J. Crew lures shoppers with cupcakes and jeansBy Adrianne Pasquarelli
October 3, 2008
Retailer J. Crew is pulling out all of the stops as analysts predict the worst holiday shopping season in years. To get shoppers through the door, Madewell, J. Crew’s casualwear shop, hosted a “Denim After Dark” party Thursday evening. Boasting a mojito bar, disc jockey and desserts, the party also offered “fit consultants” and discounts on denim and other items.
On a previous visit, shopper Shelby Donovan found a pair of jeans she liked but could not afford the $115 price-tag. Last night, lured by the promise of free drinks and cupcakes, along with a $25-off discount, she returned to Madewell’s Soho location to purchase the pants. “I probably wouldn’t have bought them otherwise,” she said.
The monthly event is the latest strategy implemented by the retailer to increase spending on its higher priced clothing as the economy craters and experts warn that deep discounting is no longer enough to motivate consumers.
Retailers, the experts say, need to step up marketing and promotions. Candace Corlett, president of WSL Strategic Retail, said that many apparel and design companies need to uplift shoppers’ moods by using humor and wit to prompt buying. Such a tool has been effectively utilized before by New York retailers such as Kenneth Cole, which is now employing political election witticisms to connect with shoppers.
Madewell’s parent company, J. Crew, can use all of the help it can get. Friedman Billings Ramsey analyst Adrienne Tennant initiated coverage of the retailer’s stock with a “market perform” rating, and its share price suffered a sharp 7% decline Thursday as a result. “We believe that the deteriorating consumer environment will next affect higher-income households, which we believe J. Crew primarily targets,” wrote Ms. Tennant in a note. In Friday morning trading, the company’s stock was flat at $25.36.
What do you think about the article? Do you think these marketing tactics will attract customers during the holiday season?
"Deep discounting is no longer enough to lure shoppers"? Um, it is for me! I don't know about anyone else, but I'd rather have stackable codes than cupcakes any day.
ReplyDeletestackable codes are a thing of the past. How about a lower base price instead?
ReplyDeleteStackable codes are alive and well with many other retailers...they are not a thing of the past...JCrew needs to get with it...I would not have bought the jeans as the one person in the article said...my husband is in marketing and lets me in on all the tricks so I don't fall for gimmicks anymore...unless I really need the item and it is at the price I am willing to pay I won't buy...
ReplyDeleteAlexis, Thanks for posting all these great articles on JCrew. I like hearing about the various aspects of JCrew...
ReplyDeleteI like to go to events like these but I honestly don't buy anything unless I had already planned to and/or the price is really right...I don't know if $25dollars off the jeans would have made me purchase them or not??? hmmm....
Lower base price would be great, too, and then a sale percentage on top of that would be my cupcake.
ReplyDeleteI don't have an opinion on cupcakes and codes - but I do know that if JCrew doesn't get their act together in the next month or so they'll be in big trouble once the holidays (and post-holidays!) roll around.
ReplyDeleteWhy would I want to buy gifts for my family or friends if I know they have no hopes of returning or exchanging them??
BR does not allow stackable codes in the store, if you have a coupon and try to purchase an item on sale it is a no go.
ReplyDeleteI had a $15 birthday coupon from BR and I bought 2 sale items in July no problem. This is a perk for having a BR credit card.
ReplyDeleteGreat article, thanks Alexis!
ReplyDeleteI've heard of other stores doing this as well. In fact when I lived in Boston the place where I got my hair cut did something like this on Thursday nights-- it was only $40 bucks and they served drinks. Though I don't think they do it any more. I am not sure if I would trek all the way doing there for cupcake or drinks I mean my friends have enough trouble getting me to a bar downtown forget a store. Also I am not sure $25 off of a $115 pair of jeans is enough--- that is an expensive pair of pants!! That's even more expensive than J.Crew's jeans!
Yeah on the jean price, I thought Madewell was supposed to be cheaper. Sounds like Madewell will be priced like JCrew and JCrew is going into its own higher priced league! If so, I am sad:(
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure this is the same thing, but the last couple of times I've been in the store, they have had brownies and fudge... but I think the PS were brining them in on their own!? Honestly, when I'm getting ready to try on clothes - I really do not want to be eating or drinking anything!
ReplyDeleteLot's of store don't allow stackable codes anymore - now even Ann Talyor is getting more strict ... but some do, and that's always nice!
Recently at J. Crew, the best deals I've gotten is with the 20% private sale or 20% off for opening a CC on top of "promotional prices" on a lot of new things (cords, sweaters,etc) I would be happy with just no more final sale (I know I'm speaking to the choir here!)
I have been to these types of events. One of the cooler ones involved inviting preferred customers; those who regularly spend, to an advance evening preview of new items. There were few drinks and snacks. After a few beer you tend to buy more, at least I did.
ReplyDeleteThe one thing J.Crew must remember is know your audience. Be sure you're giving the customers who spend money what they want and are willing to pay full price for. As long as they get that they will make sales.
I love saving money, but I'm willing to pay full pop to get what I want. I spend hundreds at J.Crew regularly, both discounted and full price. We need to remember J.Crew is a business and if they discount and devalue everything items loose their appeal and worst case, no profits for J.Crew equal no J.Crew.
Guess I'm working hard to keep J.Crew afloat.
The cupcakes and cocktails event in stores has been big here (Vancouver BC) for a few years. I've always seen it as not a way to bring in the sale shopper but to encourage more spending by the more regular, non-sale item shopper. Girls in their 20s and early 30s with lots of disposable income who see shopping with their friends as a prelude to a night out on the town. A couple of cosmos or mojitos and they're spending $400 rather than $200. It's all about creating a fun and exciting atmosphere and having that attached to your brand. It's not my thing and obviously doesn't appeal to some of the other readers here, but it does appeal to a lot of other people. It's just another tool for them to use. I personally loved shopping with a personal shopper, though we've seen in previous posts how that didn't go over well with others. I let her know what I wanted to try on and it was all waiting there in the dressing room for me, no waiting. Someone else might be induced to spend more if there was a crew mutts day with a doggy fashion show and treats for their pets. That kind of sounds awesome actually! As I said, it's all about building the brand image and creating emotional links to the customers. Some might see it as manipulative, but you can choose to buy in or just ignore the hype, and sometime buying in is really fun.
ReplyDeleteHas anyone ever heard of a store called "Sabon?" My friends and I were in the mall the other day and were handed a free soap sample as we walked by. Then the woman asked us if we wanted a complimentary hand washing. We're students, so of course we said yes! (And normally I just walk away from these types of things in the mall stands, but this was an actual store.) There's this magical sink in the store and you wash your hands with their soaps that exfoliate and afterwards, I swear, you can't stop feeling your hands. Anyway, we didn't buy anything, but now its at the top of our wishlists. Pretty good marketing idea if you ask me!!
ReplyDeleteKatherine,
ReplyDeleteYes, I've heard of it, I've never been in though. They have one near my house and a lot in the city. I've never been in though as I am allergic to a lot soaps and incenses and perfumes. But it does sound like a cool marketing idea for them.
Please clarify: does "stackable codes" mean they apply more than one discount % to a purchase (educator, etc.)? In my experience, almost NO stores do this. Why should JCrew?
ReplyDeleteHear hear, mary! Lower prices, discounts, and stackable codes are all I need to get in the door!
ReplyDeleteAlthough, when I was visiting the Reston store the day after they opened, they did have some yummy cookies that I enjoyed.
I agree with lindsey b. though. When I'm going to try on clothes, I don't want to be eating anything messy.
anon @ 10:50 I disagree. Lots of online stores will let you use more than one code. Banana Republic is one of them. I think J Crew is hurting itself with its new policies- final sale and one promo code- even for its own credit card customers. I have shopped at Nordstrom since high school, not because of their prices, but because of their excellent customer service. I can return anything I buy, and they have good quality stuff. J Crew needs to learn the value of being a customer oriented store. its ok to have final sale once in awhile, but all the time? Why should I spend my money there if they don't allow me to change my mind from time to time on a sale item? Especially in this tight economy!
ReplyDeleteCrewbie: I share your feelings for Nordstrom's. It remains my favorite place to shop because sales people ask me if I need help, and if I tell them I'm just looking, they let me do so in peace rather than be pushy. And, of course, the faultless return policy is an industry beacon.
ReplyDeleteA cupcake and $25 off jeans that are overpriced to begin with will never entice me.
On the subject of soaps and such, are there any other Lush fans on here?
regarding stackable codes, I don't know how prevalent they are with other stores, but I'm fine with stores that offer flat-rate shipping like BR and Nordstrom's (and the latter offers free shipping on orders over $200). It's when I have to pay $16-$18 at J.Crew to have one cashmere sweater shipped that I say NO THANKS - even if they offer to include a cupcake with my shipment :-)
As someone mentioned you can use stackable codes online, but usually not in the stores. As a former BR employee, I know that often the ring codes are different for different discounts, and the computer will not let the employee enter them both in together. However, you SHOULD be able to use multiple BR credit card rewards together because all rewards have the same code. The store I worked at allowed this, but I know others that do not.
ReplyDeleteAs for the cupcakes, I have never been lured by food (my former firm tried to use "free lunch" as a way to make everyone feel better about working weekend - big deal!). I prefer discounts and $ off.
I can't help but think of muffins when they say cupcakes...muffin tops and jeans *together* isn't that a big no-no?! LOL!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the article, Alexis...it's very interesting.
ReplyDeleteI personally don't want a cupcake...I want a coupon code and lower base prices...just like the majority of consumers do. I find it hard to believe J.Crew would go out of business by not over-inflating it's prices, allowing stackable codes, and charging flat rate shipping. I think it would do just the opposite and actually INCREASE business for them.
LOL- FFM, I loved your commented! I don't want a cupcake either--- who need fattening food when trying on jeans
ReplyDeleteI feel like the crew is insulting the intelligence of their consumer. Do they think that serving me a cupcake will make me feel better about spending $400 on a sweater??? I mean high prices are high prices, whether its served with a cupcake on the side or not.
ReplyDeleteps, ffm you're cracking me up! :)
now cocktails are a different thing - give me a glass of vino and I would probably stick around to shop longer - and probably buy more, too (kind of like online-shopping will drinking wine - it's dangerous!)
ReplyDeleteCupcakes???? Maybe if you are 13 that works, but otherwise, saving money talks.
ReplyDeleteI'm so sick of J Crew and their promises of discounts, (student, educator) free shipping, and/or additional savings on large orders (20%OFF over 175.00) or add'l off final sale....you can get these only if you play the email game with jcrew contact us...they will email you back saying they need some add'l info, multiple times, hoping you will just forget it.
I'm sick of their games, and am not ordering any more fall/winter items.
JCrew has the most expensive shipping policy among its peers. I live in NY but shop mostly online since I do not have the time to go shopping at B&Ms. I did some research on my recent purchases and came up with the data below. A sample $200 purchase sent through ground shipping cost me the following:
ReplyDelete1) Banana Rep/GAP - free as Luxe member but flat $7 for non-members
2) Boden - free shipping & returns
3) A.P.C. - $11 flat
4) Barney's New York - $10
5) Cole Haan - $10.95 flat but free for $250 and above
6) Saks Fifth - $15
7) Anthropologie - $15.95
8) JCrew - $18.50
As times get hard, I have started to look at total cost of every item I buy, including sales tax and shipping. And for a store who started out as a catalog/online presence, it's really not very friendly to its core customers.
la belle helene-
ReplyDeleteI am nodding my head up and down with you--their shipping isn't just high--it's over-priced! I think occasional free shipping and otherwise flat rate (reasonable $6-7) would suffice and I think they would be smart to change it like Nordstrom did to ALWAYS FREE when you purchase $200 or more-EVERYTIME!
Not just free when we send out a coupon, free with a certain email promotion sent out once in awhile but if you spend $200+ it's free! At Nordie's this is the case on both sale and reg priced merch--they do not discriminate. If you spend this much money ($200 or more) then "it's on us"!
SHIPPING--and (THE HUGE HIKE in prices)are my biggest detractors from buying from them on any given day. BUT if I can get free shipping and save something off of full price--I am there. ARE YOU LISTENING J CREW-MAJORITY RULES!
My other biggest complaint falls in line with others who have mentioned the regular priced items for ex. Lucille coat going down in price a bit but going straight to a final sale section-what?! Where did regular sale items go??
SOLUTION: get 2 SALE SECTIONS! One for items that are truly old--the stuff they pull from last year and things that are over 90 days old and place them in final sale--you take your chance or hopefully you have tried on already but the price is so low you cannot go wrong section.
Then a REGULAR SALE section for newly marked down items. You know--the cashmere sweater that is now $99 regularly $139.00.
What do you think? This is doable isn't it J CREW?
Cupcakes will not do it. Stackable codes, coupons sent to loyal customers, and free shipping would help. I think that the final sale sales are a really bad idea. It absolutely stops me from buying.
ReplyDeletemarie, thanks for the comparisons on the shipping prices! I really wanted to get the charcoal-stripe "his" shirt that popped in the FS this morning, but could just not justify the $8.50 shipping charge. Heck, I mailed a 2.5 pound package Priority Mail this morning and it only cost me $6.60! I get the whole "handling" thing, but to throw a final sale shirt that weighs next to nothing in one of those brown envelopes and put a packing slip inside and a label on the front should not cost that much given the weight of the item. I wouldn't question paying higher priced shipping on boots or a heavy coat, but this whole "by price, not by weight" is crazy, especially considering there is not a lot you can buy for <$25 at .com. I'd love for FS/NM codes to come back, even if it's not with the weekly frequency that they used to be. Oh well.
ReplyDeleteTo add to Marie's list, Polo.com offers free shipping over $195 and $10 flat shipping cost under $195.
ReplyDeleteI'm gonna vent about shipping charges here too, since that seems to be the theme. :) I ordered a pair of shoes from the red phone in store yesterday, and they charged me shipping! He said because they were on sale, he could only honor the store's 20% off, NO student discount, NO free shipping for ordering in the store. I was shocked! I spent almost $1,000 in the store yesterday on a new suit, pants, sweaters, etc, and JCrew couldn't throw in free shipping for a pair of (still overpriced) sale shoes??? Oh, and I couldn't combine the student discount with the personal shopper discount either (though it did combine with the 20% off suits). I think it's time for me to find another obsession...
ReplyDeleteOh, and though I love (obsess over) cupcakes too, it's gonna take more than that to make me a happy J Crew shopper again.
ReplyDeleteI agree, cupcakes and cocktails are not going to work for me. As a Jcrew silver card holder, I want free shipping, absolute advance notice of limited release items (hello vintage flower pins and platinum skirt) and the privilege to stack codes. Saks gives its cardholders free shipping at any price point. And Jcrew needs to revamp the rewards points.
ReplyDeleteIf Jcrew wants to play with the big boys (Neiman Marcus, Saks, Bergdorf) they need to step up their game.
silver_lining: did you mean 1.5 lb? Usually within 2 lb, priority postages are well over $7. Let's not exaggerate.
ReplyDeleteI think a lot of times we feel unfair to be charged by jcrew with its shipping schedule because jcrew charges shipping according to items' prices, which have nothing to do with weights, the cost we make sense of.
I think jcrew tightened its freeshipping codes has a lot to do with how we used those codes in the past. I admit last year when there were free-shipping codes with no minimum spending I could not help abusing them. Once I only bought a 3.99 flip-flop. The other time, I only bought a 14.99 sweater.
I agree with FFM- give me reasonable prices to start with and a possibility to return/exchange online items that don't fit (I have cardigans in XS that AND cashmere sweaters in M in my closet that fit me)and I'll be a happy customer. In fact, if that happened, cupcakes for SAs in my local store would be on me ;)
ReplyDeleteLa belle Helene: I LOVE LUSH!!!!! I buy their bathbombs and bath melts all the time. I refuse to pay shipping fees for online items though. It bugs me that they have RETRO collection online only :(((
Elma
I just checked the free shipping policy at Nordstroms, they also will not allow it on sale items. "Promotional items cannot be combined with any other offers"
ReplyDeleteBR will not combine discounts either with the survey coupon and promotional items. So JC is not all that different.
BR will combine codes and reward cards online though, I've done it many times to get great deals. And as a Luxe card holder, you get free shipping with every order! A nice perk!
ReplyDeleteI want the old JCrew.com back! I used to check it every morning. Not anymore. I want the stackable codes and lower prices. However, after watching the news, I believe that I should spend ALL of my money on foodstuffs and basic living items because we may be headed for another Great Depression. NO MORE clothes for me. I have a closet stuffed with JCrew already. If I want cupcakes, I will make them at home.
ReplyDeleteJenG.
Great deal (sale jcrew item online):
ReplyDeleteI already own this item:
Prima stretch wool solid one-button jacket
$59.99 (was $275) item 87987
For comparison-In style magazine features a similar one on page 164 (single button, two pockets) for $239 ( Wool Faye blazer Club Monaco).
I'm just thrilled I got something for $60 that retails for over $200 almost everywhere :)
Elma
I'm not "exaggerating", my receipt clearly states $5.95 for Priority Mail on a 2lb, 6.6oz package with $0.65 delivery confirmation. I'm sure the zone may also have something to do with it (I'm in NY, shipping to DE), but obviously these rates are not outside the realm of possibility.
ReplyDeleteI have the BR Luxe card. It covers BR, Gap, and Old Navy. I get free shipping all the time, no minimum. Sometimes I order a single super-cheap sale item ($1.99 socks, etc.) just because I can! The only "catch" is you have to spend an annual minimum of $800 (I think), which is no problem for a family of four who lives in casual-wear.
ReplyDeleteNordstrom has a $6 flat rate, which I'm fine with paying.
ReplyDeleteAnon 5:16
ReplyDeleteOnce you make Luxe status at BR, you are Luxe for life!! :) So you do NOT need to meet a spending minimum again in any subsequent year. The BR Luxe card truly has great benefits!
Hi anonymous
ReplyDeleteI own the Prima Stretch wool jacket and I regret buying it. Very low quality in my opinion (don't remember now, but I think it's unlined). It has very unflattering stitches on the lapel, every time I see them my fantasy is that it was probably made in a sweatshop in China and to cut down production costs they just let the lapels run through the sewing machine instead of handstiching it or whatever they do to make the stitches disappear on lapels. And the thing wrinkles horribly, even if you leave it on a hanger undisturbed in your closet. I just feel that the fabric is too unstructured to be used in a jacket and doesn't hold a candle to the BR lightweight wool fabrics. I do love the Prima stretch wool pants although they are unlined. They just fit me great. After this bad experience with their suiting I am hesitant to give them another try. Maybe Alexis could post an article reviewing their suiting options.
Is anyone's J. Crew still doing an additional 40% off sale items?
ReplyDeleteIt is a festivus miracle!! I ordered the Khaki Cooper Jacket in my size that reappeared on the website. It had not been on the website in that size & color for about 4-5 days. I ordered yesterday and just received an email today that it has been shipped. Tracking number and all.
ReplyDeleteIf you spend $200 at Nordstrom, the shipping is free even if all the items you buy are on sale.
ReplyDeleteSorry to go off topic again, but does any cardholder know when we should expect our Fall rewards card?
ReplyDeleteMaybe some feel they should get the clothes for free and free shipping and possibly Jcrew will spiff them $5 to boot.
ReplyDeleteCome on people, let's be reasonable.
anon 5:51 Read the shipping policy on the Nordstom site, it clearly states "Promotional items cannot be combined with any other offers"
ReplyDelete$200.00 is alot of money to spend to get fs.
ReplyDeleteThe Fall Rewards cards should come out sometime in October, since the cutoff for earning was Sept. 30th. I don't have an exact date, though.
ReplyDeleteleaderboys: congrats on your jacket! Mine came Thursday and I love it! :)
ReplyDeleteNordstrom: *Free Standard Shipping on purchases of $200 or more is valid in catalog and online only. Order usually arrives in 3-4 business days. Offer based on merchandise total and does not include taxes or any additional charges. Offer not valid in Nordstrom or Nordstrom Rack stores, on international orders, or for Coach items. Any additional handling fees apply as indicated on item product page. Additional fees apply for expedited shipping and multiple shipping destinations.
ReplyDeleteI have placed orders w/ Nordstroms many times in the past that totaled $200 - they were all sale items - and the shipping was FREE!
Anon @ 5:53, I feel it is entirely "reasonable" to offer cardholders free shipping on all purchases. Ever since BR gave me "Luxe" status with free shipping, I spend WAY more than I did before on BR, Gap, and Old Navy (more than enough to cover their loss on shipping & handling). Also, it must be "reasonable" if the granddaddy of all online retailers, LLBean, is doing it!
ReplyDeleteLeaderboys-LOL @ festivus
ReplyDeleteI think part of Jcrew's shipping problem is they only use UPS. Nordies uses UPS as well as DHL and/or USPS. Which is a lot cheaper for light weight packages. They can then pass that saving onto the customer.
I think part of Jcrew's shipping problem is they only use UPS.
ReplyDeleteJ. Crew uses USPS. I have a PO box and they ship there all the time.
I think the reason most retailers price shipping by price rather than by weight is that it is much easier for a customer to figure out what the shipping cost will be.
I agree that J. Crew's shipping costs are high, but given that I almost never pay for shipping with J. Crew, they don't really bother me. Do you remember those free shipping/no minimum cards they used to include in the package a few years ago if something you ordered was waitlisted? I still have a pile of those I haven't used yet.
I am sure it is very easy for J. Crew's direct marketing department to figure out what the incremental revenue is for running a promotion vs. the cost of offering that promotion and they are structuring their promotions to optimize their profit. Maybe some of you are not as much J. Crew's core customers as you think you are. You have to remember that this blog is NOT a fair representation of J. Crew's customer base. It is definitely a biased subset that tends to more heavily use coupons.
I am also a hardcore sale shopper so J. Crew's base prices don't bother me. I buy my beloved cafe capris when I can get them for $12.79 apiece and free shipping like I did a few weeks ago. I don't find that I can get such great prices at some of the other stores mentioned on this thread that may offer flat rate shipping all the time, so as far as I am concerned, I am quite happy with J. Crew's prices, shipping and promotion policies!!
Nordstom free shipping on regular price shoes, on any online order anyday ***RESTRICTIONS APPLY** Offer not valid for shoes purchased at sale prices. Free Standard Shipping still applies for orders over $200.00. PROMOTIONS CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFERS"
ReplyDeleteExcept for the fs on $200.00 the policy is the same. If you use a coupon from JC actually JC is better you only have to spend $150., sometimes $100.00
Slightly OT but ties in with comments about 'stackable' discounts. Just got the latest response to my emails about applying my student discount to online orders. I wrote saying I didn't think the student discount was a 'promotional offer'. Even said whenever I shop in store, it is no problem despite buying sale items with additional percent off. The rep who wrote back (Jill) said it WAS a promotional offer and therefore could not be combined. Annoying.
ReplyDeleteI totally bought MORE when they were good about applying the student discount to online orders.
Anon@5:25, when I opened my BR card, they also told me that I had to spend $800 *annually* to remain a Luxe member - otherwise, Luxe status would last 1 year.
ReplyDelete(Btw, I've *never* made Luxe with BR, while I spend >$10,000/year with J. Crew. I like JC's clothes better, but what I love about the JC card is the ability to pay in-store. Why doesn't BR do this??)
I do 90% off my Christmas shopping b/c of the free shipping AND free returns AND b/c you can return anything at anytime for any reason....LLBean has wonderful cashmere too:)
ReplyDeleteAnon @ 7:36 am:
ReplyDeleteYou can pay your BR card online, which I find very helpful. Never tried in store, however.
If anyone knows for sure about the Luxe status thing with BR, please let us know! I am very close to Luxe status for the year and would love to be able to keep it indefinitely.
OT: I've asked this before but didn't see a response. Does anyone have the Lyndsey dress? I am curious about how tight it is in the hips. I am two different sizes between my top half and my bottom half. Thanks!
The point with Nordstrom is, they have FLAT RATE SHIPPING if you don't meet whatever promotion is going on. $8 for anything under @$200 is perfectly reasonable.
ReplyDeleteJ.crew charges $5.95 for $25 and under, so, that covers it if you order what, a pair of socks? The next lowest is $8.50, and then it keeps going up, up and away. Order something for $200 at j.crew, and you're paying $15.50.
Some clarification to the BR Luxe card. If you opened your BR/Luxe card early, like a couple years ago, then you're "Luxe for life". Since then, however, anyone new to the Luxe card, has to maintain an $800 a year charge to the card in order to stay Luxe. I think the Luxe card is a nice perk with BR. On top of the free shipping, I've definitely been invited to several special events and sales at the stores (with champagne and a DJ and free gifts and extra discounts). It seems to me that BR raised their prices recently, but it always goes on sale eventually, and you can use multiple discounts or reward coupons online for great deals.
ReplyDeleteThis is OT but can anyone tell me what a J.Crew Factory Store label looks like? I'm looking at Bellas on ebay, and I want to avoid the outlet Bellas. Does this one look like a Factory Store label?
ReplyDeletehttp://cgi.ebay.com/J-CREW-Wool-Herringbone-Bella-Jacket-Blazer-6-168-NWT_W0QQitemZ250304212899QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item250304212899&_trkparms=72%3A570|39%3A1|66%3A2|65%3A12|240%3A1318&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14
Thanks much in advance!
Ginnie
You can only tell Outlet versions by looking under the label to see if there are 3 dots.
ReplyDeleteanon @ 2:22 - the jcrew label on outlet items will have two small diamonds right under the words"JCrew." Hope this helps.
ReplyDeleteTo Anon 2:22, that is an outlet bella. The seller said it was 2008 summer design. usually these sellers gave very subtle description so they can excuse from when you find out.
ReplyDeleteOT: Laugh of the day on the great new and improved JCrew website! Is it just me or for item # 97014 is the model doing a head stand for meditation???? (see smaller photos)
ReplyDeleteI heard the new photo program Jcrew is using has glitches. People can access their photo library and make some changes all they want. I just curious jcrew hasn't fixed the program yet. This has been weeks.
ReplyDeleteHere is an outlet bella on ebay. There is a pic of the label.
ReplyDeletehttp://cgi.ebay.com/J-CREW-Wool-Herringbone-Bella-Jacket-Blazer-2-168-NWT_W0QQitemZ250303670860QQihZ015QQcategoryZ63860QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
DUH! I just realized that it's the same jacket you asked about. That's an outlet version. You can also tell b/c the label says "Special Value." Jcrew stores don't have that on their tags.
ReplyDeleteAlso, if you look closely on this eBay Bella, the original price tag actually says "Factory Outlet". In addition, the two diamonds under the J.Crew label indicate that it is an outlet. I've heard that the herringbone outlet version of the Bella is actually pretty nice. This looks fully lined, as well. My understanding is that the velvet outlet Bellas weren't even lined! This looks pretty nice.
ReplyDeletelaura1: I'm looking at my BR Luxe card agreement, and it says that in order to maintain "luxe" status, you need to spend $800 per year on Gap, BR, Old Navy, and Piperlime combined. However, if you openned your account on or before 9/18/07, you don't need to requalify each year -- you only need to spend $800 in one year and then you are luxe for life!
ReplyDeleteAlso, BR Luxe card gives free basic alterations on anything purchased at BR (sale or full price), which is great for my 5'6" husband!
Lynzeeroo- You're totally right 'bout what you said. Just this weekend I spend 'bout $500 on Jcrew and they still didn't let me combine my student discount--- I am soooooooooooo mad!!! I was like I am making you guys so much profit but you still won't give some extra benefits, anyways...
ReplyDeletecup cakes do nothing for me. I am looking to get the best deal. Jcrew is really frustrating me with their inconsistent customer service, i get super amazing reps, while i have gotten some really terrible ones that make me feel like poop. good deals and great customer service is what wouold keep me going back to a company.
ReplyDeleteOh no - I was considering getting one of these because it was fully lined and I thought that meant it was an original. Looks like it is outlet. Does anyone have experience with the wool ones from the outlet being fully lined and nicer?
ReplyDeleteThanks!
J.Crew customer service rep at the call center here. First of all, I love this blog. We all read it religiously. Just thought I'd give you guys some feedback about stackable codes and other stuff.
ReplyDeleteAs you all know, we used to honor the teacher/student discount with any other coupon, as well as occasionally honoring free shipping with coupon codes as a courtesy. Due to recent abuse of the student/teacher discount with other offers like 40% off final sale, etc. we decided to quite honoring offering these courtesies. I know how much you guys hate it. Also, it looks like our system is getting a lot better. Packages are actually going out on time and arriving in the quoted time. We're all hoping that final sale stops soon too. Last year it stopped around October and didn't start again until right after Christmas.
To Argyle: I refuse to buy outlet stuff. From what I read from the discription of the bella jacket, the fabric is different. Last year's bella is of 100 percent wool, and the outlet one isn't.
ReplyDeleteThe factory store herringbone bellas are very nice - all wool, and fully lined, same buttons and collar.
ReplyDeleteThe velvet ones are unlined and not as nice as the original.
I don't think denying shoppers ANOTHER 15% off on top of 40%-off sales should be an issue. Seems quite fair, in fact, to only let the educator's discount apply to full price items. There are many other worthy professions who don't receive a special discount.
To rep at the call center: Thank you for sharing us the information. It is fine that we can not stack codes. However, it hurts our feelings when the policy isn't enforced consistently to everybody and at every store.
ReplyDeleteargyle: The outlet herringbones are 100% wool, and are fully lined. I've looked at one closely, and thought it was very nice.
ReplyDeletecs rep: I would love to know what you mean by abuse? Did JC not originally want teachers and students to use their discount on top additional percent discounts? If that's true, then they should have made that clear up front. If the discount is offered, then I'm not sure how using it is abuse. Second, I agree that consistency is now the problem. Some reps will allow it and some won't. That's the part that is so aggravating. I was allowed to use the discount twice, and then 6 days later, I was told no. Others are allowed both, and some aren't. Educate your reps, please. While we will still be sorry to see the extra discount offered, consistency would make us happy.
ReplyDeleteoops - meant we will be sorry to see the extra discount not allowed
ReplyDeleteCS rep: Thank you very much for sharing information. I/We love to hear comments from J.Crew employees!
ReplyDeleteCS rep:
ReplyDeleteI agree with Math teacher. How could student/educ. discount be considered abuse if J Crew implemented it in a first place and emphasized on "Just Ask" card that it is applicable to ANY purchase. This is like dangling a candy in front of a baby, and then not giving it. Tsk, tsk! Cruel!
anonymous at 7:36:
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with the idea that there are many other worthy professions. However, I tend to see this "student/teacher" discount as catering to the more limited means of students and teachers, than singling out a single valuable profession. As a grad student, I just wanted to point out that I'm making $24,000 a year, pre-tax--and that's EXTREMELY generous as far as students stipends go. (I also pay nearly $2,000 for books each year). Most of my peers are making between $12K and $18K, some also paying for their own insurance, or going without. Considering that many of the top schools are located in extremely expensive places (try living in NYC, or SF on $15K! Rent alone eats up 80% of that stipend), we'll take all the discounts that we can possibly get :P Since we are also teachers--we teach college classes--we need to dress the part. We can't show up in goodwill t-shirts and jeans. Thus, we still need to invest in a "professional casual" (and even formal, for some occasions) wardrobe, on a budget that's considerably lower than what most "working woman" would bring in. And while I understand the value of student loans, my program will take at least 5, closer to 7 years to finish, with a low-paying job at the end of it if I'm extremely lucky, and chronic unemployment if I'm not.
(that said, in some of my less proud moments, I do feel a bit bitter towards some college students who can afford to spend hundreds each month on clothes, since they don't have to pay a penny towards rent...so I do understanding where the sense of unfairness might come from)
"Abuse" is an unfortunate word. It makes it sound as though we are doing something underhanded by making use of the discount the company has offered to us as students and educators. The extra percentage is very helpful for those of us who don't make heaps of money, and I've made great use of it, but "abuse"? It's an awesome perk, and is good for students, teachers, and for J.Crew's marketing and advertising. I don't understand all the controversy around it.
ReplyDeleteShame on JCrew. I won't be shopping from you anymore. What a mean trick to play on teachers/educators/students...it says any purchase not just when JCrew feels like it...
ReplyDeleteThere are always people who abuse the system, not saying anyone here does but it does happen.
ReplyDeleteIf a discount (a "just ask" discount, btw) is offered, and we use it, and it's accepted by CSR's, how is that abuse? How is giving 15% to people involved in education any different than offering cupcakes and mojitos to attract more monied shoppers? I don't get it.
ReplyDeleteAbuses do happen everywhere, it's true, but why target students and teachers? We are such an easy mark.
I am for the 15% disc for educators, but when you combine it with 40%, + 15% + fs it is not exactly fair to other people, and JC is making very little profit on that item. Be thankful that you have the 15% off.
ReplyDeleteAnoy@6:37...My pet peeve...people who think life is supposed to be fair! We are not in kindergarten anymore...please people realize this about LIFE. Life/jobs/relationships would all be so much easier/nicer/happier:) I try to teach my first graders this everyday....
ReplyDeleteJust received an email with free shipping on orders of $150.00 or more for three days - code HARVEST
ReplyDeleteThanks for the code; that is great! I just wish it was for $100 or less. I don't have $150 worth of stuff I want to buy now before all the new stuff arrives...hopefully online as well as in Stores around Oct. 15!
ReplyDeleteI am grateful to have the teacher discount, when it's honored. It's just irritating to have to defend it, like we're taking something away from someone else or doing something creepy.
ReplyDeleteAnd life isn't fair. Some people get Christmas bonuses, and I don't. I'm happy for them, not angry or begrudging.
mary,
ReplyDeletenicely said:) Have a good day:)
I'm not angry teachers/students get 15% discount, so that's pretty juvenile to get so self-defensive. Speaks volumes about how many of you do realize what a deal you're getting over many other low-paid professionals. Also, to respond with "life isn't fair" - wow, that's almost as good as "because I said so."
ReplyDeleteSince it seems to have been glossed over, I'll restate that I'm fine with doling out 15% on regular-priced items. But many come on here and whine because they aren't also given 15% off stuff that's already 40% off. Give us all a break, please.
And yes, let's all have a nice day!
It's hilarious to read educators throwing out "life isn't fair" comments, since you constantly come on here and complain about how it isn't fair you're not getting your extra % off, like when SAs tell you it can't be combined with other offers.
ReplyDeleteComments including words like "abuse" put people on the defensive, and spoil the nice thing that your company is trying to do for us.
ReplyDeleteHave a nice day.
I'm an eduator and I didn't state that life isn't fair. (although it isn't) I don't "expect" anything from JC (or any other retailer, for that matter). My problem isn't that they won't allow the discount, it's the inconsistency. Either allow it or don't, but make sure that all cs follow the same policy. As a teacher, how could I grade one student's paper differntly than another? Or, offer some students an easier quiz/test than others? All I'm asking for is consistency. Not a free handout.
ReplyDeleteanon 7:32 - Yes the discount should be consistently applied, but please don't complain when they don't allow it to be stacked, and please don't hide behind Life is Fair bunk .
ReplyDeleteLife isn't fair! It is nothing to "hide" behind. It is a fact...that is the problem with society...get with it!
ReplyDeleteHowever, JCrew is known for inconsistent policies...the educator's discount is one of them...it varies from store to store...just like if you order an item to be sent from a store...all the shipping rates are different..from flat rates to JCrew's online scale...
anon 4:37 Nobody is arguing that Life isn't fair, and most people agree that the educators discounts need to be more consistent so what is the problem? but to complain about not being able to stack codes, or the change in policy is crazy, that is life and be thankful that you have the 15%, JC could take that away too of there are too many problems. There are too many bigger problems going on in the world than getting an extra 15%.
ReplyDeleteAnony@6:28: I have never had one single problem applying my educator's discount with other codes instore, online through emails... So I don't have a problem...others have been experiencing inconsistencies. I really don't care about the small 15% off...I purchased stuff for years without it and will continue to do so...So I don't know what you are implying....
ReplyDeleteTo all that say the Madewell jeans are "overpriced" - have you actually been to a Madewell store, tried on a pair of the jeans, felt the material, looked at the construction, etc.? How do you all know what is overpriced when you know nothing about the actual product?
ReplyDeleteI'm not a Madewell shopper. In the context of JCrew, I'd be happy if they'd fix their web debacle, and put an end to the "final sale". Price points and debacles aside, I heart JCrew and continue to shop there. Having a killer PS I can just call/email and rely upon instead of the 800CS or web order roulette has been far sweeter than any cupcake.
ReplyDeleteWhen does the next catalog drop?