A big "thank you!" goes to Anonymous at 1:17 PM (in the "J.Crew Stores: Grand Opening List!" post) who let us know that her local J.Crew (in Cambridge MA) is having a "secret sale" on solid-color cashmere sweaters (women only) for $99. Chances are that your local J.Crew is having a similar secret sale (for a limited time) too. :)For those of you who have not heard of a secret sale at J.Crew, you are not alone! ;) I actually did not know about them either, until this blog's wonderful members shared that knowledge with me.
J.Crew's "secret sales" (and Aficionadas, please correct me if I am wrong or forgot to add something) essentially will have in-season items on sale without the sale being advertised (e.g. no email, no sign at the store). Also, the stores' associate determine which customers they share the "private sale" information with.
Are there any other J.Crew items that are currently on "secret sale"? :) Have you made purchases with items that were on "secret sale"? What do you think of J.Crew's secret sales in general?
I think secret sales are a rather awkward idea. I honestly don't see a reason to host any kind of sale without people knowing about it? Aren't sales instated to convince people to visit said store to draw business? I've been to tons of "sales", not just clothing, where they actually do not have the item(s) advertised. The point was to draw said consumer there to look at their various other products.
ReplyDeleteOf course, there's also reason to rid of extra inventory, but that won't apply here since it's . . . well, secret.
I guess the most likely answer is that it's just another marketing ploy. Secret is a strong word & upon heard by any consumer, he/she will most definitely flock to the "secret" sale. Who would really want to miss out when something that one is not supposed to know is discovered? You could say that person feels . . . "special". So basically, that's the overall idea of J.Crew's "secret' sale. Nonetheless, enjoy.
I secretly love them...especially when I know I've gotten a secret discount! :P
ReplyDeleteThis sale has been going on for the last month. Not too much of a secret though.
ReplyDeleteThat's NOT right!!!
ReplyDeletegot the herringbone ecole jacket for $148 (25% off) at the SF Centre J. Crew last thursday. enjoy!
ReplyDeleteThe secret sale doesn't bother me now that I know about them. And thanks for this post. I just got the idea that one strategy is to just ask point-blank -- is there anything on secret sale? And ask more than 1 person because some SAs are more with it than others. It's kind of like a good waiter who know the specials and all the specifics vs other waiters who...uh, don't.
ReplyDeleteThis isn't secret sale, but just in case it's slipped by some...the enamel bangles are "30% off 2 or more." The promo is in-store and on the website.
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to clarify the "secret sale". Associates typically share information about "secret sales" to a)anyone who knows enough to ask about them; or b) if an Associate sees a client looking at the item or similar items. There is no intention to only tell some customers. At least, that isn't the case in Oregon.
ReplyDeleteSecret sales are an awkward idea. And with JC's secret sales, the items usually are not included in the extra percentage off "final" sales, so I mostly pass anyway. Secret sales do give me a good clue as to what will be offered at further discount within a short period of time, so they increase my sale radar, and that's valuable (at least to me!).
ReplyDeleteThis is OT, but I just got an email from Banana Republic touting new fall arrivals, and as we've noted previously in this blot, the 80's are making a comeback. The "new" colors are royal blue and black. Anyone else my age remember that?
ReplyDeleteAnd Edda is one of the models in the new photos.
I also find this a really strange concept...I would be interested to know WHO came up with this idea and find out the specific reason WHY they think it's a good one.
ReplyDeleteWhat about those of us who don't live near a B & M? Can we just be considered "SOL" because we can only shop online? That is unfair in so many ways!!
ReplyDeleteFFM: I think that it is an odd concept too. I would love for someone from J Crew to step forward and explain the logic behind this.
ReplyDeleteit's usually cashmere sweaters of varying types that are on secret sale, not usually other things.
ReplyDeletecan anyone confirm which cashmere sweaters are $99? is it only the crewnecks or vnecks, turtlenecks and cardigans as well?
ReplyDeleteJust like the special gift card they sent out to make people fell special this is also a marketing ploy to make people fee special...another JCrew gimmick and I find it insulting. JCrew....you are slowly loosing me...
ReplyDeleteAt my store the secret cashmere sale has been limited to crewneck tees and v-necks.
ReplyDeleteOT: Just heard on the today show that People magazine voted Michelle Obama one of the best dressed and she likes to shop at JCrew and the Gap!
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone know if the solid navy sequined cardigan sold out online? I can't find it on the website! For the first time I have to say I'm hoping its just a website glitch.
ReplyDeleteI don't like the secret sale idea--sounds like a good way to discriminate unfairly against some people. I mean, the store already has a snobby reputation. I'd be very angry if I didn't get the sale b/c I didn't "look" a certain way.
ReplyDeleteBack to the $25 gift card. I just found out that I received one at my parents' house. I used to have things shipped there, but I'm a cardholder--so I guess my moving a million times confused them enough to send me a card. I'm hoping I get one at my old address that gets forwarded here too!
anon at 6:54 brought up a valid point: Secret store sales are unfair to those who don't live near a store and must rely on the website.
ReplyDeletePlus, like I mentioned yesterday, I think it's ridiculous if sales clerks get to decide whom to tell. Just tell anyone who walks into the store. I'm not going to go in and ask "is anything on a secret sale." It's the store that's supposed to want OUR business, right?
I read in another post about the jewelry not selling well - I'm not surprised. Last year's fall collection jewelry was well done, I thought, but maybe it sold so well J.Crew got lazy. I don't think this fall's stuff has been anything special, and haven't bought anything.
I wonder: how are those bug pins we all love so much selling? :-)
Hey!
ReplyDeleteI am a big fan of J.Crew but i live in Sweden. I wonder if sombody whant´s to help me so I can place an order and shippig to Sweden.
How can I do? Sombody tell me!
Thank´s for a nice, inspaierd blogg.
Regards
Elin
JCrew just does this because it will make the average customer visit the b&m store more often to check out any new savings going on. I like it.. because when I do go to a b&m I get all excited that I get to save money I would other wise spend. Other secret sales going on on the mens side were... all mens patterned oxfords $49.99 and buy 2 pairs of essential chinos for $99.00. I dont really think of them as secret sales but more like "specials" of the week.
ReplyDeleteI was at a store on Sunday and they had a sign advertising solid cashmere crew and v-neck sweaters for $99 originaly priced at $148. Maybe the secrecy depends on the store?
ReplyDeleteI agree about the jewelry. I have passed on everything this summer/fall. Last year was so amazing, it was selling out. I think the pieces are just too weird maybe? I don't know who they get their inspiration from. And yes, those bug pins???????
ReplyDeleteJust wanted to let everyone know that Ann Taylor is offering 25% off in stores and online on your entire purchase, plus free shipping for orders over $175 online. Enter code 25FALL during check out. Here is a printable flyer to take with you to the store:
ReplyDeletehttp://ebm.cheetahmail.com/c/tag/hBI0lpLBdYR8vB7THIN$QuJ17oo/doc.html
There has been talk about discrimination and the like with regard to the secret sale. I'm not convinced that it has to do with whether you touch an item, how you're dressed or how you look. I think it has more to do with the SAs confidence in approaching you, their motivation to do so or laziness preventing them from doing so and so on. One of the SAs at one of the stores I go to loves to fold clothes. She has zero interest in interacting with customers. I have looked deep into her eyes a few times and the lights are on but no one is home. Now that I have visited b&ms more, I am realizing you have to get the right person. It's good to create a relationship with a few SAs.
ReplyDeleteSky: My store had the sign up too. It didn't seem so secret if they were advertising it. :)
ReplyDeleteAlso, I am seriously wishing I'd had this blog last year, especially with the way people keep raving about it. I bet I would have picked up the coolest things! As it was, I don't think I shopped at all last year.
I posted about this yesterday. I assume(?) that any customer who takes a sweater up to the register gets the same price, regardless of whether she knew about the sale or was informed by the SA.
ReplyDeleteI took one of my rare trips to B&M last week. I knew about the SS from this blog, so I was curious to see what SAs would do. (Sale was not marked; no sign.)I browsed the sweaters for a while, and the SA folding them greeted me, but nada. When I went to the desk to deal with my exchange I asked and the SA said yes, of course.
So I just don't get the strategy here. I wouldn't have purchased at full price (actually I wound up getting two). If I'd been a full price purchaser it would have been a nice surprise at the register. But since I wasn't, how was I supposed to know? I guess as gigi said, it all depends on SA.
And it's yet another reason not to shop online.
Re discrimination, perhaps a better example would be the in-store 20% "apology" coupons, which according to posts here seemed to be distributed to store customers on an oddly subjective basis.
ReplyDeleteRockefellar center is doing the private sale. they are telling everyone in store
ReplyDeleteI work at a J.Crew store and customers are not supposed to be told about the sale. They are supposed to be surprised at the register.
ReplyDeletelol well i guess that is not occuring. I had 2 reps come up to me right away and tell me about the sale
ReplyDeleteDespite their fancy marketing, their cashmere is actually pretty low quality. I've had better luck with Bloomie's even.
ReplyDeletein VA, the cashmere sweaters were on the $99 sale- only solid print ones though. Also, cords were $10 cheaper too.
ReplyDeleteIt seems like an odd strategy to only tell customers when they get to the register. If they are already at the register, they're willing to pay FP so why cut into your margin and give a discount? I could see telling the customers on the sales floor in order to encourage a purchase that would not occur otherwise.
ReplyDeleteOff topic: I want to get the Martine cashmere ardigan and am wondering how the sizing runs. they have larges and i am wondering if that will be big enough. for anyone who has one: would you say they are slim cut or not? worried about arm/shoulder room. am getting it to go with sparkle tweed skirt (love but need things to go with it's unusual colors. Thanks to FFM for the polyvore sets!!)
ReplyDeleteHaving previously worked as a Jcrew sales associate and reading the on going debate as to the Secret Sales, I'd like to try and clear the air. The Secret Sales are similar to promotions, meaning the are temporarily being offered at a lower price, but will return to full price, whereas sale merchandise has been marked down and will never go back up in price. The comment from another reader, that the price is supposed to be a "surprise" at the register, is not correct. Obviously most of you can see why this does not make sense on a sales or marketing basis. The Secret Sale can be thought of as an extra "tool" for a sales associate to use when helping a customer. Like many of you said, you wouldn't have bought it at full price, but after finding out about the secret sale price you did in fact purchase the item. As for the "discrimination" discussion, the Secret Sale is in no way any sort of mechanism to discriminate against any customers. Ideally, every store wold love every sales associate to tell every customer about the secret sale. However for a number of reasons, perhaps the store is very busy, new sales associates, or failure on the part of the SA to relay the message does happen. And as was mentioned, the secret sale price is automatically given at the register whether or not a SA directly told you about the sale. The Secret Sale is a great thing, and often brings a discount on basic, staple items (cashmere sweaters) that do not go on sale until the end of a season. Hope this helps to clear the air and end some of the silly talk that JCrew is deliberately seeking to "discriminate" or " trick" customers.
ReplyDeleteMaggie May, I think Martine is TTS in shoulders and body, but be prepared--it was shorter than I expected. I'm 5'4", and it hit just below natural waist.
ReplyDeleteNot sure anyone accused J.Crew of doing so deliberately, but you're making excuses for why a clerk might not tell a customer, so right there, it shows J.Crew is likely to be selective about who finds out. Doesn't really matter if it's on purpose.
ReplyDeleteIf J.Crew wants customers to know something is on promotion or secret sale or whatever, here's an idea: Put up a sign on the table.
While you are here, former employee, what's the company lowdown on final sale? It's universally despised by J.Crew shoppers.
anon @ 2:10: I have to respectively diagree with you on the discrimination issue. As a J Crew customer that spends between 15-20K per year ONLINE because I don't have a b & m within 150 miles finding out that a customer that doesn't spend nearly that much or perhaps someone who has never even shopped at J Crew before gets a "special discount" simply sends my bloodpressure through the roof. Grrrr.
ReplyDeleteSorry, meant to say "resepctfully"...can't type and be pissed at the same time.
ReplyDeleteOK, I'll try one more time (LOL)
ReplyDelete"RESPECTFULLY"
Whew.
Eeekk... did not mean to upset anyone with the insight to Secret Sales. And by no means do I know all the inner workings of the company, I do know this, JCrew encourages customer feedback on all issues, whether through email, phone, or directly to a store manager. Utilize that and express you issues (obviously an overhaul for each customer complaint or suggestion is probably not feasible) but I would 100% say JCrew really reads and listens to customers. Customer Service/Satisfaction is a number one priority.
ReplyDeleteTotally OT: Has anyone tried on the wool Stephanie Dress? If so, any opinion on it.
ReplyDeleteWhat anyone tried on the damn SOHO DRESS?!!!!
ReplyDeleteI agree that JCrew does respond to emails. One time I noticed that you could see the model's thong through her white skirt (wear nude undies, people, NUDE not white). Anyhow, I emailed them and within a short period of time, the thong shot was gone. Dunno if they are responsive to constructive things about general policies, but they do listen to thongs!!
ReplyDeleteanon at 2:10-i agree with you 100% about secret sales and that is jcrews perspective on them. thanks for eloquently sharing this. this has been my experience with secret sales and I don't think it's discrimnatory. they don't advertise it b/c I still think they want that image thing.
ReplyDeleteI also just got an email about a lord and taylor private sale so all retailers do it.
I know blogs like these are supposed to encourage conversation about policies, etc. But when you start throwing out the words "discrimination", you're opening up a can of worms. Sure the policies are different for B&M and onine sales. But that's not discrimination. Those are two different sales channels. You like the B&M? Move closer or pray that one will open up near you. Complaining won't make it happen.
ReplyDeleteFor those of you wanting to know the ins and outs of the company and their policies, why don't you get a job there and educate those who are dying on knowing the workings and mechanics of the company? Quit grilling Anonymous on things that he/she may not know, or is not able to disclose. Every company has a contract to keep certain things under the wraps, regardless of us agreeing with it or not. If you have a real problem with their policies, do yourself a favor (and your bloodpressure) and don't shop there!
Weird - a bunch of the items on the j.crew website are coming up with Yawah.com logos across the thumbnail images.
ReplyDeleteIt looks like some type of image hosting website. I'm surprised that J.Crew is outsourcing this -- and even more surprised that they are putting their logos on J.Crew merchandise!
gigiofca-I think clothes folders that ignore customers are store security-they're watching for shoplifters. In fact if you see someone folding clothes, you can be fairly sure their watching for that. Having worked in retail in college, we were always directed to fold or straighten in order to keep an eye on shoppers....to see if they needed help, and to guard the goods.
ReplyDeleteI think people like to throw around words like discrimination every time something doesn't go their way, because it's a horrifying accusation, and as such gets a lot of attention. It's a bullying tactic, plain and simple. Unfortunately, people who truly have experienced PROVABLE, REAL discrimination find themselves not being taken seriously because of the 'wolf criers' using the accusation to push their agenda. Trust me, cries of discrimination when someone doesn't get their way will usually fall on deaf ears....no one takes it seriously anymore. Got proof? Find a lawyer. No proof? Fragile, inflexible ego? Too bad. This is still the USA, and companies are allowed to market their products as they wish. I'd love to walk into Loro Piana claiming that their pricing decisions discriminate against the middle class, who can't afford them. I wonder if they would fall for it?
You can be fairly sure THEY'RE watching, not THEIR.....oh well...no edit on this blog..bummer.
ReplyDeleteanon, 2:56 pm: I echo the same thoughts. I feel that some people on this blog will always feel that they live this "poor me" life. Cry discrimination when things don't go their way- not fair, not fair, not fair (imagine a 2 year old throwing a tantrum)!!!
ReplyDeleteIs the sun shining outside? Yes
Are you healthy? Yes
Do you have family that loves you? Yes
Is there food on the table when you're hungry? Yes
Then it's not so bad! Be grateful for what you have!!
Anon @ 3:05- Yep... Claiming to be victimized is a very popular ploy these days. It's a complex issue, but I blame the media for using 'tales of victimhood' nonstop in order to sell their product. Claiming to be a victim is now being used as leverage to get something. I mean when you think about it, pretty much anyone can claim victim status for some reason or another.
ReplyDeleteSeriously, claiming that some FOR PROFIT company that sells moderately expensive 'frou frou' clothes is victimizing you by not mentioning a sale sweater?! Good God.
Re: the final sale issue: I truly don't understand why people are so up in arms about it. After working retail in college, I really don't understand why you would buy anything if you think you're going to return it. I understand there are extenuating circumstances, but for the most part, if you're not sure, you probably shouldn't buy it. I know for a fact that at my local J. Crew store, they will let you pay the full sale price (without the additional 20 or whatever percent off) and then it will be returnable. I hope you all realize that the only reason it is final sale is because of the additional percentage off. They're trying to clear their inventory out - get over it. So if you really want to be able to return it, just pay the full sale price - but I am 100% positive that all you bargain-hunters would pooh-pooh this as well. You can't always have your cake and eat it too, people. I completely agree with the people who say everyone is just complaining. This blog is no fun anymore, it seems like all you guys just wait at your computers for J. Crew to do something that you can be mad about. Calm down, it's just shopping, and you don't need to shop at J. Crew to survive. If you don't like the policies, go elsewhere. They're not going to change all their policies because of you griping.
ReplyDeleteanon 3:20, 3:22;
ReplyDeleteIt will take more than us talking sense to these ladies. They tend to live in their little worlds where they like to be wronged, then jump all over those who won't adhere to their expectations. I think there are just people who tend to look at the world as the cup is half empty, or in their case, not filled to my expectations. Phooey on J.crew for not holding the water pitcher closer to their glasses!!
Dear Anons (please note that I'm using my ID),
ReplyDeleteI can only speak for myself. I love J.Crew clothing, and I come here to discuss it, along with issues relating to jcrew.com, stores, sales, customer service, etc. I go elsewhere to discuss sunshine and lollipops.
IMHO, a lot of J.Crew's policies "discriminate" against web customers. By this, I mean that they are unfair, and that this unfairness is the result of the company's deliberate marketing decisions. For pete's sake, no one is equating this to illegal discrimation in the sense of civil rights violations or trying to drum up a class action.
I use this blog to be a more savvy customer. I saved nearly $100 on those sweaters, a savings that I wouldn't have received as a web customer. And sometimes I vent a little. But IMHO that can help us all become more savvy buyers. And I don't think it makes me a whiny toddler.
Anon at 3:22. Are you saying you have never ordered anything via catalog that didn't fit? Or taken home a jacket that looked awful with everything in your closet? Or had an overzelous comissioned SA convince you that Honey Glaze is your color when the mirror at home tells you that is just isn't?
ReplyDeleteFinal sale on internet purchases and catalog purchases is just stupid, especially when the item goes from full price straight to final sale as it has lately.
I have had two events in the past 6 months where the final sale item I received was not what I expected. I purchased a skirt back in the spring that was at least three inches shorter than the one pictured. And this week I received two cable cashmere sweaters that were both 3 inches bigger in the bust than the measurements the SA had given me. I called was allowed to return these items.
I rarely purchase something in person that I return. However, sometimes what I buy just doesn't play well with the rest of my wardrobe. Mistakes happen on the part of the retailer and the customer. Even with my returns, J Crew gets a ton of my paycheck.
I don't think anyone has a problem with 'a little venting.' Little being the key word. My issue is specifically with the use of inflammatory language such as 'discrimination' being used to describe what is basically an in store marketing decision designed to boost same store sales...the criteria that is used by analysts to determine a company's value and stock price. You may not have meant it a 'that' way, but certain others definitely were tossing it around 'that' way to get attention to their 'issues'.
ReplyDeleteto the anonymous posters:
ReplyDeleteWhile I can understand the desire to shroud your identity, some of you (certainly not all of you--some of the anons have been extremely helpful!) seem to be using your anonymity as a mask from which you feel you can freely generalize, stereotype, and attack the regular posters here.
Please stop that...at least not on Alexis's blog. Believe it or not, this is a pretty cool place with pretty cool people, and your imbecile, inflammatory comments are really not contributing. If you disagree, please DO state your disagreement, and you might just win some of us over. (I've certainly been on the fence with this issue), but refrain from making personal attacks.
I think what I'm reading is that people want equity in their dealings with J. Crew, whether that be same pricing at stores or via the web, secret sales posted or announced to those who enter a b&m or electronic notifications to J. Crew mailing subscribers, fair and reasonable shipping fees ("fair" determined by prevailing market shipping fees in retail for similar businesses), combining or not combining discounts.
ReplyDeleteAs much as I read that many are looking forward to J. Crew's latest collection, perhaps feedback to J. Crew would be a constructive way to demonstrate displeasure with their polices. Also, dissent can be powerfully demonstrated through shopping habits.
Anon @ 2:18, Do you really spend between $15,000 and $20,000 per year on J. Crew? WOW!! Do you order one of EVERYTHING in EVERY color??? Do you wear any other brands besides J Crew? Just curious...
ReplyDeleteThe different prices are a marketing decision. Chains often have different pricing depending on locations. Why should a warm weather store mark their lightweight clothing down as soon as stores in a cool climate? If they are still selling items without the markdowns, it makes economic sense to not cut the prices yet.
ReplyDeleteI view the discussion of differences between the website and B&Ms the same way. If they need to offer an incentive to move clothing out of the warehouse via the web, they will offer one. So what if they make an offer that will reward someone for coming to a store? I would have an issue if they didn't offer the price matching to someone who knows about the offer and requests it from a SA for the online store, however.
Now if you want to talk price discrimination, we can discuss the student and teacher discounts. I know too many groups that are equally struggling and deserve this little perk (how about a social worker or underpaid cop discount?). Frankly, I don't have an issue with rewarding loyal customers with a bone now and then, but those discounts rub me the wrong way.
I can't speak to color variations, perceived or otherwise, but web final sales would be easier for me to accept if sizing across different styles were more consistent.
ReplyDeleteAnon @4:26:
ReplyDeletePeople do voice their issues with J Crew policies to customer service and e-mail the company. This blog is also often visited by J Crew management, so therefore it's actually a perfect place to express frustration over unequal treatment. Unlike an e-mail which is just from one person, having a long thread like this can actually provide more information to those looking for feedback, almost like a virtual focus group.
And it's also Alexis' blog so if she doesn't care, then that's the only opinion that matters.
So in the words of Tim Gunn on Project Runway, "Carry on!"
hexicon: I absolutely LOVE reading the intellectual way that you express yourself. I honestly wish that I could get my point across the way that you do. WOW!!
ReplyDeleteanon @ 4:27: Much to my husband's dismay yes, I do spend that much at J Crew each year (well, the past two years). I do not get things in every color, but do frequently pay full price since my size (XS) seems to run out quickly. I do not have anything but J Crew in my closet because this is the clothing that best fits my body, my lifestyle, and my taste. My husband is in a profession that relys heavily on my looking good in public (cosmetic dentist...nothing fancy...LOL) and since I always feel so good when I wear J Crew it is conveyed to people who see me (and thus go to see him!) Hope this makes sense! :)
auryane- I know it must be hard to stop complaining, up to and including complaining about anonymous posting. However, anonymous posting has been a feature of this blog since day one, and continues to be a feature of it-intentionally. There are plenty of posters that only post anonymously. Using a 'name' isn't noble or special, and it doesn't make you 'better'. or morally superior. It's just a choice.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry, this is completely off topic -
ReplyDeleteIf something is sold out online, and it's still at full price, and you have them do a store search, will they ship it for free? Or is this only if you use the red phone in a store?
I remember in the past being able to do this from my home phone, but on the website, it only mentions the red phone.
Auryane,
ReplyDeleteI use ANON because I hate to remember passwords! I already have to many and ANON is just an easy feature to use. You also have to remember that if someone really wanted a name to show they could just make one up. I can be carl, or carla, or ashley or even mary if I wanted
I think ANON is a neat feature and I also like to use this blog at work when I get bored I feel that placing my name could get me in trouble if IT were to pass to my boss that I " use the computer for personal use"
Also i think the ANON feature makes the blog more accessible to JCrew employees to post...
Earlier this summer, I had a very nice phone call from two high-ranking J.Crew executives in response to a long letter I wrote regarding what I believe to be unfair discrepancies in pricing for web and B&M customers. They patiently and politely explained the host of business reasons for these differences. J.Crew, as a for-profit enterprise, has the right to set these policies--I, as a customer, have the right to conclude that these policies are unfair to me. And no one--not J.Crew, not the Anons, can tell me that I don't have the right to feel this way.
ReplyDeleteI decided that if I want to continue as a customer--and I do--I would have to change the way I do business with J.Crew. I shop B&M only, I shop less, and I scan this blog for bargain info. I'd rather shop more frequently on the web, but the pricing is disparate/unfair/discriminatory/whatever.
anon 3:46, and 4:44,
ReplyDeleteIt's kind of funny how certain registered bloggers despise the "anonymous" feature, yet use it themselves to attack others. You ladies know who you are. You have your opinions, so do we. It's like you put it out there and don't expect anyone to disagree with you gals.
I do love this blog. I love what it entails, but I don't like how it's become a watering hole to gather and complain about things. I love J.Crew, but I wouldn't b*tch about it. I agree that J.Crew does make off with a good chunk of my paycheck, but last time I checked, it's because I made the conscious decision to BUY stuff from them. They don't just go into my back account and make withdrawals.
I didn't happen to get that special "I'm sorry" $25-$100 gift card that everyone else seems to have gotten, but that's probably because the sun is shining in my world and I'm not creating a storm in the J.Crew world and feel like I need to be overcompensated from shopping with them.
Hexicon, now why on earth would you spend time harrassing j.crew executives? Don't you work? If you do, does it bother you when someone disrupts your day to bother you about their "problems"?
ReplyDeleteGive it a rest. Go plant a tree or something.
posting as anon is no big deal, but posters who use anon to flame this blog is juvenile!
ReplyDeleteHexicon, you have every right to feel the way you do, but keep in mind others who don't agree with you will reply. That's just the way it goes...
ReplyDeleteAnon @ 2:33: I don't think i've read anything about the Dream Soho dress, if this is the one you mean. I think it's cute especially in the eggplant color.
ReplyDeleteI recall postings about the Dream Silvie dress, which is very similar:
- J.Crew Website Is Updating With New Arrivals
- Dear FFM: Help Put Together A J.Crew Outfit For Me from 2 Sep
- Dear FFM: Help Put Together A J.Crew Outfit For Me from 9 Sep
Hopes this helps.
Hexicon...you rock. Your intellect SHINES. I would want you on my legal team ANY day of the year. :)
ReplyDeleteHexicon- Your sunshine and lollipops made me smile, thanks for the lol.
ReplyDeleteAnyone else think it is funny how vehemently the Anon's are complaining about... the complaining. Hello Kettle
Dear anon: Of course I work. How else do you think I support my J.Crew habit? If I were independently wealthy and didn't work (and didn't have a life and all the attendant worries that go along with it) I wouldn't have to worry about being overcharged $150 for a dress.
ReplyDeleteAnon@4:44, you have a right to your opinion, but don't you think a statement is more meaningful when a poster is willing to put her reputation (FWIW) behind it?
I'm done for now.
Hexicon- While I can't relate to the compulsion to try to get a company to completely revise it's marketing practices in order for me to get better deals, I do appreciate your acceptance that J Crew is a for profit company, and that you have a choice as to whether or not to shop there. Too many posters on this blog seem to think of J Crew as some sort of Government welfare program that owes them something because they're needy. It's a ruffled sweater, not a box of canned goods, Ladies.
ReplyDeleteposting as anon or posting as a regular makes no difference to the discussion. Regular posters just want to conveniently ignore what the anon has said. Is this a clique or what?, anon posters are not welcomed unless they agree with the majority of opinion posted on this blog.
ReplyDeleteAnons are welcome when they bring something to the conversation. No poster is welcome that makes personal attacks on other posters, throws out inflammatory remarks, and stirs up trouble for no reason other than to entertain oneself. That's called trolling. It's fine to disagree and discuss opinions. It another thing to get off on posting insulting analogies that dismiss other people's feelings
ReplyDeleteHexicon/Auryane- The concept that using a name is somehow more ethical or virtuous is strictly in your head. How many handles are you up to now? You have quite a few cheerleaders there....
ReplyDeleteAnon: That is really enough! The only reason you are being so rude, bold and insulting is because of the guise of anonymity. You would likely never be so rude under an identifiable name (I would hope). Please stop making this blog an unpleasant place to be! We can all have differing opinions and that's part of the charm of this blog but please refrain from personal insults.
ReplyDeleteOh my, seems I missed a lot today! I'm not jumping in, but appreciate you ladies sticking up for this blog. This space is fabulous and I appreciate Alexis for providing it for us, no matter what is said.
ReplyDeleteLet me get off-topic...
I just received a credit-bearing gift card in the mail, along with the October catalog. THe catalog seems to be nothing spectacular, as another commenter mentioned. It has an all-black cover with a huge, white-lettered "IF..."--that's it. Kind of random! There are some new things inside. My faves: Dream Taffeta Sash Cardigan, City Tee cardigans, Handknit shawl collar cable vest, Handknit cable popover sweater, classic peacoat (shown in Plum--it is a GORGEOUS color for the coat).
appgal: is there anyway you can scan it to send to Alexis so she can post it for all of us?
ReplyDeleteI can definitely do that :) Is Alexis' email posted anywhere on here?
ReplyDeleteappgal: her email is jcrewaficionada@yahoo.com. THANK YOU!!!
ReplyDeleteMany keep talking about this city tee cardigan. What does it look like? It seems that those who have seen it love it, and that it has a good price. Can someone describe it for me - I don't have a new catalog yet and I haven't been to my b&m for almost 2 weeks, although I'll probably visit this weekend. I know I could just wait, but my curiousity is high. :) TIA
ReplyDeletemath teacher: I bought one in "chalk". The material is the same as the perfect fit tees, very light. It has these sweet smokey quartz looking buttons that are set in a brushed brass four prong metal. The different colors have the grosgrain and pockets in different places but the chalk one has to little ones at the bottom of each side with grograin bows at the trim. It has long sleeves and seems to be the shrunken style so I sized up. $58. HTH!
ReplyDeleteto = two. Sorry!
ReplyDeletemath teacher: I haven't seen the city fit cardigan in person yet, but from the looks of the catalog, it's adorable and looks incredibly comfy. The price is nice too--$58 :)
ReplyDeleteThe secret sale in most cases aren't so secret, and they tend to be on very basic stuff, which will be on sale for a steeper discount, so as a result I usually don't buy any secret sale items.
ReplyDeletePeople - if you know that a retail store has cheaper prices than online, you can always CALL the store, and do a send/sell, if you are willing to give them your credit card (that's why I use my J Crew credit card) and pay a little shipping.
I've also found that the CSR are very reasonable in putting in comments on allowing returns on final sale items that I order online without ever trying first. Keep in mind though most times when I do that the items are $100+, so there's a reason why I want to be to make sure that it's the right size. I don't know if they are so lenient on $10 t shirts, for instance.
I am kind of tired of the gripping also. I like the ANON feature because I really don't feel safe divulging my identity online, and the ability for anyone to profile me.
Lastly - to the one who said that J Crew cashmere is worse than Bloomies. I really disagree. The only quality cashmere that seems to be better is Pure Collection (www.purecollection.com), but their prices are a lot higher.
Saw this in my store--cute with a vintage twist but looked so fitted and small for osme reason--I didn't even think ooh I gotta try that on. I wear an xsmall for ex. in a jackie. This is for just the right person/proportions in my opinion and doesn't look as comfy as the fabric it is made of because of fitted look. I may be totally off base but this was a quick review.
ReplyDeleteBTW-those shoies that alexis posted about on are on sale as is the peep toe heel that someone just mentioned this morning!
convert5: Are you talking about the Spectator Mary Jane Peep Toes? Did you see it at your b&m? How much was it marked down to? Sorry for all the questions, it's just that I love those! TIA!
ReplyDeleteanon 6:38 - Lands End cashmere is better quality than J Crews. I have both brands, J Crews is made of 1 play cashmere, it is scratchy and not as soft as Lands End, and is more expensive.
ReplyDeletecant wait to see the october issue!
ReplyDeleteOT--Was just looking at skirts on the web site and two had "Yahwah.com" written over them?? Weird!
ReplyDeletethanks for the info on the city fit cardi. I now remember others talking about the ribbon. They sound cute; hopefully, my b&m will have them and I can try on one.
ReplyDeleteappgal: do you know that other colors the peacoat comes in? Are they new, or the same ones from the september catalog?
ReplyDeletekatherined: the colors are the same as September, but this was the first time I'd seen it in plum. It's stunning!
ReplyDeleteEveryone: I emailed alexis the majority of the catalog, minus some pages that had sept. repeats. I apologize in advance for the scanner quality... I think I must own the original scanner from way back when :) just let me know if you want more info!
Shannon: "Anons are welcome when they bring something to the conversation. No poster is welcome that makes personal attacks on other posters, throws out inflammatory remarks, and stirs up trouble for no reason other than to entertain oneself. That's called trolling. "
ReplyDeleteContributing our views to this blog when it is contrary to this blog isn't considered a personal attack, just a differences of opinion. But, many of you speak of being "rude, bold and insulting," as a way that you don't want to be treated, yet, this is what you put out there to J.Crew and its employees to read...isn't this a double standard?
What is the deal with the Yawah.com images over the pictures of the clothes in the sale section? Is the website hacked?
ReplyDeletemy mom was in the store today and said the new catalog was out and they had some arrivals in the store that included printed and tweed skirts!
ReplyDeleteAnon 8:10-I agree that posting a difference of opinion is not a personal attack. Since you are posting anonymously I cannot say if you have made a post that I consider personal but others have. Posts that I don't think are contributing to the conversation include calling other posters, whiny toddlers and statements like: Don't you work, get over it, stop whining, etc.
ReplyDeleteIf someone is frustrated with Jcrew for not offering them the same price as many other customers received it does not amount to expecting "welfare" from the company.
I do not think the regular posters on this blog are rude, bold, or insulting to Jcrew. We love the company, that is why we are here. But what has come up many, many times in the past is that we want consistency.
The Web site is down again the "be back soon" message appears once again.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous @ 2:56 -- I didn't realize that clothes folders are focused on loss prevention. Interesting. :-)
ReplyDeleteAnonymous @ 3:22 PM - I agree w/Kitsmommy on everything she said. Perhaps final sale is not an issue if you predominantly shop at a b&m. However, this *is* a huge issue if the item is catalog/web only. There is no shot at trying it on -- so why should it be final sale? Take the Georgia dress. It's silk & beautiful. It's unlined and, therefore, a huge gamble on FS, even at $70. Not to mention the fact is I don't know how short/med/tall the model is, what she weighs, what size the garment is, if they've pinned it back with grip clips, shortened it with tape or how drastically it was altered when it went through Photoshop.
-- Regarding the Anon issue, in general. I am happy that the feature is available as it seems to be used by J Crew employees who share great information. Much appreciated. At the same time, some of the most scathing, disrespectful and attacking comments are posted under Anon. I think people who see the blog as negative could quite possibly just be negative in general. One woman moves to a new city. She expects the experience and people to be great. It is. Another woman moves to the same city. She heard the city sucks and the people are no better. That's what she experiences. It's all perspective and I think the ppl that are seeing a lot of negativity here might want to clean their own home before worrying about others. Just a hunch. And if you don't like what you read, don't post. Just move on. You are not going to change people, influence people or get them to "see the sun is shining" by attacking them.
gigiofca: well said.
ReplyDeleteIsn't it a copyright violation to scan and post the catalog? J. Crew owns the rights to those images.
ReplyDeleteThat may also be why they are marking their website photos - to prevent people from copying.
Regardless of whether or not you post with your Google/Blogger account, we are all anonymous to each other. From my bold blue name, you can see that my name is Heather. Yet, we still don't know anything more about me than someone that choose to click "anonymous" when they posted their comments. I don't know anything about jeff t, hexicon or fabulousfloridamommy. I don't where they live or what they look like. WE ARE ALL ANONYMOUS! And we should be respectful of each other.
ReplyDeleteDouglas, the website is working fine for me. I am using Firefox.
ReplyDeleteRegarding the discussion about expecting welfare from a for-profit company, I can recall a poster a while back who complained about the final sale because if she had her kids with her in the dressing room she was distracted and felt so much pressure and ended up buying stuff she didn't want and it just wasn't fair and it was all J. Crew's fault! Good grief! Teach your kids to behave or shop without them! And beyond that, I think this same poster mentioned that she ran a balance on her J. Crew card. So she was blaming J. Crew because she was living beyond her means and buying things that she couldn't afford!
ReplyDeleteNow perhaps that poster was being facetious, but it didn't come across that way. I, too, have noticed that kind of entitled/victim attitude crop up from time to time on this blog and I also find it a turn off.
I've also wondered if people come at a discussion of business practices from a different perspective depending on how much business and/or retail experience they have. A lot of people on this blog present themselves as stay at home moms and teachers of some sort. I saw a lot of posts, particularly around the time of the new website introduction that were just over the top, paranoid and completely unrealistic about basic business issues or practices. Posters who have some experience with some of these issues may be more sympathetic to J. Crew's position, but many got shouted down, accused of being J. Crew employees or accused of being the dreaded "Anon".
For what it's worth, I am probably a more aggressive bargain shopper than most posters and I never, ever, pay shipping, so I can relate on those issues. :-)
Anon @ 8:55: For many web sites, terms of use are often posted that cover use of images, disclaimers, etc. This may be the reason most sites don't mark their photos. Also, there are other ways to try to prevent unapproved copying and use of photos.
ReplyDeleteI think the marked images are in error, and they are still, or are in the middle of working on the site. (At least i hope so.)
anon 9:21 pm, thank you for being the voice of reason, and being levelheaded. I think when people put out certain vibes and act like they are confrontational no matter what cards life has dealt them, they will be bitter at anything that comes their way. I've worked with the public, and unfortunately, even if things were perfect in their non-perfect world, they would still have a cloud over their heads...sad, but true. Of course, I'm not directing this to any of the bloggers here, unless you feel that this pertains to you.
ReplyDeletePEOPLE-PLEASE move on from this ignorant anon person--you just keep turning the power over and beating a dead HORSE er ASS might be better in this case.
ReplyDeleteANON--you can go to bed now. From now on--you don't exist--PEOPLE STOP RESPONDING TO THIS LOSER!
Onto better things--what did you find that I should know about??
THAT's what I want to hear about on this blog:)
Please read my comment from earlier.
ReplyDeleteRegardless of whether or not you post with your Google/Blogger account, we are all anonymous to each other. From my bold blue name, you can see that my name is Heather. Yet, we still don't know anything more about me than someone that choose to click "anonymous" when they posted their comments. I don't know anything about jeff t, hexicon or fabulousfloridamommy. I don't where they live or what they look like. WE ARE ALL ANONYMOUS! And we should be respectful of each other.
just thought i'd let everyone know..went to my local b&m and the october catalog was out...lots of really cute stuff coming out. my local store usually gets the new items 2 weeks before they come out online. i have to say, although the items are really cute, their prices just continue to skyrocket. i couldn't control myself and bought 2 high-priced items (for fear they would sell out quickly). the first is the metallic boucle houndstooth clea jacket ($288, item 96178Q)...pictures don't do it justice, it's absolutely gorgeous in person. the other was the italian deco print dress ($350, item 96519Q). there's also a really cute plum peacoat (i know someone had mentioned they wished j crew carried a coat in that color). all in all, i don't think you'll be disappointed with the new items for october...i just can't wait until the holiday line comes out!!
ReplyDeleteanon @ 4:44
ReplyDeleteI wasn't taking issue with anonomity itself, but rather with the way some posters hide behind it to make childish comments that they might be afraid to associate with an actual name, even a flimsy online name. I was fairly careful to distinguish between the very helpful and productive anonymous posts, and the rather immature and invidious ones. Being anonymous is indeed a choice, just as choosing a name (any name, and staying committed to your comments through that name) is also a choice. The one thing that might be worth mentioning: because posters cannot tell one anon from another, in some unfair, but very real ways, immature remarks by one anon might reflect badly on all anons. *shrugs* That's a risk you take, of course, when you choose to go anonymous. Choices, as you said. *grins*
anon @ 5 pm
I never suggested that anyone should disable this feature. I was merely asking SOME anonymous posters to be a bit more responsible with, and for what they say. You're absolutely right that one can pretend to use any name on these boards. It's just that I notice that when people post anonymously, they are often (not always, of course) willing to make comments that they wouldn't want to associate with their own "name"...even a made-up name used in an online community.
I can sympathize about the passwords. I can't remember mine readily either. You CAN post on this blog without using a password, btw....though of course, that's entirely your choice.
Anon at 5:40:
I respectfully disagree. I think it makes a psychological difference that be more subconscious than anything else. And I did not make a blanket statement accusing or attacking EVERY anonymous poster, merely pointing out that some are are treating this like a cafeteria food fight.
Anon @ 9:07
I think that it's fairly obvious that I disagree with the sweeping claims of your extremely reductionist argument. It's also obvious that you did not pose a question at all, but rather are using that sweeping generalization to distort how I (and perhaps others on this site) tried to frame our concerns.
Hey, no need to get upset at people who voice their own concerns. When someone goes against the grain, they're challenged. You can't tell them to leave, or refrain from commenting.
ReplyDeleteBut calling a J.Crew executive to vent? Come ON. I can't imagine anyone at J.Crew takes all of this mumbo jumbo seriously, and if they did, it's the same 10 women circling the clothing like a bunch of hungry hawks- they know who you are.
I choose to remain anon because I wouldn't want any of you crazies googling me, and it just doesn't make a difference if my name is Jane Doe or Anonymous.
I have never seen a thread so unplesant to follow since I started reading this blog. I'd rather hear the "usual complaining". It seems so much nicer than this "exchange".
ReplyDeletecovert5: my thoughts exactly. Let's just ignore these remarks. They are just fanning the fire in hopes that we get incensed. I hope everyone has a lovely evening :)
ReplyDeleteThis blog is surely getting ridiculous.
ReplyDeleteLet's be precise: this thread, not the blog.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI just dropped by the site to express my frustration that the site is again malfunctioning. I tried searching the sale section, but it's alternately down/taking me to wrong sections. I had just emailed JCrew earlier today, too, telling them I basically stopped shopping at their site because it's just an all-around frustrating experience -- namely because of the poorly organized site and inability to combine coupon codes. JCrew now leaves a bad taste in my mouth -- the fun of shopping at their site has totally vanished.
ReplyDeleteToo funny Jeff
ReplyDeleteJeff T, that's a little vulgar on your part... if you don't have anything nice to say, maybe you shouldn't say anything at all. Just quoting my mom.
ReplyDeleteOT: does anyone own the rose abstract dress? Like it? True to size? Does it "puff" in the stomach area? Thanks!
ReplyDeleteMusthavejcrew, the rose abstract print dress is gorgeous. It runs true to size and is quite fitted. I love the pockets on it.
ReplyDeleteMaybe it wasn't tactful but it made me laugh. We need to lighten them mood over here and have a good time again :)
ReplyDeleteJeff T: You made me laugh. How to get through to these Anons?
ReplyDeleteI agree with you Shannon. Our hobby of J.Crew clothes is supposed to be fun, not increase blood pressure.
ReplyDeletea few posts earlier people were talking about clothes-folders... Just wanted to say that I work at a j. Crew and this isn't true, at least in my store and all the other ones I know. We don't hire anyone for the sole purpose of watching for shoplifters as far as I know. we do have loss prevention people, but they are not typically on the sales floor- they usually work regionally and not in every store. More than likely the SA is distracted or something. I know they should ask you first, but if you need help please don't be afraid to ask. Don't mean to sound like I'm defending them, because customers should never be ignored. Sorry for posting as anonymous..it's just that I'm an associate.
ReplyDeleteTo all J.Crew employees who post on this site: thank you! I really appreciate hearing from you and hope you will continue to do so. :)
ReplyDeleteThere's a time to be serious . . . & there's a time to have fun, even if it means being a bit rude. As long as I'm enjoying myself. You can't live every moment of your life as Scrooge McDuck.
ReplyDeleteThanks Heather! I'm going to vegas next week for vacation and think this would be great for going out at night!
ReplyDeleteThere's a hidden bodice in the dress, too. It's great. The only thing I did not on the dress was the zipper. I believe it was an exposed zipper. Kind of ruined the delicate feeling of the dress.
ReplyDeleteI just want to say big "thank you" to that "genius" who suggested washing piper tanks. Now my tank is completely ruined. I spent 40 min ironing it and it still look like a piece of cr@p. Seriously, it looks crinkled no matter what you do. It's awful. Why would anyone even suggest it? To save $5 and look absolutely unpolished, like your dog chewed on your blouse? I just pray that when i take it to drycleaners they will make it look like new. i can absolutely not wear it like this. Oh yeah, I forgot, the tie got completely ruined... the fabric became twisted and cannot be ironed back into shape. I have no other option but cut it off. I am really mad.
ReplyDeleteAnon at 11:17PM: Don't cut off the tie!!! Your dry cleaner can return the shirt to normal. I hand washed the same piper tanks (three of them) and they came out awful. I sent them to the cleaners (at $7 each) and they restored them back to their original beauty. I really do believe your tank will be fine and ready to wear in just a couple of days. :)
ReplyDelete11:04 No need to apologize for posting anonymously. I don't think anyone has a problem with Anon posters in general, just mean people :)
ReplyDeleteAlexis, thank you so much! I feel so much better now. It is my favorite tank now! I have 2 of them and i happened to wash the one I like most - the silver one. You know, I always follow care instruction, and just this one time I decided to wash it based on someone's comments and it ended up looking like this. I hope drycleaners will fix it!
ReplyDeleteWow - I've been away from my computer today and from what I am reading, this has been a very negative day - and not a lot about actual J. Crew topics! I hope I awaken to a more pleasant thread! On a more positive note, I wore my city-tee cardigan today and loved it! It's the perfect weight for ANY season and super cute!
ReplyDeletejeff t that was very childish of you you are no better than the other anon who are flaming this blog.
ReplyDeleteAnon at 11:30PM: I know what you mean- the tank is very pretty. I couldn't believe how awful it came out when I hand washed it with baby shampoo- so I know exactly where you were coming from about doing the same. When I took one to the dry cleaner, it came back home beautiful and new (that I immediately brought the other two it to be saved as well). So I have no doubt yours will as well.:)
ReplyDeleteLindsey B: Congrats on your city-tee cardigan!!! :)
Anon: Indeed that was childish, but I honestly do not care. This is a public blog & people should be allowed to speak their minds. Everyone seemed to be unable to get their message through, so I helped them out. You could only argue so much until one realizes that they're arguing with a wall. Don't tell me that you always keep your composure. That would be an outright lie.
ReplyDeleteI do know that I don't resort to childish behavior, so in that regard, I do keep my composure. You can't just dress up in J.Crew and expect to be called a lady...
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you're the minority on the blog that communicates that way, most of the ladies on this blog are much kinder! :) Maybe someone should take jeff t. the receptionist to finishing school!
ReplyDeleteAgain, I don't care & you should move on with your little lives.
ReplyDeletejeff t- the phone is ringing, go answer it.
ReplyDelete