Seek & Find: Will you visit J.Crew this Weekend?

This is the weekly "sale watch" post, to help each other find sale items at our various local J.Crew stores. ;)

If you are stopping by a J.Crew store this weekend to see what's available in the Spring/Summer sale, or to see some new Fall arrivals {sigh!} in person, maybe you might be willing to share that with us in this post. In particular, if you could share with us a few of the noteworthy items that are available, at what prices, and potential sizes the store is carrying (as well as the store location)- that would be fantastic!

Also, please let us know if your local store is carrying an additional percent off sale. Thanks in advance!!! :)

P.S. I noticed that many of you have already been reporting sale items (and in which stores) in other posts which by the way "thank you!" :) I really appreciate how helpful we are for each other!

J.Crew Email: Are you missing out?

J.Crew sent an another email to its non-card members to invite them to open a J.Crew Credit Card (refer to the April 28th "J.Crew Email: Are you missing out?" post). The email lists the same benefits associated with being a card member (which have been discussed many times on this blog).

Looking back, the perks of being a J.Crew credit card holder are the same. Since that's the case, I am not really moved to open a line of credit with them.

What are your thoughts on J.Crew's Credit Card? Do you feel the perks over the years have improved with time? What perks would you like to see be added for current card members? ;)

Side Note: The wonderful blogger behind J'Adore These Stores, requests our help. She shares the following:

Hello JCAs! I am working on a school project about one of everyone here's favorite topic - J.Crew!

Specifically, I'm looking at some of J.Crew customer incentives (cardholder benefits, free shipping, and discount codes) and making recommendations regarding customer retention and loyalty.

If you can spare about 2 minutes, please fill out the appropriate survey (links below) - there is one survey for cardholders, and one survey for non-cardholders.

I will be giving away a gift to a random respondent from each survey! Thank you in advance for your time!

• Link for cardholders: click here
  
• Link for non-cardholders: click here
  

Please note: I am NOT affiliated with J.Crew in any way, and this survey is not being conducted on behalf of anyone but myself for a school project. This survey is to gather data for said project. You can e-mail if you'd like details on the project itself.

Love It or Leave It: Sienna Fringed Moccasin Booties

Sienna Fringed Moccasin Booties
Click here for product page
Item 17499
Regular: $88.00

In J.Crew's latest catalog (click here to view online), I noticed several shots of models wearing moccasins. Turns out, J.Crew is offering the moccasin booties.

J.Crew describes them as the following: "In the softest, most supple suede, this is a pair we're going to kick back in time and time again. Finished with flirty fringe detail and a lace-up back. Suede upper with suede laces. Unlined. Rubber sole with rubber forepart for better traction."

I am surprised to see J.Crew offering moccasins that are not meant to be slippers worn around the house. It doesn't seem to be one of their usual offerings- of super cute heels, flats, & boots.

Although the price seems reasonable, these booties do not seem that attractive to me- not even on the gorgeous models with perfectly styled clothes. I am not a fan of the fringe on the boots, let alone the the lace-up back (which seems like a lot of work to get them on). Turn them into driving mocs and you might get me on board with them. ;)

What are your thoughts on the Sienna Fringed Moccasin Booties? Do you "love it" or would you "leave it"? Have you seen them at a store? If so, please share with us your review. :)

Quick Poll: Do you like the Sienna Fringed Moccasin Booties?

J.Crew Email: ready or not, here we come...

A big "thanks!" to Ema who let us know about a recent email J.Crew sent announcing a new store opening. On Tuesday, August 11th, J.Crew will open a new Crewcuts store in New York City, NY (nearby J.Crew's Collection store on 1035 Madison Avenue).

According to an interview with Jenna Lyons (refer to the "Another Interview with J.Crew's Lyons" post): "While it won’t be the first free-standing Crewcuts, come this August, the Upper East Side will get a store at 1200 Madison Avenue. This new store will carry the full assortment of the line: shoes, accessories, even party clothes. We are so excited to be coming to such a beautiful neighborhood."

The address for the location is:

Crewcuts on Madison
1200 Madison Avenue
(Between 87th & 88th Streets)
New York City, NY

Sometimes a coupon of some sort will be mailed (either snail mail or email) to the area's local residents (as J.Crew does with most store openings and re-openings). It sounds like the new Crewcuts store will be amazing. I can't wait to see it, in person! :)

Congrats to the local residents of New York City!!! :)

J.Crew Email: New styles just added to final sale. In stores and online.

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta, who let us know about J.Crew's latest email.

J.Crew is letting us know that new styles have been added to their final sale, both online (click here) and in stores. Many JCAs confirmed this news as they mentioned seeing an increase of sale items, as well as pop-backs, at today's sale update. However, a lot of JCAs also mentioned that they are holding out, in order to purchase the new Fall arrivals instead.

Are you planning to check out J.Crew's Final Sale section? Are there any items you are surprised to see on sale? :)

J.Crew Jewelry & Accessories {here to stay!}

"Thanks!" to RatsOnParade (in this post) who let us know about an an interesting article over at the Wall Street Journal (click here) that mentions J.Crew.

Retailers Highlight Accessories; With New Wardrobes a Tough Sell, Chains Try Belts, Bangles and Bags
By Elizabeth Holmes
July 24th, 2009

Clothing retailers are expanding their collections of belts, bangles and bags in hopes these high-margin accessories will boost slumping sales.

Casual wear retailer J.Crew Group Inc. opened its first accessories boutique last month in New York and soon will release its third accessories catalog. Accessories accounted for about $165 million, or 12% of its sales last year, almost double the amount in 2004.

Gap Inc. launched the first accessories-only branch of Banana Republic, called Edition, in May. And Henri Bendel, part of the Limited Brands Inc. portfolio, is expanding its offerings this summer with six more stand-alone accessories stores.

Retailers said jewelry, belts and scarves remain impulse-purchases that don't require a lot of budgeting, unlike a new wardrobe. "It's a little bit of a candy moment," says Jenna Lyons, J.Crew's creative director. "You don't have to try it on. You can just take it to the cash register."

Jewelry and bags can yield as much as double the 40% profit margins of apparel, though both vary greatly. The goods take up less space and have more of a timeless appeal, which helps retailers avoid the types of costly markdowns that have hurt results this year. Ed Bucciarelli, chief executive of Limited's Henri Bendel unit, describes the category as "season-less...which obviously speaks to the profit."

And sales are still growing. Women's accessory sales by units for the three months ended April 30 were up 2% from a year earlier, according to market-research firm NPD Group. Women's jewelry-item sales were up 5%, and men's and women's watches and sunglasses were up 11% and 5%, respectively. By contrast, women's apparel sales in units were down about 5.6%.

There are signs shoppers are willing to spend. More than a third of respondents in a Shopping Habits Survey conducted by Shop It To Me, an online personal shopping service, said they were "still splurging" on shoes, and nearly a quarter said the same of handbags. Just 15% of the 940 respondents said they were still splurging on work clothing. ...

I am delighted to hear that there will be another accessories catalog from J.Crew- they always do an amazing job with styling and layering. As for the jewelry itself- I like it for the most part. There are some really lovely items. One of my all time favorite pieces is the Golden Bird's-Nest Ring (Item 11171; $65.00), which I get compliments on every time I wear it. Then there are some other pieces that I can't believe made it past production (for example, refer to "Questionable Item of the Week: Atomic Flower Necklace"). Also, like many of you- I am in love with their Collection Handbags (especially the Jaime, the Sean, & the Frankie!)

What are your thoughts on J.Crew's jewelry and accessories now that the category has been around for awhile? Has your opinion (in terms of style, quality, price, and the like) change over the years?

Battle of the J.Crew Camis: Frances Vs. Victoria

As part of J.Crew's latest arrivals, the Silk Frances Cami (Item 17428; $88.00) debuted to quite a bit of fanfare (which I am totally a part of!) The Frances really is a lovely new take on the ever popular (& gorgeous) Victoria Ruffle Cami (Item 99742; Regular: $88.00, now $29.99).

I adore the general style of the Victoria & Frances- both with their stand-up collars and cascading ruffle fronts. I also love how versatile the silk tops are- transitioning from work to leisure with ease. But this got me thinking... which style of Cami do JCAs like more?

So if I had to choose... It all comes down to the ruffles! I like the micro-pleated double ruffles of the Victoria Cami more than the romantic double-ruffles of the Frances Cami. Moreover, I think the Victoria is a lot better to wear under sweaters and tees than the Frances, because the pleats can lay flat. Which is not to say that I don't like Frances Cami (because I do!) I just love the look of the Victoria, with its micro-pleats, more.

What are your thoughts on the Frances and Victoria Cami? Do you have a preference of which cami you like more? Do you think they are both so similar that it doesn't matter? ;)

Quick Poll: Which style cami do you like more?

Calling All JCAs in the Houston, TX Area

A big "thanks!" to Samantha who has shared with us some great news! She has set up an event for JCAs in the Houston, Texas area with a {wonderful} associate at the J.Crew located in the Houston Galleria.

The following are some details about this {fantastic} event:

• Who: J.Crew Aficionadas & Aficionados
  
• Where: J.Crew at the Houston Galleria
  5075 Westheimer Road
  Houston, TX 77056
  (713) 552-1188
  
• When: Wednesday, July 29th
  fun starts at 8PM until 10PM
  
• Bonus: 20% off entire purchase of $150+ for JCAs!!!

So if you are in the area and interested in attending, please RSVP by sending an email to: samanthapham (at) yahoo (dot) com.

P.S. I have said this before, and I will say it again: I love love love hearing about these events! They're just too fabulous for words! :)

J.Crew Fall Rewards Card {be on the lookout}

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Pam & GigiOfCa (in this post), as well as Susan, Twiga, jcrewlover, & FiFi's PooH (in this post), who let us know that they received their J.Crew Rewards Card (click here to learn more) by regular mail recently. Also, "thanks!" to Jean who let us know that J.Crew sent an email (shown above), letting card members know about the latest reward card being sent.

Pam mentioned the following: "I just rec'd my Fall rewards card! Pretty pink card with "note" from Jenna Lyons on Fall arrivals and mini-look book". That package from J.Crew sounds lovely! :)

Moreover, "thanks!" to Jamie & RatsOnParade (in this post) who let us know that the latest Rewards Card expires September 15th.

So if you are a card member, chances are you will be receiving your rewards card in the mail in the next couple of days, so keep "an eye out" for it. :)

Have you already received your J.Crew rewards card? If so, please let us know! :)

J.Crew Email: We're celebrating in Dallas + $25 off

A big "thanks!" to Audrey who let us know about another wonderful offer from J.Crew. The J.Crew in Dallas is having its first anniversary. To celebrate, J.Crew is offering local customers $25 off any purchase of $125+. This offer is good from 7/28/09 through 8/11/09.

Just click on the image above or here (which will take you to a larger version of the image) and print it out (so the associate can scan the bar code).

The location for the store is:

Dallas Galleria
13350 Dallas Parkway
Dallas, TX 75240
(972) 385-0438

Another Congrats to all those in the area!!! :)

J.Crew Email: Ontario Mills grand opening + 20% off

A big "thanks!" goes to Kathy, Ashley, Erin, & Pakcola, who let us know about a wonderful offer from J.Crew. As mentioned in the "J.Crew Factory Email: See you soon, Ontario Mills Outlets" post, J.Crew is opening a new Factory store. The grand opening for the Ontario, CA store will be Saturday, August 1st. To celebrate they are offering customers 20% off purchases of $125+. This offer is good between 8/1/09-8/8/09.

Just click on the image above or here (which will take you to a larger version of the image) and print it out (so the associate can scan the bar code).

The location for the store is:

J.Crew Factory at Ontario Mills Outlets
1 Mills Circle
Ontario, CA 91764
(909) 477-2071

Congrats to all those in the area!!! :)

J.Crew Email: The search is over...

"Thanks!" to many of you, including, HeidiG, AnneG, Marietta, & love2shop4bags, who shared the latest email from J.Crew. Incidentally, the email J.Crew sent me today was the same one they sent their card members on Friday (refer to the "J.Crew Email: Cardmember sneak peek (new arrivals). In stores and online.")

The email above features the Charlie Ruffled Suede Platform Mary Janes (Item 17191; $228.00). J.Crew describes the heels as "Irresistibly sweet with ladylike polish, in the softest Italian suede and trimmed with a gathered ruffle at the heel. Our designers gave them a hidden platform, which makes even sky-high stilettos feel like a midheel shoe".

The heels are adorable. I am also curious about the hidden platform- will it make standing & walking in the shoes more comfortable?

What are your thoughts on the heels? Do you like the style- from the ruffles to the suede to the hidden platform? Are you a fan of ruffles for footwear?

Off-topic Side Note: Just a friendly reminder that the Special JCA Event (where JCAs can see the Fall Preview & save 20% off purchases of $125+) in Reston, VA, is happening today. For more on this event, click here. :)

The Great (Weekly) Exchange {looking to sell}

This post (of weekly posts) is for individual members who want to swap/sell/share among yourselves. This post is where you can mention your items and outside listing/ auction site (like eBay and eCrater & the corresponding user ID). Please note: this posting is not for resellers.

Please note that any transactions are independent of this blog. (Especially since you will be using an outside listing/ auction site like eBay or eCrater.) I have no dealings or interactions with any of the potential communication, listings, or transactions. :) Moreover, please limit comments about items to swap/sell/share to the "Great (Weekly) Exchange" posts. (Refer to "A Quick Note to J.Crew Aficionadas" post.)

Do you have any items you would like to swap/sell/share among yourselves through your outside listing/auction site?

Sidenote: What's up with JCAs writing "sub" or "subscribing" as their comment? It just means they are subscribing to all the comments (which are then automatically sent to their email) in that particular thread. This way they can stay aware of all the comments posted. :)

The Great (Weekly) Exchange {looking to find}

This post (of weekly posts) is for individual members who are looking for and interested in buying certain items. Please feel free to share a J.Crew store location and/or your outside listing/ auction site if it matches the requests made in this post. Please note: this posting is not for resellers.

Also note that any transactions are independent of this blog. (Especially since you will be using an outside listing/ auction site like eBay or eCrater.) I have no dealings or interactions with any of the potential communication, listings, or transactions. :) Moreover, please limit comments about items to swap/sell/share/finding to the "Great (Weekly) Exchange" posts. (Refer to "A Quick Note to J.Crew Aficionadas" post.)

Is there an item (or items) that you are looking for and interested in purchasing?

J.Crew Is On Facebook {let's be friends!}

J.Crew's sister store, Madewell has a Facebook (FB) page (click here) for sometime now. I often wondered if J.Crew would get its own Facebook page (especially since its a good way to market their brand). Well that question has been answered as J.Crew recently came out with its own Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/jcrew

There are lots of neat features to the page including (1) sending virtual gifts of J.Crew inspired sketched images; (2) a gallery of how real customers wear their J.Crew; (3) behind the scenes with the design team; & (4) Jenna Lyon's latest picks.

What are your thoughts on J.Crew's Facebook page? Do you think this is a smart marketing move? Will you become a fan of J.Crew's FB page?

Darlings, is it time for a J.Crew coupon code?

Yes, it is that wonderful time!

J.Crew is offering free shipping on orders of $150+ with promo code WAN-899. This offer expires 8/8/09. :)

Incidentally, J.Crew sent two August 2009 catalogs to my home- one under my name & one under my husband's name. The catalog sent to my husband is the edited version (consisting of 75 pages). The catalog sent to me was the entire catalog (containing all 119 pages). I am not really sure how they decide who gets which version.

Nonetheless, I am just thrilled to get a catalog so quickly after the release of new arrivals online. (Normally, I have to pick up a copy at the B&M stores.) There is something about looking through a hard copy of the catalog (as oppose to the online counterpart), that I really enjoy. :)

Update: As Brenda Kao (in this post) correctly pointed out, the fine print of this offer includes: "one offer per family" and "for one-time use only". Ugh! :( Please let us know if you have used this code in the comments- this way we can find out if the code is literally one-time use or one-time use per email address. TIA! :)

Crewcuts Email: We’re celebrating our birthday with 20% off.

A big "thanks!" to Lauren who shared the latest promotion for Crewcuts at J.Crew Factory stores.

At all J.Crew Factory stores, you can get "20% off everything when you buy 5 or more Crewcuts items". There are some limitations (of course): (1) the "five qualifying Crewcuts items must exclude clearance"; (2) they "cannot be combined with any other offer"; and (3) the offer is "valid at our Crewcuts locations only". However, (on the bright side) there are "no restrictions on other items included in purchase". This offer expires 8/5/09.

Just click on the image above or here (which will take you to a larger version of the image) and print it out (so the associate can scan the bar code).

The locations for the J.Crew Factory stores carrying Crewcuts are: Gilroy, CA; Westbrook, CT; Rehoboth, DE; Orlando Premium, FL; Silver Sands, FL; Lee, MA; Freeport, ME; Riverhead, NY; Woodbury Common, NY; Lancaster, PA; & Pleasant Prairie, WI. (Incidentally, the J.Crew Factory store at Wrentham, MA no longer carries Crewcuts.)

Happy {crewcuts} shopping!!! :)

Crewcuts Email: crewcuts new arrivals are here. in stores and online.

J.Crew sent an email this morning announcing new arrivals for Crewcuts. Much like yesterday's email, "J.Crew Email: Cardmember sneak peek (new arrivals are here). In stores and online.", the email above indicates that new arrivals are also now available for purchase at B&M (brick & mortar) stores. However, many JCAs have mentioned that their local stores will not be offering new arrivals until next week. So you may want to call & check beforehand, to see if your local store will carry new arrivals this weekend. :)

They are also reminding us about their on-going free shipping offer for Crewcuts items. (Side Note: Dear J.Crew, how about a similar offer for adults? Even if it's for one day.) ;)

I love the image used for the email. J.Crew's catalog has some of the most beautiful photos- that sometimes I forget its a catalog to buy clothes! ;)

Lastly, I remember wearing sweaters & jackets around my waist back in the late '90s. Is this a look that will be making its way back (like the Harem pants, neon colors, and ankle socks)?

Minor Update to JCA Blog {finallly, a "search"}

I just wanted to quickly mention that there is a new search box on the J.Crew Aficionada (JCA) blog, located on the upper right hand side. The new search box (powered by Google,) will allow JCAs to search within the *entire* JCA blog.

So what's the big deal? Well the existing Blogger's search feature (on the top left) only searched the blog's posts, but not the posts' comments (and the comments are where the best information is shared).

Hopefully this will make sharing information with one another much easier. {wahoo!}

Have a wonderful weekend!
-Alexis :)

J.Crew Email: Cardmember sneak peek (new arrivals are here). In stores and online.

"Thanks!" to Lilac Cupcake (check out her lovely blog "Lilac Cupcake") & Marietta, who shared with us the latest email from J.Crew to its card members.

As mentioned in yesterday's post, "J.Crew Updates Website With New Arrivals Today!", new arrivals are available for purchase online. Lilac Cupcake noticed that the email above indicates that new arrivals are also available for purchase at B&M (brick & mortar) stores. {How exciting! Especially since I was under the impression that the new items would appear next week.} :)

Are you planning to visit a B&M store this weekend to check out the latest new arrivals? If so, please share what new items you come across! :)

Seek & Find: Will you visit J.Crew this Weekend?

This is the weekly "sale watch" post, to help each other find sale items at our various local J.Crew stores. ;)

If you are stopping by a J.Crew store this weekend to see what's available in the Spring/Summer sale, or to see some new Fall arrivals {sigh!} in person, maybe you might be willing to share that with us in this post. In particular, if you could share with us a few of the noteworthy items that are available, at what prices, and potential sizes the store is carrying (as well as the store location)- that would be fantastic!

Also, please let us know if your local store is carrying an additional percent off sale. Thanks in advance!!! :)

P.S. I noticed that many of you have already been reporting sale items (and in which stores) in other posts which by the way "thank you!" :) I really appreciate how helpful we are for each other!

Madewell Email: Score a pair of Madewell '37s (+ a denim shopping spree)

A big "thanks!" to Marietta & HeidiG, who shared the following email/ promotion from Madewell (click here).

According to the email, "Madewell & Refinery29 want to hook you up with free jeans and a shopping spree like no other" by "giving away a free paif of Madewell '37s jeans every day until the end of July- plus one grand prize winner will receive a $1,937 Madewell shopping spree".

All you have to do to enter is click on the link provided HERE. Good luck! :)

The sweepstakes ends August 4, 2009. For the official rules, click here. Some noteworthy mentions: (1) Limit one entry per person. (2) There's a "Tell A Friend" program, where you can notify up to 4 friends to enter the promotion. For every one that does, you get an additional entry.

J.Crew Email: Say "I do" to J.Crew

"Thanks!" to HeidiG (check out her wonderful blog "Head to Toe with Heidi") who shared with us the latest email from J.Crew.

According to the email, "for the first time ever, select styles from our wedding and parties collection are available to preview by appointment at our Georgetown store". As mentioned in a previous post ("J.Crew Wedding Trunk Show & More!"), J.Crew wedding gowns and bridesmaid dresses are becoming available for preview at select J.Crew locations across the country. I think this is wonderful news and I am happy to hear about this latest location at Georgetown! :)

The location for the store is:

J.Crew at Georgetown
3222 M Street NW
Washington, D.C. 20007
(202) 965-4090

To find a J.Crew near you that offers wedding and bridesmaids gowns, check J.Crew's "Store Locator" page (click here), where you can find the category in the key called "wedding collection preview".

Happy {bridal} shopping!

J.Crew Updates Website With New Arrivals Today!

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Ema, Lesley, Victoria, Tweedybird, as well as No Display Name, Casual-Crew, Silver_Lining, & **Tracey** (in this post), who let us know that J.Crew updated its website (click here). There are new arrivals for men (click here) & women (click here). Although the J.Crew Collection (click here) doesn't seem to be updated yet.

In addition to having new arrivals for men and women, J.Crew also provided the latest catalog online (click here to view).

I can't wait to browse through the catalog to see their version of "East of Eden". From the looks of it, including all the sneak peeks recently, I can't wait for Fall (... well the Fall Collection that is)! ;)

There are lots of lovely items up for sale, including the:

• Jeweled Feather Headband (Item 19317; $39.50)- already I am in love with it!
• Silk Frances Cami (Item 17428; $88.00)- loving the new take on the Victoria Ruffle Cami (Item 99742; Regular: $88.00, now $29.99); and the colors like Deep Rose are just lovely!
  
• Wool Ruffle-Front Coat (Item 17501; $268.00)- I already have too many Fall/Winter coats, but this makes me wonder if there's room for one more! ;)
  

Moreover, I am a bit surprised to see a few items up for sale:

• Solid Anklets Three-Pack (Item 19179; $24.50)- definitely a "pop of color", but does it really work for "any ensemble"?
  
• Sally Pearlized patent Ballet Flats (Item 17154; $125.00)- why not just call them the second generation Salina Iridescent Patent-Leather Ballet Flats (Item 95899; was $138.00 select colors $49.99)? ;)
• Essie® Nail Polish for J.Crew (Item 22678; $8.00)- another interesting collabration with J.Crew

What items are you most excited about and why? Which items are you surprised to see? Which items did you hope would be included? Also, did you receive the latest catalog?

P.S. A big "thanks!" to Brenda Kao (in this post) who let us know that J.Crew is offering free shipping on orders of $150+ with promo code DRF-940. This offer expires 8/1/09.

Shop J.Crew For A Good Cause (at Malibu & Century City)

The blogger behind Veggywood (click here), shared on her blog the following great promotion from J.Crew. Shop J.Crew's latest collection and save 15% off any purchase (no minimum)- at both the Malibu Lumber Yard or Century City J.Crew locations. This offer is good from this Friday, July 24th to Sunday, July, 26th. Even better, a "portion of the proceeds will be donated to Best Friends Animal Society".

Just click on the image above or here (which will take you to a larger version of the image) and print it out (so the associate can scan the bar code).

The location for the stores are:

Malibu Lumber Yard
3939 Cross Creek Road
Malibu, CA 90263
(310) 456-6760

Century City
10250 Santa Monica Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90067
(310) 286-7595

Happy shopping to all those in the area!!! :)

Great Weekly Exchange: Abbreviations

Many JCAs requested a post listing the common abbreviations we use for listings on the Great Weekly Exchange posts, as well as our comments in general ...So here it is! The following list comes from a few sources, including fellow {wonderful} JCAs and eBay (click here for eBay's original list).

A-E

• B&M: brick and mortar store
• B&W: black and white
• BNWB: brand new with box (also see: NIB)
  
• BTW: by the way
• CS: customer service
  
• EUC: excellent used condition

F-I

• FC: fine condition
• FS: final sale
  
• G: good condition
• GU: gently used (item that has been used but shows little wear, accompanied by explanation of wear)
• HTF: hard to find
• HTH: hope this helps
• IRL: in real life
• ISO: in search of
  

J-M

• JCA/JCAs: J.Crew Aficionada / J.Crew Aficionadas/os
  
• LTD: limited edition
• LTF: looking to find
  
• MNT: mint or in perfect condition (a subjective term that doesn't necessarily mean new)
• MIB: mint in box
• MIMB: mint in mint box
• MIMP: mint in mint package
• MIP: mint in package
• MNB: mint no box
• MOC: mint on card
• MOMC: mint on mint card
• MONMC: mint on near mint card
• MWBT: mint with both tags
• MWMT: mint with mint tags

N-P

• NBW: never been worn
• NIB: new in box
• NM: near mint
• NOS: new old stock
• NRFB: never removed from box
• NWT: new with tags
• NWOB: new without box
• NWOT: new without original tags
• OT: off topic
• PS: personal shopper
  

Q-Z

• SA: store associate
  
• SCR: scratch
• S/O: sold out
• TIA: thanks in advance
  
• TTS: true to size
  
• USPS: United States Postal Service
• VF: very fine condition
• VHTF: very hard to find

If there are any other abbreviations that are commonly used, please feel free to share in the comments. I will be sure to add them to the main list. :) I will also have this post on the side bar of the JCA main page, under the heading "Referencing {helpful posts}".

Last Day For 20% Off Final Sale {sniffle}

Today is the last day for the additional 20% off sale items (click here) with no minimum & free shipping on orders of $150+ using promo code EXTRA20 online.

Moreover, today is most likely the last day for the additional 20% off promotion that is running at B&M (brick & mortar) stores (refer to "20% Off Final Sale Items Still Going On In Stores" post).

From the comments, this was the promotion many of us were {finally} waiting for. Many JCAs took advantage of this offer and stocked up on summer items (after all, 20% off and free shipping is a very tempting combination). :) However, some JCAs mentioned holding out for the Fall merchandise (especially after all those sneak peeks of the latest August catalog!) ;)

Are you planning to take advantage of this offer today? If so, which items do you plan to get (if you can get them)? ;)

Some Noteworthy Mentions About JCrew.com

"Thanks!" to HeidiG who pointed out that a sold out message (as shown in the image above) on the website offers customers a second chance, by offering to find it in their stores by calling their 1-800 number. The "We Will Find It For You" is a service that J.Crew offers their clients, for full-priced merchandise. Moreover, if you ask for this service using J.Crew's red phone, you can get free shipping.

However, if you are looking for something on sale, you are out of luck. ;) The image (above) is an example of what you expect to see. The text reads: "We're sorry. This item has been so popular, it has sold out. We've got other ideas-- just call 800 562 0258, we're here to help".

I suspect that the difference between the two messages is whether or not the item went on sale, and for how long it has been on sale. If an item is a new arrival and sold out online, chances are the item is on a store shelf somewhere. As oppose to an item which has been on sale for awhile (since most stores return sale items to the main warehouse after a few weeks- so if online doesn't have it, chances are no one else will either).

And... "Thanks!" to Audrey (in this post) who made a {wonderful} observation about the item page for the Lexi Satchel (Item 18261; $425.00) and the Metallic Lexi Clutch (Item 17545; $225.00). The items have interior shots of the bags!!! Finally, we have a view that includes what the inside of the bag looks like. Many JCAs, including myself, have wanted this additional perspective to be included for the longest time. I hope that they will continue offering this additional view for all future handbag offerings.

What are your thoughts about the different sold out messages that JCrew.com displays? Do you think they are effective in getting customers to purchase the item? Are you excited to see the additional interior image of handbags? Do you think J.Crew will continue to offer it? :)

Get your closets ready… the Columbia Event only 1 week away!

Just a reminder to let JCAs know that a week from today, there will be a Fall Preview at the Mall of Columbia (Columbia, MD). (Refer to the original "Calling All JCAs in the Columbia, MD Area" post.)

"Thanks!" again to Lyssa & the {wonderful} associates who set this up for us JCAs. Also it sounds like there will be some fantastic visual elements displayed, and refreshments may be served at this event too! [Perhaps some cheese & crackers; veggies, small turkey & veg wraps; cupcakes; festive fall punch (cold), & hazelnut coffee (hot)...]

If you are in the area and interested in attending, please try to RSVP (for head-counting purposes) by sending an email to: lyssaf (at) gmail (dot) com.

P.S. For those attending this event, please please please take pictures. I love seeing fashionable JCAs and their fabulous outfits! :)

What To Expect From J.Crew's August Catalog

A big "thanks!" goes to Meredith who shared the following {wonderful & interesting} news about J.Crew's latest catalog.

... I stopped in at my B&M and one of the SA's was nice enough to slip me a copy of the new catalogue after I had noticed it...

Anyway, the back has a note that says "Postmaster: Please deliver July 25-29", so I assume that's when they'll be shipping out.

I don't have access to a scanner, but the theme is John Steinbeck/East of Eden. It's set in Northern California and is gorgeous. The color scheme seems to be lots of lavender/dusty blossom tempered with slates, charcoals, and tortoise prints.

Jenna's Picks include:

• Silk Evening Primrose Brynn Dress (Item 18137; $158.00)
• Merino Maya Cardigan (Item 17854W; $88.00)
• Velvet Flower Pin (Item 19374W; $29.50)
• Wool Flannel Schoolboy Blazer (Item 18271W; $188.00)
• Heirloom Flora Necklace (Item 19492W; $98.00)
• Skinny Tortoise Patent-Leather Belt (Item 17318W; $39.50)
• Jeweled Garland Bracelet (Item 18030; $95.00)
  
• Vintage Matchstick Cord (Item 17046; $79.50)
• Tissue Beaded Necklace Tee (Item 17629W; $49.50)
• Lexi Tote (Item 18262; $325.00)
• Tiered Crystal Libretto Necklace (Item 18013; $98.00)
  
• Nottingham Ankle Boots (Item 16940W; $250.00)
• Scattered Petals Tank (Item 17207W; $68.00)
• Spencer Patent-Trimmed Suede Mary Jane (Item 17197W; $215.00)

They seem to be pushing jewelry very hard this issue, as well as shorts.

As a 20-year old college student, I am very excited about this collection! I think it balances fashion-forward styling with pieces that are very much wearable. But I do agree that there are things that are going to set people off--for example, ankle socks (!) are a "trend alert".

"Thanks!" again goes to Meredith for sharing with us!!! :) All the items listed sound fantastic- except for maybe the ankle socks. ;) [Sidenote: The items listed above with a bold item number, have a link to its item page at JCrew.com.] I can't wait to see them in person! Who knows, I might end up lovin' the ankle socks.

Also, I can't wait to receive a catalog & I hope I do too! (I know some of you are facing similar issues, where J.Crew is no longer sending catalogs to some of their regular customers. It seems like they are cutting back on sending them to customers at their homes. I use to get multiple versions of the same catalog, now I am lucky if I get one. Why J.Crew, why?)

Update: "Thanks!" to many of you, including Lilac Cupcake (in this post), who let us know that Shannon has several images of this catalog at her blog (click here to view).

What are your thoughts on the upcoming items for August? Are you excited for the Fall lineup, or are you still thinking about Summer?

Is It An Ugly Time For Madewell? {yeah it is!}

There is another interesting article over at Washington Post (click here to read the article in its entirety) about J.Crew's sister store Madewell and their issues to get customers shopping.

An Ugly Time for Fashion as Spinoff Chains Struggle
By Ylan Q. Mui
July 10, 2009

Opening more stores wasn't enough for retailers during boom times. They wanted to create new forms of life.

Specialty chains spun off new concepts that targeted different demographics. Teen retailer Abercrombie & Fitch spawned Ruehl for postgrads, while rival chain American Eagle created Martin + Osa with casual clothes for young professionals. J.Crew launched Madewell, a sort of hipster little sister. Aeropostale had a rock-inspired chain called Jimmy'z.

But now their fledgling concepts are struggling in the face of the worst recession in decades. At best, they have become distractions to the companies' already embattled management. At worst, they are a drain on earnings -- and some are shutting down altogether.

"It's hard enough for new brands to gain traction in a new environment let alone in the worst recession in decades," said Todd Slater, an analyst with Lazard Capital Markets. "In downturns, many new initiatives are sidelined."

Last month, Abercrombie announced it will close its 29 Ruehl stores, including one in Tysons Corner Center. ...Some analysts wonder if American Eagle will pull the plug on Martin + Osa. And J.Crew executives have admitted missteps in fashion and pricing at Madewell.

Retailers are under enormous pressure to reinvigorate sales and slash costs. June sales at stores open at least a year -- a key industry measure of health -- dropped 4.7 percent compared with last year, according to data released yesterday. Specialty retailers took one of the biggest hits...

During flush economic times, retailers embraced new concepts as a way to increase sales. Many chains had already saturated shopping centers with new stores, so if they wanted to win new customers, they had to create new concepts for them to shop. ...

J.Crew chief executive Millard S. Drexler has acknowledged that clothing at its Madewell spinoff was too basic and expensive, particularly the jeans. The concept is costing the company about $15 million this fiscal year and it lost about $11 million last year, according to Needham analyst Christine Chen.

In a recent conference call with investors, Drexler said that when plans for Madewell were drawn up three years ago, the company decided to start denim at $98 -- and shoppers balked. Now the cheapest jeans are $59.50.

"So frankly, in hindsight, a mistake," Drexler told investors. "The world is kind of changed dramatically in that regard."

Bringing a new concept to profitability requires a large investment. The rule of thumb, Tunick said, requires 80 to 100 stores ringing up $400 in sales per square foot to break even. Closing a concept now doesn't always mean it was doomed to failure. Few predicted the consumer meltdown that occurred last fall. ...

When I first heard of Madewell, I thought it was going to be full of hip & basic items, offered at cheaper prices than J.Crew. When I saw the items Madewell was offering, I thought that it was just targeted at a younger demographic (high school, college), with similar price points to J.Crew. Their prices always seemed way too high for me (considering its quality, and comparing it to J.Crew's own items). So it comes as no surprise to me that consumers "balked" at jeans starting at $98!

What does surprise me is that Madewell is still around. It's clear that this is J.Crew's CEO Mickey Drexler's baby- and he wants to see it succeed. (And as an investor, owning J.Crew stock, I want to see it succeed too!) However, how long will J.Crew support Madewell's if its not being profitable- another year?

What are your thoughts on the article? Disagree or agree with any of the points made? Do you think Madewell is going to stick around for awhile? What do you think the fate of Madewell's will be a year or two from now?

Calling All JCAs in the Washington, D.C. Area

A big "thanks!" to AnneG & 3-Penny Princess (3PP) who shared with us some more great news! They have set up an event for JCAs in the Washington, D.C. area with a {wonderful} associate at the J.Crew located at Tysons Galleria.

The following are some details about this {fantastic} event (click here to also read 3PP's original blog post about this event):

• Who: J.Crew Aficionadas & Aficionados
  
• Where: J.Crew at Tysons Galleria
  2001 International Drive
  McLean, VA 22102
  
• When: Sunday, August 23rd;
  fun starts at 10AM & ends at 12PM
• Bonus: 20% off entire purchase of $125+ for JCAs!!!

So if you are in the area and interested in attending, please RSVP by sending an email to: contact (at) 3pennyprincess (dot) com.

P.S. How awesome are these events?!? Loves it! ... & keep 'em coming! ;)

Enjoy Extra 20% Off Final Sale Items

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Bekah & Green_Dino (in this post), as well as Patina, Marietta & Mariana, who let us know about J.Crew's latest promotion.

They are offering an additional 20% off sale items (click here) using promo code EXTRA20. This offer expires Wednesday, 7/22/09. Moreover, J.Crew sent an email (shown below) announcing this promotion also adding free shipping on orders of $150+.

Incidentally, many JCAs have mentioned that this Wednesday will also be the last day for the additional 20% off final sale items at their B&M (brick & mortar) stores (refer to "20% Off Final Sale Items Still Going On In Stores" post).

Are you planning to take advantage of this promotion? If so, what items are you planning to get? If not, what are the reasons behind your decision (e.g. nothing tempting to get, promo not enticing enough)?