Kater came up with a great post topic yesterday in the "Site down AGAIN! :(" post: to discuss what we think are the best and worst J.Crew stores.I have found that most of the J.Crew's in CT and NYC have been wonderful. (I even like the Rockefeller Center J.Crew!) There hasn't been a J.Crew that I would not frequent. I guess the main reason why I choose one J.Crew over another is based on distance and if I am in the area. ;) Although there have been a few incidences where J.Crew sales associates could have been nicer to me, in general they have been great. :) If I had to rate, my favorite J.Crew stores in CT would be those in Greenwich, Westport, & Farmington (because of their size) and my least favorite (notice I don't say "worse") would be the J.Crew in New Haven (again because of their size).
So what J.Crew stores do you think it the best or the worst? Is your review based on clothing selection (e.g. range of clothing and number of items offered), floor associates willing to help you, the scale of the sale section (e.g. lots of sales, lots of items for sale), the lack of shoppers (e.g. not a lot of tourists), or something else?
My absolute favorite J.Crew has to be the one in Menlo Park (NJ) -- it's small as far as J.Crew stores go, but it's never ever crowded, the staff are as friendly as can be, and the sale section always has a fantastic selection. The store at King of Prussia (PA) has a better selection, but it's always packed.
ReplyDeleteOn another note, I just used the FREESHIP code online today (about 5 minutes ago, actually), and it worked! You don't have to spend $175 to get free shipping yet -- let's see if my order actually goes through, though.
Lauren: The J.Crew in Menlo Park sounds great. If I am in the area, I will definitely stop by. I have been to the one at the King of Prussia. I agree with your assessment: great selection but always packed. :)
ReplyDeleteI am happy to hear that FREESHIP still works and I hope your order goes through! :)
WORST-
ReplyDeleteJ.Crew at Lenox. It's always mobbed with some of the snootiest people you have ever seen in your life... it has a picked over sale section... and stuck up CS to boot!
Lynn I think you mentioned the Lenox store before. It's too bad the employees aren't as customer friendly as the rest of J.Crew. (I am sure its a viscous cycle at their store too: they hired a couple of "less than friendly" employees and now those employees are in charge and they hire the like.)
ReplyDeleteI love my little Brinton Lake (Philly Suburb) store. Rob is an awesome mananger. so many likeable sales associates too. One manager is too "in your face" with the promotions, but nice nevertheless. they are always ready to give me the extra large fitting room to fit me and my boys when it comes time to try things on. they give the boys stickers when we leave. Plus there's a crew cuts in the back and the boys always run right there to see what's new-books, coloring, toys. keeps them busy while I shop!
ReplyDeleteKOP is good too...they have a much bigger selection, more Collection pieces, and a WAY bigger sale Dept. One mananger Dylan there is GREAT!
BGD
I completely agree with Lynn about Lenox Square. CS there is a complete joke and they constantly make you feel like you shouldn't even be there. The sale selection is hit and miss and is usually very picked over. The alternative is the Perimeter Square location and although they don't have a ton of selection, the CS is wonderful. Has anyone visited the other Georgia locations (Mall of Georgia and Northpoint)? I'd love to hear how those are.
ReplyDeleteAlexis, You're right, I have complained about it before :-) I guess it's just that bad!
ReplyDeletebgd, Your store sounds like HEAVEN!
Dawn, I haven't been to the Mall of GA location but I have been to Northpoint. It's a tiny store with hardly any items- sale or regular price! The sales associates were really nice though, and I was literally the only person in the store! I don't think they get much traffic through there.
ReplyDeleteWell as I have lived all over the north east in the past few years. I should start by saying I love the Westfarms Mall store. They are so sweet there. One of my college friends used to work there (no longer does) and there is a black sales associate who is the sweetest!
ReplyDeleteGreenwich Ct, is also great. The New Cannan Store is a little small for my tastes.
I love 45th and Madision (nice people at this one folks) in NYC as well as Columbus Circle and Rock Center, I also like the one in soho.
Also having just moved back from boston I should say that I liked the Atrium Mall store much better than the copley store. First of all the Atrium is huge and while you are checking you you can stare at all the ADORABLE crewcuts stuff that I really want to buy for my nieces (and usually do). The Sales associates at the atrium mall are also very nice.
checking you= checking out
ReplyDeletegosh darn it where is my caffeine this morning???
I know people have had bad things to say about the pentagon city location, but i went yesterday and the associates were super nice. One even pulled out a bunch of size 0 stuff for me that she thought i would like that was on sale, but still in the back closet. i scored a candace jacket, 2 caterina blouses, and a few other things.
ReplyDeleteUpdate on my orders: Still no sign of my madras jacket. They finally charged me but they charged me the wrong price! Today is the last day it is supposed to arrive on and I really want to wear it Saturday night. I did call and get the price adjustment.
ReplyDeleteThe you will find it now, shipped, but no e-mail saying they found it for me (good job there). I have a tracking number with the supposed arrival date of Monday, we will see if it makes it here. OY!!! Oh and she also said that she had more in stock, WTF as of yesterday it was wait-listed until September?????? WHAT???
UGH
When I lived in NYC the Soho store was closest and it is nice, the Rockefeller Center store seemed to have more unique items but I rarely made it there. It did have wedding dresses when I was getting hitched. The Westfield store in Toledo Ohio was my first JCrew and it holds a special place in my heart. The one sales girl there knew me and my mother (because of me) and was so sweet, we even exchanged phone numbers when i moved in case she was in NYC. In DC, the Friendship Heights store was within walking distance and I would go there weekly. The staff was nice, but seemingly more concerned with the high rolling FH crowd. The Georgetown store was nice too and had some surprising sales. My favorite in the area was Bethesda-Montgomery. The staff was soooo nice to me and my terror of a 2 year old and they somehow convinced me to try pants on my son in their fabulous Crewcuts section. They gave us water after a grueling shopping trip, helped in every way possible to make my day go smoothly. They always had the best sales, and are by far my favorite store.
ReplyDeleteOfcourse now I'm in Savannah and have to rely on the internet...
ReplyDeleteI'll share my experience with Jcrew. They have all been very nice.
ReplyDeleteIn LA, I used to go to the one in Topanga Plaza Mall in Canoga Park, and the people there are the nicest ones. Always offering to see if you need anything with a genuine smile in their faces. The people in the Jcrew in Sherman Oaks are fine too althought I didnt visit that store that often.
In NYC, I feel so lucky I can go to all the Jcrew B&M in one day if I wanted too! My favorite overall is the one on 5th. Ave. in Union Square. They are very attentive! I have also found that the one in South Street Seaport has a different feel. Since it is small, the associates are so personnable! As someone else pointed out, in NYC, the experince is good. I also like Rockerfeller Center and Columbus Circle. The manager for the men section at RC is really cool. And at CC, unlike the other B&M in NYC, they never ever questioned my friend combining the extra 25% and her student discount!
The Charleston, SC store has great cs. I had twice ordered a pair of crewcut shorts for me niece and twice received the wrong shorts. They didn't have the right size in my store, so the store manager called several different crewcut stores to make sure that I got the correct shorts this time. Then, she charged me the sale price (got them when they were 20% off online) and no shipping! Finally, the right shorts arrived! All the employees are great with my niece and nephew, too. Billy (another cs) is always telling me when sales are coming up or more mark downs. Plus, he's willing to take the order over the phone and then use the red phone to call it in so that there's no shipping (non-sale merch). If you're ever in Charleston, stop by on King Street.
ReplyDeletenewyork 0311, i agree the union square jcrew is the best in nyc. how could i forget??
ReplyDeleteHaving recently moved to the D.C. area, the jury is still out on the Tyson's II store which just re-opened.
ReplyDeleteIt's been my experience that J. Crews in destination shopping areas (Charleston, Georgetown) are understaffed and generally lacking any decent leftover from the sales.
Southpoint Mall in Chapel Hill, NC - great store, very large & best bet is to go on Wed/Thurs when sales start before the weekend rush of college students.
Friendly Center, Greensboro NC- Had some CS problems with the manager last year (ie wouldn't give me a refund on defective merchandise, refused student discount on regular sale items without additional percentage discounts). I finally called corporate who did a great job of following up with me. I have not seen the manager back there since. If an employee is seriously out of line with J. Crew policy, call CS and the regional manager will generally follow up interally.
Anyone had any experience at the Chevy Chase J. Crew?
Can we also get a post on Madewell or Boden?
math teacher, do they have crewcuts in the charleston store? is it the one downtown? sorry, i don't know much about charleston except it's relatively close...
ReplyDeleteWow Bodini - that's great about Pentagon City. Did you get the sales associate's name? Because that, in my opinion, is the absolute worst store. Everything is always picked over, and the CS are very unhelpful - only interested if you're going to make a big purchase, and very unwilling to find sizes for you - in their own stock room or other stores.
ReplyDeleteI go to the Georgetown location pretty frequently - they have a big selection, but things do go fast there. Also, the CS isn't that great.
As we've all noted, most of the DC area locations don't have the best selection when it comes to sale time as things go fast. As far as CS goes, the only time I've been impressed was with GiGi at the Chevy Chase location. That store doesn't have tons, but she was very sweet and helpful!
Best stores:
I like Blumre love the Atrium store in Chestnut Hill, MA. Huge store.
I've never been to the Burlington, MA location but since they had my giraffe necklace, I love them!
Lansing, MI - I go whenever I visit my parents. It's a smaller store, but the "work" styles get less picked over because it's a college town. I've found cool stuff on the sale rack plenty of times!
Sorry for writing a novel!! Obviously I had a lot to get off my chest :)
Well I don't buy much at the b+m's since I need petite sizes, but I do go in to check out styles in person, grab sale items, the occasional sweater, and gifts for my boyfriend.
ReplyDeleteI used to enjoy the Providence store at the Providence Place Mall, but I also haven't been there in about 4 years (haven't lived in the area), so I can't speak to its current quality. Pittsburgh Walnut St. store was ok, never really bought much there, probably due to being an impoverished grad student at the time. Charlottesville, VA store is ok, a few really friendly staffers. I just went to the King of Prussia store for the first time, thought the selection was great, but wasn't thrilled by the staff, they all seemed kind of aloof. I do not like to be bothered much when shopping, but I do like to see the workers looking ready if I need assistance.
Hi All! :) As I have stated many, many times before...my store at Mall of Millenia in Orlando, Florida is absolutely WONDERFUL! The selection is just ok, as it does not receive as many of the items that are available online or apparently in the Northern stores (as I would like), but the Managers and Associates make up for that by their friendliness and willingness to help. Just like bgd...they always save the large fitting room for me and my 4 boys, and are especially helpful and generous when it comes to returns and discounts. Jessica and Amy have to be my favorite managers, and Joshua and Sarah are my favorite associates...they always make me feel welcome, even when I come with my "troops". :)
ReplyDeleteMall of America in MN has very nice staff as does the Edina, MN store. Anthony who works at the Edina store is the best! There is also a little boutique type JCrew in St. Paul and the staff there are wonderful as well.
ReplyDeleteOnly problem I have ever had is with the Mall of America store not holding items for you. They "forget" and they are not on hold when you get there. The is also a short haired blond who is nice but not very helpful--I am sorry to state it like this but she is really "clueless". Also, I do not like the guy they have hired out as their tailor for alterations. He has made many mistakes on the items I have purchased in the past and just doesn't sew very neatly/nicely!
I just called Tyson's II, and they were very helpful in finding my size small slub fleece hoodies! I had tried to order one when FREESHIP came out, but when I went to put it in my cart it disappeared and they were completely sold out. Anon@10:40 last night said that they had a number of them at Tyson's II, so I called this morning and they are shipping me a grey, a white, and a yellow :) Thank you Tyson's II!
ReplyDeleteIncidentally, the CSR at Tyson's II said that they have a lot of merchandise that was stored up because they were renovating, so if you are looking for a particular item that is scarce, Tyson's II might have it.
oh, I went to the factory store in Leesburg once and it was a nuthouse. We went like an hour before closing on a Sunday, and it was still swarming with people. I didn't think the sales were that impressive -- 5" chino shorts for $26.50 or $29.50, which is basically the same deal you can get online or at a regualr store.
ReplyDeleteThe J.Crew in West Des Moines, IA is okay. They have a good sales section. The employees sometimes can be snotty. Weekends are not the time to go. During the week, there are few people in the store so the employees are nicer.
ReplyDeleteMarisa: yes, and the union square jcrew has some if the nicest sale selections too, without having to browse items among tons of tourists!
ReplyDeleteAnonymous @ 9:46: I also like the store at Southdale in Edina, MN. Anthony is great, and so is Jane!
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to make sure I posted this again for those that weren't online.
ReplyDeleteAs of 9PM yesterday, there was a polka dot san telmo size 2 at the jcrew store in tysons. Their number is (703) 734-9555.
One of the afcionadas just has to get it!
There was lots of other stuff too. I listed it out last night in the "website down again" post.
marisa: yes, there's a crewcuts in the back half of the store. And, it is downtown on King Street (where the other shops like Saks are). The staff are friendly (except for the new guy working on Wednesday). If you're ever in there, ask for Billy. And, I think it has a good amount of sale left even though the College of Charleston is right around the corner.
ReplyDelete2 Questions:
ReplyDelete1) When you buy a final sale item in the store, does the receipt actually say final sale? I had an item mailed to me from a store, and the receipt looks standard.
2) If you return something in the mail, do you need to put each item back into the plastic bag it came in? I haven't removed any of the tags but not sure if I can find all the plastic bags.
Thanks for your help!
kater: That's a fabulous find! Tks for sharing. Anyone out there in size 2 who doesnt own a polka dot san telmo, you HAVE to get it. I would pay $800 for that jacket. The black san telmo - I'm looking to return it.
ReplyDeleteI don't live close enough to any J.Crew stores to have a strong opinion :-( It's too hard to visit them regularly. Compared to the stores you're describing, I think all the stores in the Pacific NW (Seattle, Bellevue, Portland) are relatively small and don't have much of a selection. But, I'm schlepping up to Bellevue today and will check out the sale selection!
ReplyDeleteSo I just got new business cards! YAY, WAHOO, YIPEEE (i have been waiting for a month!!)
ReplyDeleteNow I got on to jcrew and cant find their card holder any more (not the magic wallet but the card holder). Is it in stores? Where did it go? I am going to the stores tomorrow anyway so I wont call unless I dont see it tomorrow. But did they stop making these ?:(?
Christine - I go to the Chevey Chase store more than the others just because it's closer to me and right off the metro. It is very hit or miss with service there but I put up with it sometimes since I have picked up items there that Pentagon City didn't have.
ReplyDeleteSometimes at Chevy Chase they're overly nice and helpful but they also tend to get chatty with customers especially at the register. I've left that store a couple times just irritated with slow service. Also, you'll see a lot more demanding and picky customers who are quite vocal in Chevy Chase. I've never had any complaints about the Pentagon City store. They're quick and nice there all the time.
BPK,
ReplyDeleteThanks! I will have to stop by there at some point and hold my own against the other opinionated customers!
FFM: So remember how yesterday I ordered the black San Telmo jacket for $40 with a price match from your store in Orlando? Well, it's here. They overnighted it to me for free. Not that I'm complaining AT ALL, I'm just ... flummoxed. There is all this shipping craziness going on, and here is my San Telmo less than 24 hours after I ordered it! Meanwhile my Sea Glass Piper Tank is somewhere out there in the abyss ... but I will take what I can get! Is it normal for them to overnight things like that?
ReplyDeleteHi!
ReplyDeleteI love this blog so much! Everyone has such great obversations and information!
I LOVE the Providence Place store. They are super helpful and the service is unbeatable. They had the city fit chinos on sale for $19.99 with 25% off a few weeks ago and only had 1 pair of size 12. The salesgirl actually called customer service to find other colors for me even though it was a sale item. Customer service had all colors in stock although their online price was still $39.99. They met the $19.99 store price AND took another 25% off. I got 6 pair of chinos for $15 each AND for some reason they applied another 10% off the original non-discounted total so my charge came to a whopping $65.00 for 6 pair. Can't beat that for customer service!
I also want to share my customer service experience this morning. I called because my return order was STILL not done after 18 days. I have purchased a lot over the last month and had about $800 worth of returns in one box and was not happy about the time lag. I was even less happy when the rep told me that they were way behind on returns due to the system update (they are doing them manually - opening the boxes and then sending the info to another department for processing) - and that it could be another week or two before my return was processed. I politely told her that holding up credit for their customers that long was unacceptable and she offered to do the credit on the spot if I had the return info. I am a very organized person and had the order numbers and the items that were returned from each order in a folder and she credited my account on the spot with the information I gave her. No questions! Now, that is customer service at its best. I just had to share - what other company would do a credit for you on your word?
She also told me that shipping is way behind, some of the earlier orders are taking 2-3 weeks to arrive and that they have no way to track any order. Basically, JCrew has had a MAJOR hit on its computer system which is not only affecting the website, but their internal functions as well. She said there is no end in sight yet for all the glitches - it may take weeks to sort out. Yikes!
congrats michelle! and woohoo orlando store! They seem so awesome. FFM - you're so lucky that is your "home" store!
ReplyDeleteVivian: I've never returned anything by mail, so I can't speak to that, but everything I bought at tyson's last night was definitely marked "final" sale on the receipt. As was the giraffe necklace. Maybe you lucked out and they didn't ring yours up that way?
I have not ever had a real problem at a J.Crew store. I guess my love for the clothes overrides anything else!
ReplyDeleteTysons II is the store closest to me. While it annoys me greatly that it is not located in Tysons I, it is still a great store although I don't think the sale selection is the best.
Pentagon City had amazing sales when I was there last and I have made my biggest purchases there, I love how it is right off the metro!
Southpoint in Durham, NC is the store I frequent the most. They don't always have a huge sale section either but I really like this store.
Crabtree Mall in Raleigh is another good one. I found a huge sale section when I went there.
Friendly Center in Greensboro, NC is probably my least favorite...it is very small and has no crewcuts section, etc.
I just tried on the black San Telmo, and it's cute, but I think I would be disappointed if I had spent much more than $40 on it. I like it, but I wish it were a little less boxy on me. It seems awkwardly sized; I sized down (which, incidentally, I am doing so much that I am beginning to think I am actually a size 4 and not a 6), and I am glad because although it's a teeny bit snug across the back, I think a 6 would have just been excessive. I asked the CSR for the measurements on the 4 and the 6, and the 4 left some room across the bust and shoulders, but now that I have the jacket on, it does pull slightly across the back. Not enough so that it looks tight, but enough so that hugging would give some slight discomfort.
ReplyDeleteSeriously though, it's a cute jacket, but for those of you out there who weren't able to get the price match, I wouldn't fret. Wait for fall and see what deals you can get on the new merchandise!
Michelle: How do you like the San Telmo jacket? Was it what you expected it to be? I'm still waiting for mine!
ReplyDeleteThanks Kater ... it was a nice surprise :)
ReplyDeleteMarisa: I agree that the Georgetown store is very nice and a fairly good size. The last time I went, a sales associate took on the role of personal shopper for me without me even asking and I found her to be very honest about what worked and did not work when I tried things on. She also found some great deals in the sale section that I hadn't noticed that ended up being great. I am not really a fan of the Columbia, MD or the Towson, MD stores. Both are not very large and never seem to have small sizes that fit me. For factory outlets, I have found some nice things in Rohoboth DE, and since there is not sales tax, it is an even better deal.
ReplyDeletenewyork0311: I think it's the sleeves ... they kind of bunch a little b/c of the canvas going below my elbow (if that makes sense), and I think it adds a little weight. The actual body of the jacket is really cute though. I can totally see how it would be adorable with polka dots.
ReplyDeleteThe Lenox store in Atlanta is HUGE and has everything in the catalog. But.. I also frequent the Charleston, SC store on King Street (its massive) and the store in Charlotte, NC at SouthPark Mall. The Charlotte store has the best service of any store I have been to!
ReplyDeleteI move between Boston and Houston for university, so here's my experience as a student. :)
ReplyDeleteCopley (Boston, MA) -- This is a good store that usually always had the best sale selection out of the 3 I would frequent. However, the employees ranged from being awkward and unwilling to help (probably because I am a sale shopper and young) to being extremely friendly! My three favorite store associates are from this store, but I also once encountered an associate who was downright rude when I was trying to check out.
Cambridgeside Galleria (Boston, MA) -- This store is a lot nicer than the other ones I went to in terms of layout. It looks very "open" and welcoming, unlike the other two, which are kind of shoved into the corner of the mall. This one is also less frequented, so it's not normally crowded even on weekends. The sale section is always small, though. :(
Galleria (Houston, TX) -- This one ranks the lowest! The sale section is decent sized, but for some reason, I can never find anything I like! I guess it's because this location is highly trafficked (not surprising, it's the only one in Houston!), so all the sales items have been picked over. And the stores associates make it way too obvious that I'm not their ideal customer (ie. someone who buys full-price all the time). Sad. :(
Thank you Michelle! I'll see how I feel about mine...I guess that just teaches us not to order anything without having tried it on.
ReplyDeleteThe one I go to most frequently is in Greenville, SC. It's okay, the help isn't rude but they aren't overly excited to help you either. The sale is often picked over but it's pretty big.
ReplyDeleteThe one at the Mall of Georgia is nice just because it's bigger and the time I went (a few months ago) they had a good sale selection. The CS was friendly but they didn't seem to really go out of their way to help, they never offered their help but if I had ask I think they would have.
I really like the store in Charleston. It's one of the bigger ones I've been in and everyone is really friendly. I only go there when we're on vacation but everytime I'm in the area I try to go.
I went to the one near DC at Pentagon City in the spring while we were on vacation and I wasn't impressed at all. I'm not even sure if I bought anything. It was a decent size but they didn't even bother to greet me when I walked in.
I just remembered another I'd been to--
ReplyDeleteLenox in Atlanta; I was hoping for a lot more out of this store. Good sized but the CS was not good at all. They seemed really snobby, so did most of the other shoppers.
Sorry, I know this has been discussed before, but regarding the polka-dot San Telmo: Those who have it, is it that much nicer than the black San Telmo? All I'm saying is, if the fit is good, the black version of it shouldn't be too far from its counterpart...but looks like the black ST is not getting that good of a review. Also, is the polka-dot print versatile enough for everyday use? I'd like to know what you all think.
ReplyDeleteI've been a shopper at the Michigan Ave. store in Chicago for ages. The store is beautiful but the help is very spotty. Most of the time I can go in and shop by myself without anyone bothering me (or even saying hello.) This can be good, but it's hard when you need to find someone to open up a fitting room for you.
ReplyDeleteThat said, some of the cs are very nice...but overall I'd say be prepared to help yourself while in the store.
Just got the 20% off a $175 purchage coupon again.
ReplyDeleteCode is SALEJULY and it's good until tomorrow - July 12.
lkh-
ReplyDeleteDid you see my comment above about Lenox (and Dawn's as well)? We agree with you! Sometimes I want to remind the employees in there that they work retail selling clothes. Don't get me wrong, there's absolutely nothing wrong with a retail job, but the people in there act like they are billionaires that just cured cancer.
Hello, all:
ReplyDeleteI think J crew IS listening to us/reads this blog. After so much complaining that DC metropolitan stores do not combine discounts, I was amazed to find out that Baltimore Galleria and Montgomery Mall now do. I asked nicely last time I was in both stores , and although clerks did not know this, managers confirmed that "yes',now they do offer educators/student discount on ANY purchase. That's great! Still, there is a chance that some clerks might not now of recent update.
Seems like there are many locals here,so it would be worthwhile to ask.
I had a good experience in Baltimore Galleria yesterday, Kelly and Martese were super nice.
Montgomery MAll has some nice people too: Gillian,Kevin, and Natasha.
Towson,Colimbia, Chevy Chase- are nos so great in terms of CS and selection.I am yet to try Tysons II.
Wonder,what kind of merchandise they have there right now?
Quick question: where were people finding the flowing jersey bateau dress on sale? I ordered it online in strawberry(along with a Super 120s suit I wanted for work and the pink glass bead necklace -- I could not pass up the 20% off offer) but the dress was full price online. I'll try to get a price adjustment from CS if I can figure out where the sale was. Thanks!!
ReplyDeleteAnd Vivian, I don't know if anyone answered your question about the plastic clothing bags when you're returning by mail, but you don't have to put the clothes back in them or even have them at all. I throw those out straight away and never use them for returns by mail so you shouldn't have any problems.
The best (I've been to): Tyson's Corner (VA), The Grove (LA,CA) and Georgetown (DC)
ReplyDeleteroseposie: I got my flowy jersey bateau dress on sale for $59.99 less an extra 25%, which was $44. My store is the Willow Grove store in PA: (215) 659-8245. Let us know how it turns out!
ReplyDeleteMichelle, thank you! I'll call CS this afternoon and let you know.
ReplyDeleteSlatena,
ReplyDeleteThe Tyson's II has a lot of inventory left over from when they closed for renovation for eight weeks. I talked to an employee and she said most of the clothes in the sale section stayed in boxes. Be sure to look carefully though as sale is scattered all around the store.
ONE San Telmo jacket left in polka dot in size 4 so if you are still covetting that jacket.
I didn't see any Fionas but also didn't ask
Directly in the back of the store is the Cotton cady Daisy dress in black for $99.99-25% along with the Linen-silk tussah rosette dress in light grey with white polka dots and deep yellow mustard also for $99-25%. Last I checked, both dresses were still well over $260 on the website.
Still a ton of slub fleeces left all over the store so pick one of those up if you haven't already.
Piper tanks in ivory, navy, dark pink and light grey in all sizes for $59-25%
Butter Twills with plenty of light grey, light khaki, pink, white, and less navy and camel left for $14.99.
Basically a J. Crew treasure hunt from the last few catalogues.
San Diego Fashion Valley J.Crew store has poor selection. However, customer service reps are very nice and always offer help with placing orders over the red phone.
ReplyDeleteThe store needs to expand or order more popular items.
Vic.
I just called Tysons II about the polka dot San Telmo, and they said they don't have it :(
ReplyDeleteMore about the Charlottesville store: It always seemed oddly not-busy, given that it's in a college town, but I also went to the mall on weekdays and more often when school was out. The only time it really seemed busy was one evening outing I made a few weeks before xmas.
ReplyDelete2 stores I forgot to mention: Short Pump (Richmond, VA) and Philly: The Short Pump store has lots of snobby suburban Richmondites, and the store is on the small side. I don't really like short pump to begin with, so maybe I went in there with bad vibes. :P
The Philly store on Chesnut St. has a weird layout, the store is kind of T shaped. Good selection, they have a lot of men's stuff compared to other stores I've been in. Have only gone there to browse, so I don't have a good sense of the CS there.
sheesh, I have been to a lot of jcrews, and I do the bulk of my jcrew shopping online!
Christine, did you move from NC? I just wondered because I noticed you listed a lot of NC locations. :)
ReplyDeleteI too used to frequent the Southpoint J.Crew, as well as the Crabtree one when I lived in NC. I liked the Crabtree one and it was about 5 minutes from my parents house. :) But the Southpoint J.Crew was larger.
Michelle- Sorry, I saw it an hour ago in the sale section. Did you try asking them to check in their computer system by the item number or check the dressing rooms (They have three)?
ReplyDeleteMelanie- Yes! I moved from NC about a month ago after graduating from UNC and now work in Tyson's Corner. Luckily J Crew is still ubiquitous.
christine: I actually called twice so I could talk to 2 different associates (haha I'm obsessed), and they both said no. I told the second one that my friend was just there and saw it, so she looked again. She said they definitely don't have it. Bummer! I guess I'll just have to be happy with my black San Telmo ;)
ReplyDeleteChristine - too cool! :) I have to admit that I'm an NC State graduate. I was a Raleigh girl, born and raised, but just moved out to the west coast.
ReplyDeleteWhat are you doing up in Tysons Corner now?
I really always have great luck with CS at the store right outside of Memphis. Everyone is very friendly and helpful. The selection can be spotty. I wish the store were larger. But otherwise, I go there to purchase suits for work and swimwear. Those items I just don't want to purchase online unless it is a great deal and not final sale. The crewcuts section is great for sale items. My youngest is all set for a while once he is 2. I cleaned up at the Vineyard Vines online sale a while back on 2 and 3t polo's and a few weeks ago at crewcuts on shirts.
ReplyDeleteOur vineyard vines store doesn't have the kids selection the JC store has. I just wish JC made size 12 and 14 for my oldest. She likes the clothes a lot and is definitely not ready for adult sizes. I buy her polos now at Vineyard Vines too. (When they do a kids sale, it is amazing!)
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ReplyDeleteOff topic: on the J.Crew site, in the store locater section, what does W mean? (F is for Factory, CC is for Crewcuts, W is for? Warehouse? Women? Whatever?) I'll look again on the site to see if it says. It must say somewhere.
ReplyDeleteI live in Tucson so the one at La Encantada (used to be at Tucson Mall) is my only option. Luckily, the CS people are great. They don't seem to care if you're buying sale or not; they're very very helpful. The sale selection is decent and they seem to have a lot of men's clothes. More HS kids seem to shop there than college so they take all the 0s and leave the 4s and 6s for me! I just wish you could get tall sizes in the store! In the Phoenix area, I think the one at Scottsdale Fashion Square is the best bet in terms of size and selection (if you can handle the zoo that is SFS). I don't know if the one at Kierland Commons (north Scottsdale) ever has sale stuff! Doesn't seem to! And I've never been to the one in Chandler, though I may have to take a side-trip there on my next trip up to Phoenix!
ReplyDeleteI am heading to San Diego and Santa Barbara next week, but I never seem to find anything at J.Crew outlets so I probably won't bother.
The best store to me is the internet! I'm sorry but it is the truth. If they would add garment measurements, end final sales, & trim down the shipping costs I don't feel the need to go to the actual store.
ReplyDeleteMy closest store is Towson, MD, which opened just over one year ago. Not impressed, especially since they did not include CrewCuts (probably because the store is so small). The nicest employee is an african american woman who is actually from the Annapolis store. She is just right, not all over you, not phony nice, & approachable so you don't feel like you are bothering her with a question.
The store I used to drive over an hour to get to (years ago) in Delaware was big & had a decent selection of merchandise.
I received the coupon for 20% off $175 with code SALEJULY coupon in my email today. Offer valid through Saturday, July 12, 2008 11:59pm ET and applies to online orders only.
ReplyDeleteMaybe they'll keep up this sale through the end of the month by randomly circulating these coupons. Then they'll have 20% off final sale & take away free ship.
I'm with rach, the best store is online. Today my toddler is in class so believe it or not, I went to ALL but one J Crew stores in Manhattan LOL!
ReplyDeleteThis what I saw: Rockerfeller Center. I have read some people looking for the Polka Dotted San Telmo and there's one left in a size 8. I have it on hold at the store let me know. The staff is great, but the sale section is picked over.
Madison Ave: This is blumre's favorite location. I have to say, they have the best organized sale section out of all that I've been through today.
Columbus Circle: Nice staff and the staff was rearranging the sale section when I was there this morning. BTW, if anyone is looking for the Fiona Jacket, papaya color in size 10, they have one. I placed it under hold so anyone here is looking for it, let me know.
5th Ave: Sale section was picked through, but they had the best selection of Critter Collar Polo shirts in colors and in size small to xlarge available for 9.99.
Soho: Staff is great and I managed to pick up some Fireball Glass beaded bracelets which are sold out online.
The Python Print Lucia jacket is now marked down to 59.99 +25% in sizes 6, 8 and 10 over at the Rockerfeller Center.
The Italian Matelasse Lucia Jacket is also marked down to 179.99 + 25% at Rockerfeller center. They have two in sizes 6. They are roomy, so a size 8 can fit a size 6.
Sorry for the long post:)
way to go webbysuzy!
ReplyDeleteI am planning on hitting the stores tomorrow mostly because i want a card case for my business cards and they aren't available online anymore!!! In fact I am curious if they are discontinuing their small leather goods line because they are only in the sale section :(
I may go look... I cant decide if I want the cropped white matchstick jeans... I have them in the denim color and I love them. But white after memorial day is a no, no... but still they could be hot. ;)
you're the best webbysuzy! I was thinking about putting the polka dot san telmo I saw last night on hold at tysons, but then I thought how would someone else get it if it was in my name? What is your plan for getting around this? I'm not asking to be snotty, I just can't figure it out!!! :)
ReplyDeleteI'm in the DC area - my favorite J.Crews are the Friendship Heights (Chevy Chase) and Montgomery Mall locations. Both are good-sized stores with good customer service. The Georgetown store is a tradeoff - they often have a huge selection of sale stuff, but it's also usually pretty crowded and definitely the hardest place to get help.
ReplyDeleteLOL kater! I guess if someone emailed me I'll email back the name that is held under.
ReplyDeleteOh, I picked up the Fireball bracelet in grey because it matches the Giraffe Necklace beads.
michelle thanks for the tip about tysons. i didn't know it reopened. i hope there's still some stuff tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteooh - webbysuzy. that is going to be pretty. I love their jewelry so much. Last night I splurged on one of the sea glass necklaces (the ones that alexis has at the top of the blog actually) because it was an extra 25% off...
ReplyDeletethanks for the answer about the hold! I wonder if they would even notice if the hold name and the name on the credit card were different!
Well kater, I placed the hold under my toddler's name and he's a boy:) But I don't think it matters.
ReplyDeleteblumre: There's card cases at the Soho Store. White Matchstick jeans are plentiful everywhere, but give the store a call if you want one on hold, cause you never know.
ReplyDeleteI finally purchsed the Slub Wrap Tank top for 9.99 in xs navy. They were 29.99 for the longest time, which is high for a tank. I am willing to pay 19.99 if they initially marked it down that way. The navy color is sold out online, but there's plenty at Columbus Circle.
kater, I don't think it matters. I've had my friend place holds for me in stores under their name. And then I've called or come in to purchase it and I've never had a problem. I think the fact that you know the right name is enough for them.
ReplyDeletewebbysuzy, I'm curious. How would someone be able to email you? I clicked on your blogger profile, but didn't see any email addy.
Oh my addy is picabo28@msn.com
ReplyDeleteMichelle,
ReplyDeleteIf I'd known, I would have put the ST jacket on hold for you. Maybe it will surface again at Tyson's or elsewhere. Best of luck
Taking the day off and not reading this blog - you sure do miss a whole lot! I've only been to 4 J.Crew stores - Tysons and Pentagon (in VA), Georgetown (in DC) and the factory outlet in Rehoboth Beach (in DE).
ReplyDeleteThe CS in Tysons (the old one - 'haven't been to the new one) and Pentagon are a hit and miss for me; sometimes they're friendly, and sometimes they just pass by you like you're not there even if it's obvious you need help (AND said, "Excuse me!"). In fairness, though, I haven't seen that particular sales associate in Tysons that was a little "snobby" in a while (and I'm in there at least once a week!!). Rachel from the Pentagon store is nice, and so is the African American young lady, who I have,unfortunately, never caught the name of. There was T from Pentagon, too, but he has since moved on. (If anybody knows where he is, please let me know! He's one of the sweetest and funniest SA!)
LIke what somebody else has posted, it's a little hard to get help in Georgetown, and that might only be due to the fact that it's always extremely busy! But in the short time I was there recently, they were happy to help if you ask them. =)
I didn't really ask for much help from SAs in DE - I was pretty much a whirling dervish, picking up things left and right! They were friendly, though, as to what I could see.
As to the inventory, the old Tysons store was pretty stocked up compared to the one in Pentagon. But I do remember an SA telling me that J.Crew stocks their stores according to their location. (e.g. Since Pentagon is closer to the business district, they stock up more suiting, less casual clothes.)
Georgetown is pretty good with sale merchandise; the outlet in DE is a chockfull of stocks from past seasons. If you had an eye on something from the last year's line, you'd probably find it here!
webbysuzy: I'm a size 8! Do you remember how much the polka dot San Telmo was? Oh, this is exciting...
ReplyDeletesouthern: It's marked at 99.99. I called CS on the red phone and they don't know the current price because she told me it's probably available in retail stores only.
ReplyDeleteI'll be away pretty soon to pick up my toddler from class.
Webbysuzy: How much was the polka-dot san telmo jacket? That's not my size, but just curious. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteAnyone knows how much a Polka Dot San Telmo Jacket is currently selling for?
ReplyDeletewebsuzy, I am looking for the fiona in a size 10 in papaya. Price? extra % off?
ReplyDeleteJules
Sorry to mistype your name; webbysuzy...I have a sick 6 year old with headlice caught from (year round) school...just "not all there" today:)
ReplyDeletejules: Based on the website and other bloggers, I think the Fiona is now 29.99 plus 25% off. It's size 10.
ReplyDeleteI know how it feels to have a sick child. It's a temporary thing though, thank goodness!
Okay, I have to pick up my toddler. The two jackets are on hold, so it's not going anywhere.
brb.
Christine-
ReplyDeleteHow much were the slub fleece hoodies? Are you talking about the store in McLean, VA?
if it's any help, the polka dot san telmo I saw last night was 99.99 too, so maybe that is the current price since we both saw it in two different locations?
ReplyDeletealso - good to know that they don't care about names and holds. I had no idea! From now on, if I see something awesome I'll put it on hold!
Webbysuzzy, The Fiona papaya jacket 10-sounds great! Just let me know how to you want to go about this:)
ReplyDeleteYes, a temperature and head lice at the same time are a bit much but it will pass:) Too bad she had to miss the last 3 days of this term.
Okay Jules, just email me: picabo28@msn.com. I'll give you the name it's held under and their store number.
ReplyDeleteThe Fiona Jacket isn't marked down, but the other bloggers kept saying it's 29.99. You'll have to talk to the cashier at the store and use some good conversation to get them to honor the lowest price and don't forget it's an extra 25% off.
I gotta go. Be back in an hour.
OK. Where have people seen the Fiona jacket on sale for $29.99? I wonder why the NY store doesn't have it marked down? Please help if you can. Thank you:)
ReplyDeleteIs there any way to add a search box to the entire blog site so that we find all the comments about products like the San Telmo jacket? I apologize if there is one and I didn't see it.
ReplyDeletethe 29.99 fiona price is online...:)
ReplyDeleteAnon @ 4:29: If you look the Fiona jacket up online, it is listed for $29.99. Of course, they are all sold out, but I think that is what everyone is referring to. You can always call from the red phone in the store to confirm the online price and then ask the store to match it. Good luck! :)
ReplyDeleteI am in search of some york or kingston or any other driving mocs, size 9, any color. prefer browns, greens, navy, tans. they feel so good on my feet!!! please email me if you happen upon these somewhere!! thanks, rlm26@case.edu
ReplyDeleteToo bad I don't live near a store...I will be calling to have it sent...I did find on an older post 2 stores that someone mentioned that had them yesterday but then sold out....will use that info. too...Maybe it will help:)
ReplyDeleteI think that since it's an online price, the store shouldn't have any problem getting it by calling in. I think it's more difficult in the other direction - when the store has one price, and online has another. At least if you aren't physically in the store anyway!
ReplyDeleteThanks Christine. Maybe the polka dot San Telmo just wasn't meant to be this time. But if you see it again in a size 4, please do put it on hold for me :)
ReplyDeleteI ordered my fiona jacket from Scotsdale last night and it was $29.99 plus the 25% off. Good luck getting the sale price, I'm sure it won't be a problem since it's marked that onlin.
ReplyDeleteThanks Math Teacher, did you have it shipped to you? Wondering what the shipping charges are...not that it really matters if I get the great price but just wondering in general. I have had stuff mailed to me before but that was 2-3 years ago?
ReplyDeleteLooks like J.Crew is overnighting its packages. I ordered a jacket yesterday and it arrived today. But all my older orders all nowhere to be seen!
ReplyDeleteWORST: Cape Cod Mall. It's small, has a poor selection, and lousy , picked over sale section. Sales help are ok, it seems the really good cs leave. Unfortunatly it's a really dreadful mall and kind of scary people hang out there. I love the Providence Place J Crew in RI. But I have to say, online is the best store.
ReplyDeletekind of unrelated, but does anyone know when fall merchandise starts coming out, both in stores and online? some ppl were writing about it yesterday and it was getting me excited. thanks!
ReplyDeleteI'm looking for the Lattice-print short-sleeve cardigan on sale. Please let me know if you find one in a size Small. Please email- rlm26@case.edu Love this site!!!
ReplyDeletehi everyone ... this is completely off topic but i just got off the phone with cs ... i just placed an order last night and today i wanted to add a few more items i want to get for the bf... the guy i talked to told me i would have to start a new order... i used to be able to call and add more items to my order.. they've always been able to do it if it hasn't been shipped. i was wondering if anyone else experienced this?? thanks!
ReplyDeleteKate, check out their new ordering policy online. You have 20 minutes to add or change and order and that's it.
ReplyDeletewebbysuzy: thanks for the hint on the card cases... we will hunt around tomorrow!
ReplyDeleteWhy didnt they just overnight me my madras jacket... still no jacket... 15 more minutes and thats the latest ups ever comes :(
kellyann311, Two weeks or so until fall stuff comes out:) I for one am NOT ready...I love summer and hot weather....I'd sell all my winter JCrew stuff in a heartbeat! Even though I bought a TON of 07 fall/winter stuff:) Now, to get my hubby to stop moving me to colder and colder climates and to a warm one! NC is looking good for our next move in 09
ReplyDeleteHello Ladies! Thanks everyone for their great feedback. I have learned so much! When I travel around the country, I will know which J.Crew's to stop at! :)
ReplyDeleteQuick comment: Please refrain from making any mention about "deals" by requesting members to sign up for programs. Otherwise I will delete your comment. :) If you are not sure, please check with me first. You can send me an email at jcrewaficionada@yahoo.com.
ABOUT J. CREW STORES- My J Crew addiction is fairly recent, it started around last October, but I've been spending tons of money on the website only because I am a customer from overseas. I don't get the chance to shop in the stores very often. But I traveled to the US last April and visited two J.Crew stores. I was really looking forward to shopping in the physical stores to satisfy my burning addiction for more and more J. Crew stuff. But I can't begin to tell you how DISAPPOINTED I was in the two J.Crew stores I visited. To the point that I couldn't bring myself make a single purchase in them. It was very puzzling for me because I've been spending thousands of dollars on the website. What made J.Crew stores so disgusting to me? Well, I visited two stores: the one in Westfield Mall, San Jose, CA and the one in San Francisco, Market Street. In both of them, I was shocked to see how unhelpful staff was. Maybe unhelpful is not a good word. More like completely indifferent to the customers. I was appalled to see how messily the clothes were arranged. They looked just like heaps of cheap clothes, as unglamorous as a stack of cabbages. In the overall mess, common sizes were next impossible to find and special sizes like my proudly worn size 14 VIRTUALLY IMPOSSIBLE to find. I was also completely confused to discover (remember it was the first time I ever set foot on a J.Crew store, even though I am widely traveled and have enough money to shop upscale merchandise in a foreign currency) that there were no shoes at all, only the cheapest, most unappealing flip flops. Had there been nice shoes, I would have surely bought more than a pair, but there was zilch. Overall, I feel that the J.Crew shopping experience in the website is much better than in the stores. J.Crew should be doing some serious thinking about how their stores are managed, lighted, replenished, about the selection of clothes and shoes they offer, etc. In my opinion, even the GAP provides a better shopping experience in the stores. Sorry for the long comment. I hope J.Crew gets it.
ReplyDeleteI saw several Fiona jackets at $29.99 sized from 0-8 today in the JCrew at the Short Hills Mall in NJ. They were a yellowy-chartreuse color (be warned if you don't like that kind of bright color). There was an additional 25% off on both men's and women's items. I bought the Zebra striped straw bag for 1$6.00, even having forgotten my educator's discount! It was too cheap to resist. The Rockaway Townsquare J.Crew had 40% off men's stuff and 25% off of women's, and had a different selection than the Short Hills store, if anyone is from NJ.
ReplyDeleteSorry, that's not $6.00 on the Zebra straw bag, it's $16.00.
ReplyDeleteOverall, I think the Lenox store is the worst J.Crew. Everyone seems to have a comment about the store's staff being snooty. I would definitely not go to that J.Crew now!!! :)
ReplyDeleteAlso, there were two Polka Dot San Telmo Jackets at the Westport CT store. I believe one was either a size 6 or 8, the other was a size 10. Both were selling for $99.99 with an additional 25% off.
FabulousFloridaMommy: I actually have been to the J.Crew you shop at. I was at Disney World for a week a few years ago and just had to stop at that J.Crew. You are right, the place was great!
Michelle: That is fantastic: receiving the jacket in just one day! That is great CS at that store!!! :)
McShoppy: Your story is the reason why I personally drove an hour (total) to return an item at the store. I had a feeling returning something by mail would take forever to process (if not lost).
Amy: I have been to the Cambridge Galleria many times and thought it was quite nice too (and had some good sales). :)
Mekiki: I think the W mean's women only.
Anonymous at 4:40PM: I would love for Blogger to search the comments but for some weird reason it doesn't. :(
Alexis - I just called the Westport, CT store and was told they do not have the jackets any more. Were you in the store just today? Thanks for your help.
ReplyDeleteHi Elisabeth: I was in their store today (at 10:30-11AM). I know both jackets were there (I now for sure there were 2, maybe 3 of the Polka Dot San Telmo).
ReplyDeleteThat Westport J.Crew has some new sales associates who really don't know what they are doing (e.g. asking others if my school ID is enough for my discount- which it is). I hope you didn't get one of them. I suggest trying calling again and telling them where the jackets are located: The jackets were on the second floor, with all the other jackets on sale, right next to the Crewcuts wall.
Good luck getting the jacket!!!! :)
I was just on the site looking for a black cardigan for fall, and saw the katie sweater listed again. In the Geranium color, size small.
ReplyDeleteSorry if this has always been there (I found it from the regular sweaters page, not sale), but it seemed new to me!
I did call again - they only had a 2 & a 4 left (I need the 6). Thanks for the tip! - maybe another 6 will surface somewhere else?
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone own the Bobbie sundress? I tried it on in the Greenwich, CT store today and there was the weirdest seam right across my boobs! Anybody else notice that?
ReplyDeleteHi Elisabeth: That is so weird about having a size 2 at that store. I definitely didn't see that size there. Sorry that they didn't have the jacket in size 6 though.
ReplyDeleteI actually hadn't seen those jackets at the store last week, or the week before (and I did look for them)- so if those can "show up" this week, I am sure that a size 6 can "show up" too. :)
that is weird alexis! It seems as though a number of polka dot san telmo's have been magically "appearing" in the last couple of days. Tyson's I can understand, but there were also some in NYC I think (Elisabeth, did you read that post from webbysuzy? was one of those a 6?)
ReplyDeleteGiven that they are magically appearing, I'm keeping my fingers crossed for a 6 (for Elisabeth) and a 12 (for me!)
My jacket did not come today... I am so mad I could spit!
ReplyDeleteKater: It is weird! Because when I got my Polka Dot jacket weeks ago, it was the only one there. And every week I went back there were no other Polka Dot Jackets. Yet, today I go and see a couple. I wasn't sure if someone returned them or what.
ReplyDeleteI hope you and Elisabeth can get your hands on one too! (And on a bright note, you would get the jackets with the 25% discount!)
Blumre: Your comment about "so mad I could spit" made me chuckle out loud. I haven't heard that expression but I LOVE it!!! :)
Hello again.
ReplyDeleteSorry for the late return, have to feed my toddler dinner.
blumre - I'm so sorry you didn't get your jacket! I'm still waiting on my cashmere tee too. It says "shipped" online and has one of those useless tracking numbers, so I was hoping I was in the group that got their things next day air. I guess neither you nor I did!
ReplyDeletealexis: I wonder if online is telling the stores to hold returns instead of sending them back because of the processing issues or something???? thank goodness we have each other to keep our eyes peeled!
i am probably going to the mall tomorrow & will stop by the J.Crew (naturally) and keep an eye out for any of the San Telmos. I'll post here if I see any.
ReplyDeleteI'm hoping the August catalogue will be out soon, to give us a little fall preview :-)
Kater: I think you are right- that the stores are just holding returns. I mean, I can't imagine how J.Crew could possibly handle all the stores returns on top of their current system issues.
ReplyDeleteI am also glad that we have been keeping our eyes on our local stores merchandise for each other! It is the only way right now to get items that we want on sale! ;)
la belle helene: Thanks for keeping an eye out for those jackets. I am sure those looking will be very appreciative!! :)
Alexis: glad I could make you laugh
ReplyDeleteCS best suggestion was call ups since they havent updated their website. WTF??? It shipped on Monday 10 bucks says its lost. I am not calling all nyc stores to try and find this. this will be a wild goose chase
thanks la belle helene! I've been trying to get the polka dot san telmo out of my mind with thoughts of our mutually adored bella, but I can't let it go!!!!
ReplyDeleteYAY the store on 5th avenue has it!!! And Its on hold for me tomorrow. I mean it is a schlep and its far from my other errands (taking the boy to van cleef ;) to show him the one i want). But whatever I can DEAL!!!!!
ReplyDeleteAnd thank god I won't have to spit, after all it is not classy and very unladylike.
Also I was told I was getting a $25 gift card on wednesday and I was told I would get another tonight. Tonight I got an e-mail confirmation. I didnt get that on wednesday night. Think I should expect 1 or 2. I cant believe how many order they have botched (and i have been waiting for one since february!Yep that is five LlllloonnnnngggG months).
So should I expect 1 or 2 gift cards... and what oh what will I spend them on? More featherweight merino sweaters (that I wear every day in the winter, spring and fall... perhaps?).
michelle: congrats on getting the jacket so soon...I also received the Amelia Tank I just ordered yesterday over the phone, as it was overnighted, yet 2 of my items from my order from 6/26 are being "investigated" because they have still not arrived, and it has now been 2 weeks. As for the San Telmo...I too, would have been disappointed had I purchased it at full price, but it is definitely worth the $38 I paid for it. Try pairing it with a fitted tank or tee, and a pair of wide leg pants or trouser jeans. The silohuette of this combo is very flattering, and may change your mind about the jacket. It would also look nice with a pair of slim pants and a flowy babydoll top, which would balance out the fuller boxiness of the jacket. I am really looking forward to wearing it more in the Fall, as I think it will seem alot more appropriate and be even more versatile then. :)
ReplyDeleteFYI...there are no Fionas size 4 in Pale Almond or Navy in any store in the U.S...I had store searches done for both, and they came back as None Available.
ReplyDeleteI live in the DC area also and have shopped at Tyson's, Chevy Chase, Montgomery Mall, Baltimore, Georgetown, and Pentagon City.
ReplyDeleteTyson's: Best selection, but the sales staff were aloof at best
Chevy Chase: I was just ignored at this store, so I didn't really shop around.
Montgomery Mall: the staff was nice, but I don't remember them having much inventory.
Baltimore: the staff was friendly, but I was not impressed with their selection.
Georgetown: the best inventory, but so busy. The friendliest employee was Flor, but she hasn't been in the store in a while.
Pentagon City: all around the nicest staff, with a decent sale selection. The do not have the amount of inventory as the Georgetown location though.
I grew up in Richmond, VA and I used to order from the J. Crew catalog via snail mail (remember those days?). The Lynchburg factory store is about an hour and a half outside of Richmond. My best friend who still lives in Richmond swears by it. She's gotten a bunch of bridesmaid dresses and jackets there.
ReplyDeleteIn Richmond the only J. Crew is at Short Pump. I agree that it's a bit snooty and SMALL. I never bought anything from there because the merchandise seemed picked over. I opted to order everything online.
I live in Dallas TX now and "my" J. Crew is at North Park Center. It's a big store with a well-stocked Women's section and a smaller Men's section. Sale items are hit and miss. Earlier this summer I bought the Embossed Shift Dress in Bright Flame for $22. Popular items are hard to find especially if you wear the lower sizes. The sales staff is always friendly but they annoy me sometimes because they say, "Can I get you some water?" over and over again. Does anyone else's J. Crew offer water to the customers?
North Park is also home to one of the B&M Crewcuts stores. It's small and cute. I always wish I was a mom so I could buy my daughter some of their dresses!
Before this whole website fiasco I was a devoted online shopper but now I think I'll visit the B&M more often.
blumre: Did you get the Madras Jacket at the b&m store?
ReplyDeleteI'm curious here.. what's at Van Cleef? A potential engagement ring?
webbysuzy: Thank you so much for putting the polka dot San Telmo on hold for a fellow aficionada! After 10 excruciating minutes on hold, the very nice CS informed me that they did in fact have it and would ship it to me on Monday. I'll be on vacation next week and the thought of having that jacket waiting for me when I get home makes me ecstatic! :) I can't say thank you enough!
ReplyDeletesouthern: I'm glad you like the jacket:) I've been reading everyone's posts and I know some have their heart set on one item that isn't available online due to their site's upgrade. Normally I purchase online, but today I figured I'll just do a quick round and hold on to certain items that are most sought after.
ReplyDeleteLet me know when you receive it and how you're planning on wearing it.
Webbysuzy: Yea. Van Cleef (its underneath bergdorfs, diagonal from tiffany) has some really original stuff and I am so bloody sick of everyone's bloody three stone rings... they are all the freaking same!! Its the one on their website that looks like a hook and loop. The actual engagement wont happen for a year probably but I want him to see the ring now so when the store changes their collection he can still get know which one to order. We both know its going to happen I mean we have been dating for 5.5 years!
ReplyDeleteI am going down to 16th tomorrow to get the jacket and then I will return the other when it comes. The jacket is on hold with me. And I was going to go with my bf because while he is the preppiest kid around he doesn't own a white polo!!! How did that happen??? But the CC store is close to my house and union ave is far from the UWS.
Have a great night guys!!
webbysuzy: I have been lusting after that jacket since Alexis wrote her post about it the first week of June! They just haven't had it on-line or in local b&m in my size. I'm so glad that I held off on the black San Telmo Wednesday night. The polka dot was more expensive plus shipping, but I don't even care. I'm just so excited! I'll definitely give you a full update once I get back from vacation and try it on. Thanks again for being so sweet to think of others! :)
ReplyDeleteBlumre: I really hope your order wasn't lost. This is really unacceptable for J.Crew standards. I mean J.Crew took years to build a great reputation for themselves, that is being tarnished after two weeks of just awful system upgrades.
ReplyDeleteCongrats on the gift cards though! That is fantastic!!! :)
Also congrats on the pre-engagement!!! :)
FabulousFloridaMommy: That is awful about your items being "investigated". I hope they still have your items available.
Also, I wouldn't believe the "we will find it" searches too much. I did one for the Fionna Jacket in all colors size 0. They said they found none. Except I was able to find one (thanks to another J.Crew Aficionada) at a store in my size and color (and they had more than one at the time). I was so upset at J.Crew for not searching hard enough.
Webbysuzy: That is **so nice** of you to put the jacket on hold for another J.Crew Aficionada! This is why this blog is so awesome- because of Aficionadas like you!!! :)
It's A southern Thing: I know what you mean about wanting the Polka Dot San Telmo! I couldn't believe how much I like it. I hope you can get it for the sale price plus discount. I am sure more will be popping up in stores. :)
ReplyDeleteBTW: If anyone has their heart set on the Colorblocked Mia Dress, it's reduced again to 49.99 +25% off. The website still says 99.99, but I saw this current price at two b&M stores today so it's confirmed.
ReplyDeleteAlexis: Isn't webbysuzy the best?! :) I couldn't believe my luck especially since the nice CS gave me the sale price plus all discounts!
ReplyDeleteit's.a.southern.thing: Congrats on the polka dot san telmo. You'll love it!!!!!
ReplyDeleteWebbysuzy: You're such a doll!
southern: I was lucky that most of the J Crew stores are located near the subway, so I just hopped on and off.
ReplyDeleteI also tried on the Mia dresses that are on sale for 29.99 (Madras and the Casbah print) and the smaller sizes are not available online, but they were at the b&m stores. I'm so glad I had a chance to try it because it wasn't for me. I could have been stuck with a final sale dress and be unhappy.
Another thing, I know most of the bloggers love the San Telmo Jacket and/or the Fiona, but my heart is set on the Italian Matelasse Lucia Jacket which currently retails 209.99. The jacket is very nicely designed, and they have three in sizes 6 and 10 available. They have the Python print Lucia Jacket marked down now to 69.99-59.99 (somewhere like that) at the Rockerfeller store, in sizes 6 and 8.
ReplyDeleteAnother thing, I know most of the bloggers love the San Telmo Jacket and/or the Fiona, but my heart is set on the Italian Matelasse Lucia Jacket which currently retails 209.99. The jacket is very nicely designed, and they have three in sizes 6 and 10 available. They have the Python print Lucia Jacket marked down now to 69.99-59.99 (somewhere like that) at the Rockerfeller store, in sizes 6 and 8.
ReplyDeleteOops! sorry about that.
ReplyDeletewebbysuzy: what size of that jacket are you looking for, so I can keep my eyes open for it?
ReplyDeleteI swear I saw one last night at tysons - not sure what size though. I'm sure they would pick up the phone if you called now:
703-734-9555
Webbysuzy: Out of curiousity, have you tried on the Italian Metelasse Lucia Jacket? I will say that the fabric itself is gorgeous in person! I wish they would use that fabric for more jacket styles. :)
ReplyDeleteI tried on the Italian Metelasse Lucia Jacket and found that it was too boxy in the chest (this could be just for me though). I also found it was quite long (or longer than I expected). With that said, I did buy the solid navy Lucia Jacket (because it was only $40). I found that even the Lucia jacket is boxy in the chest for me. I don't think I love the Lucia Jacket, but for $40 it's good enough. ;)
webbysuzy: I forgot to add that if you did try on the Italian Lucia Jacket and liked it, that the Westport J.Crew had several of them available (in many sizes, just can't remember which ones) for sale. But they were still at that (way too high) $200 price range. :)
ReplyDeleteI have to give props to SAs:
ReplyDeleteGeogetown: Love SA Flor, she always tells customers "Mami, you've got to bring color into your life"
Chevy Chase: Emma, great. Tells the truth, if it don't fit right, don't get it. Not the best selection in the DC area.
Pentagon City: Kendria (manager) and Allison, are my go to girls. There is a really nice guy that works in mens, super helpful.
Tysons: Jackie and Allen.
Jacquie: You must be treated super well at those J.Crew stores to know everyone's names so well. I am so impressed!!! :)
ReplyDeleteYou gals are all so helpful. In the time I've been away I've been thinking, maybe I shouldn't be so hot on finding that s.t. jacket: maybe instead I should concentrate on new finds for fall! You know as soon as I buy it I will be lusting after "what's new"...
ReplyDeleteJust testing. I LOVE j.crew and have been reading for days. I'm new to blogger and want to make sure this works. Menlo Park is my b&m store. Online is my fave. Are they still updating at 645, or has the time changed?
ReplyDeleteAlexis: I must say that I'm a J. Crew regular. They know me by name, leave me alone and let me do my thing. Today I did my weekly 'visit' to 3 stores. I have made some great relationships with the SAs. People need to know that their J.Crew shopping experience can be greatly enhanced with a little inside knowledge - LOL.
ReplyDeleteJax - don't you just luv Flor. Been going to her for about 5 years now. She has to be the best. She always greets me with a hug and "God Bless" when I leave. She's out recouping from surgery. I sent her some flowers. I miss seeing hr face in Georgetown.
ReplyDeletealexis: I did come across the Italian Matelasse Lucia Jacket in a size 0, and I was so happy to just even try it on. The fabric is a nice cotton texture and the print is not too fancy, just right. It is boxy, and I think a size 2 can wear it better. I'm just waiting for one more markdown before I purchase it. I can get at least three out of four seasons with this jacket.
ReplyDeleteThanks for keeping an eye out:)
anonymous @ 4:58: I did have the jacket shipped to me, but I didn't ask how much shipping was. It hasn't showed up on my card yet either.
ReplyDeleteSorry it took me so long to reply.
Alexis: Out of curiosity, why do you think they'll offer the Fiona jacket again once they clear up the site? It seems like it's so scarce that I thought they were done with it for sure! I would LOVE to get my hands on one too so I'd be really excited if they did put some up on the website!
ReplyDeleteUrban Aphrodite: I think it is great that you visited 3 stores in one day! I have been known to do that to (and my husband thinks I am a bit crazy for it.) It's great to know that I am not the only one!!! :)
ReplyDeleteI also think you are absolutely right that its great to build some relationships with the SAs. :)
Webbysuzy: I am happy to hear you were able to try the jacket on in person. I am actually surprised that the Italian version hadn't been marked down more when the solid and the python print had been marked down so much already. I have a feeling J.Crew will reduce the price by another $50-75 off soon.
Melanie: Unfortunately, I don't know when they will offer the jacket. I have a feeling that once J.Crew's website/system gets sorted out, J.Crew will start dealing with the returns and updating the site with that stock info (including the Fiona Jackets). :)
ReplyDeleteI really do believe there are Fiona's just sitting at their warehouse too.
alexis: I think they are holding out of marking the Italian Matelasse Lucia is because it's a J Crew Collection jacket.
ReplyDeleteFFM: I was thinking today that I think the black San Telmo will be great for fall. I'll try it with the trouser jeans ... I am kind of thick in the thigh area, so maybe more of a straight leg with a heel would help elongate my legs and make it look a little less "boxy". I think the black san telmo great for the price ... I am definitely glad I got it. And I REALLY can't wait for fall clothes :)
ReplyDeleteWebbysuzy: I forgot it was part of their collection! You are right- that is why they haven't lowered the price yet. :)
ReplyDeleteI ADORE the Brinton Lakes shop. I feel so relaxed when I go in. I also love the Crewcuts in the back (DS runs to pick out his stuff!). I never feel rushed or crowded there.
ReplyDeleteI avoid the King of Prussia shop at all costs. Some of the staff is ambivilant, and the rest are pushy. It's always packed with people who just stand around and clog up the store.
My original J. Crew is the Atrium store in Chestnut Hill, MA. HG of J. Crews as far as I'm concerned. I've also been a frequent customer over the years at Westfarms, CT; Madison Ave in NY (hidden gem) and all the NYC and Boston stores. I moved to Utah a couple of years ago and was relieved to find two J. Crews in Salt Lake. However, the selection is not that great - very few premium items and no shoes *sob*. I have been able to score some excellent sale finds at them though! $1.99 headbands and $50 suiting dresses are among my latest successes.
ReplyDeleteI visited the new store at the Natick, MA mall around Christmas and was not that impressed - has it gotten better in the last 7 months?
J.Crew in Menlo is my favorite also....some of th best staff and Lauren is right, it is never crowded!!! It gets two thumbs up!!!
ReplyDeleteThough I live and shop mostly in nyc, I visit the Manhassett store in Long Island every now and then. I find the staff friendly and helpful. It helps to visit mid to late week, as weekends are just too busy.
ReplyDeleteThe staff in the columbus circle store are not too helpful and I find the store and location too sterile. Atleast on the occasions I have visited, there wasnt much sale section to look at. Maybe my timing was wrong.
Didn't know where to put this:
ReplyDeleteIf anyone is looking for the Carnaby carryall (item #91979), Pentagon City has tons. They are a few on the floor but many more in back, just ask an SA. They are on sale for $169,plus 25% off. Colors avail - yellow and white.
Christine and Eddie & Stretch's Momma :
ReplyDeletethank you so much for going into detail about Tysons merchandise. Really nice of yoiu to post on that.
Alexis - I recently discovered your blog and I love it! :)
ReplyDeleteAnyway, I had to post b/c one of the worst stores has to be the 1-year old Annapolis, MD store. The SA are so snobby, rude and act like you shouldn't be shopping in 'their' store. It sounds like some other people have this problem too. :( Also, the store is so SO small. To be honest, I've never seen a smaller store. My husband complains b/c the men's section is almost non-existant and of course there is no crewcuts either.
I was at the Towson, MD store yesterday and they had a MUCH larger sale selection than Annapolis (though that isn't hard to beat!) and their sales associates were helpful even though the store was pretty busy.
Also, does anyone else find it SO annoying that, as of about a month or two ago, all the in-store additionally discounted sale items are now Final Sale? I mean changing online to Final Sale a few years ago is pretty ridiculous (especially since you can't try them on!) but it's now final sale in-store too? NO other retail store does that! Sorry, just venting... :)
Thanks JV for the nice comment about the blog. You will find we have the best members here: willing to help and share their insights! :)
ReplyDeleteAs a New Havener, I'm just glad we have a J. Crew here. I have to say that the staff is always really helpful - Lauren the manager is so amazing but she's leaving to go back to grad school at the end of Aug - and Marian the personal shopper is very sweet.
ReplyDeleteHi! I know this is a very late comment, so maybe nobody will ever read it, but anyway...
ReplyDeleteAlexis, I love your blog!!! I just discovered it two weeks ago and it is my new favorite! I live in Fairfield, CT, so I bounce back and forth between the Westport and New Haven stores. I find the Westport store to be too crowded most days and there are not enough dressing rooms on the women's floor (because it used to be the men's floor). I like most of their associates (except the tall blonde one who thinks she's all that). I actually prefer the New Haven store even though it's farther away and I have to pay to park. It is very laid back, the associates are NEVER pushy and it isn't full of pretentious rich people. Plus I like to see what the "Yalies" are wearing.
That's all!
slightlyoldersally: Thanks for the nice comment about the blog! I have to say, the blog is only fantastic because of its members who are so willing to share and help each other.
ReplyDeleteI also agree with you about the Westport store being crowded! No matter what time or day I visit the store, it always seems to be packed! I find the associates at that store to be fine for the most part.
I agree that the New Haven store has way better associates. Although it doesn't have a shoe selection (besides some sandals) and is a bit more limited clothing-wise. I don't even bother going during the school year because that store is usually packed at all times with students. I also despise the parking situation.
I recently went to the J.Crew Montgomery Mall in the MD/DC area and was very pleasantly surprised!! I've been avoiding the Montgomery Mall store for the six or so years since my hubby kids and I moved to the area. the Montgomery Mall store used to be a mess from the complete lack of interest from the staff to the mad crush of rude customers I couldn't stand it! The Montgomery Mall J.Crew is the most convenient store for me though so recently I decided to give it another chance and boy am I happy I did! What a difference the time made!! It was such an incredibly enjoyable shopping experience from just walking around to the fitting room to checking out the staff made sure I was happy- they were so attentive it was wonderful. Particularly Meg and Sandy were two of the most vivacious, sweet, positive people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting! I left the store feeling so positive and just glowing and when I got home there wasn't one purchase that I regretted! They were so helpful yet so incredibly effervescent and kind it was an absolutely fabulous experience!!!! I would highly reccomend the Montgomery Mall store to everyone and I will definitely not be making the trip all the way out to Tyson's anymore!
ReplyDelete