chunky Cowl Collar

As many of us have noticed and commented before, Madewell items are now being sold on J.Crew's website (click here to shop Madewell online). One item in the recent roll-out caught my attention...

Madewell Chunky Cowl Collar
Click here for product page
Item 21488
Regular: $45.00

According to the item page:

Our creative director, Jenna, stopped by our sister store, Madewell, to bring you a few of her favorites for the season. Here's their newest take on the scarf: a supersoft knit collar with the look and feel of a favorite sweater. It's so cozy and warm, you'll want to wear it all season long. Wool/ acrylic/ poly with Lurex® metallic threads. Dry clean. 30"L x 15"W.

Okay, so it's not quite a scarf, not quite a sweater... but oh, man! Let's call it a circular collar scarf (CCF)? Whatever the name is, I am not a fan of Madewell's version. It's not to say I don't like the concept of the CCF. In fact, I have seen the CCF in fashion magazines the past few months and some of the versions look really cute (basically laying around the neck like a scarf, without the ends).

My main issue with Madewell's version is how it lays on the model from the back side. It looks like a sloppy sweater draping over her shoulders, instead of a cute scarf wrapped around her neck.

Madewell's version seems cumbersome to wear (maybe it's the dimensions?) I just know I would keep playing with Madewell's Chunky Cowl Collar to make it look "right". This item is a "leave it" for me.

What are your thoughts on the Madewell's Chunky Cowl Collar? Do you "love it" or would you "leave it"? Have you seen this accessory in-person? If so, please share with us your review. :)

Quick Poll: Do you like Madewell's Chunky Cowl Collar?

J.Crew Email: A private holiday Cardmember preview (exclusively yours)

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta & Missmasala, who shared with us the latest email from J.Crew to its card members.

The email above features the not-yet-officially-released-online Marché Tote (Item 21458; $278.00). J.Crew describes the the tote (which comes in either Fawn or Salmon) as:

Our designers were inspired by one of our favorite bracelets to create this elegant chain-link strap (we like wearing it both doubled up and as a single strap, depending on our mood). Perfect for every day and just dressed up enough for a night on the town. Leather. Chain-and-leather handle. Top interior hidden magnet closure. Shiny brass hardware. Exterior front pocket with hidden magnet closure under flap, back zip pocket. Interior front-wall split-patch cell pocket, back-wall zip pocket. Cotton twill lining.

Not sure what to make of the tote... I like the style of the tote's body and the Fawn shade is gorgeous. However, I am not sure if I like the chain-link strap. I guess I would have to see & try on in-person.

On a bright note, this email only confirms that new arrivals will be available online soon. {wahoo!}

What are your thoughts on the tote? Do you like the style- from the chain handle to the front pocket?

J.Crew Email: Exclusively ours...a vintage-inspired icon. FREE SHIPPING ENDS TODAY.

"Thanks!" to Marietta who shared the following email J.Crew sent this morning.

Similar to the email J.Crew sent in September (refer to "J.Crew Email: Keep time with a classic" post), this email features the Timex Military Watch (Item 10884; $150.00). J.Crew also offers the Solid Watch Strap (Item 19474; $20.00) in a variety of colors including Authentic Red (perfect for the Holidays!)

The email also reminds us that they are offering 20% off select styles of Women's Knits and Tees (click here to shop online). This offer expires today and is available only online.

Lastly, J.Crew is offering free shipping on orders of $150+ with promo code 150SHIP. This offer expires today too. Apparently some JCAs have reported being unable to use this code even though they met the requirements. Something to keep in mind when purchasing. If this is the case (the code is not working for you), you should try calling the order in and explaining the situation. The customer service representatives (CSR) should apply the code for you on your order. :)

Product Review: Campo Messenger Bag

Campo Messenger Bag
Click here for product page
Item 17542
Regular: $350.00
Now $199.99

J.Crew must really like this name because they ended up using it twice for two different bags. So this review is not about the other Campo Messenger Bag (Item 20302; $268.00) that is now available. :)

I have been stalking this bag for sometime now, ever since I saw it in-person at the Collection Store in NYC over the summer. After J.Crew ran the promotion for 20% off final sale, I decided to go ahead and green light this purchase. I am glad I did as this little number keeps coming and going in the final sale section. As much as I love the thrill of snagging a pop-back, I hate even more the dread of the cancellation email. ;)

J.Crew describes this messenger bag as the following:

A bag to love now—and one you'll love even more later. Crafted in smooth oiled leather that, over time, wears to a unique, one-of-a-kind finish of color depth and patina (the more you use it, the more beautiful it will become). The oil finish also allows the leather to recover—meaning light surface scratches will work themselves out with wear or can be lightly buffed out with a soft cotton cloth. Adjustable leather shoulder strap. Hidden magnetic closure under foldover flap. Shiny gold-finish hardware. Exterior front-wall pocket underneath flap, interior front-wall split-patch cell pocket, center zip divider pocket, back-wall zip pocket. Cotton twill lining. Part of the J.Crew Collection. Import. Comes with a dust bag. Adjustable shoulder strap fully extends to 22". 12 1/2"H x 12"W x 4 3/8"D.

The leather of this bag is just lovely! It's not as buttery as the Jamie and Sean bags, but it is quite soft & smooth. Although it is prone to scratches, I am not worried about it (like I am with the Jamie and Sean bags).

There are lots of compartments in this bag, including the center zippered pocket. Even though the fold over flap is closed by a hidden magnetic closure, it is completely secure. (Which is a definite must for me.)

This messenger bag is big. Really big. This is something to consider if you are thinking about getting this bag. I think the size might be a deal breaker for some JCAs. (...slightly random thought but I can't help but think of Liz Lemon on NBC's 30 Rock saying, "That's a deal breaker, Ladies!")

If you usually carry a medium or small size purse and then transfer those contents to this bag, you might find yourself really reaching at the bottom to pull the stuff out. ;) You may find it too bulky for your everyday needs. Also, the strap on this bag is quite long, even when you shorten it. Especially if you choose to wear it on your shoulder, instead of crossed over on your body.

If you love the look of the messenger bag, but turned off by the size of this Campo Messenger Bag, you may want to look into getting the Large Andi Bag (Item 17201; $235.00) which is a manageable size. I checked this bag out at a brick & mortar (B&M) store and thought the size is just perfect. I also loved that it can be converted from a shoulder to messenger bag, without looking like a shoulder-only or messenger-only bag. (I hope that last part makes sense. Sometimes, me no write so good.) ;)

With all that said, I think the Campo Messenger Bag is a great office bag. A really scrumptious and feminine alternative to a briefcase.

Crewcuts Email: awe-inspiring accessories (+FREE SHIPPING)

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marisa (in this post) & Marietta, who let us know about J.Crew's latest email.

The email features Girl's Accessories (with the tag line ""ooh-la-la! Baubles and beads (and everything in between)") from the Crewcuts line. To shop girl's jewelry & accessories, click here.

The jewelry and accessories for girls at Crewcuts is absolutely lovely! I have been known to buy a headband or two from the Crewcuts line to wear myself! Sometimes I wonder if I can fit the rings on my fingers. ;)

On a weird note, I am also really happy to see the girl (used in the email image above) smiling! Sometimes, Crewcuts email feature an adorable girl or two who seem to be upset for some random reason. (Not sure what I am talking about? Refer here & here as a few examples.)

They are also reminding us about free shipping on all Crewcuts orders (with no minimum).

Have you checked out the new Jewelry & Accessories for Crewcuts? Are there any items that you are liking? Have you been taking advantage of the free shipping promotion? :)

J.Crew Email: Keep time with a classic

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Amy & Marietta, who shared the following email J.Crew sent this morning.

This email features the Timex Military Watch (Item 10884; $150.00). You can also purchase the Solid Watch Strap (Item 19474; $20.00) in a variety of colors including Dark Pumpkin and Bali Blue.

Last September, there was a post about Timex for J.Crew (refer here). I do like the style of the Timex watch– it is something I would totally wear. With that said, I do think the price tag seems a bit high (for a Timex watch).

The email also reminds us about Ask Jack video (refer here and here). The video is now available to view on J.Crew's website (click here to view).

What are your thoughts on the Timex for J.Crew watch? Do you own (or know someone who owns) the watch? Would you recommend the watch? :)

Storybook Charm Bracelet {it's back ...kind of} ;)

As we all know, certain styles & designs get copied from various fashion houses and retailers all the time. In the September 8th post, "J.Crew's Victoria {they're back ...kind of} ;)", the style of the Victorias being duplicated was discussed. Well now, there is one more style being duplicated...

A big "thanks!" to E who was kind enough to let us know about a Storybook Charm-inspired bracelet from Aldo.

The Storybook Charm Bracelet (Item 10934; $125.00) from J.Crew came out last year to quite a bit of fanfare. This bracelet was very popular (I own it myself!) and sold out quickly. Well, Aldo has now come out with its own version, the Gulbrandsen (DCS: 31-07-02; $20.00).

If you look at the two images (where J.Crew's version is on the left, and Aldo's version is on the right), the bracelets have the same charms and in the same order! And the price difference... wow! E also mentioned, that she found the Aldo version "on sale for 14.98 plus by one get one free!" at her local store.

What are your thoughts on the Storybook Charm-inspired bracelet being offered by another retailer? Do you like the alternative or J.Crew's version more? :)

UPDATE: Crew_Girl_In_Canada has a great (& detailed) review of the new Aldo bracelet over at the {wonderful} My Delightful Obsessions blog (click here to read the post).