Inspired by many Aficionadas (like Jenn_Brak & FabulousFloridaMommy) who contacted Mr. Drexler and succeeded in reaching him, I decided I would as well. :)I sent an email basically stating how much I admire his work and look forward to when the issues with the system upgrade would be resolved. Less than half a day, he responded back. I, of course, was thrilled. The following is most of his response (which I did get permission to share) to serve as a great reminder that Mickey is listening to our concerns and trying his best to resolve them:
"Thanks for taking the time to send your email – totally and very much aware of your blog - we read it daily. Also, thanks much for your kind comments about what we do – we live and breathe it every day.
We’re working as fast and as best we can to resolve the current issues we’re having with our system upgrade – I can only tell you that this has been for me and our company an embarrassment and a disappointment if only for a relatively short period. I also understand that if only one customer is inconvenienced, it’s one too many.
Being practical and a realist, there will always be some kind of issue or another - I can only say, as I always have said, that we are doing our best to fix this – I’m always available -"
I am very much impressed with Mickey who took out the time to respond to my email. Especially considering how busy it is over at J.Crew these past few weeks.
We may have our issues with J.Crew's system upgrade, but I think we can all pretty much agree that "Mickey Drexler = Awesome"!
What are your impressions of J.Crew's CEO Mickey Drexler? Are you impressed by his ability to personally reply to customers' concerns? (I know I am!) Do you think you will contact Mickey with your concerns in the future?
is it certain that it was actually him that wrote back? or just someone that responds for him? either way, at least it was very prompt and showed consideration.
ReplyDelete"very much aware of your blog - we read it daily"
ReplyDeleteOMG -- that is fantastic! How exciting. Yes, Mickey Drexler is fantastic. Not only is he charismatic, even though I haven't met him, he has qualities about him that create an essence. It's something that can't be taught or learned, but others can try their best.
I am really looking forward to the retrospective on this experience in business articles and if/when there is a bio about him in the future, I will be purchasing it. In the end this fiasco will be a small blip, but an riveting one nonetheless.
Alexis, this is great.
ReplyDeleteAnon- yea I am pretty sure it was him, he has actually been calling people. And even if his secretary typed it for him, it is still from him. I write letters/emails for my boss all the time, but they never leave my desk without him eying it first.
I am glad to hear they read this blog all the time. How very good to know. I hope when the web fiasco gets better they will stream line their policies so that shopping their is an even more pleasant experience.
Yea, agree Mickey, is pretty darn awesome... Also love his nickname it was my Dad's nickname too. Thus making Drexler even cooler!
Anonymous at 9:32AM: That is actually a great question! The first email from him included his personal assistant's information. The second email from him came from his blackberry. Even if it was someone who responds for him (like his personal assistant), I am happy. :)
ReplyDeleteGigiofca: When I read that line about being aware of this blog- I thought for a second that the next line was going to be something about "shutting down the site". So I was happy to see it wasn't that as I kept reading. ;)
I also agree with you that I look forward to reading more about him- he really is phenomenal! :)
Blumre: I couldn't agree with you more- hoping that in the near future J.Crew can stream line their policies so they are consistent (and still favorable to the customer). :)
Alexis - If anyone deserves a reply from Mickey it is you! So glad you reached out to him. Love that he reads the blog. Think of the impact you are now having on your favorite store!
ReplyDeleteFor Anonymous. When Mickey responded to me it was at 5:38am via Blackberry. So, it was almost certainly him. I would say if he was aware of the blog, they would be careful to have Mickey respond directly to Alexis too.
I know this whole thing has been a fiasco, but whereas I was a J. Crew shopper before, I am now a J Crew fanatic. Whatever problems these people bump up against, they are amazing in helping their customers. I actually just spoke to my favorite store about coming to work for them part time when I return home from my long trip!
WOW, Alexis, I told you-- you would hear from Mickey!!!! :) CONGRATS!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteI am very impressed that he took the time (or as least had an assist respond)and let us know that they hear us.... I think that they recognize that there are some hard-core customers on this blog!
I have found that (nearly) every CS I have talked with, has been pleasant and helpful - finding my lost orders, placing new ones, listening to me lament over the loss of an item, etc. Many give me advice about fit, comfort, or even what to wear with an item.
ReplyDeleteI think that Mr. Drexler's attitude is reflected in his company and really demonstrates the command he has over the business. Bravo!
I buy a lot of J Crew clothing (obviously) and blog about it daily! I feel an allegiance to J Crew in part because of the quality of the clothing and now because of the service that Mr. Drexler has instilled in its staff.
I really do think Mickey Drexler is AWESOME! I believe he truly is "hands on", and seems to have a sixth sense about what his customers are and are going to be looking for. I am truly glad to know that he does actually receive the emails that are sent to him, and then ACTUALLY responds! :)
ReplyDeleteMy husband is very big in the gaming industry in Las Vegas and although he has, on staff, a person that specifically responds for him (this person has both English and Human Resources degrees) he reads each and every message BEFORE it is sent. So my point is, that if someone is composing/sending his messages or even making the phone calls for him he is (yes, big time executives have people that do that too) he is most certainly, aware of it and has given it his stamp of approval!
ReplyDeleteAlexis: My heart skipped a beat when I read the reply Mickey sent you! I think it is amazing that they are aware of the blog. I agree with others that he seems very hands on. In my book, he is a rockstar - I would love to meet him!
ReplyDeleteNow if he can only fix the Canadian orders so we do not have to wait over a month to receive the items, I would then agree he is awesome. It is so frustrating, when you call the CS reps you receive a different answer every time, and there is no disclaimer on the website stating that J Crew has stopped shipping to Canada until the bugs are worked out. I miss ordering from J Crew.
ReplyDeleteBlumre: Hope things get straightened out soon! I'm sending you good thoughts :)
ReplyDeleteJenn_Brak: Thanks for the nice words. I do think it is great to know that Mickey does respond to our concerns. I also think that many of us on this blog are like you- J.Crew Fanatics!!! Let us know if you work for them when you return home. :)
ReplyDeleteNicole R: Thanks for the congrats! I agree that it was impressive for him to respond. There are definitely some "hard core customers" on this blog too! ;)
JCrewBug: I tend to agree with the CS's being super helpful and nice- especially those over the phone.
FabulousFloridaMommy & Dr. J: He is awesome! I think it would be great if the Aficionadas got to meet with him one day for a little "Q&A" session. I can totally picture you as the moderator of the session too!
Anon at 10:02 AM: I agree with you that he probably approved the message even if he didn't type it himself. ;)
Alexis, maybe was can plan a "field trip" to corporate and design team (I would love to meet Jenna Lyons) to see how it is all done!!! :)
ReplyDeleteIf Mickey is reading this: Thanks to J Crew, I have totally elevated my personal style. My orders and returns hit a few bumps during the upgrade, but your excellent CS fixed everything for me and all is forgiven! It would take a lot more than a shakey system upgrade to make me go back to my old shopping ways (Banana Republic and Ann Taylor Loft are DEAD to me).
ReplyDeleteNow, next spring, can you please make a Navy Kelly shirt with white buttons? TIA!! ;-)
Another merch suggestion - how about NON-IRON shirts like Brooks Brothers makes? I love the non-iron factor, but the styling isn't nearly as cute as Kelly or Slim Stretch Shirts.
ReplyDeleteAlso, how about a new hacking jacket? I've been waiting for something with a different stripe under the color. :-)
Thanks!! You are the best!! Love ya!! (PS. I spent about 10K in your store over the last two years. Not as much as some, but still a hell of a lot)
Molly--- I COULD NOT AGREE MORE! Keep up the fabulous work Mickey!
ReplyDeletealexis: That is so wonderful that Mickey responded and I also think it's really cool that they are very aware of this blog.
ReplyDeleteAt the same time, I'm not surprised because sometimes it seems that the actions j crew takes are in direct response to something that was discussed here. It's so AWESOME to be able to feel heard by a store that we adore so much! I feel a lot better about J crew today than I did yesterday for sure!
When I ran into him in San Francisco Centre, I told him about the blog, which was pretty new at the time but I was already addicted. He immediately entered the info in his blackberry....then I was all worried that jcrew people would start trolliing instead of reading all of this in the spirit of being in touch with at least one of their bases!
ReplyDeletemaggie may: I would imagine this information that they find here is BETTER than a focus group! And CHEAPER too. :)
ReplyDeleteAlexis, I'm so glad that he responded to you.
ReplyDeleteI'm repeating myself, but my J.Crew obsession definitely dates from when Mickey Drexler took over the company.
Although I've been a J.Crew shopper since ca. 1992, until about 4 years ago I was a Nordstrom shopper all the way (I used to take the first day of Anniversary as my personal holiday). In the early 00s, Nordstrom completely abandoned younger professional women by stocking nothing between club wear and St. John (the latter is the upscale version of Chicos IMHO).
As Mickey Drexler rose at J.Crew I have become a 100% J.Crew shopper. I am just nuts about their products and anticipate the new catalogs and webpages in a way that I once used to drool over the Anniversary Sale catalog. Because J.Crew offers one-stop shopping that meets all my needs, they have entirely swiped me from Nordstrom. I am just thrilled that a retailer addresses my product needs so well. Of course, now that I've admitted that I've given them zero incentive to improve their customer service.
Hi Alexis, Again thank you very much for sharing your experience! I am thrilled with Mickey's reply too!!!
ReplyDeletesally: i agree with you...we're a great focus group!
ReplyDeletealexis: thanks for putting yourself out there and e-mailing him. it's very cool that you got a response :)
mickey and jcrew: i'm a longtime fan (like over 20 years)...jcrew has only become more fabulous since you took over...thank you :)
jcrew design team: i love love love your creations...would LOVE a fabulous true red (like holiday red of last winter) merino sweater jacket some day :) :) you guys rock. :)
Alexis, you are amazing. And Mickey is too. He really has shaped J.Crew into a wonderful experience, and I do mean experience. So much of what he has changed and improved upon, I believe can be viewed as art. The catalogs, the web pages, and the setup of the stores, not to mention the actual clothes!!
ReplyDeleteWe will look back at this time, the website fiasco, and think of how it reaffirmed how great the CS is at J.Crew, and how willing they are to make things right.
Kudos, Kudos!
How cool is that?! Congrats!!! I mean he reads your blog!!!!
ReplyDeleteThat is so great to hear that Mickey Drexler himself responded to you (even if through an assistant) and reads/monitors the blog, Alexis! Being an assistant to a "bigwig" myself, blumre and anon @ 10:02 are right in saying that it is just as good as him sending it himself because he does have to read the actual thing he's responding to and ok the final response going out. ;)
ReplyDeleteBlumre: You're such a sweetie, I hope everything works out. I'm sorry I can't really contribute to the letter; I've actually stayed away from the site since the upgrade - too chicken.)
Jenn_brak: That's be so awesome if you started working for J.Crew! (Not so awesome for your wallet, though, but with J.Crew duds all day and everyday, hard to say no!)
Hexicon: You know what, looking back, I think my obsession with J.Crew started when Mr. Drexler came aboard as well! ;)
A CEO who takes time to respond to emails from shareholders is doing his job right, in my book.
ReplyDeleteAlexis: It is great that you heard back from him. He should be in regular communicaton with you and ffm, IMO.
ReplyDeleteOT, I was in my b&m this morning and my sa told me that J Crew lost a wedding order. In fact, their computer system was showing that the item was never available online, which they know is not true. So, "they" are searching NYC for the fabric so that they can make the item(s) for the customer. While much has gone wrong, I do believe that they are trying to keep their customers happy.
maggie may - You so ever casually said you ran into him at SF Centre. I think I would have been mute with shock. Wow.
ReplyDeletemollie - Navy kelly w/white buttons sounds cute. I think they should have the kelly in a base set of colors at all times. White, black, tan, banker blue and navy for sure.
I agree w/all the people who have said they came around to JCrew around the time Mickey (since we're on a 1st name basis) took over.
I am thrilled that he responded to your email and that he has taken an interest in this blog. I have sent his two emails that have gone unanswered. Maybe someone will get around to finding my orders!
ReplyDeleteMickey for President!!!!!!!! Well, in many ways he is, of our little jcrew obsessed world......I got chills when I read your post, Alexis :)
ReplyDeleteAs disappointed as I've been with all the website issues, Mickey Drexler gets major kudos for his personal, hands-on response to customers. In a scale of impressiveness, he's definitely a 10 out of 10. (Also: Very smart business move -- how many companies have CEOs like him? Having the CEO in contact with customers? Unheard of -- and brilliant!)
ReplyDeleteThe only concerns I'd relay to him would be that, at this point, sale items have been at the same price for ions now, which is kind of ridiculous (there's a certain pair of shoes I could have purchased about three months ago and they'd have cost less than they currently do!), and that I'm unhappy that free shipping codes can't be used in combination with additional percent off codes. (I'm NOT going to ask for free shipping all the time, as I think companies have the right to charge shipping fees. But throw us a bone every now and then with a coupon code for free shipping.)
Other than that, keep the high-quality, unique and stylish (but not "trendy"!) clothes coming.
Hi all! I asked this in the high heel flare post, but I thought I would repost it here:
ReplyDeleteI have a question about the Bella jacket from last year. How did it fit? I have the Prima stretch wool jacket in a 6, and the black San Telmo in a 4 which is a tad snug in the shoulders, but a 6 would have been too big. I have the Kelly jacket and Katie sweater in a small. I found a Bella I really like on eBa, but I am really confused about which size I would need :P
Thanks in advance :)
Michelle:
ReplyDeleteI wear the Bella in size 8. I found the 6 to be too small in the shoulders. I have the Kelly in size small and the San Telmo in 4.
anon@1:54: Thanks so much :) How did you find the sleeves? The measurements listed them at 25" on the size 8 ... that seems really long. I am 5'4" and my arms are on the shorter side.
ReplyDeleteSo glad to read this, Alexis - I hope to never have to contact MD directly and just continue to shop without incident. But I'm happy to hear that things are getting fixed (however slowly).
ReplyDeleteI checked out all the JC lookalikes at Old Navy (the ruffled cardigans, printed minis, "boyfriend" sweaters) and the quality was just not there. All of the cotton sweaters were stretched out looking (and the SA's were just putting them on hangers out of the boxes right there!) and thin, with mismatched seams and little holes. I had been stalking this sage green crewneck sweater online (with a fuschia-colored butterfly on the chest), and was so disappointed to see it in real life - it just looked like such a piece of crap! The printed skirts looked a lot like the canvas skirts JC offered this spring/summer (even the patterns looked similar, like the Tangiers) but they were very thin. Come to think of it, most of the clothes were rather thin/cheap for their fall line. I'd rather pay a bit more to get something that doesn't feel like it's going to fall apart the first time I put it on.
But I digress... thanks, Mickey, for the (mostly) high-quality clothes!
I like to retract my earlier statement regarding Canadian Shipping, I just spoke to a customer service rep and it looks like it is almost fixed, and my parcel is on its way. Thank-you Mickey Drexler you are awesome I love your clothes.
ReplyDeletemath teacher: Wow, that is so crazy about the wedding order! It's nice to know they'll go the mile for your special occasion though. :)
ReplyDeleteAlso, random order terminology question: I just placed an order and one of my items says "partially shipped." So I have three items to be received, 1 says shipped and the other 2 say partially shipped. But it's shoes and a dress! How can they partially ship shoes and a dress?! Will I just get one shoe and maybe the top half of the dress? ;)
Nice to know the high-ups are listening to what their customers are saying. Your blog (your own commentaries and the feedback from your readers) is a great resource for us all, customers and J. Crew management included. I've received the catalogues before but wasn't sure if/how "real" people were wearing the items. But the enthusiasm here from real people, an the styling ideas from real people, have been very inspiring. I'll make my first order soon! Once the website simmers down, anyway...I still hit errors on the SALE pages.
ReplyDeleteOn "partially shipped" stuff, I would call CS. I had an order like that and none of the "partially shipped" stuff had gone through.
ReplyDeletemelanie: Unfortunately the items that say Partial Shipment are not coming...you are only receiving one out of the 3 items you ordered. That happened to me last week...sorry!
ReplyDeleteMelanie: According to CS, partially shipped means they are sold out of the item that didn't ship. They are still trying to work out the kinks in the "real time inventory". Check your credit card statement, they should not have charged you for the missing item (s).
ReplyDeleteThis morning I got a shipping confirmation on my dream ruffle herringbone cardi ... and it is still showing "billing information received." I really hope we aren't starting this again. I ordered a Sea Glass Piper Tank about a month ago that STILL shows the billing info received even though the tank never came :P
ReplyDeleteThanks everyone for their comments / help! You guys are so on the ball.
ReplyDeleteI took your advice and checked my invoice online and called CS. The invoice shows I was charged for the full amount of all 3 items shipped. When I called CS to ask about the items being partially shipped, they asked if the items were "Final sale" and I said no. They sounded really surprised that I would have this "partial shipped" status on not-final-sale items so I guess their inventory problems extend out of that area as well. They are re-ordering it for me, so I hope I get them this time. :) It's what I'm hoping will be my wedding dress!
PS. And when they went to check the inventory status, the items showed as "in stock" so they're not sure why they weren't shipped. But the CS rep said I was only charged for the item that did ship, though my email invoice says otherwise. I hope she's right. :)
ReplyDeleteHe's a very classy CEO, obviously very hands-on. The kind of leader who is willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done is the kind of leader I've always been inclined to follow. He must have a lot of fanatically devoted employees.
ReplyDeleteAnd how old is he? Close to 60? Damn, he looks great!
Nicole R: I would love to meet Jenna Lyons too! She is awesome.
ReplyDeleteI've also been reading issues you all have been having with your items shipping, not shipping, and partially shipping. My order from the weekend faux 30% off sale still is listed as "released" and/or "open". Nothing has been listed as "in process". Now I'm worried that my items are phantom and will be cancelled. I think I may call CS to see what's going on.
ReplyDeleteMary: I have the same issue as you except I ordered on Sunday. I'll let you know if anything changes.
ReplyDeleteHey Aly
ReplyDeleteJust got off the phone with CS (waited 6 min, not too bad) and they couldn't have been nicer. They said they could see no problem with the order and that the wait time for shipping notification is longer than it was before the upgrade, but that they are trying to get it together!
Hope that helps.
aly and mary: the order I placed on the red phone at the store on Sunday for my belt has shipped with a WORKING UPS tracking number to be delivered this Thursday. The order I placed at home with CS that evening for sale items still says OPEN. Btw...I did not get email notification that the belt had shipped, but checked the order status online and it has. :)
ReplyDeleteAlexis - An Aficionada visit to J Crew is an inspired idea! We could meet the designers in the morning. Have a meet-and-greet luncheon with drop-ins by Mickey Drexler and Tracy Gardner. Then we could head off to one of the Manhattan stores with our very own one-day-only Aficionada coupon code. Can you imagine how much money we would all spend?
ReplyDeleteMichelle: As I recall from the Bella the sleeves hit at the wrist. I'm 5'7" with average length arms. I think the cuffs can be rolled up or they look fine a little long. If it bothers you, you can probably take it to a tailor.
ReplyDeleteFFM
ReplyDeleteThanks for your input! It's good to hear that even though things are progressing slowly, they seem to be progressing.
I have my fingers crossed for my order. That 30% off sale gave me some mighty fine bargains if all goes well!
Alexis: It's simply awesome, but who else truly deserves a response from Mickey Drexler himself? And I love, love the fact that Mickey Drexler is "very much aware of your blog."
ReplyDeletemary, aly: I have three orders with the 30% and only one has shipped, but CS assured me that the other two will ship today. Please update us when you receive your orders.
My lost Tartines are alas, still lost - along with shoes, skirt and necklaces. Billing info received 7/26 and CS could only tell me that the package was loaded onto an UPS truck an hour ago. I'm not sure if she's just trying to console me. I've called so many times about this order. So much for the 7/26 shipping date, pah!
ReplyDeletevivian: I'm so sorry that your tartines and other items are still lost. Hopefully they are now on the truck and will be delivered soon.
ReplyDeleteIf J Crew would spend more time on their true industry, which is designing great clothes and accessories, they would be much better off. Leave the IT work to professionals who know what they are doing. You have a bunch of dim-witts running your IT department. They are trying to save $$ by running their IT work in house but obviously it is not working. Mickey - you seem like an intelligent person. Are they blowing so much smoke up you that it is impacting your ability to see what is good for your company and ulimately the public?
ReplyDeleteVivian
ReplyDeleteSorry about your lost items. I hope they are soon found, and if they are not, that a gift card might be in your future.
I'll certainly keep everyone posted on the status of my order, and I hope others will do the same. At least then maybe we can get a gauge on delivery time.
I think a fieldtrip would be fun.(I hope this is the right thread for this comment - can't remember which thread it was!!! too much to keep up with)
ReplyDeleteIt would be great to meet some of you ladies (and gentlemen) on this blog! Next time I travel to a city near you I'll be sure to check if you are free for coffee!
Silver_lining: Thanks for the info about Old Navy. I was eyeing some of those items as well.
we should dress up in our favorite jcrew outfits, hijack a ups truck that may have some of our packages and have a day with mickey and co. in NYC. my friend works for corporate in the factory division and said he is a riot, very accessible but intimidating in the same way.
ReplyDeleteI think a rendevous in NYC would be so much fun! Just give me a heads up since that will require some saving. :) NYC is not cheap and I am not rich - just a poor, single school teacher. :P
ReplyDeleteNot sure if any of you saw the article in the May 2008 InStyle on Jenna Lyons. She's so darn fashionable and I bought that silly cardigan just because she looked so cool wearing it! Also, check out her shoes!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.scribd.com/doc/3564445/Jenna1
AND
http://www.scribd.com/doc/3564288/Jenna2
I remember that cardigan! Now I want one - they're gone, right?
ReplyDeleteHi--someone asked yesterday about the Abby fit and I can't find the post so I'm responding here:
ReplyDeleteI just got mine and I am sooo disappointed. I'd been admiring this jacket for months and snapped it up as soon as it was on sale. On the model the jacket looks as though it has some shape due to the gathering near the collar band. The description promises that shirring in front and back give the jacket a feminine shape. Wrong, it is flat and boxy and very wide at the waist--almost like a Chanel-style jacket, but not in a good way. It's not at all flattering on me :-( Also, the lapel is trimmed with rows of parallel stitching, and it looks cheap and frayed where the lapel meets the collar.
As for fit, I am between a 4 and a 6 (often wear 6 P) and am an hourglass shape with larger shoulders but small waist and midriff. Another Aficionada had suggested the 4 but I ordered 6 to fit my shoulders. 4 would have been wearable but snug in the shoulders. So, unless your shoulders are large, I would agree to size down. The back of the jacket is loose and boxy. I hope to salvage this mistake by having the back and waist taken in.
Math Teacher: I hear that! We are saving for our wedding in October and will still be recovering around Xmas time when I was hoping to go to do a little shopping for presents. Don't know if it will happen but I'd love to make it sometime soon.
ReplyDeleteI have a grand vision for my next trip to NY. I've only ever gone for conferences so I'd like to save up and go on a real vacation there (hopefully with some girlfriends). I'd like to hit one of Bobby Flay's restaraunts for sure. Take one of the Sex and the City tours tailored for one of the characters - I think I'd pick Carrie or Charlotte. Then hit every J Crew in the city!
Molly, that's the Martine. Looks like they have some left on sale but not in the pink/orange combo. By the time I got used to that combo it was sold out!
ReplyDeleteThere is good news Aficionada's! The order I placed Saturday morning, with the 30% has been delivered! I received the shipping confirmation email today and when I checked the tracking number, it showed it has been delivered.
ReplyDeleteKeep the faith out there for those still waiting on shipments. I hope they will come soon!!!
That was the Martine cardigan. Still available in the other two colors, just not the pink/red. I loved it too, but never made the investment. The graphite/green might be great heading into the fall!
ReplyDeletejcrewbug: congrats on your wedding! And, people will understand that money is tight at Christmas. I am slightly jealous that you get to travel to NY even though it's for business. As a school teacher, we don't get sent many places. Last summer I went to Raleigh, NC, which was nice, but not NYC. I think your pleasure trip sounds like fun and I hope it comes true for you soon.
ReplyDeleteOooh, that is a nice color combo on the Martine. I just got the crystal button colorblock sweater in silverhoney - not too much alike, right?
ReplyDeletehexicon,
ReplyDeleteBefore spending $$$ tailoring the jacket, you might try returning it even though it's final sale. Some people on this blog say they have had some luck returning "final sale" items. I would just say the sizing was really off and it's unwearable. Someone made the point that they are already having so much trouble sending out orders, are they really going to ship your returns back to you?
Btw, does anyone have any sweaters in the "burnished olive" color from last fall? Is the color more green or more mustard-looking? There is a cashmere sweater I'm eyeing in the sale section but I don't do yellow hues.
Burnished olive is definitely more blue green than the current spicy mustard. I have both. Side by side you can tell a diff, but if I wore them one day after the other, people would probably think it was the same sweater.
ReplyDeleteEmily- Wow that was fast!
ReplyDeleteI just got my 30% off shipping notice too woohoo. My previous order of the pencil skirt and open neck sweater is scheduled to arrive tomorrow. It's so nice to see jcrew starting to come through with orders again!
Re the actual topic lol, it's very cool that Mickey replied to you! Even if it was an assistant it shows they care about the indivudual customer. Most companies wouldn't bother to reply at all or you'd get a canned response.
i placed an order last week and it came today...back on the usual timeframe. i think they're gradually getting better and back to normal!
ReplyDeletemickey definitely knows what he's doing. i don't know what i would do without j crew!? so thank you to mickey for helping us all stay stylish.
Nicole R & Jenn_Brak & JCrewBug & Math_teacher: Wouldn't it be great to take a field trip to J.Crew? Oh I would love that so much!!! Especially with Jenn_Brak's itinerary! ;)
ReplyDeleteJCrewBug: Congrats on your upcoming wedding- that is fantastic! Wish you all the best on your day!!! :)
Sally: I think it is pretty wonderful of Mickey to reach out to all of us too. I totally know what you mean about feeling better about J.Crew today than yesteray too! ;) I also agree that we are the perfect "focus group" for J.Crew to research on.
Maggie May: That is so cool! I didn't realize you met him recently!!! Also, thanks for mentioning the blog to him! That was super nice of you. :)
Hexicon: I couldn't agree more- my obsession with the Crew really started around the time Mickey took over. :) He is just great!
Naomi & CCBMUM & Pink1: Thanks for the thanks! ;) I am really impressed that he was able to respond to so many Aficionadas (like me, FFM, Jenn-Brak, and others) during this really busy time. And I really appreciate it. It makes me even more devoted to J.Crew now. :)
LaVerte: I know what you mean- I will look back a month from now, while making an online purchase, and laugh at my silly comment about "boycotting" J.Crew. Who was I kidding? I love the clothes too much to really give it up. ;)
Eddie & Stretch's Momma: I agree with you that I would love it if someone at J.Crew really did read the blog to institute positive changes/policies. It's always nice to know that our concerns are being heard.
Stephanie: Couldn't agree with you more! :)
Math_Teacher: I agree that he should have FFM's phone number on speed dial! She could give him lots of great advice for J.Crew! ;)
HDayton: I am happy he replied back too. I only tried after seeing Jenn_Brak and FFM's success at reaching him. I hope that you get a response from him too! :)
Anon at 1:30 PM: I pretty much agree with everything you said about your concerns. Especially the sale prices after all this time.
Silver_Lining: I agree that I am happy to hear things are getting fixed. :)
SarahP: I agree this blog is a great resource for us. :) I have always said that the reason this blog is so great is because of the members. I have learned more about J.crew & their items through other members- which not only has made me a more educated shopper, but has also increased my purchases at J.Crew. I know I bought lots of items I normally would not have, based on the recommendations of other Aficionadas. :)
Melanie: I hope you get your wedding dress. Also congrats on the upcoming wedding- that is super exciting!!! :)
Vivian: Thanks for the nice comment! I am surprised he even knows about us. :) P.S. I really hope your Tartines aren't lost forever.
Anonymous at 4:39 PM:Thanks for those links- I might make that into its own blog post this week! :)
Emily: Congrats on your order making it- Fantastic news!!!
Sorry for the last comment being so long! ;)
ReplyDeleteMr. Drexler, if you're reading this...PLEASE BRING JCREW TO BRAZIL!! Your cheerful colors, bold patterns, great styles will be immensely successful here. I wear a lot of JCREW and I get compliments all the time, my friends all ask me where did you get this? it's so unique! Brazil is the new paradise for luxury and upscale brands, don't miss out on this great market, even if you have to start with just a localized version of the website and the online business. Brazilians will rather shop than eat...seriously!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the Congrats! I'm really getting excited - been planning it for almost two years. What can I say - I'm a perfectionist.
ReplyDeleteI imagine that we all would have a fabulous time if we met up in NY. I think we have similar interests! Since we all seem to enable each other to spend more money it may be dangerous!!! :)
OK, if there is a trip to NYC in the future with my fellow Aficionadas then count me IN. I usually go with friends each November to do some Christmas shopping, take in a play, and eat something yummy at Tavern on the Green! I think it would be the icing on the cake if we could actually meet our beloved Mr. Drexler as well!!
ReplyDeleteI got my Silk Jersey Pleated top today in Weathered Stone and it is the softest most sumptuous material imaginable. I immediately went online and ordered the Black and Persimmon as well.
The Crystal Button Colorblock cardigan was in my shopping bag today and will probably be ordered this evening. :)
Right now I am wearing the Jackie cardi in Soft Fuchsia, Amelia tank in Sweet Papaya, and 5" chinos (rolled) in British Khaki along with my Gold skinny belt and Gold Capri sandals. I saw this outfit on Hye Park in the Monacco catalog this summer and it looks as fabulous on me as it does on the model. THAT is what I love about J Crew...that you can look so wonderful in their clothing, and you don't have to be a model to do so!!
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ReplyDeleteI am trying to use the 30% off code and it's not working. Did it work for anyone today?
ReplyDeleteI just did a mock checkout using the EXTRA30 code and it did not work for me...bummer.
ReplyDeleteI tried the 30 code today and it didn't work for me either
ReplyDeleteJcrewjunkie- that outfit sounds tdf. You've inspired look up the amelia tank to go with the Jacki cardis I just bought
I recently found this blog and I must say, I am getting addicted to it like all of you! I told my husband that there are people crazier about J crew than I am!
ReplyDeleteHexicon- I read your post and I totally agree with you about Nordstrom! I too, used to shop the first day of the Anniversary Sale at 7am or whenever it opened and planned on coming into work late. The past several years, I have not even shopped the sale. I never even realized why it was that I wasn't buying anything there. I also find that I don't find as much at Banana Republic these days.
What drew me to J Crew initially were the pants. Pants have always been so hard for me to find. J crew pants are so flattering and stylish. I have a lot of the favorite fits but I have several city fits too. I love them all. Once I got hooked on the pants...then I discovered the Jackie cardigans...then the cute sweater jackets....
JCrewMama: Congrats on the recent weight loss. :) Also, I agree that his response to me, Jenn_Brak, FFM, and others really is impressive.
ReplyDeleteShopper555: Welcome aboard! We love to meet new J.Crew Aficionadas. :) Just so you know, we are complete clothes-enablers here. ;)
ReplyDeleteReceived an order I placed just a couple of days ago....when they were doing "30% off final sale." I received it quickly, got the price w/ 30% off (was a bit worried they would adjust). So I'm a happy girl!!!
ReplyDeletejcrewjunkie - A trip to NY. Oooh. If I am free and have some pocket change, I am in! We can buy Mickey lunch at Tavern on the Green. ;-)
ReplyDeleteI'm going to enable you to order the colorblock cardigan. The crystal buttons and other details they have on the fall clothing is to die for.
Can't remember who posted about the ON cardigans. Thanks for that. I was very curious. I figured the quality wasn't there, but you never know. I wear their 2/$12camis when I want an extra layer and I haven't been disappointed in them at all.
Alisha: congrats, what an accomplishment! I get that is was a while ago but its great to hear a story like yours!
ReplyDeleteI agree with everyone a NYC outing would be fun (and easy for me, i do live here after all ;))
Pink1: Congrats on placing an order with no issues and receiving the item quickly. Hopefully this is a sign that things are getting back to normal! :)
ReplyDeleteGigiofca: I laughed at the comment you made about "enabling". We are such enablers here- and I love it! :)
OH guys, there are way better places to eat in this city than tavern on the green. Benoit (the famous french restaurant) just opened here. Le cirque is out of this world. Trust me cipriani trumps tavern any day... the food at tavern is pretty vile... Its pretty and a decent party space but thats about it.
ReplyDeleteHi gigiofca, it was me that posted about the ON cardigans. I think their triple-band tanks are fabulous (and cheap!) and I've been wearing them under my Jackie cardigans. They're a little more flattering than JC tanks where you basically have to be completely straight in the torso to avoid drawing attention to even the slightest bit of "love handle". Their tees and tanks are great (still have a couple 'ringspun' ON tees from last summer that have held up pretty good), but the new stuff is completely underwhelming and looks much better in pictures than in person, IMHO. I'd rather get one JC cardigan than 2 ON ones that may have to be thrown out by Thanksgiving, you know?
ReplyDeleteOk -- another post. But I am still FLOATING. I went to the Pleasanton, CA store today and received the best customer service ever from Melissa. I believe she is the store manager. We were talking and I was telling her about my in-person customer service experience vs phone. We talked about yelp.com and then I asked had she heard about the J Crew Aficionada blog. I could barely get the words out of my mouth because she had. In fact, the blog was discussed in the conference call that morning. WILD! Go Alexis! Well, to keep this short that's all I'll say about that. In other news, they figured out the glitch that was causing a lot of the problems online and it is only going to get better going forward. That was beautiful news. I went in looking for the cashmere cardigan, but walked out with $250 in fall items and a few summer clearance. I won't bore you with the summer since everyone seems focused on fall. I got the ruffle henly in black. LOVE. One of the tees in aqua with a floral pattern on it. (?) Fits like a dream. And the merino v-neck that's on sale. Not sure of the color name but it's an aqua. If anyone cares, the summer was still 40% off. Apparently they are going to keep the merch in the stores instead of shipping it back to the warehouse and potentially causing more issues. Not sure if that applies to all stores, but definitely to Pls. That said, it sounds like they have conference calls and updates all the time and are a very responsive company. Can you imagine working for a place that works on the fly? Must be amazing. Speaking of...I guess a lot of people followed Mickey after he left GAP because it just wasn't the same. I think that's the issue with difference experiences in the b&m. Your experience is really contingent on the way the store mgr operates. If they are good, the employees are good. The mgr in Pls is phenomenal and the SAs in the stores were as well. Not the case in the other store that is closer to me. She encouraged me to write in about that store, which I will do.
ReplyDeleteI really wish I could articulate my experience. I wanted to go right back to the mall and spend more money. I will probably go this weekend just to feel the vibe and touch stuff again. I'll probably get another tee and merino v-neck. I know this is super long, but I can't echo enough what everyone is saying here. So thanks again, Alexis, for the forum. One of the articles you posted mentioned that there is an underserved market and I didn't get that when I read it, but now I do. I am between Juniors and Misses, as it were. Banana Republic has been fairly good, but hti or miss. Now I have found a home base in J Crew. Hallelujah!
silverlining - Ah, yes, I walked on past the tanks at the b&m today. Very pretty and soft, but I believe they are for a slimmer torso. I know *exactly* what you mean.
ReplyDeleteblumre - At the rate we're all going, we'll be lucky to treat Mickey to lunch from a hot dog cart. *lol*
Alexis - Didn't mean to cut the topic short about your. My post ended up being 4x longer than I thought it would be. Basically corporate is reading it. And specific references were made to things we've discussed and names were mentioned. No worries, I don't think anyone should get self-conscious. Keep being who you are because they are paying attention.
Haha -- btw, Melissa almost got me signed up for a credit card. I'm sure I'll get one. I'm going to wait for a crazy purchase so I can really work the 10%.
Names were mentioned??
ReplyDeleteCredit Card was the best thing I ever did - as much as I spend there it's nice to have some rewards coming back. My only wish is that with the credit card upgrade like "Cashmere" they would allow free shipping like BR's "Luxe" upgrade. I'd buy a ton more. Of course, I might have marital problems as a result. :)
ReplyDeleteBlumre: If we do a trip, then we will go eat at Benoit! :)
ReplyDeleteGigiofca: Thanks for letting us know about that! :) Oh my gosh! I totally want to know more about them knowing about the blog! :) I am simultaneously excited about that news (and slightly nervous). If its okay with you- I would like to make that into a post.
anon@9:27p - Yes -- not in a bad way. For the record, this was not to be a bad statement. My point is that the feedback here has been very detailed and noticed. If I had to guess, I imagine some of it is being taken under consideration, but that is just a guess.
ReplyDeletegigiofca: Names mentioned...it was in a good way, or a bad way, and how many?
ReplyDeleteFFM- you are too funny b/c that is the same question I have for Gigiofca!
ReplyDeleteGigiofca: we are thrilled to hear that they have noticed our blog. So we are just curious as to what they told you. ;)
Alexis, I can't believe this!!! Maybe they will call you up and offer you an amazing job with all the J Crew outfits you could ever want as a perk. That would be a dream. I'm wondering if they need an on-site physician. (It has seriously been on my mind) :)
ReplyDeleteAlexis - Don't be nervous at all. :-) I was jumping up and down in the store when I heard that the blog was mentioned! I said I couldn't wait to share the news.
ReplyDeleteI think it's super cool that our voices are being heard. I have seen other recent comments about JCrew on other sites in light of the Web trouble and they are not nearly as eloquent as the ones here. So...I think corporate can find feedback from all over, but the thoughts articulated here are incredible.
Sure you can mention what I shared in another thread. No problem. Really, don't be nervous. I didn't get into too many details with the store mgr. I get the feeling they have an open door culture there, but a veil of sorts has to be maintained between the company and the customer so I didn't press her. Can't tell ya if Mickey was on the line during that conf call or not. *lol*
I'm off to watch my nephews till tomorrow nite and I'm going to be missing you guys!
shopper555: I also first started really shopping J Crew for their pants. At 5'4", I am at the top of the petite chart, so petite pants are always a little too short. And, regular pants, well I need about a 5" heel! But, their short pants are wonderful! :)
ReplyDeleteOh -- just saw what everyone else said. It was more like screen names were thrown out, but I didn't get the sense that they are tracking anyone or tying any specific thoughts to one person. Not at all. I think the screen names jump out because many of them have crew in them.
ReplyDeleteDon't worry. Keep shopping. :-)
Gigiofca: Thank you so much for letting us know. I think it is great that they are really taking an active interest in our blog.
ReplyDeleteA post it will be for sure! :)
JCrewBug: At this point of my dissertation, I would totally drop it in favor of working at the Crew. ;)
ReplyDeleteshopper555: I just realized that I didn't phrase that very well. I really like their pants that come in short length (both favorite and city fit) because they're the perfect length on me. Being a teacher, I prefer flats and J Crew pants hit at just the right spot.
ReplyDeletegigiofca: I love ON tanks as well! I have a drawer full and I'm always on the lookout for new colors.
Speaking of Mr. Drexler, this article shows how he really loves us, the customer, the gals and guys on the frontlines. He wants to know what makes us tick (and buy!) Sorry , I dont know how to post an actual link, hope this works. From the NY Times March 1, 2008
ReplyDeletehttp://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/01/business/01nocera.html?_r=1&scp=11&sq=jcrew&st=cse&oref=sloginlines...
alexis: I'm with you. I'm a bit nervous since I haven't exactly been creative with my name. And I've been going off about my store recently.
ReplyDeleteOT but I also wanted to share that when I went to my b&m today to buy the Navy Tuesday trench, they not only dissuaded me from buying it, they are having one of the store managers bring TWO Lucilles to my b&m from another location about 45 minutes away so that I can try on and see in person!
I can't help but wonder: WHY! I have a feeling they know I'm upset with they're withholding the 20% coupon and now seem to be going above and beyond. I never asked them to bring the jacket in. Nor did I voice any interest in it when I came in for the trench. What Gives??? They're pretty much the same price so it's not like it's a bigger sale AND the other store it came from gets the credit for the sale to boot. I can't make sense of it...
btw, I loved the dream tie cardi. FFM, I had planned on waiting on it for a sale but when you mentioned it, I thought I would try it on and still wait for later. However, when I tried it on, I instantly was CRAZY about it. I decided the 20% off made it TOTALLY worth it. I got it in honey glaze and ordered the eggplant.
Sally (please note I changed my name) I'm trying to be more covert ;)
I think it is great that Mickey Drexler cares so much about customer input and making customers' shopping experience worthwhile. I am definitely impressed that he has directly contacted some of the people who post on this blog about their shopping issues. For someone that is so high up in the corporate ladder, I love that he relates back to the individual shopper. Thanks Mr. Drexler!
ReplyDeleteWhat I love about J Crew is how their clothes are great quality and create a polished look. Being a student, I can't afford to buy J Crew clothes at full price all the time, but with sales, the prices become more reasonable and I can always rely on J Crew for classy pieces. Plus, I love some of the colors that J Crew has decided to feature recently. I would never find colors like these at BR or Gap. Overall, J Crew has been a reliable source of fashionable, comfortable, and put-together clothes.
If they are mentioning names and they ever mention jobs, all I have to say is that FFM should be offered a position as a stylist for their catalog shoots. Her polyvore sets are amazing! She does things J Crew didn't even know she could do.
ReplyDeleteSlastena and Blumre could work on contracts with manufacturers, as you know they both almost always get what they want.
Alexis would be a junior executive with hopes of the boardroom and an office with a view just a few years away.
Also - When, not if, we have our NYC trip, we will have to invite Stacy or Clinton to dinner. We all seem to be big fans, and they could give us style tips at our dinner presentation at Chinois
ReplyDeletealy: I agree, I just posted something similar in the new thread. J Crew's sales save me over and over again. Where would a girl be without them?
ReplyDeleteblumre: For those of us who live in places like WV and don't have places like Tavern on the Green it is unfair of you to spoil it like that. I absolutely LOVE their Lobster Bisque and for me it is a vacation in itself to go there. I have eaten in nearly every fine establishment in NY, but I choose Tavern not just because it was the last place I went with my dad before he passed away but also because I personally find the food excellent and not vile. :(
ReplyDeletegigiofca: melissa is awesome!! i know her and i actually told her about the blog a while back... there is another employee there who is now addicted to this blog! i'd like to meet her sometime too. i just was there last week and we talked about the same stuff you guys did...jcrew, gap, corporate...she used to work at gap...etc. corporate is listening and they are making a point of improving CS in the stores in particular. that store has the best CS already...maybe i'll run into you there one of these days!! :)
ReplyDeleteJcrewjunkie - As a former Manhattanite, I can tell you that you would be hard pressed to find someone who lives in New York and does not feel that way about Tavern. It just isn't really appreciated by the locals. Foodwise, we really could show you some amazing places that you might enjoy, for the food, just a little more.
ReplyDeleteI am originally from Ohio so can see where you are coming from about Tavern. Also, it is wonderful that you have such a special place to remember your father with. I hope I can remember my father surrounded by beautiful lights in a charming restaurant. You are a lucky person! Lobster bisque is my favorite. A place in Tysons Corner, VA called Da Domenico has the best I ever tasted.
Well actually: gigi I think mickey should treat us to lunch, with the amount we spend each year, we support his MASSIVE salary ;) Lunch should totally be on Jcrew and I think we should all get free official Jcrew made for each one of us t-shirts! That all read "aficionada" on them!
ReplyDeleteSo I just told the bf that the jcrew gift card was the best present he ever got me. I am secretly hoping he goes to the store tomorrow to pick out a t shirt or something small for me ;) I doubt he will, he isnt that smooth nor does he have that much time but still it would be very cute and sweet.
Jcrewjunkie: I wasn't trying to offend you. Its just NYers don't go there for the most part. I totally understand the sentimental value for you. I would go back too if that were the case. For most Nyers... they just consider it over priced for what you get, thats all I was saying.
ReplyDeleteFor a really cool place to eat I strongly recommend the 79th st boat basin cafe that over looks the 79th st boat basin and the Hudson river. It is very cool! And the burgers are pretty darn good and so are their strawberry daiquiris!
Jenn_brak: my family knows Tim Gunn... maybe he would come to dinner. He would tell us that we have all successfully "made it work" ;)
ReplyDeleteI wish I knew stacy... I want to be her best friend and shopping buddy!
Jenn: I just read your comment about me always getting what I want...LOL... that is SOOOOOO not the case. I wish it was ;) You are too funny.
ReplyDeletejenn_brak: Thank you so much for the suggestion. Where are you in VA? We have close friends living in McLean and go there about twice a year. I LOVE it!
ReplyDeleteWe have gone almost everywhere to eat in NY, but I can't get past Tavern which is probably due to daddy and my wonderful memories. :) Actially, I am not a big eater so if we skipped ALL eating establishments and just went shopping I would be just as happy. Additionally, the women that I fly to NY all love to eat there so I just get my LB and go with the flow. :)
While we are discussing this amazing lunch we would supposedly have... would it be possible to shop first and then eat? I dont like shopping on a full stomach! That is just not fun! I mean really, who wants to shop bloated?
ReplyDeleteblumre: I didn't mean to sound like a beast (although I did, and I am so sorry) I just get so emotional when it involves my dad. Please forgive my lack of couth. :)
ReplyDeleteBlumre: I am completely jealous that your family knows Tim Gunn. He is the one person I would want as my Scrabble-partner. He is just the best! :)
ReplyDeleteAlexis: You play scrabble too!!! NO WAY! I am so mad scrabulous was taken off of facebook. Every weekend we are at my country house my mom and I play a serious throw down game of scrabble! I love it... I actually find it very relaxing!
ReplyDeleteJcrewjunkie: don't worry about about. We all get emotional sometimes. And this was something that was important to you, you should defend it! I am so sorry you lost your dad and I didnt mean to hit a cord at all. And you are right it is the shopping that matters... hence the shop first then once you know you can fit into the clothes, then eat :)
Acutally i think it would be totally cool if they did a photo shoot with real jcrew shopper's like us. We could do a shoot at the carousel in central park and at the zoo (that would be fun, I am trained to work with lemurs and they would be awesome in a jcrew photo shoot!)
OOOO jcrew did you read that--- use us real jcrew wearing gals & guys in a photo shoot!
Haha Alexis: My family knows him... but I have yet to be introduced. I think I might have that chance this fall though!!! I dont know if I could utter a word if I met him though, I would be star struck!
ReplyDeleteJcrewjunkie - I actually live in CT now, but lived in Arlington and worked in McLean prior to NYC and CT.
ReplyDeleteIf you are visiting friends in McLean, than Da Domenico is probably a restaurant your friends have heard of. Not sure how popular it is anymore, I lived there eight years ago, but do know that it is still in business.
Oooh, add me to the Scrabble fan club! I haven't played in ages but LOVED to - I also find it super relaxing, along with doing laundry, and online shopping (ahem) pre-July 2008. :)
ReplyDeletethen - not than
ReplyDeleteScrabble fans: Have you heard of Scrabulous? They even have email Scrabble, where your move will be emailed to your opponent, who can respond then. Great for playing inactively with a friend. :)
ReplyDeleteMelanie: I used to play all the time on facebook but I heard scrabulous was a copy write infringement. Does it still exist on the regular scrabulous site?
ReplyDeleteBlumre: I had heard about Hasbro bringing lawsuits against the creator of Scrabulous, but I don't know if anything came of it? I haven't played Scrabulous for the last month or so. :) Hopefully, it won't get shut down or Hasbro will replace it with their own versin!
ReplyDeletejcrewjunkie: I was saddened to hear of your father's passing. Mine died a year ago this month, on my parents 37th anniversary. It is difficult and there are certainly places I avoid as well. Take care, H
ReplyDelete