Happy New Year's Eve! {celebrating with J.Crew?}

Happy New Year J.Crew Aficionadas!

I want to take a moment to wish everyone a wonderful new year! {yey!} I look forward to celebrating the up-coming J.Crew collections with you all. :)

As usual, this post is to find out what everyone is planning to wear tonight. I know I have mentioned this before, but I also really enjoy these posts. I find it interesting to see how other Aficionadas and Aficionados style certain pieces, providing me wonderful ideas for future outfits. :) So for this post, what we are planning to wear during New Years Eve and/or New Years Day? :)

What are you planning to wear this New Year (Eve or Day)? Are you planning to go "head to toe" J.Crew or parts J.Crew?

Happy Valentine's Day! {celebrating w/ J.Crew?}

Happy Valentine's Day J.Crew Aficionadas & Aficionados!

I l-o-v-e these posts. It is really interesting to hear what other Aficionadas and Aficionados plan on wearing, since it gives me lots of wonderful ideas for future outfits. For this post, what we are planning to wear on Valentine's Day? :)

As for me, I am going all J.Crew! I plan on wearing J.Crew's Kiss Tee, Perfect-fit Mixed-tape Cardigan in Red, and Pixie Pants in Black. Simple and casual. Totally cute.

What are you planning to wear this Valentine's Day? Are you planning to go "head to toe" J.Crew or parts J.Crew?

Winter Whites From Head to Toe {yes? no?}

Madewell sent an email this morning showcasing some of their new arrivals. One of the features was on the "whole 'winter white' thing". There is no doubt that the model is rocking that look. The whole style, from hat to jeans, is pretty flawless.

With that said, it got me wondering, do people really rock this trend? I mean really? I wear white sweaters and even a white coat during the Winter (all worn with great care of course!) However I don't dare go head to toe. Partially because it would get crazy dirty. Just the other day, walking on the sidewalk, I noticed that my black J.Crew boots covered in snow slush. It was not a hot look. And my Madewell Legging Jeans had some residual snow slush too. I couldn't imagine what would happen if I was wearing white jeans.

Do you rock Winter Whites "head to toe" If so, what are your tips for success? Please share! :)

Quick Poll:  Do you rock Winter Whites from head to toe? 

Happy New Year's Eve! {celebrating with J.Crew?}

I want to take a moment to wish everyone a wonderful new year! {yey!} I look forward to celebrating the up-coming 2015 J.Crew collections with you all. :)

As usual, this post is to find out what everyone is planning to wear tonight. I know I have mentioned this before, but I also really enjoy these posts. I find it interesting to see how other Aficionadas and Aficionados style certain pieces, providing me wonderful ideas for future outfits. :) So for this post, what we are planning to wear during New Years Eve and/or New Years Day? :)

What are you planning to wear this New Year (Eve or Day)? Are you planning to go "head to toe" J.Crew or parts J.Crew?

Surprise! J.Crew Sends Their Love

"Thanks!" to Happylittlewitch (in this post), who shared the following delightful surprise/ news with us:

OT - Check your mail for a nice surprise from JCrew! I just received a nice sized box with a lovely candle (carriere freres). Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

"Thanks!" also to Marie (in this post), who confirmed the gift with us:

I am happy with anything J.crew sends over for Christmas but this year is particularly lovely: a Carriere Freres candle in Lavender. In his note, Mickey asked how they can improve next year to make the cardmember experience better.

As JCAs already know, J.Crew sends Holiday presents to lucky JCAs every year. In the past it has been day planners and notebooks, as well as fruits and luggage (yes, luggage!) J.Crew even sends their male customers a different, more gender appropriate gift (like a silk pocket square).

I should also add, I do not really know how J.Crew determines which customers receive what gifts. I believe it has to do with your spending level over the year. But I could be wrong. Their selection criteria is a mystery to me, even though I am sure J.Crew has it down to a science! 

Lastly, this is wonderful gesture for loyal customers! It is a great gift and more importantly, a touching offer for those who receive it. :)

So check your mailbox in the next few days to see if you got something extra special from J.Crew. :)

Drinking the Crewlade? Try Drunk J.Crew!

"Thanks!" to so many of you, including Gina, CMG, Robyn (in this post), as well as JSR (in this post), who let us know about a new blog on J.Crew: Drunk J.Crew.

According to the Daily Mail (click here to read in its entirety):

Had one too many, girls? New Tumblr blog pokes fun at J.Crew catalog - in which the 'edgy' models look drunk
October 17, 2014

An amusing Tumblr blog which pokes fun at J.Crew's current catalog shots has emerged, using real promotional photos in which all the models appear to be drunk.

Drunk J.Crew was created this week and displays ten photos taken from the retailer's website, with added misspelled captions that speak to the models' vacant, slack-jacked expressions.

'i jus haffa sit down for a second,' reads one, depicting a model who may have been going for 'disheveled chic' but looks more as if she's knocked back one too many strawpedos.

The Tumblr - brainchild of writer and actress Jen Ellison, based in Chicago - features other gems such as: 'Guys for real now it is burrito time,' and 'ono I drobbed it my gum.' ...

Too funny! J.Crew's catalogs, er um "Style Guides", are definitely perfect to add some additional {humorous} commentary. How many times have JCAs questioned a pose, open mouth, or vacant stare?! ;)

Have you checked out Drunk J.Crew? Do you love it!? ;)

Are You Ready For Fall?

I cannot believe that it is almost the end of August and September is just around the corner! Everywhere you look, Fall is smacking you in the face. Forget the Back-to-School theme at stores, I already saw Halloween and Christmas decorations on display.

A quick look on my Blog reader and it seems like everyone changed over their closet from Summer to Fall too. Don't get me wrong, I love Fall... the crisp air, the pumpkin flavored coffee, the maple scented soaps, etc...

Despite all that, it is still pretty darn hot where I am at. Enough to enjoy pool parties and wearing shorts. So even though I am loving all the Fall stuff, I am not ready for Summer to end quite yet. ;)

Are you excited for Fall? Still want Summer to last? Which season are you dressing for?

Quilted Puffer Vest {Retail versus Factory!}

Both J.Crew and J.Crew Factory came out with Quilted Puffer Vests for their respective Fall 2014 collections. I thought it would be fun to break down the two versions and see which one JCAs like more. To borrow a phrase from GigisGoneShopping, a "smackdown!" of the two.

Excursion quilted vest (item B0109; $120.00)

J.Crew retail's current version is a copy of J.Crew retail's 2013 Excursion Vest. When it comes to sizing, it runs large for most customers. I am normally an extra small/size 2 and find the extra extra small fits best.

Pro

• It has a side pocket in addition to the button covered pocket
• Quality: It is always better from retail.
• Color: Comes in both chartreuse and bright ivory this year. Both colors have not been done in vests before.

Con

• Those gold snap buttons are not my favorite. I don't know what it is about them, but I am not a huge fan. Mind you, I do own two versions of this vest with the gold buttons.
• The zipper is only one way. The two way zippers from 2012 are much easier to wear.
• Limited number of colors this year. Last year, there were more choices. Not sure why this year there are only four. :(

Factory quilted puffer vest (item 92465; $98.00)

J.Crew Factory's current version is actually a copy of J.Crew retail's 2012 Excursion Vest. When it comes to sizing, same scenario as the retail version: size one down.

Pro

• The side pockets are more streamlined with the vest. Plus, there are inside snaps on this version that help keep stuff inside. Awesome little feature! (The retail version from 2012 did not have inside snaps, nor did Factory's version from 2013.)
• Quality: I compared this version with my vests from retail 2012 and could not tell the difference. 
• Colors: The factory version comes in a lot more colors. Including red currant and olive moss, both of which have not been used before.
• Two way zipper- love this! Enough said.

Con

• Quality: It's from Factory. I can't tell the difference from the retail version, but I know J.Crew cut costs somewhere. I don't know where, but it's somewhere... ;)

From my comparisons above, it is clear that I am hearting the Factory version a bit more. It's not to say that I don't like the retail version. I do! I just think the Factory version wins out.

What are your thoughts on the puffer vests from retail J.Crew and J.Crew Factory? Do you have any additional pros or cons that you would add to the lists here? If so, please share! :)

Quick Poll: Which puffer vest do you adore?

J.Crew No Longer Offers Charge-Send Orders {via phone}

"Thanks!" to st (in this post), who let us know the following:

I was told the following about charge and send orders by a J.Crew VPS:

"Regarding send-sell orders, stores no longer take orders over the phone per security reasons."

I had tried to order the Evie metallic sandals from a Georgia store since they're much cheaper there than online. The stores I go to in NJ don't carry them. I called the GA store about a week ago, but they refused to sell them to me because of security reasons. I offered my JC Credit card number which could be verified with my billing/shipping address, but they refused. Then I contacted an online VPS. Has anyone else heard this? 

"Thanks!" to WellFedFred (in this post), who responded with the following:

Yes, about a year and a half ago from the Short Hills, NJ store. Utter nonsense, what's the security issue in sending merch to MY SHIPPING ADDRESS WHICH IS THE SAME AS MY BILLING ADDRESS ON MY JC ACCOUNT WHICH YOU CAN GET OFF YOUR ANATOMY AND LOOK UP TO VERIFY 

Well as you can tell the conversation didn't end pleasantly.

Well I am sad to hear about this news! I always appreciated being able to purchase an item that was no longer available online or at my local store through charge/sends.

I can completely understand J.Crew's position in wanting to protect customers. However, I wonder if there is a way to perhaps link store charge/sends with customers online profiles? After all, it would make customers happy and allow J.Crew to actually sell their merchandise. :)

What are your thoughts on J.Crew's move to eliminate charge/sends? Please share!

Basics at J.Crew B&M Stores Being Phased Out?

"Thanks!" to Doodle Daschund (in this post), who let us know the following:

Not a review, but I was told in store the other day that basics like pencil skirts, jackie cardigans, matchstick jeans, etc will no longer be stocked in the stores. These will be online items only. They gave me more examples of the items but I just can't remember. They say it is to make room for more merchandise in the stores. They think since everyone is familiar with their basics, they will just be able to order them and they will no longer stock them. I think that is sad. Sometimes you need a basic item and don't have time to wait for it to be shipped. I was also told that the stores do still have some sale items but they are now 25% off. Doesn't matter to me because right now, they have nothing I want.

...I agree it is very weird but the SA had a little book that she read it from. I think it was training material for the staff, not anything we would see. They were shocked as well.

Well this is disappointing news! I am surprised that J.Crew would make it harder to purchase their well-loved basics. Ugh.

Personally, I like being able to touch and try on the items in person. Even though I am pretty consistent size-wise at J.Crew (like 99% of the time), there is always an odd piece that I have to size up or down in. Moreover, some pieces don't share the same color as their online counterparts. Seeing in person helps me determine this without having to buy and return.

It feels like this move is in response to the massive numbers in sale we have seen in stores and online recently. I don't think giving more floor space to merchandise that is not selling is the answer. Giving more floor space to merchandise that *is* selling, like the Jackie Cardigans, is. 

P.S. The image above is from an email sent back in 2009. Minus the messy hair, the outfit is super cute and totally wearable today!

What are your thoughts on J.Crew's basics moving from stores to online only? Has your local B&M store transitioned away from basics? If so, please share!

Racked Mentions the J.Crew Aficionada Blog

I just want to mention that I was interviewed by Chavie Lieber, who writes for Racked (a place that this site frequently references). To check it out, click here: "Meet The Bloggers Tracking J.Crew, Anthro and Lulu's Every Move".

On another (related) bright note, a "J.Crew spokesperson" reached out to me let me know if I ever need any information, to reach her. Alright, will do! :)

J.Crew Sizing... Running Large For You Too?

In last week's "J.Crew Now Offers XXXS {yeah size 000!}" post, there was a great discussion among JCAs about J.Crew's foray into extra extra extra small sizing. I mentioned vanity sizing at J.Crew as one of the reasons behind offering a new size (size 000).

Another reason, and the main topic of this post, is that J.Crew is offering more and more pieces that simply run big. Since some of us prefer a more tailored look, we end up sizing down a size or two.

Take the gorgeous Boy Shirt in Beaded Chambray (item 02967) as an example. The photo shows the button down as form fitting on the model and the description even labels it as "tailored fit". HA! The reality is that this shirt is drowning in extra fabric. (Boy shirts at J.Crew tend to be looser and this one is no exception.) I could never achieve the fitted look in the Beaded Chambray shirt with my normal size 2. In fact, I had to size down to a size 00. With my 34B chest, I still had room because it had a chest of 35 inches. So for those who are a size 0 or 00 in J.Crew, what do they do?

Another example is the Stripe Back-Zip Dress (item A8184). This a beautiful dress, perfect for Summer! In order to get the same look as the model above, I had to go down a whole size because the bodice felt large.

I know what some of you are thinking... "Hey, it is meant to be loose!" I can understand that point, especially with the Boy Shirts. However, when the images and description are displaying a tailored fit for an item, it would be nice if the item actually fit that way without having to size down or up.

Some of you are also thinking, "Hey, it's not unusual to have to size up or down in one piece of clothing from an entire line. Give J.Crew a break!" I can understand this point too. One of the reasons I shop at J.Crew is the consistency in sizing. I feel very comfortable ordering online without having to try on the item beforehand. However, I have just been noticing lately that more and more pieces are running large. Not all of them, or even the majority of items being offered by J.Crew, but just more than usual.

Which is why I am also so thankful that JCAs share their reviews in the Weekly Review posts. Plus, I am happy that J.Crew finally offers customer reviews and includes "overall fit". I can see on the item page whether an item runs large or small.

But back to my main point... I think with so many pieces running big, J.Crew has to offer smaller sizes because these customers would just get left out otherwise.

What are your thoughts on J.Crew's current sizing? Do you think they have been running large in more pieces lately? If so, please share! :)

J.Crew Now Offers XXXS {yeah size 000!}

"Thanks!" to Cousy & Ina Mack (in this post) who let us know that J.Crew is now offering size XXXS, also known as numeric size 000.

It is hard to imagine that a size 000 can even exist for retailers. However it is just an example of how much vanity sizing is still at play.

I also find it difficult to believe that I am smaller size-wise today than ten years ago, despite weighing slightly more. Every time I try a European sized item, I am reminded of my real size (although even the European retailers are vanity sizing more and more). I have often wondered if I am fitting into a size 0 and 2 myself, then what size do the real size 0 and 2 customers get, if they get the item at all.

I have no doubt that there are customers who rightly are size 000 in J.Crew's clothing selections. And its great that these customers' needs are finally being addressed. Many JCAs have even mentioned buying from the Crewcuts line because those clothes fit them (and are slightly cheaper too!)

However, I can't help but think the real answer to the size 000 is to not vanity size items anymore. Even though I know this intellectually, I remember all those times I was happy when I "fit" into a size 0. I am clearly guilty of buying into vanity sizing.

So... I don't think vanity sizing is going anywhere anytime soon. Maybe one day there will be a size XXXXS, numeric size 0000.

"Thanks!" to another JCA (I can't remember who, apologies about that!) who posted a comment on this blog about Capital Hill Style's "Discuss: J.Crew’s Downward Spiral Lands on Triple-Zero" post. A great discussion can be found over there on this very topic.

What are your thoughts on J.Crew's new 000 size offering? Do you think this is a good move for J.Crew? Please share!

My "Let it Go" List {what's yours?}

Handknit marled sweater (item 07856; $129.99)

In the last few posts, many of us discussed how we are surprised at J.Crew's reluctance to reduce prices on certain pieces that are lingering in the sale section.

I thought it might be fun to have a post about our "Let it Go" list (I dare you to try not singing the song from "Frozen"). This is a list of items that (1) we are tired of seeing in the sale section and (2) we hope that J.Crew will offer kill prices to put them out of their misery.

The following items are the ones that made it to my "Let it Go" list....

 Jeweled Fair Isle stripe sweater (item 07873; $119.99)

 

Fair isle leggings (item 08407: $69.99)

MacAlister wedge boots (item 28671; $89.99)

Meander pant (item 47328; $59.99)

Pajama pant in navy plaid flannel (item 06756; $39.99)

Robe in bright cerise plaid flannel (item 06754; $59.99)

Silk metallic tunic (item 07031; $59.99)

Skier sweater (item 09136; $79.99)

Sperry Top-Sider® for J.Crew leather shearwater boots (item 07511; $119.99)

Stained glass jacquard opera gloves (item 08001; $99.99)

Tiered dress in blurred floral (item A1380; $79.99)

Zigzag stripe scarf (item 07466; $39.99)

Which items from J.Crew's sale section are you tired of seeing? Which pieces would make it to your "Let it Go" list? Did you end up singing the song from "Frozen", be honest!

An Interview With Ozy

I just want to mention that I was interviewed by the lovely Leanne Shimabukuro, who writes for the super cool site Ozy (a "go-to daily news and culture site for the Change Generation"). To check it out, click here: "Love Trader Joe's? There's a Blog for That".

It's so amazing how the Internet landscape has changed over the past 15 years. In the 90's, companies barely had an internet presence (for those of us who can remember when dial-up was the way to go). Who would have thought there would be so many brand-devoted blogs lovingly run by customers today... really quite incredible.

Happy Mother's Day! {celebrating with J.Crew?}

Happy Mother's Day!

Similar to the other holiday posts, I thought it might be fun to have a post on what we plan on wearing today. Especially since many of us will be celebrating, either with our children or with our moms.

For myself, I plan on wearing the Crystal Leaves Necklace (item A7685) from J.Crew. It is such a beautiful necklace that instantly glams up any outfit.

What are you planning to wear this Mother's Day? Are you planning to go "head to toe" J.Crew or parts J.Crew?

Happy Valentine's Day! {celebrating w/ J.Crew?}

Happy Valentine's Day J.Crew Aficionadas & Aficionados!

I l-o-v-e these posts. It is really interesting to hear what other Aficionadas and Aficionados plan on wearing, since it gives me lots of wonderful ideas for future outfits. For this post, what we are planning to wear on Valentine's Day? :)

As for me, I am going to work my outfit around J.Crew's Teagan Ruffle Solid Herringbone Top (from around 2009). The rich Peony shade is perfection. Plus, the cascade of ruffles are just sweet enough to wear today!

What are you planning to wear this Valentine's Day? Are you planning to go "head to toe" J.Crew or parts J.Crew?

Happy New Year's Eve! {celebrating with J.Crew?}

Happy New Year J.Crew Aficionadas!

I want to take a moment to wish everyone a wonderful new year! {yey!} I look forward to celebrating the up-coming 2014 J.Crew collections with you all. :)

As usual, this post is to find out what everyone is planning to wear tonight. I know I have mentioned this before, but I also really enjoy these posts. I find it interesting to see how other Aficionadas and Aficionados style certain pieces, providing me wonderful ideas for future outfits. :) So for this post, what we are planning to wear during New Years Eve and/or New Years Day? :)

As for me, I plan on wearing J.Crew's Zig Zag Sequin Tee, Chambray Button-Down Shirt, Pixie Pants, and Lula Glitter Ballet Flats. That or a long sleeve cotton tee, fleece jacket, and J.Crew's signature leggings. I have a sneaky feeling it is going to be the latter. ;)

What are you planning to wear this New Year (Eve or Day)? Are you planning to go "head to toe" J.Crew or parts J.Crew?

Happy Holidays! {celebrating w/J.Crew?}

First and foremost... Happy Holidays everyone! It's the time of year where we can spend time with our loved ones and enjoy a fantastic meal (& maybe some gifts!) :)

Per JCA tradition, this post is to find out what everyone is going to wear. It's always fun to hear what other Aficionadas and Aficionados plan on wearing (and of course it gives me lots of wonderful ideas for future outfits). :) So for this post, what we are planning to wear for the Holidays? :)

What are you planning to wear this Holiday? Are you planning to go "head to toe" J.Crew or parts J.Crew?

Surprise! J.Crew Sends Their Love

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Blakemdjohns (in this post), who shared the following delightful surprise/ news with us:

...I received a "Thank You" gift from J. Crew of two Grafika notebooks. The note says they asked the company to produce them in these colors and patterns just for our Cardmembers. ...

Also "thanks!" to Suzy (in this post), who also shared:

I received the notebook gifts today, but also included is a $50.00 donation gift card where you can log on and select a charity to donate it to. Did you all see that? or get that? It's written on a card enclosed with the notebooks. Don't throw it out!

This is not the first time J.Crew has delivered Holiday presents to lucky JCAs. Last year J.Crew sent out notebooks. The two years before last, they sent a planner

So how do some customers get these gifts? I believe it has to do with your spending level over the year. Don't feel too bummed out if you did not get one. (I never do. Except for that one time.)

Lastly, this is wonderful gesture for loyal customers! It is a great gift and more importantly, a touching offer for those who receive it. :)

So check your mailbox in the next few days to see if you got something extra special from J.Crew. :)