Thursday, February 19, 2009

J.Crew Swimwear {what's your review?}

It's almost that time again, when we start thinking about swimwear. It would be great to share with each other your reviews (e.g. what you thought of the fabric, sizing related concerns, etc.) on the various swim items (click here). It would help us all decide whether or not we should purchase them. :)

Also, J.Crew updated their fit guides, including the "swim" collection (click here).
What J.Crew swimwear items did you get or try on? Let us know what you thought of those items (e.g. did you have to size up or size down, did you find the cut flattering for your frame, etc.)? Do you even recommend J.Crew swimwear, and why? :)

80 comments:

  1. I've tried repeatedly to give J Crew's swimwear a chance. I've concluded it's designed for women with A/B chests. I have a C chest and am also long torso. While they make long torso suits, the gals look like they are trying out for Victoria's Secret. If I try out the limited D cup options, I'm stuck with the only choice of bikinis as the one piece suits are not long enough. Wish they would provide just a little more fabric. I've had the same issues with many of their v-shaped tops or crossover dresses. Lovely in the magazines, not so lovely on this 30 something C-cup gal. I'll continue to pass.

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  2. I have never tried on J Crew swimwear. I have doubts it will fit me. I am a 36 DD chest and a size 8/10. Most of the swimwear I have seen from J Crew looks too skimpy for me. I need more coverage and support than offered. I would much rather spend my money on a brand designed for full chested woman. I'm sure it looks phenominal on the 0-6 crowd with A/B cups.

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  3. I have never tried on their swimwear even though I love styles and colors that JCrew offers.

    I can't wait to read other people's reviews (esp. about the quality of it since I've had quality issues with JCrew shoes, jeans and cashmere in the past month)

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  4. I bought a swimming suite (separates) on final sale, $9.99 each piece. The quality is outstanding and I cannot wait for hot spring weather in San Diego to wear my new swimming suite. I bought bandeau top sz XS and bottom size S and they fit me perfectly. The sizes are my regular clothing sizes for tops and bottoms.

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  5. I don't have a lot of curves to speak of--I'm a B-C cup and wear 00 or P0 bottoms--but I've consistently found j.crew swimswear to be a tad on the skimpy side. Granted, I've only ever ordered stuff in XS (and had to return it), but judging by how teeny tiny it was, I don't know if moving a size up would work.

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  6. They always have the most gorgeous stuff, but where is the padding?!! Even though I'm a b-cup, I hate the idea of my out-of-control nipples saying hello to everyone at the beach.

    Which is what they do when I wear a swimsuit without padding/cups.

    Ick. Come on J Crew, please start putting cups in your bikini tops and swimsuits?

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  7. FRIPPLES!

    If I wore my jcrew bikini's in this weather...this is what would, you know, stand out. Haha.

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  8. haha I agree with Chloe. I would classify my (gorgeously patterned) JC suits as [at home] pool wear until I add a lining.

    I have the Coppelle Paisley One piece and Two piece Bandeau, as well as the Madras/ Baja Patchwork String Bikini. I have to say the one piece was a pleasant surprise -- the only 1 piece I have and it's quite classy, with a removable halter strap. I was not a huge fan of the rumpled (read: lumpy) Baja patchwork.

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  9. I tried on a few suits last week. Note I am a B cup and have very little in the behind.

    The ring halter tops are very flattering. The ring does not leave a mark and falls nicely on the chest area. It sits perfectly in your cleavage so it will not pinch you.

    The Jersey Lomellina bandeau halter top on the other hand is hideous! Not only is it not flattering it has no elastic whatsoever. Meaning one move in a pool or one wave and that top is coming off. The top literally just sits there...so if you're laying out fine but I'm sure moving to reach for your drink you would flash someone a little too much. And it is just very unflattering. YUCK.

    The Jersey Lomellina bottoms on the other hand aren't bad. It looks like the rouching would be unflattering on some people but because the fabric doesn't actually stretch to create the effect it doesn't make you look like you squeezed love handles into something too small. I might take these bottoms but definitely pair them with a different top.

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  10. sorry if its not on topic but has anyone tried on the aston ankle boots???? i have my eyes on them, but am hesitant to purchase. anyone wanna vouch/etc?? :)

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  11. I spoke to CS a few years ago about swimsuits for women in the C range. I was told that C chests are a difficult fit. When I asked the rep why, she was unable to provide a reason. I stick with the one pieces and avoid the 2 piece suits. It's unfortunate b/c I'd love to wear them.

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  13. I still remember that I once bought a one-piece, halter-style bathing suit back in 2005, and the very top of the front came to below my chest and the top of the back barely covered decency. (Maybe in Brazil.) I have a long torso but I don't see how anyone above 5 feet could wear this. I think I gave it to my 12-year-old neighbor.

    That said, I love their prints. I've had success with a polka-dot two-piece from a couple years ago where the cups are lined and have underwire. I always pause on the "glamour" style tops but I'd rather buy anything else on final sale but swimsuits. But with all the misses I've had and how active I am usually in the water (very), I don't really look to J. Crew swimwear.

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  14. i've actually always had good luck with jcrew swim wear over the last few years. i have to say that it wears well. i have suits from probably 7 years ago until now. i am a D cup which does make it difficult to fit, but i always stick with the styles they make for D-cup and i'm usually pretty good. the one pieces with underwire or the tankinis with underwire work great. this year i got (and think i will keep) the solid ruched bandeau tank. i got a similiar ruched tank a few years ago a loved it. i think the ruching is flattering. this one piece doesn't have underwire, which i wish it did, but the shelf bra and boning at the sides makes me feel pretty supported.

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  15. I am also very active in the water, these swimsuits won't work for me. They also look very skimpy.

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  16. I love JCrew swimsuits!! I have about 5-6 total (one-pieces and bikinins). I am an A/B cup, but with curves so I've learned how to fit my body. I love how bright and vibrant the suits are! Even after several years (and washings) the color remains true and the suits retain their shape. I can't wait to wear my new flamenco-dot suit I scored on final sale!

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  17. I usually go up a size in any swimwear. I wear 4P from J. Crew and I recently bought the solid banded french top and glamour bikini bottom on sale in size small and they fit well.

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  18. I echo everyone's sentiments about the padding issue. Fripples is always an issue for me too. Does anyone know if J Crew makes a swim bottom that hits higher on the waist. I'm not so keen on the lower cut bottoms. My baby is post-baby and I need to cover up some stretch marks. And no, I'm not ready to wear a one piece just yet!

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  19. I meant to say my *body* is post baby.

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  20. I bought a perfect cross back tank at a deep discount over the winter and ended up buying another, I loved it so much. The newer solid twisted cross bank tank looks quite similar. I am a D cup and ended up having to size down to a 4 (I usually wear a 6 in dresses and tops to accommodate). I have a long torso but am 5'4". The 6 was way too loose on top for any support. The result is a skimpier looking suit from the back (more of my back and sides show), but since it's a one piece it's not too much. Can't wait to wear them this summer!

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  21. I LOVE JC suits. I have about 6 or so. I can't wear a bikini( having twins made a mess of my tummy!!)and I have both one pieces and tankini pieces. I too have a long torso, and I have found that their long torso suits in the past couple of years have gotten WAY too long. I ended up returning them and getting a regular torso. My favorite is the Coppelle Paisley Halter suit-I love the print- and I have a polka dot halter suit that I always gets compliments on as well. The quality is really good for the price, especially if you get it on sale. I like that they are all lined too, and you can't beat the colors of the solid ones.
    That being said, I also have an adorable pink and white seersucker tankini from Target last year that I LOVE. It's always my go-to suit if I am feeling fat.

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  22. A tip for women with a larger chest: I am a large C/small D. I have a couple of suits that are regular sizing, but the key is to look for the suits that tie in the back (no clasps or hooks) and order a large instead of your regular size. I am normally a small, but the large allows enough room for my breasts in the cups, and the tie-back allows me to cinch it tight enough for my smaller frame.

    I am tempted to try the D-cup glamour top this year, just because it looks so, well, glamourous.

    Also, I've had my suits for ~5 years, and they keep their color nicely. Very happy with the quality.

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  23. I too have a lot of trouble with J Crew swimwear. I have to get S bottom and XL top and that top is still way too constricting. I had way better luck with one piece swimwear- I got Antibes 1-piece suit at huge discount and it seesm to work ok.
    I adore the prints-always fresh and little unexpected.

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  24. They need to make board shorts for women! I don't want to wear some frilly, glorified mumu (ie, the Darla beachdress) to cover up after swimming! The lavender pineapple ones in the men's section are so cute! :)

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  25. I love them b/c I am small chested and their top styles really work well for me.... but the bottoms always seems to pinch and "squish", even when I size up! For 6.99 or so on final sale, I fine with that ... the quality is excellent from my experience!

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  26. I have the one-piece Solid twist-front bandeau tank, purchased in spring '08. (Dark brown)

    I really like it. It may be the best swimsuit I've owned in my recent adult life.

    Me: Mom, 5'7", 34C, average size 4 in JCrew tops, size 6 in JCrew bottoms.

    Funny part is their swimsuit size that fits me best is Size 8.

    The only part I would change is to have it a little "tighter" on the top ... I'm more comfy using the strap than going strapless, but that's not a big surprise for any swimsuit.

    I really only look at their one piece styles (I can't show off my tummy anymore after 2 babes) but I see them as simple elegance. I personally don't want to be tuti fruity loosie at the pool/beach. I want something more sophisticated, which I think the combo of their styles and solid colors achieve. And the suit has very good coverage without being too modest. Close to perfection if you ask me!

    I think I just talked myself into purchasing another, lol! I just can't decide on the best color for my skin tone.

    I really like the Jersey Lomellina® twist-bandeau tank -- I'm just not thrilled with the color choices, love the coral but not sure it will work for me. And I like the Solid ruched bandeau tank in oasis green. They've had a ruched bandeau in FS, but it is bright berry I think is the color, and I try to stay away from reds and pinks because my skin has pink tones.

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    Replies
    1. Could you please tell me if you think the Femme ruched one piece in size 8 would fit me? I am exactly your height and cup size. I weigh 125 but I usually wear a 6 in clothes.

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  27. Has anyone tried the solid foldover swim short? It looks cute online, but I'm wondering how it works on real women. Specifically, I'm wondering how it would work with my body issues (a little bit of a tummy that oddly looks worse in a one piece). Thanks!

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  28. I actually love their swimwear but I am a 32DD/34D (depending on the brand) so I can only buy their D-cups... I often feel I get short changed because they don't make a lot of options in that size--- I also minorly hate that they call it a "special size" -- It's a D cup, its NORMAL!!!

    I do love their wide band tops and bottoms and I find their tankini tops to be the perfect length.

    Also do not look to these bathingsuits for active sports (volleyball, swimming, competitive sailing) they provide NO and I mean NO support.

    SIZE UP is my advice to you-- I am a 4 and occasionally a 2 in their clothes... in ther bathing suits I am a Medium or an 8

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  29. I have tried many JC swimsuits and have sworn off of them. I'm 30 y/o, 6 feet tall with an athletic build and broad shoulders, and a 36C chest. I typically wear a 12/L top and a 10/M bottom.

    JC swimwear is simply not supportive enough for me up top. There is no structure to the suits whatsoever. Bandeaus look horrible on me due to my broad shoulders, and contrary to JC's apparent intentions, I intend to actually swim in my swimsuit. I need built in (not removable, which bunches up) light padding or side boning on my suits up top to keep the girls looking perky. I realize a couple suits have side boning, but usually those styles are designated "fits A/B cups best" - well, those are the sizes that don't really need it!

    Now, for the bottoms. In the past I have liked JC's "regular" bikini bottoms. No more. I do not like how they are cut so narrow across the butt. I don't need granny panties, but I also don't need a wedgie every time I take a step!

    This ends my rant.

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  30. I have only tried their swimwear once...it was over a year ago when they had those cute seersucker bikinis. The top fit fine for me (I'm a B cup) but the bottoms just didn't work. I tried S, M, & L and none of them looked good or fit well. I ended up sending them all back and haven't tried anything else since...

    Since I am more of an active swimmer anyway, I really like what Patagonia makes.

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  31. So funny- I was going to log on this morning and write a review of my newest suit. It just came in the mail yesterday and I am over the moon about it. I have been buying J Crew suits for years without any complaint, ever. I need a D cup suit that is ACTUALLY a D cup and has ACTUAL support- the crew never lets me down! I think I have purchased almost every D cup variety they offer- I have the banded bikini top, glamour top, cross back one piece, and a bandeau top one piece. I bought the bandeau top hesitantly, worried because really, just how supportive could a bandeau D cup suit be? I wanted it because it was the summer before I got married and I didn't want tan lines. I figured worst case scenario, I could wear it in my backyard to lay out in and even out whatever lines I got at the beach. Well the suit has stood up to two summers of ocean swimming and I will still be wearing it this year.

    The suit I just bought is a two piece. I selected item #10732, the D cup twist front swing top and item # 10285, the foldover short. I got the top in antique purple and the bottom in cerise (purple and orange is my favorite combination) when the colors were on sale- 34.99 for the top and 29.99 for the bottoms. First of all, the fabric is the most substantial bathing suit fabric I've seen yet. I know there have been some concerns over J Crew's quality but based on this suit I feel like the quality of their swimwear has, if anything, improved. The fabric is dense and appears that it will retain its shape very well. The shorts are really cute and not really a 'short' but more like a 'boy short' cut pair of underpants. the foldover waist band is really nice as you can adjust how high or how low you would like it. The top is essentially my dream top. It fits exactly like my favorite style of blouses do- close at the bust and draping over the middle. It is not loose or baggy and will not be flying up and around me in the water. I would say that it fits closely without being tight. It skims my midsection and falls to my hip bone. The detachable strap is also a lot nicer than I anticipated. I was expecting just a string that would hook on but it is a nice, thick, at least one inch wide strap that offers additional support. Between that and the side boning, I think I will be fine.

    I selected such a full coverage suit because I spend so much time in the ocean. I swim and surf constantly and don't especially like to worry about which part of me is hanging out where while I enjoy the water. That being said, this suit is also adorable. I tried it on for my husband and he said it was 'cheeky.' He said it had a kind of vintage look- he's right. It does.

    As for sizing, I am usually a 12 in J Crew pants and the large fit just perfectly. I wear a 34 D bra and the large top was perfect as well. I would recommend it to anybody. Sorry for the novella- have a great day everyone.

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  32. during the "hoho" promo i picked up a few separates from final sale and couldn't be happier.

    i am a pretty solid B cup with some junk in the trunk. i like medium tops and large bottoms.

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  33. Has anyone found a J.Crew swim top that supplements and lifts the chest? I am an A/B on top and prefer a top that enhances a bit. I usually go with Vicky's Secret swimwear for that reason.

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  34. I really like J Crew swim separates but the one-pieces don't fit me :( I'm 5'4"and usually a 2 in J Crew but I have a short torso so when I ordered the twisted bandeau strapless one-piece it was soooooo long. I ordered a 4 so maybe a 2 would've been shorter but it would've made me look like a sausage. They make long torso suits, why not short?

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  35. I have 2 JCrew suits. The one piece I have fits great. I have a long torso so the special long size fits very well.
    The 2 piece not so much. I don;t like the fact that straps don't adjust and the leg holes on teh bottoms are too big so it looks like a diaper.

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  36. I have 2 jcrew suits and love them both! However, I do not feel that their sizes are consistent. I usually wear an XS in tops and both my swimsuit tops are a M.

    I have the keyhole tank and the strapless bandeau tank.

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  37. Workaholic:

    I totally agree with you about the Jersey Lomellina bandeau halter top. I tried a XS and S in this top. The XS was too tiny, but the small had too much extra fabric. On top of that it didn't stretch enough to cover my chest which gave me this weird bulgy side boob thing. Very unflattering and not at all suited for actual swimming or even laying out imo.

    I also tried the JL hipster with the flower in a small which fit and was really adorable. The fabric was very smooth, laid nicely, and had a slight sheen to it.

    For reference, I'm a 32C and a 2/26 in bottoms.

    Britt

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  38. I am OBSESSED with JCREW bathing suits!!!!! I own so many, it's unreal. I am a XS top and S bottom. The quality is the BEST. i'd much rather have a $30 JCREW set than a $200 designer suit, and that's coming from a label snob!

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  39. I stopped buying JCrew swimwear back when they stopped offering it in stores. Bathing suit shopping is painful enough in the store dressing rooms, but at least I don't have to order several styles/sizes of suits, only to end up returning some (or all) due to fit issues. The online fit guide is somewhat helpful, but there is just NO substitute for actually trying something on IRL.

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  40. Interestingly, I think I'm in the minority by saying that I adore J.Crew swimsuits. The love affair began about 7 or so years ago with a fantastic black bikini that I still wear all the time and is still true black. I don't own any one piece suits, but I have about 5 different bikinis that are all different top styles (bandesu, string, french, halter, underwire) and then have either the low rider or regular bikini bottoms to go with them. They always fit me well and last forever! :) I think I'll need another by the end of summer...

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  41. I have 2 suits and love them. I also bought some of the solid color bright tops in the "Sale" to go with black solid bottoms. I can't wait for summer and the pool to open. I will be living there shortly!!

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  42. I don't like how majority of them are not padded & they don't have much options for non-bikini suits :( they are all solid color, no cool patterns :(

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  43. ALL of my bikinis are from J Crew. I love, love, love the padded bandeau style top and the low rise or regular bikini bottom. Used to be size small in both pieces but as of last year had to size down to XS on top. The bandeaus seemed to have gotten larger -- hopefully I haven't gotten smaller on top. I agree with other posters that J Crew should definitely make more tops with some sort of padding. I will not buy a swimsuit without it.

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  44. Ok, I have the world's most difficult time finding swimwear. It's usually torture for me. I'm a size 12, and a 36DD/DDD, so sizing for me is ridiculous. I have tried every "cup size" suit Victoria's Secret makes and they are all completely inappropriate showing waaaay too much boob.

    That being said, this year, my friend told me to try JCrew's D-cups. I never had and figured that they would never fit. After all , it is "D" cup not "DD/DDD" cup ;)

    I was very pleasantly surprised!

    I actually bought FOUR bathing suits in the past few months on final sale and I will never go back. I LOVE Jcrew's d-cup bathing suits. Like some people said, they dont get the best designs, but I dont really care. As long as it fits, doesnt look like it's for my grandma, and has cute colors I am happy!

    I have the tankini, the wide-band halter, and the solid banded halter, as well as a myriad of bottoms. My favorite by far is the solid banded halter and the solid ruched bikini (that has the tie sides). They are both SO flattering, and really hold me in! I got an XL on top and it fits great. I have both L and XL for top and bottoms and to be honest, I dont see too much of a difference.

    I actually found that the halter tankini was the most low cut/ revealing out of all four, including the bikinis! I would highly recommend.

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  45. I have the solid brief bottom and solid twist front swing top in cerise. I bought medium in both. I am a 36B (post 2 kids) and wear a 6 in bottoms, Small, sometimes if extra tight, a medium in tops. The mediums are comfortable in the swim.

    I love the fact that the top has boning at the sides. It adds support. I may have to grab a few more colors.

    Great coverage for running after kids at the beach or pool.

    I had bought the solid ruched tank in chocolate medium, but it was too revealing for me. I'll offer it up on next week's selling blog if you can find a chocolate bottom to match!

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  46. J Crew Swimwear is great for color and variety. I love all the mix and match. However.....

    Their target audience does seem to be the 'lay on chaise/lay on the towel' buyer. Also the majority of what they offer seems to be targeted to the 'haven't had a baby yet' crowd.

    It would be nice to have a portion of their selection targeted to active, (support, more coverage, lining) women who may be a bit older and have gone through pregnancy. WITHOUT losing the stylishness, awesome colors, variety, and selection.

    I own the wide band halter top in navy and black, (great for pale brunettes!) and it is highly adjustable, and very flattering. I also own the basic bikini bottoms to match, and they are pretty flattering. I wouldn't mind a bit more coverage on these without having to go all the way into briefs, which are sooo unflattering.

    Lands End is definitely going after this market. They have moderate coverage 2 pcs which I appreciate, however, they don't have the J Crew style/cool factor.

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  47. Hey Anon 2:33...I agree with MOST of what you said...but I said in the post right before yours that I have the brief...and I find it to be quite flattering...not like the brief undies our moms and grandmothers wore. It is cut higher than a traditional brief on the sides...so it does still have some pizzaz! :)

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  48. I am a huge fan of their bikinis. I have only bought the ones that are sized xs, s, m, l, xl, so I couldn't speak for their one-pieces or numbered sized bikinis.

    I have swimmer's build (I have been swimming my whole life and now coach, too) so I find J. Crew works for me here. Full Disclosure...I have a really hard time with J. Crew pants, my sizes run all over the place and I often find the pants pull where they shouldn't and gap where they shouldn't...but with J. Crew swimwear, it always fits! I consistently wear a small top (I am a 34B or 34C--if I am lucky) and a medium bottom. Only one time (in all the years of buying J. Crew bathing suits) have I had to return a top. Last summer, their candy seersucker tops were TINY! Even the medium I exchanged it for was tight-ish. I LOVE the bahia print ruched bandeau and bikini bottom I bought in January 2008. The style was fun, fit well, and looked pretty.

    Once thing I would love? Less of the whole "ties at neck and back" thing. I can NEVER ever get it the correct tightness and I feel like the top is going to fall off. If I love a print and it ties at the back and neck, NO WAY. If it ties at the neck and clasps in the back, I will buy it.

    I purchased the fresco bandeau and bottom yesterday, so hopefully these work. :)

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  49. I LOVE jcrew suits. I am a pretty universal sz 2, 34C and always get a medium top, small bottoms. I should mention that getting tops that tie in back is helpful for me. In addition to great colors/lack of fading, I actually like their coverage - the wide band halter tops and wide band bottoms are my go-to suits for any beach running/snorkeling activities. The string bikinis have significantly less coverage (I have the coral ruffle one from 2 yrs ago), but is my husband's fav suit ever. Highly recommended for all types of bathingsuit situations and mine have lasted for yrs.

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  50. I have at least a dozen J.Crew swimsuits, all bikinis. We have a hot tub and a pool, as well as a lake cottage and we take at least two vacations to warmer climate beaches each winter so I have a lot of opportunity to wear swimsuits. I have participated in water sports since I was a child and became a lifeguard at 14 so I'm right at home near or on the water.

    I am 34C and firm on top so the triangle tops are fine and I do not find the bottoms skimpy. I love the mix-and-match separates and also the prints that are available each year. Last year my favorite (or I should say, my husband's favorite) was the bright stripe bikini in hot pink.

    This winter I purchased the Lomellina Rio Halter Top and Glamour Bikini in azalea during the HOHOHO promo. I see the color is no longer available and I'm sure it is because it sold out because it is gorgeous. I love the fabric and the fit is so smooth. A lot of people go for Final Sale items when there is a discount promo but I usually take the opportunity to get that expensive swimsuit I've scoped out. The favorites do often sell out so it is nice to get a deal in the color I want.

    I have one pair of J.Crew bottoms each in the brief, boyshort and track short. They are great for a little more coverage when the situation calls for it, usually with the in-laws or if I'm between waxings. ;) I have mostly J.Crew triangle tops but also underwire, bandeau and halter styles.

    I have never seen a J.Crew suit that is unlined and some of the older triangle tops used to have lightweight cups inside, but that no longer seems to be available. The oldest J.Crew suit I have is from 1999 and I still wear it. The quality of J.Crew swimwear is excellent. I also have Nike, Speedo, Anne Cole, Calvin Klein, Roxy and Spindrift suits for comparison. The good thing about J.Crew suits is that you can mix and match the basics, which is great for vacation packing. Not that they take up much room.

    Swimwear is one of my favorite things from J.Crew, since I first started shopping there. The quality and fit has remained constant - constantly great!

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  51. I actually recently purchased the J. Crew swimsuit in the picture that you included in this post (navy blue polka dots) and I love it. It fits perfectly and has sort of a retro look to it. When I received my catalog that debuted this season's swim wear, its the first thing that my eye went to, and the suit that I kept coming back to. Highly recommended!

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  52. Monogramgirl--I admit that it's been a few years since I tried the brief. I'll give it another try--thanks! **2:33

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  53. Sophia who asked about higher cut bottoms...

    the briefs are fairly high cut. they are definitely full coverage in the front and back. they go up to right under my belly button. For me personally I think they're too high, but they definitely are flattering and hold it all in!

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  54. I should have named Sea Folley suits instead of Sprindrift, which is the style of Sea Folley suit.

    Anon @2:55

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  55. Lands End makes alot of innovative quality swimsuits, for all body types in addition to great performance swimsuits that can withstand chlorine damage and last for years.

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  56. Last year I ordered three pieces in the solid color swimsuits and ended up returning them all It just wasn't flattering: for the bottoms size small was too bare and size medium was too big. And I wholeheartedly agree with other that the bikini tops desperately need more lining.

    I also find it very annoying that they only offer a few swim items in the stores. And the fact that what little they do carry disappears before the 4th of July!

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  57. These are the ONLY suits that fit my lovely, curvy, size 12 bottom, d-cup top :). the 2 pieces have really nice coverage without looking frumpy and old (i am only 24 and all my teeny friends love those string bikinis lol). I am LOVING the watercolor stripe bikini!! The tie hipster bottoms are perfect for me as the regular bikini bottoms actually make me look worse...weird, I know. Any gals out there looking for a fab bikini, this one's it! The back also ties so it's good for people who have small ribcages but need the boob coverage. Also, I used to wear J Crew halter tops (the standard ones they have every year) when I was a lifeguard at a summer camp. I wore them EVERY day and they held up so nicely. My only complaint is that they are lined but don't have that glorious foam lining (not padding) to hide the girls from peeking out. The suits are kind of pricey and I will get maybe one every year at full price, then when the sales hit I stock up!

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  58. I LOVE the J Crew swimsuits! I only have bikinis, in various styles, including bandeau and triangle/string tops. I wear a 2 or 4 in their other clothes, and have an A chest. I consistently wear a S top & S bottom in the swimwear. I love the fit of the bikini bottoms because they actually COVER the behind (and proportionally I have a little more behind). and of course the patterns are so cute! The swimwear is the one kind of item I can really confidently order on this never-ending "final sale"...

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  59. I just returned 8 out of 12 swim pieces I got from my last JCrew delivery. :(

    32B, xs and petite 0 usually

    I have to say something about the Solid wrap-front tank with the crossback. I ordered a 2 because the 0's were out, and was surprised to see how much I had to struggle to get into the swim suit. The waist area was super snug, I thought I was going to break it. After I got it on, it felt like I was being compressed from all sides. So beware, and order a size up just in case.

    Wowed about the color and patterns on the Flutter paisley bikini, I tried on and was disappointed by how naked I felt after I put them on. Smoothness is wonderful, but it's uncomfortably thin for me. It felt luxurious though. The wide-band hipster it came with drew odd faces from my sweetheart, so it too was returned. No padding or even a place to add padding, with only one layer of cloth.

    I have tan skin, so I thought I'd look great in cerise and fresh orange, but it just looked ghastly. I'm glad I didn't spring for any in those colors in FS.

    I snagged a Solid side-tie hipster which distracts from my plentiful thighs and covers my backside comfortably, but I'm afraid I'll lose the ties somehow as they aren't sewn on.

    My true score of the delivery was a dark peony Solid twist-front swing top in xs. I love the swing mid section and it looks fine over my natural-waisted boardshorts. The color made me look juicy and ripe, and the strap is going to need some reinforcement because I adjusted a side, and the strap came undone on one side and whipped behind my head. Not what I want to fuss with on the beach. If the other side had come undone, I'd be strapless on the beach. Unforgivable.

    Has anyone had success adding padding to the unpadded suits? I asked a JCrew rep last year, but she didn't have any answers.

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  60. The glamor bikini in cerise is gorgeous. I wasn't sure if the color would look right in person or if the fit (32D) would actually fit my larger chest and small ribcage, but it fits like a dream and looks very, well, glamorous! Definitely a great buy!

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  61. i bought the moonlight garden bikini from this season and it fits really well!
    (http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Browse/WomenBrowse/Women_Feature_Assortment/NewArrivals/swim/PRDOVR~12809/12809.jsp)

    especially the halter top (i'm small chested)...usually i have issues with the fabric on other bikini tops sliding around and possibly exposing myself but this one stays put and is pretty flattering. the only thing i wish is that the pattern didn't look so much like camo. but i still love it and can't wait to wear it! :)

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  62. I LOVE JCREW Swimwear and have been wearing their one and two pieces for years! They are indestructable and the colors remain vibrant. The fabric is strong and holds everything in place... all very flattering in my opinion, all classic, and there are so many options for a variety of body types... I always stock up on sale suits b/c you can't beat the price tag.

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  63. I too am a huge fan of J. Crew swimwear! I have been buying their swimsuits for years and years and have several that are still in fantastic condition even though they're 4 years old.
    I am a large B/small C cup and take a S in their tops and a medium in bottoms (I normally wear a 6 in their pants).

    I do have to say that twist bandeau doesn't seem to be nearly as cute in person as it is on the model. I bought it last year in brilliant navy and have only worn the top once! It has padding, but seems to flatten out the girls and just have an overall odd shape... I'm not a fan of bandeau tops in general so maybe that's the problem.

    Their halter tops fit like a dream in my opinion! Not too much coverage, but definitely not too little. I also love that their bottoms provide plenty of coverage (I have a booty and I'm always cautious of those VS swimsuits that are "Brazilian cut"... that for my body = practically a thong! I think overall they're a great investment because they're classic and last for a really long time!

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  64. I LOVE JCrew bikinis. I have only ever bought the size XS-S-M-L-XL grouping. I am 6/8 bottom and top and have consistently worn a M. I'm pretty much a rectangle shape and am relatively tall. I agree with some of the other posters...that for a C-cup (I'm a 34/36C depending) stick with the tie back styles...I swear by the tie back wide band halter...its very classic. In fact, I have the same bikini in about 7 colors. I usually can get them on final sale for CHEAP! Now, I will say that there is a big size difference between the M and L and in some styles the M has been too tight but the L way too big.

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  65. I agree with Jordan. I have had a ton of success with JCrew bikinis, in particular the wide band halter that ties in the back. I like the fact that you can tie it in back yourself rather than just hook it. I am between a C and D cup and the D-cup size works for me.

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  66. Every time I see something I want from J Crew they are sold out. Recently I so wanted the new Flutter Paisley bikini, but by the time I got my catalog in northern Michigan, they were out! Why is there stock limited! Didn't they ever hear of backorder! Who actually wears extra small anyway?They even show stuff completely sold out, why? I am giving up on J crew.

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  67. I have "out of control nipples" as someone else mentioned and have resolved to never order a plain JCrew bathing suit or string top again! My chest is more nipple- less boob so the string top with its colorful pattern yet non-existant padding makes me look like a 14 year old in her first bikini:)

    You can't beat an extra 30 % off of final sale, sale though, so I just purchased the Fresco bandeau top and bikini bottom (27 altogether!!)...it SAYS it is padded so I am hoping for the best!

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  68. I just bought a j.crew swimsuit but I was having some sizing issues. I'm a 32C/30D and I went by the inch measurements to find my size and ended up with an XS. Boy did my cups runneth over when I tried that bad boy on! The boning on the side of the bandeau was probably about an inch and a half down my boobs even when I squeezed them to the center... it was not ok!

    I'm sort of conflicted now. They don't have an XS D-cup, but then I'm afraid a small might be too close to an XS (it was seriously bad) but I'm really petite around the top, so I'm afraid medium's cups will go too far around my body and I wear an xs/0 in everything else so medium seems like I'm too far. ARHGHHAGH why aren't these in stores!?

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  69. Sophie, I would suggest getting a suit from JCrew that adjusts more than say a bandeau top would, like a string top. That way you could get the coverage of a medium, yet adjust the rest of it to fit you the best way possible.
    Also, the Harbor Stripe Underwire top looks like it has support, is a bandeau, has an adjustable back and comes specifically in d-cup so you could say- get a 2 w/ D-Cup.

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  70. I am really interested in purchasing swimwear from jcrew b/c of all the great reviews. Just wondering if someone can suggest the sizes I should get If I were going to purchase the solid string bikini top and the solid ruched bikini or the solid string hipster bottom? I am 5'4" w/ 34b bust and usually a 25 in jeans. I don't own much in jcrew but when I have ordered pants I needed a size 0. Any help would be appreciated!

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  71. I neeeeeed help on a swimsuit!!

    I just ordered the Vista Paisley twist bandeau top and matching bottom. I am small- usually size 0 in bottoms and xs in tops; I am a 32 B.

    The bandeau top was HORRIBLE. It fit fine around, but it only covered a fraction of my breast. I felt like I was going to just pop out of it, from both the top and the bottom.

    I really love this swimsuit- I like bandeau styles as they give you a good alternative on a bikini but don't have your junk all over the place. What size should I order now? I was thinking that I should order a medium, but would that be too big for my body, and would it cover my breasts properly?

    HELP!

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  72. I bought the Microluxe string hipster bottoms and halter in orange on sale. Thank god it was final sale because the halter has the thinnest lining! I was trying it out in my room and it wasn't even cold and you can see my nipples sticking out right through it. I have an A cup and I'm about 155 lbs and 5' 6". I am not skinny but I'm not overweight either, and the Medium bottoms and top fit perfectly. I just can't wear this in public! Thank goodness I can return these..which is a shame because I got them for $14 each. I'm really curious as to why they don't put at least a little bit of padding.

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  73. Hi! I have a question about the strapless one-pieces that come with a halter strap!! I hope I'm not posting this in the wrong place, but I'm not really sure where to post it. SO I want to buy a swimsuit from J. Crew which includes the halter strap (and a shoulder strap? I'm not sure about this. The link is below.)

    http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/swim/specialswimsizes/padded/PRDOVR~26674/99102023150/ENE~1+2+3+22+4294967294+20~~~17+4294967001~90~~~~~~~/26674.jsp

    "We love the vintage-inspired silhouette, exquisite ruching across the front and removable halter and shoulder straps"

    So there are shoulder straps? Can someone please explain more on them as I have never purchased a J. Crew bathing suit before? Also, are these straps flimsy, or can they stay on if I swim a few laps in the pool? The main reason I am asking is because I have to take a swim test for school and I really hate swimming so I don't have a swimsuit, and I would rather not have my swimsuit fall off!! :)

    Thanks for your help in advance!!

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  74. I am looking in to purchasing a Tulle underwire bikini top and Tulle ruffle bikini bottom. I am usually a 34B in bra size but when I sized myself using J Crew's sizing chart it said I am more like a 32A. I found this very strange as I haven't been a 32A since I was about 13! Could someone please tell me if I should just stay with my regular bra size, or order the one that J Crew says I am? Help Please!!

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  75. Hi, the best thing to do if you are unsure of your size (top or bottom) is go to a JCrew store and try on the available swimwear in the size you think you are. Because this season, I believe they made their sizings bigger in proportion. I wear size 34B bra but that is because I don't like it too tight on my chest. But I found out by trying on their swimwear in store that I fit their 32A top (XS top most likely) and XS bottom. At American Eagle I'd be medium bottom and medium top. I also am getting the Tulle swimsuit and that is what I found. So try it on first before ordering!! I had to the return my medium because it was huge--like could fit 38C or greater chest! And I noticed small was also pretty large as well! If you are a true 34B cup then perhaps small would work. Good luck! :)

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  76. Jcrew has drastically changed their sizes recently. I am a C34 and have hips and so Im always a size 6 even though I am slender. however when I ordered a Jcrew party dress in 6 that was supposed to be convertible- either strapless or not- it was way too loose and no way was it going to be able to hold itself up without straps. so I switched down to a size 4 which was perfect. I have always been a size 6 in jcrew and every other store and now im a 4?? i think theyre making the sizes bigger to make women feel better about themselves. i dont care what size I am I just want this stuff to fit. especially when its really expensive.
    also i bought the white string bikini top in a medium and bottom in a small. the top was a little big even though i have a large bust and the bottom was saggy in the back it looked horrible and felt weird. I just found it really frustrating because i have big boobs and a decent ass and the sizes really confused me. how am i a small and extra small? that doesnt make sense if im an xs then what are the size 0 women wearing? ugh. and i exchanged it a month ago and it still has not arrived. im really annoyed with them

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  77. I'll start by saying J.Crew bathing suits are well made and many of them are beautiful. The problem is the sizing. It would serve everyone well if they allowed you to review individual pieces because, let's face it, the sizing varies by style, the models are too tiny and perfect and God knows how the suits will fit on "normal" figures, and, the bottom line: we can really benefit from each other's input.

    Every few years I pick out a J.Crew suit and order it. And every time I end up sending them back because the bottoms are too big, the top is too small, or vice versa. I can never seem to get it right even though I follow the size chart. This is why I'm suggesting that they change their site to allow us to review each piece right then and there. If something runs big or small, we'll know from the other reviews. J.Crew would really benefit from this because...I don't know about the rest of you...I get discouraged ordering things when I have to send them back. And usually I don't reorder.

    Per my two year cycle I have ordered the solid triangle halter top (S - my bra size is 34B), and the solid twist bottom (XS - because in previous tries the S was saggy and baggy). We'll see how it goes but again, if I have to send them back, NO MORE.

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  78. Here is my sizing experience with the jcrew swimwear this year. So I bought 2 suits. All the tulle collection. I order everything in xs, my usual bottom size (tulle hipster, tulle retro hipster, tulle twist bandeau) and the tulle under wire in a 32D(which is my actual bra size)The twist bandeau fit perfect! Both the bottoms fit really well on my rear no sagging, but a bit tight around my lovehandle section(were i carry most my weight, I'm no J.crew model) but still fit well. The only problem I really had was with a under wire top. It was HUGE! The band around fit okay, a bit loose but it was the cup size that was the problem. Also the under wire has no padding so this could also be a reason why is runs bigger (more room for the boobs) Usually wearing a D cup I thought Id be fine, but I will def need to size down a cup...actually I think I might just end up ordering 32B.

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