Referencing {FAQ}

Thursday, October 2, 2008

J.Crew's Final Sale.... Here to Stay?

We have all been wondering if J.Crew's sale will permanently remain "final" or will expire eventually. An associate at J.Crew (Anonymous at 4:02PM in the post "Love It Or Leave It: Timex Watch For J.Crew") was kind enough to share with us the following:

"I'm an associate, and I have been told that the final sale policy is more or less going to be a permanent thing. I believe (and sincerely hope) that it will be suspended for holiday, as obviously gifts + final sale doesn't work very well. I can't speak for the website, but I would imagine that after holiday, both the stores and website will keep this policy for awhile, if not permanently. Disclaimer: this is what I have been told my management, but I (and they) could always be wrong. And before you ask, I'm not sure why they do it. It is an annoyance to us also because people get upset at us all day when we break the news to them. Just know that most of us aren't fans, either."

First, "thanks!" again to the associate- I always appreciate hearing from J.Crew associates and find their insights valuable (and I am grateful whenever they post). :) Second, I am a bit bummed to see the "final sale" will be sticking around. Although, I have to admit that I am use to seeing final sale at this point so I am not as deterred from shopping as I once was. ;)

What are your thoughts about the "final sale" remaining? Do you think that J.Crew should lift the "final sale" for the holiday season? Has the "final sale" deterred your shopping of sale items at J.Crew?

129 comments:

  1. I do not mind FS in stores: at least I can try things on, and there is usually additional % off and ed. disocunt that goes along with it, so while it is a nuisance , I can live with.
    But..I absolutely abhor on-line FS. Overall,the only benefit on-line shopping offers is the variety of merchandise. Rest is pure disadvantage: shipping, measly %off, no educator's discount allowed ( as of recent), plus RETAIL prices are higher. For instance, houndstooth metallic jacket is $275 in stores and $295 on-line. I am perplexed. Add shipping charges to that and someone who does not live next to store will overpay whopping $40.
    Absurd policy, IMHO!

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  2. Honestly, I don't think this is a good policy. My local B&M is pathetic, and I do not have an opportunity to try much of anything prior to ordering it. I really need to try things as I find I can take anything from an xs to a medium and a 0 to 6, depending on the item. Also, J Crew often has items that do not match their pictures, so I have been disappointed many times in lengths, trims and colors.

    If they want to reduce inventory, here is a novel concept - sell the items at a slightly more reasonable price to begin with. I have noted that more items have been making it to sale than a few years ago, and I would tend to thing that is due to a higher number being manufactured and a price point that is a little too high.

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  3. I did mean to say I disagreed with this policy for online purchases. I am fine with it in store.

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  4. honestly, i've sent back FS items a few times, and haven't had any issues. i don't make a habit of it, but i do appreciate them taking things back sometimes, as long as it's not abused. sometimes it's just too hard to know how things will fit, look, etc. when the sizing changes so much and the colors are not well-represented online.

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  5. I have the same issues kitsmommy does, as my B&M is horrible to shop in (I hate fighting through bands of college girls and their mothers) and has very little in terms of selections. I prefer to shop online and return items when necessary. I haven't purchased anything from J. Crew in quite a long time, for a variety of reasons, and the final sale issue is one of them. I'm rather disappointed by this news.

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  6. I also don't mind the FS in stores. But lately J.Crew's size have gone all out of whack. This vanity sizing is insane and trust me there is no way at 5'7" and 132 lbs I should ever be a size 2! But in some of their pants I am. It makes me scared to order from the FS unless I have tried the pants on previously and even then I have found that not every pair of pants or every skirt fits the same way (other Aficionadas have noticed the same thing).

    I have returned FS items a few times but I have always had to call in first and say why I was returning it. One CS Rep actually had the audacity to say to me, well this is a one time courtesy. But that was also about 1.5 years ago and it was long before the FS was all the time.

    In general I am not a fan of it.

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  7. Melissa, but you only get a gift card and I don't want to shell out possibly a few hundred dollars on a final sale coat or cashmere sweater and have my money tied up in gift cards...

    I intensely dislike final sale and won't shop it online.

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  8. I too am OK with sales being final in stores but disagree with it online. My main issue though is not from a merchandise perspective, but from a customer service perspective. It just does not seem like a very good policy and is not similar to any other store known for great customer service. Neiman Marcus has a thirty day return policy on sale items. Nordstroms will always take something back, as will Talbots and Williams Sonoma. It is strange to me that a company that prides itself on their customer service would have this policy.

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  9. I definitely do not buy things Final Sale unless I've tried them on. And being in a town where there is no JCrew within a 100 miles, I clearly don't try on as many things as the average JCrew shopper. The prices are too high to risk not being able to return them.

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  10. I absolutely HATE Final Sale Online AND In-Stores...I think it is just such an absurd business practice, and I will definitely be disappointed and frustrated if it does end up being permanent...my store doesn't carry much more than the *basics*, nor is it easy for me to shop there anyways having so many kids...online shopping is a necessity to get the J.Crew pieces that I truly want, and this is yet another deterrant for shopping at J.Crew...are they TRYING to discourage customers from buying? Most retailers try to make the purchasing process as easy and enjoyable for their customers as possible, but I don't feel that is the case AT ALL with J.Crew anymore. :(

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  11. I too have an intense dislike for the Final Sale and have no qualms about sending back things that don't fit or that do not look at all like they did online (which is my only way of shopping since I don't have a b&m nearby). I actually don't mind getting a gift card for returns since there is always something else that I want to purchase. LOL.

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  12. I agree with many of the comments here. I don't mind it in the stores because I can try on the item. But online is just too risky. There are a lot of beautiful colors but how am I to know if they flatter me without trying it on? So I do spend a lot of time at the store trying things on for color but many times the items I see online are not in the store in the color I am interested in.

    I border on the petite size so I will never know for sure if the petite sizes will fit me better.

    Also, the vanity sizing! Yes, I've noticed that I used to always wear a medium (and still do for most cases) but many styles I now wear a small or even extra small in some cases. So, now I really don't know what size to order...

    My online orders have definitely gone down with the final sale. Even the extra 20% here and there don't grab me as often if I can't return it.

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  13. Before the website "upgrade", I used to browse the online sale section every morning and made a purchase about once a week. I loved when they'd do an extra percent off and I'd scour the internet for a free shipping code. Unless I absolutely had to have an item, I never bought anything full price or at least without some kind of coupon code. I had a nice B&M store in my town so it was easy to return things. I have since moved from CT to Delaware and the ONLY B&M store in the entire state is actually an outlet (yuck!!) I am very disappointed that the final sale seems to be permanent and that they don't offer an extra percent off except through a code. I haven't bought anything on the website since the upgrade and after my JCrew card is paid off (which is scheduled for tomorrow), I am canceling it. Good thing I was able to stock up on plenty of my favorite items while I could because I don't plan on shopping JCrew anytime soon. I do however check your website daily!

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  14. I've made my feelings about J.Crew's final sale clear numerous times - I loathe it, and very rarely buy from it. To me, they're saying they don't stand behind their products by making it such a hassle to finagle a return (others on here have mentioned it is possible to return FS items, but it takes a phone call and explaining to CS, rather than just a normal return).

    I know I'm not the only one who won't buy from the final sale. There are probably a dozen items I'd have bought from J.Crew over the past three months if the items had been regular sale; instead, J.Crew didn't get a dime from me.


    They certainly can't have a final sale during the holidays, unless they really want to anger not only their regular customer base, but also anyone who gets a J.Crew item as a gift and finds it doesn't fit and hopes to make an exchange.

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  15. Kitsmommy,
    "If they want to reduce inventory, here is a novel concept - sell the items at a slightly more reasonable price to begin with"

    Now you're just making entirely too much sense :-)

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  16. Does anyone recall from an earlier post how Mickey Drexler listed his personal email address for customers to contact him? If anyone (maybe Alexis?) has this information, perhaps with the following of this blog, someone could email not to argue the policy, but just to ask about the final sale policy especially for the internet purchases where people cannot even try the items on and how long this policy will last?!? Just a thought to try and solve our dilemma ... or at least gain some perspective ...

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  17. Right before FINAL SALE was unveiled in the store, a PS was telling me that it was being done because of "funny business" having something to do with loss prevention and people buying a ton of stuff on FS and returning it? I am not sure I really understand it though and how this relates to Loss Prevention...anyone?

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  19. I purchase a lot of items from final sale. I don't have a problem with returning the items if they do not fit. I guess it is a case by case basis at your local J Crew store and how much you shop with them.

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  20. A little OT, but it's been coming up in the responses.

    The vanity sizing needs to stop. I know that for someone who is normally a medium/8 (and was at j. crew up until a couple of years ago, because let's be realistic the sizing has been slowly going wonky for a few years) it is flattering to be able to buy a small or and x-small. However, what is someone who is a true 0/2 supposed to buy at j.crew now? Seriously, I love the crew, but some of the items (especially knit tops) I've purchased recently (in a 0/2 or x-small) could be worn by my mother (a medium 8/10). They either need to go back to real sizing and stop trying to flatter people with body image issues or make new smaller sizes (xxs, they may even need xxxs at the rate things are expanding)

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  21. I've also returned items purchased on FS. However, I do admit it's been a deterrent for me when considering to return an item. I hate the idea of possibly being turned away and the awkward situation in which it puts me and the SA!

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  22. Weab,
    It just shouldn't be a hassle to return an item, that's for sure. There isn't any other store I shop at that has this stupid of a policy, which is part of the reason I'm surprised J.Crew has it. Even buying something in the store, where I've been able to try it on - look, sometimes I change my mind, or sometimes I buy something because I think it might go well with an item I already own, but then it doesn't - and then I want to be able to return it, hassle free.

    Regarding the lsos prevention issue - that means store theft, right? It doesn't seem like that could be tied into final sale...

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  23. I have been told that if you are a "good customer" they will take the FS items back. I'm sure this would depend on how much you shop at your local J Crew store and who your SA is.

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  24. I can live with FS in-store. However, it should definitely not be applied to items that are catalog/online only. That's absurd.

    As far as the loss prevention and returns. The tags sent with mail orders don't have prices. I can totally see some crook saying they got x, y, z at full price and arguing with an associate. All of the SAs I've ever dealt with handle register transactions with grace -- even if it's a new situation. I can see an SA not wanting to make a scene and letting someone return things for a higher price than was paid for them. I dealt with that at Nordstrom all the time. It appears that Nordstrom (and Macy's) have dealt with this problem by applying a second retail sticker when purchasing in-store. Also -- a simple swipe one's credit card at Nordstrom & Target will show purchases made at the retailer. Whew. I got long winded recalling these 'newer' ways to combat loss prevention!

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  25. HI, as a former jcrew employee, now moved to a new city and shopper of a new jcrew store, my biggest issue (and likely many of yours!) is the inconsistency of policies from store to store. I must say, the store I worked at was awesome, the entire "montra" was customer satisfaction, sure we had some people who abused the policies, but most customers were fair and turned their returns in purchases of other items. The store never harped on the final sale policy, rather used the fact that one upset customer will tell 483 people about their situation, rather then simply fixing the issue.

    However the new city that I am in, has a Jcrew that sometimes I wonder if their store has their own unique policies separate from the entire company. They used to argue with me over issues that I knew (obviously having been an employee) were in fact correct. And they are beyond ridiculous with the final sale policy. Bought a shirt for my sisterinlaw, she needed to exchanged it for exact color, style, just different size ... and they said NO!! Ahh I almost lost it one the SA.

    I wish JCrew would get their policies in uniform company wide, whatever they decide them to be.

    Thanks for letting me vent, ha!

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  26. I'm in retail, and I understand final sale from the the selling side of things. You have to understand that there are costs associated with every transaction, and when something is sold at a huge discount, often at or below wholesale cost, a business is losing money to sell it. In effect, they are paying you to take it off their hands. Especially these days when so many people use credit or debit cards, the cost of doing business is quite high. When something is sold at a good margin, a retailer can afford to be more lenient. The final sale policy means the cost happens once. Listen everyone, if you want to keep shopping the sale rack and getting an extra 20-40% off, final sale is the price you pay. I understand from a consumer standpoint how that policy sucks- prob. prevents impulse purchases, or even makes us really consider buying. The thing is, we cannot expect to get something for nothing. Stores have to make money or they go out of business- it's as simple as that. I realize I'll probably get a lot of frustrated responses, but I wanted to explain this from the seller's side.

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  27. No other store that I know of has a final sale like J.Crew does. Even stark markdowns of 75% or so are returnable. And since J.Crew, like all stores, drastically marks up prices to begin with, I'm unsympathetic to them having to mark some things way down in order to move them.

    I certainly do have a choice, and my choice is not to buy from the final sale. Since I end up keeping most of what I buy, my refusal to accept J.Crew's final sale policy is their financial loss. And as evidenced by the many posts on this thread, I'm not the only one who isn't buying into their riduculous policy. Plus, as I said earlier, it does reflect badly on them because it says they're not standing behind their products' quality. It shouldn't be a hassle to return something, and it certainly should never be a hassle to make an exchange like the former employee just mentioned she tried to do.

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  28. I as well don't mind FS in stores. I cannot and will not buy a FS item online unless I have tried it on previously in the store. Unfortunately, this is often impossible as the things I want are not in the store. When I've fallen in love with something in the past, I've risked the FS online (rarely), but have always been able to return it if the color is off, the top is see-through, or fits horribly.

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  29. Neal, I don't buy into what you are saying...JCrew is still making a profit even on the final sale items that are marked way down and even with extra %'s off...I am an educated consumer...I have no compassion for JCrew and their final sale...I spend so much less with them now than one year ago and it is not b/c of the economy.

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  30. I cannot stand the final sale policy period. I have been burned so many times by the varying fit of the cashmere sweaters when ordering online. This constant ongoing sale has also made me shy to purchase newly released merchandise right away because I feel it goes on sale so quickly after it's introduction! This leaves me paying full price for a closet full of clothes that are reduced quicker than I can wear them!

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  31. i think the online practice of final sale is especially ludicrous. about 2 weeks ago i ordered a dress in XS knowing it might be a little big, boy was that an understatement. I could fit 2 of me in there. the only stuff that still fits me from jcrew are the coats. i just feel like when your sizing is so inconsistent you can't possibly have final sales online.

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  32. You know, you have a choice whether to buy from FS or not. No one is making you. Certainly, if you love something enough, buy it...but if you don't, don't! We don't need to get all upset with a company policy that makes sense for the company!

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  33. anon at 10:53,
    I'm with you. I've spent a fraction this fall at J.Crew compared to what I spent last fall, and it's not the economy.

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  34. Rock the Vote, I love your screen name!

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  35. rock the vote,
    yes, and as so many of us have revealed here, we are, in fact, not buying from j.crew. But on this here j.crew blog, we're surely allowed to lament the stupidity of the final sale.

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  36. I agree with everyone about the final sale policy, with regard to online purchases. I am always scared to buy things online final sale due to fit. For example, I have JCrew shoes that are size 5 1/2, 5, and 4K. I just recently bought the Crewcuts Lizzie driving mocs online (final sale) in size 4, and they were too big! JCrew's sizing is all over the place!

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  37. Just wanted to chime in. I guess I don't really mind the final sale. Maybe they figure people will just resell on ebay?

    I have noticed Pottery Barn doing a lot of final sale, non-returnable stuff now too.

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  38. I personally don't see how a policy that makes customers buy LESS can ever be beneficial to a company...Final Sale is ABSURD...even in stores!

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  39. There's less to buy this season (the lines have not been that favorable), and the prices are sky high, the economy is in the toliet. There's a lot to think about when someone makes a committment to purchase. I would definitely say I'm watching what I spend these days.

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  40. ffm,
    we are entirely on the same page on this issue!

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  41. I don't mind FS maybe twice a year to clear out the last spring/summer and fall/winter merchandise. The prices should be low and colors and sizes are just what's left over. FS all the time is ridiculous. I'm the same as everyone else - I won't order pants or skirts unless I've already tried them on in the store and I won't order a color unless I know it works for me. At least 3 or 4 times in the past week I've put something into my shopping bag from FS and chickened out and not placed the order.

    Another rant - at least 3 times in the past week I"ve put something in my shopping bag, clicked around more on the site or poured another cup of coffee and less than 5 minutes later the item is gone. I'd rather that happen than place the order and have it cancelled later but how frustrating.

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  42. I don't think the company cares that they're upsetting a few to get there financial books in line with this economy. FS allows for them to get rid of the excess, rather than sit on and recycle the same merchandise in their systems.

    Just remember, just because you're making it a point to not buy from them isn't that big of a deal. There are tons of others that see value in what they sell and buy from them.

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  43. I suppose if FS is to continue at JCrew it will be a lesson in economics, since many of the tried and true fans of the Crew are not partaking in final sale. Mickey and Co. will lose the business of many long-time customers and they will just have to see if the revenue is made up with those chasing a bargain and not minding the FS policies (which are bizarrely inconsistent from store to store in regards to returns).

    I can't wrap my head around this bizarre polarization of their "new" clientele. So on the one hand you have those who will drop a huge chunk of change on new designs immediately without batting an eye and on the other you will have bargain hunters who will risk ill-fitting/off-color/potentially damaged items with Final Sale purchases? What about that group in between?

    Personally, I risk FS only if I know that an item will fit and looks as it should from the catalog/website. This means I have either tried the item or purchased it ahead of time and it's sitting in my closet unworn. So, yes, JC is losing out in my case because I am far more cautious about purchasing than I would be without the FS stipulation of no returns/no exchanges.

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  44. I refuse to believe that most of you are not buying during FS. If the prices get low enough, you know you'll cave and buy.

    If the item is damaged, you can always return it (I'm sure certain people will shamelessly find ways to rip a hole somewhere for the sake of saying it's damaged), and not everything JC sells is perfect. They know that.

    FS is FS, I think more of you are concerned with the clothes on your back, rather than a company striving to meet it's bottom line to their shareholders...

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  45. I can live with final sale policy as long as I can return an item that I deem defective--whether inconsistent size or poor fit. I expect J.Crew to stand behind there product in terms of quality. An proper cut and fit for size is the essence of quality when it comes to clothing. And I am okay getting a gift card in exchange. At bottom, FS is about making a financial transaction final.

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  46. about sizes on final sale:

    I got the dream open cardigan yesterday after ordering it on the red phone in the store, with an additional 40%. I like it. It definitely runs small. But the silky jersey pleated top runs giant. An extra small was still pretty dang roomy and long enough I had to have it hemmed 3". I comfortably fitted a 0 in the hammered silk tank when I tried it on. I'm usually a large 2, or a small in sml sizing, not an xs.

    so, what do the truly small get to wear?

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  47. I recently asked a j.crew manager about final sale and whether it was here to stay. He told me the company made a decision to go in this direction because they were having a huge problem with people selling items on ebay for profit.

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  48. I don't get what ebay has to do with this. If something goes out of stock, it's more valuable (supply/demand) to someone looking for it, hence ebay exists. If you FS something, you're just not allowing it to come back into your inventory channels. Maybe I'm not understanding the reasoning here...

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  49. I don't understand how FS impacts selling on ebay, either.

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  50. If FS is a standard now, and people buy things they can't return, then the other alternative is to get rid of it, whether it's using auctiva, giving it away, or an auction site of some sort. One would assume that this would only increase traffic on a site like ebay, which is counter-intuitive to what Betty's manager was saying.

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  51. I don't see how Ebay has anything to do with implementing a permanent Final Sale...there are MANY MORE J.Crew items on Ebay BECAUSE of Final Sale, IMO.

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  52. other stores do have a similar FS policy - BCBG comes to mind. Is it a deterant? sure, but i can see why they do it. by looking at the amount of inventory in the FS, its a liability to them that it could be returned.

    That said, i think they need to reduce the price to compensate for the policy. there are def some good deals, but not everything. I will never spend over $100 on something i may not be able to return.

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  53. I hate final sale. To answer fidele's question, the small people can't wear J. Crew clothing. Because of the inconsistent sizing, I can't wear J. Crew pants, Size 0 is too big, and the shirts are too big. I am not short enough to wear petite even though I am borderline width wise. I don't want to buy full price and don't want to buy if final sale is permanant.

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  54. Thanks to the abundance of JC stores near me I really don't care much about online Final Sales. Now if this FS is here to stay in store, that would be something. :D

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  55. I agree with anon at 1138. That's how I feel too. Plus, FS hasn't been so bad ... the idea of not returning anything just makes me ask one last time if I really want something. The answer has been no more times than yes, which I think saves me from buying something just because I think it's a good deal.

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  56. OT -- DSW is having an online promo. $10 off pumps. Code: PUMPS. If you have a DSW Rewards card, you can get free shipping with RSHPDSW through 10/6/08. The site is dsw.com and I think you can sign up for a rewards card online.

    I got a pair of BCBGirls pumps for $50. Whoo hoo!

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  57. Speaking of final sale, I seemed to have waited to long to buy the Cooper Jacket. The website no longer has my size in the khaki. Do any of your b&m stores still have them, that I might call. Or does anyone have a khaki in size 6 that they are willing to sell?

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  58. leaderboys: Unfortunately the Cooper Jacket in Online/Catalog only...hopefully there will be someone who wants to sell! :)

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  59. I think this is a huge mis-step for J Crew. If those of us who are crazy about them are hesitant to order online on final sale, I think people less familiar with the brand would be even less likely to shell out for an item they can't return.

    Also, I think it is crazy to think that J Crew is losing money on transactions that have as high a margin as some of these items still have. I would be fine with a $20 pair of pants being on FS, but when a sweater gets its first markdown and is still $129 and is on FS, I think that is a little crazy. J Crew used to do the FS on merchandise that was truely the dregs and it was marked down considerably.

    Also, I have noticed that they are either making more of some items are they just aren't selling well at all. Last year, I could not get either the towncoat or boulevard coat in any of the pretty colors. They were sold out within days of being put online. I waited until I received the catalog to try to order the colors I wanted and by that time they were gone and were never even waitlisted in anything but the neutrals. I complained pretty vocally instore and through emails about this and per my favorite SA, so did a lot of other people. Maybe they are making more of items because it seem like almost everything in most colors is getting to the sales. Right now, I feel like a fool for paying full price in this economy, but am afraid to take a chance of a coat on FS (that is still $200) not fitting. End result, I just don't buy. How does J Crew win there?

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  60. I hate final sale. It's fine if you've already tried something on, but like many people have mentioned, sizing is often inconsistent. Pants and dresses especially differ greatly between styles. I'll but shirts and sweaters on final sale because I'm always an xs, but dresses, pants, and skirts vary so much that I'm afraid to risk it.

    Also, colors are often WAY different online than in real life. I bought a jackie cardigan in rhubarb on final sale, and online it looks reddish. In person, it's a bright pink-coral. I love jackie cardigans, so I'm okay with it, but it's definitely not what I expected.

    My suggestion to J Crew is to initiate an exchange-only policy rather than have a final sale, at least with online purchases. They'd be guaranteed to keep the same amount of money from their customers, and we'd be happier to take risks when buying sale items.

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  61. Since I'm not entirely sure what sizes are truly small or not in the final sale items, I thought I'd throw this out there in case anyone knows - I was thinking about buying the Cotton Interlock Michelle dress in FS, to wear with black tights and a turtleneck underneath. I usually wear a 2/4 in shirts. Does anyone have this dress? How does it fit?

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  62. ffm: I totally agree with you about the items on eBay! If FS were not in place, I'd much rather return an item and get my money back for it than deal with all the headache and fees of listing on eBay. However, since I don't feel I'm *allowed* to return some items, I have no choice but to resort to eBay!

    btw, why is it that all other retailers seem to have figured out a way to "handle their financial reporting" even with allowing returns but J Crew can not? Just curious????

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  63. What really annoys me about the online Final sale is, most of the items are barely marked down. You are suppose to be stuck with an item of inconsistent sizing and mis-represented color because JCrew gave you a whole $10 off? Ridiculous.
    I won't keep something that doesn't fit. I've probably returned 80% of the FS items I purchased. My store has good customer service and does not have a problem with returns. Even so, it is a long trip out to there and I am starting to realized that most of the online sale items are marked down for a reason. So, I try to only buy things I've tried on in the past.
    In store FS doesn't bother me at all. 1- because I can try it on. 2-because the prices are much better.

    My last gripe is regarding the posts about JCrew losing money on sale and the Loss prevention. IMO JCrew's sale prices are high compared to other retailers. Most the time you are buying an unembellished cotton item of some sort for less than 25% off the original price. Or cashmere for $75+. Things go to sale so quickly because Jcrew is making a lot of money on slightly marked down items.

    The Loss prevention does not make any sense. They are loosing more money with final sale because it leads people to bring in their sale items WITHOUT a receipt and that is how they get more $ than they paid for it.
    Okay rant ovah :)

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  64. The Final Sale has actually prevented me from ordering because it's ridiculous to spend around $100 or more for an item that can't be exchanged. The sweaters tend to vary in size, so why spend all that money if I can't exchange or return an item that doesn't fit.

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  65. Anon @11:29:

    You can believe it. Even though some of the website issues have been worked out, several times I've almost purchased something on sale but decided not to because of the FS issue. I rarely return things, ever, but I like having the comfort of knowing that if an item really doesn't work I can take it back.

    And yeah, I'm more concerned about the clothes on my back rather than the shareholders. So? What do I owe shareholders? That's Mickey's job, not mine.

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  66. I mind the final sale quite a bit. The fit and quality of items varies quite a bit and sometimes I don't notice until I get home. I'm a big fan of exchanges and wish that at the very least they would allow exchanges only. After all, isn't it their bottom line they are worried about with a policy like this? Exchange only would protect their earnings while at the same time give their consumers the flexibility they deserve.

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  67. I wonder if J.Crew changed the title of the sale area to October markdowns would people respond better.

    Every retailer needs a sale area. Every store I've been to has a sale section that is regularly added to. And I gladly check out the sale section at the back of the store. I buy both sale items and those at full pop.

    Sometimes you get a great deal and then there are the other times that the full priced item sells out and never gets marked down. It really depends on your needs/wants and priorities. If you want it buy it, if not someone else will or if you're lucky it'll show up on sale.

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  68. laura1- those are rules of the company, you don't have to shop there. that's just how jcrew wants to do it. you can play by the rules, or sit in misery that it's not going your way. this post is not a direct response to your character, but it seems that most of the people ranting, complaining, etc are opposed to a rule set in place by the retailer. it's not my fault they've created it, i'm sure they have good reason for doing so (financially speaking). if i were that upset over the final sale policy, i'd avoid looking at the section and just move on.

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  69. Hexicon,
    I will email you tonight - sorry had to do some work :-)

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  70. Again, I only shop online as I do not live near a store, and I never ever hesitate to return an item or even items as the case may be FS or not. I don't mind getting a gift card which, in my case, is a far better deal than having to keep something that doesn't fit or that I really don't like. I have never gotten any grief from J Crew for doing this, and my gift card usually arrives within two weeks.

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  71. Everyone: I agree with many of you that the concept of final sale makes sense in that stores do have to liquidate their past-season merchandise for the new inventory. However, maybe J.Crew would consider a limited final sale policy for online purchases where you would get 5 days to return the item. Only because you don't get to try on the pieces before ordering online and the sizing can be off with certain items. :)

    Anon at 10:19 AM: Sign me up for you petition for vanity sizing to end! I can't stand that sizes are being altered down by retailers.

    Anon at 10:37 AM: I am surprised to hear that the JCrew store you went to wouldn't let you do a simple exchange!!! :( Hopefully you were able to exchange the item in the right size.

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  72. I don't understand why people continue to post about how annoyed they are with other posters sharing their opinions. It seems like every thread there is someone saying, if you don't like it get over it, stop complaining, etc. The whole purpose of this thread is Alxies asking people'e opinion on final sale. If you don't want to read people's thoughts, positive and negative; then don't read the comments.

    My final thoughts on FS is I can completely understand Jcrew wanting to liquidate past season/years merch. But items that are only a month old and 5-10% off should not be final sale. I wish they would offer more specials on current items instead of moving it directly to FS.
    Please pardon any typo's. My eyes are tired today

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  73. I don't understand why people are complaining about JCrew sizing. I haven't noticed anything changing at all. I still wear the same sizes as I have for the past 6 years while shopping at JCrew. Their sizing is still very consistent in my book. JCrew, excellent sizing job, in my opinion.

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  74. Shannon: are you sure those are your final thoughts on the final sale? What if you want to return/revise/exchange your thoughts? Is that allowed? Hehe LOL

    Shannon you comment made me crack up! Thank you for making me smile!

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  75. Not a final sale fan. I try not to buy from final sale unless I am certain of the item. But when it is 40% off final sale in stores, I'm all about the final sale!

    I agree that JCrew is not winning new shoppers with this policy. ESPECIALLY new online shoppers.

    OT--has anyone purchased the heirloom cashmere? I really like the heirloom cardigan (love the buttons!), but I'm more of a fan of the t-shirt cashmere than the regular cashmere. I think the t-shirt is softer and thicker.

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  76. Final sale in the store totally makes sense to me, but I HATE it online. I feel like the sizing is hit or miss, and I hate the idea of being stuck with an item that just doesn't fit. In the past it seemed like items would go on sale (which you could still return), and then eventually end up in the final sale. If they are going to skip the in-between sale and go to just the final sale, it's obviously going to upset a lot of people. I agree that there should be some sort of grace period that allows people to return online final sale items if they don't fit. I avoid shopping the final sale online if I can. However, I recently ordered the Amelia hammered silk tank from the final sale (against my better judgement), and it arrived damaged. There's a hole on the front of the top as well as on one of the straps (looks like the garment was burned by something). Thankfully the CS rep I talked to on the phone was super nice and said I could most certaily return the damaged item, and offered me free shipping if I happened to find that same item back in the final sale lot.

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  77. I don't like the FS online. I can deal with it in the store because I can try items on. Sometimes when I order online the item is not what I expected..then I'm stuck with it. Thank god for lil sisters. I have purchased shoes during the FS and they were uncomfortable..the store wouldn't take them back. The shipping is so expensive they should lay off and remove the FS once the summer inventory is gone. Even if you get a good deal it's not really worth it unless you spend at least $100 because of the shipping prices.

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  78. There isn't even a B&M store in my STATE (Montana). So, I have no perspective on that.

    I don't mind online FS, but that is just because I know my sizes and the fits pretty well from trial and error over the years (with non FS items) and I have good luck with FS

    That said, with their new online fiasco, I've had a couple outfits that I bought together, where they cancelled half of it. I explained that I only wanted the items together (i.e. for a suit) and they paid for me to ship the item back, no questions. So, as long as you know your sizes, etc., I think it's fine. I hope, though, that they don't do it for the holidays.

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  79. danielle, that is why I don't buy from FS....yes, you can return things but it is a hassle and I don't need the extra headache. I have received many damaged goods from final sale...enough is enough...JCrew does not check their goods before reselling them and if they do what a poor job they are doing.

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  80. Blumre: What pants are trying on in size 2 that fit you? I am 5'7" and 123 lbs and I wear a size 6 in most JCrew pants, and 28 in jeans, though recently I purchased the hip slung and needed the 29. I've tried size 4 and it is way too small, so I cannot imagine a size 2 fitting. I actually think JCrew sizing on some pants is too small, while their tops run very large. And I do not have wide hips and I have a flat tummy (my proportions are pretty average).

    I guess everyone is different size-wise, but I was very surprised to read this...not implying it isn't true in your case, but I am curious as to what you are buying so that I know for my future purchases.

    Lisa

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  81. I think the online FS is a horrible policy, and I don't understand the connection to loss prevention at all...if anything it seems like MORE people will resort to eBay or returning without a receipt, as others have pointed out.

    On the other hand, I've been pretty unsuccessful at breaking my own J. Crew habit, so maybe I'm lucky they're doing it for me. :)

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  82. Lisa: I definitely look lighter that I am. Part of that because my legs are completely muscle mass. I've been a competitive athlete my entire life and usually in order have to pants that fit I have to take them in at the waist because my thighs are big. But I am also a 32DD so I carry weight there as well. I've bought chinos in a 2 and a 4 recently- the Ellie Chino. and I tried on suiting in the store a few weeks ago and I was a 2 in one variety and a 4 in another variety. My legs are also pretty long so I am usually buy a Tall in the chinos and have them hemmed. I buy a regular 28/29 in J.Crew's Denim and I usually buy a regular 4 in suiting pants. But again lately I have been able to buy a 2. I know in regular designers I am normally a 6, occasionally even an 8--- just shows you how skewed J.Crew's sizing is. I hope that helps you. I think it has a lot more to do with shape than anything else. Good luck in your purchases

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  83. Anon @ 1:34:

    I agree that those are the rules J. Crew sets and I don't have to shop there. In fact, I don't shop there anymore, maybe you didn't get that from my previous posts. It makes me a little sad, because I love their fashions, but trust me, I don't sit in misery. My credit card and I instead go on a date to Macy's, Nordstrom, and Banana Republic. :)

    If you don't like the comments, then feel free to skip laura1's posts anytime you want. Alexis asked for our opinions (thanks Alexis!) and I gave her mine.

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  84. Anon was just giving her opinion. Why do you have to pounce on her? You don't even shop at J.Crew, Laura1!

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  85. Anna, i left a post earlier about sizes and the cotton interlock dress was the one i bought. I got an XS and its huge. My friend who is a size 6/8 tried it on and it fit her. hope this helps.

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  86. kitsmommy and shannon you make some excellent points--I totally agree.

    I have to add though, I have also spent a TON (thousands in the last 2 months) of money on final sale but these are the reasons why:
    *I always get free shipping
    *I tend to do okay with sizing but I agree it is ALL over the place and can be very irritating.
    *I tell the CSR to mark it so I can return with no issues at the store. I honestly think the SA's agree and they do not even question a FS return even before I tell them I got the "ok" to return it--they are like, "oh, these run so small" or "this runs so big." Sizing is S*%T there is no consistency at all.

    *LAST & MOST IMPORTANT:
    I always buy FS with addl discount preferably 40% off. Heck--I don't NEED a thing! I buy this stuff because it's quality, fun, fashion that I am so excited to get for a bargain. So bring on the 40% and I am there over and over--but I swear I will not pay that ridiculous shipping fee! It is astronomical--a t-shirt and pair of matchsticks takes up the savings recv'd by having the add'l discount and I won't do it.

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  87. Am I missing something - is there a discount for online FS right now?

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  88. A phone CS told me (today) told me JCrew marks their merchandise down so much they would lose money if the accepted returns on FS items. I recommended they put items on sale in increments instead of full price straight to FS.

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  89. Why not order something online at regular price - you usually get free shipping, there's always a code of some sort, try it on, return it then wait for final sale?

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  90. jcrewluva, I could ask the same thing.

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  91. Anon @ 4:06, maybe I'll try some of your tips. Thanks!

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  92. Random question: has anyone handwashed the silk Marcella blouse, or is it better left to a drycleaner?

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  93. O/T: I was quite smitten with a FS item,
    Cotton-silk lawn twisted-placket shirt FS item 98698
    in Bright Rhubarb. Just an fyi, the Bright Rhubarb shirt is 100% cotton, whereas the Ivory & Indigo are 57% cotton & 43% silk. All colors of this item # are listed as cotton/silk. In the Ivory color, this makes quite the difference in "sheerness" & sturdiness of the collar. I tried the Indigo shirt on with a natural color brasiere underneath & could not see it. This shirt is fitted to the body.

    Also, the
    Whisper lamé tank FS item 96621
    is gorgeous on (tucked in) & I sized down to a XS. I can't wait to wear it. I heard the color Honey Glaze looks great with it too, besides navy. I can't wait to wear it next summer with a tan.

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  94. This is anon from 10:19, again. Still off topic, but...

    Anyone who says that their size hasn't changed at the crew in the last few years is either buying from one of the few categories were the sizing hasn't really changed (jeans, most coats and blazers, a select few of the sweaters, and.. that's about it), or is expanding along with j.crew sizes. That might be a little harsh, but it's the honest truth.

    I'm 5'8" and 127 lb. At retailers with normal sizing (Abercrombie, Calvin Klein, Anthropologie, etc.) I'm a 2 in bottoms, 0/xs in tops, and I used to be that at J.crew a few years back. Now I swim in a zero bottom and can't manage most of the tops. I haven't lost any weight. And, I know to some this may just sound like some narcissist skinny ***** complaining about being too skinny. But, it's very frustrating when the only items I can buy from J.Crew with full confidence that they'll fit are blazers and jeans. I'm not saying that I can wear any of the shirts, but I need to try them on beforehand, so since I'm at university away from my usual b&m I can't and therefore I buy no tops.

    So to connect this rant to the actual topic, I rarely buy items off final sale. If it's incredibly cheap, then I will take the risk (the last items I got from final sale: slub wrap tank-tops: $6/each), otherwise, not so much.

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  95. I wear the same size consistently in all stores, and no I have not expanded along with JC sizes. In tops I have to size up if they are fitted, other than no big changes in sizes.

    I guess it all depends on your shape, since everyone is different!!

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  96. On FS I don't buy unless I own it, and want to purchase another color. I have ended up with too much crap that I cannot wear or return.

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  97. Like most others so far, I agree with FS for in-store items that are not gifts), but it is absurd for online purchases. J.Crew's own inconsistency in colors, sizing and items not looking the same IRL as they did in photos. I also wear petite sizes, and the sizing is too erratic. J.Crew's website used to say you should size up if going with a Petite, which also held true oppositely if purchasing a Regular size instead of Petite. Recently though, the Petite sizing seems to have been updated and brought in line with the newer vanity-sizing in the Regular range. However, it's only for some items. In fact, when clicking on the size charts for different items on the website, I occasionally get the old petite size chart and at others I get the new Petite sizing. I keep trying to detect a pattern, but I can't find one. I wish I knew, but without knowing what's what, it is impossible to trust the sizing enough to buy fitted items online. They need to get a handle on the sizing issue. It really is starting to be a problem.

    Also, I am one who has been able to return FS items purchased online no questions asked. I was advised by a phone CSR, however, to return them via mail, not in-store, as the store managers and associates may just refuse. This fact is the only reason I consider buying anything at all on FS via the website.

    FSW

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  98. I don't mind a final sale on items that are ridiculously marked down, that have been around for a long time. But, an item that's been around for 1-2 months, that's marked down $10-20? Yuck! And, final sale online is not my favorite, either. I have to try stuff on (as do most) due to inconsistent sizing; plus, something may look good on someone else but not on me. How will I know unless I can try it on? And, why should I be forced to keep the item if I don't like it? I have to admit that I have bought a few things on fs this summer/fall, but only items that I've tried on. And, that didn't always help. I have 3 pair of the cafe capris and they all fit differently. Thankfully, the pair that are too big don't fall off of me, but it's a pain to either pull them up all day or wear a belt (I'm not much of a belt person). My $.02

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  99. Math Teacher: I feel like I haven't seen you around here in ages. How are you? How's school going?

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  100. tigs, I own the cotton-silk lawn twisted placket shirt (style #98833) in both the indigo and the rhubarb, and mine are both 57% cotton, 43% silk. Perhaps you were sent the wrong shirt, or there is an error on the tag? My rhubarb shirt has the exact same light, floaty look and feel as the indigo, and there would be no mistaking it for a cotton shirt. I would double-check that shirt if I were you, because the rhubarb in the cotton-silk is lovely!

    I agree - the fit of this shirt is very slim, and it tends to run short in the torso. (I am a Petite and usually buy Petites in J.Crew tops/shirts, but this shirt is shorter than most on me.)

    I can get away without a cami if I wear a flesh-toned bra under both the indigo and rhubarb, but I wear the cami anyway if I'm wearing the shirt to work, just in case!.

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  101. From reading several posts, it sounds like several of you have had no problems returning final sale items you ordered online.

    For those of you who have returned items, did you include a note to explain why you need a refund or did you just return it without any explanation?

    It sounds like people are able to return things to get store credit. Maybe I will try this out the next time if I order something that doesn't work. I usually have resorted to putting them on ebay. Or maybe its just not worth the hassle...

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  102. I think I can explain the eBay issue. There are a number of "professional" eBay sellers whose business model consists of scooping up stuff on sale from retailers, then marking up and reselling on eBay. Then whatever doesn't sell on eBay, they return to the store and get their money back. This is great for the eBay sellers since they essentially have no inventory risk at all, but it creates a huge problem for the stores, especially those that sell fashion or seasonable merchandise. There are costs associated with selling the merch, costs associated with returning it and then you have your inventory dollars and space taken up with bits and pieces of then much older merch.

    So it is not surprising that stores like J. Crew that used to have very liberal discount and return policies are starting to tighten up. If the merchandise is sold on a final sale basis, the eBay seller has to make more judicious purchases since she now assumes the inventory risk and could be exposed to a loss if the merchandise doesn't sell.

    Other stores such as Coach and Pottery Barn have started banning shoppers they identify as eBay resellers and/or limiting or refusing returns.

    There is also the issue that has been mentioned before of stolen or gray market goods being sold on eBay by sellers in Asia. These items were never sold through legit channels so J. Crew never had its chance to make a profit on them.

    There are also examples of people who buy stuff on eBay and then return it to J. Crew stores.

    Finally, I very much doubt that Final Sale is a policy that makes customers buy less. First, J. Crew doesn't "make" customers do anything. The choice of whether to buy or not is up to the consumer. Second, my observation is that stuff flys out of the sale area as soon as it is added. A given individual may CHOOSE to buy less, but that just means more for the rest of us!!! :-)

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  103. Jennifer - I totally agree w/your suggestion about an exchange only policy. At least for those items that cannot be tried on in stores.

    jcrew guy in Canada - I agree that all retailers needs a sale area. It's a great way to get to know a brand and see if you like it or not. That's what I've done w/J Crew and know that many items are worth FP.

    Shannon - Very well said!

    To all -- at least we have each
    other to check with color & fit on many items before purchasing. This community is very reliable in that regard!!!

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  104. Since the FS has started I have resorted to buying several things when there is a free shipping code, and than return them. I know its not ideal but it allows me to try things on and than if I like them I order once they go on sale

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  105. blumre: thanks for asking. I read a lot, but don't always comment. School is going well, and grad school is keeping me busy. Don't the professors know we have lives, too? (My students probably think the same thing! :D) How are things with you - are things looking up?

    OT - my chino cooper jacket came today and it's so cute. I know it will be even cuter when I get rid of all the shipping wrinkles! :)

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  106. Anon @ 759

    Thanks for that perspective on the ebay discussion. I like with many other readers could not figure out the initial ebay influence on the final sale policy. I was trying to come up with some reasoning in my head but could not, however your explanation helps see the other side, (the return of unsold goods) and whether or not customers agree with that... it is still interesting to hear! I can only imagine the amount of factors that go into company return policies -- I personally was really surprised with Pottery Barn's change in return policy.

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  107. Hell, if they keep selling it, I'll keep buying it! :P I love you J.Crew!

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  108. This may be a bit off topic... I made an FS online purchase the other day and changed my mind on the size. I called within 5 mins of making the purchase to see if i could change the size. The person on the phone told me they cannot make any changes after an order is submitted. I was completely surprised. I had not even received the email confirmation yet, but she said there was nothing she could do. Is this someone else has experienced?

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  109. anon @ 11:35 PM - Yes, I have had the same experience. Once the order has been placed there are no modifications. I read something in a thread yesterday about a clock that you can see onscreen -- perhaps someone can expand on that...not sure if this is something the CS can see on their computer.

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  110. I think you have exactly 20 minutes to modify the order. If you are registered on the J. Crew site and you log in under "my account" you'll find links to your last 5 orders. New orders show up immediately in my experience. If you click on the link to your latest order you will see a ticking clock that tells you how long you have to change the order. It appears that all you can do from the website is delete an item. Not sure if you can add an item by calling CS.

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  111. Anony@5:15 Sorry but I find your response rude. Feel free to state your size and how it has worked for you over the years but don't insult me...I am 5'10" tall and weight 130 lbs. I have the same size in my closet of JCrew items from the past 6 years...pants size 8, shorts size 8, M in lounge wear, jackets/coats size 10 so there! I also have not grown in height--ha ha or weight has not changed. I swim laps 3 times a week for an hour and have done this for many years as well as walk a min. of 30-45 everyday. My size is the same and I order confidently from JCrew!

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  112. I think the styles are looser this year than in the past, and that makes it seem as if the sizes have gone up. The pieces that are inherently more fitted are still true to size, I find. (I usually do size down in the looser styles.)

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  113. anon 6:41 - Good point, the styles are changing from the fitted look, it is not just JC changing it is just the cycle of fashion.

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  114. I have some good news...my first positive website experience since the upgrade/downgrade:). I ordered a skirt that showed only 1 left in stock. A few mintues after I placed the order I saw my size/skirt disappear from the website. The CS rep that I spoke with said there was a 50-50 chance I'd get the skirt...well, I checked my account this a.m. and the skirt has a tracking number by it so I hope that means it is on it's way...it is the watercolor floral skirt in the atlantic blue color...I have the rosette tank in this color...does anyone have this skirt? any comments on it?

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  115. When placing an order in store over the red phone, if the item is on sale, do I have to pay shipping?

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  116. More good news...I sent an email (only one) and got a super duper quick response and they applied my educator's discount to my order that shipped yesterday that also had free shipping. Way to go JCrew!

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  117. Anony; yes you will have to pay shipping most likely if the item is on sale.

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  118. Hi Fashionista Social Worker: Say it ain't so Joe! I apologize if I have caused confusion - thank goodness it's not a hot item people are trying to research before buying. I had not seen the silk/cotton shirt (item 98698) in real life before I saw the 100% cotton Bright Rhubard in B&M. At the B&M, the CS spoke about this shirt as though it was the same one as on the web. (She pointed out JCrew puts some colors on sale before others.) After I received the Ivory and Indigo silk/cotton blend shirts I assumed it was a goof on JCrews part as far as marketing, etc., hence the post.) I am sure the silk/cotton blend Bright Rhubard is gorgeous. Oh well, now I have three button downs that are divine alone or with coverage.

    Bottom line, the Bright Rhubarb, 100% cotton is a twisted placket button down, with the crown emblem on the cuff BUT is not available on the web (as of right now), it has white buttons and is 100% cotton. It fits as nice as the silk/cotton but is slightly 'stiffer' since there isn't any silk. It must be a B&M only item.

    I apologize for any confusion! This is why I have been a long time reader and not a poster.

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  119. The online final sale has stopped me from making many a purchase...I fill my shopping cart, go through the check out process and then I don't commit to the purchases b/c I don't want the hassle of trying to make a return and/or getting maybe, maybe a gift card in return.

    Now, in store final sales, that is fine by me.

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  120. I have been told at my local J.Crew that all final sale items 20% off is optional . . . meaning that if you tell them that you want the option to be able to return the items, you just won't get the extra 20% off. . .which atleast gives you the option . . .

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  121. I dislike both in store and online very much. I think it's unreasonable to not be able to return/exchange something, and it's especially frustrating to learn that you actually CAN return final sale items as long as you're "in the know" about it - something the average J Crew customer probably doesn't realize. While I get that there are costs associated with additional transactions related to returns/exchanges, I would gladly pay a little more for sale items both in store and online to have the ability to return or exchange them. Instead, my money overwhelmingly goes to Banana Republic and Nordstrom for all of my work and fun clothes.

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  122. Has anyone ordered an item that wasn't a final sale item, but on the receipt said 'final sale item cannot be return'?

    I ordered a couple things in the past that I liked and when i received the package I found something really strange.

    The two item that was on the final sale package was returnable according to the receipt, but my other item wasn't on the final sale page was not returnable, it was even at full price!

    Is this some kind of mistake?

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  123. Someone mentioned they can tell how many items are in stock online... is that possible?

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  124. NE_Guy: Yea that happened to me, its just a discrepancy. Call in if you need to return something and it will all be sorted out.

    Anonymous: yes it is possible. but remember the website isnt always accurate anyway

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  125. To NE-Guy:
    Yes, this happened to me too. I ordered an item and it was labeled final sale but it was not when I ordered it. I emailed customer service because I wanted to return it to the store.

    They replied that it was a glitch and that I could return it the store. I saved the email and took it to the store and didn't have a problem returning it at all.

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  126. Another note about sizing. I am 5'4" and weigh 135-ish. I now have to buy a size 4 in the chinos to keep them from sliding off me. I am in no way a size 4. In the early days of J Crew I weighed 10 pounds less and wore an 8 for several years to come. And the clothes fit me the same (not baggy). Just in the last few years I have had to order down. Btw, this is not just J Crew, it seems to be universal for all major retailers (non-designer goods).

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  127. HI! New t this site but does anyone know if they will ever allow you use a teacher discount online? The closeest J Crew store to me is an outlet and over 200 miles away. The only way I will purchase online is if I can use one discount (or perhaps multiple discounts) and possibly free shipping.

    Thanks for your response!
    sharkbait8574@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete

Dear J.Crew Aficionadas & Aficionados: Please feel free (and encouraged) to share your thoughts and opinions. :) However, please note that this is still a personal blog. So comments that are considered inappropriate (e.g. obscene, racist, homophobic, personal attacks, rude, and just plain mean) will be removed.

And now back to J.Crew! :)