"Thanks!" to many of you, including JulieStyles (in this post), Christy (in this post), Heidi (in this post), as well as Ina, Marietta, & Irina, who let us know that J.Crew had an update to its website today (click here to view online).
There are some new arrivals for men (click here) & women (click here). {wahoo!} Of course, Crewcuts (click here) and the J.Crew Collection (click here) got updated too.
The latest NOVEMBER catalog (click here to view) is available to view. The November catalog for Men is also available. :) As for the new arrivals...What I like: Like so many of you, I am really crushing on the Marled Alexie Sweater (Item 32851; $69.50). I love the slim fit, the longer length, and the fabulous "marl black white" shade. Just when I think am done with sequins, something like the Drapey Sequin Tank (Item 32360; $69.50) sucks me back in. The black and olive moss versions are gorgeous!
Not so crazy for: The Boiled Wool Shimmery V-Neck Sweater (Item 32803; $98.00) might have been a good idea in design, but doesn't look that great in reality. It's one of those hard-t0-work-with pieces.
C'mon now: What can I say about the Dulphine Boa Cardigan (Item 32171; $138.00) except for, "oh no!" And what about the Muse Tank (Item 32367; $59.50)? Yeah, from the front it looks okay. However, the side views makes the model look like she has a pouch. Who needs that? Not me. ;)
What happened: Where are all the great coats from J.Crew? Usually Fall brings the most fabulous styles of Winter coats. So far, I am not seeing one that I am heads-over-heels with. And while I am ranting, where are all the knee length skirts? Is it just me, or are the skirts looking rather short as of late? As someone who is on the taller side, I can't rock them without risk of exposure. :(
Lastly, J.Crew is extending their offer for 20% off all full-priced Women's Apparel on orders of $150+ with promo code SHOPFALL. This promotion now ends today (10/14/2010)!What items are you most excited about and why? Which items are you surprised (or not surprised) to see? Which items did you hope would be included? Were you expecting a bigger roll-out today? Also, did you receive the latest catalog? :)
I did like the look of the November catalog - the light blue background plus the red lipstick on the models was a nice contrast.
ReplyDeleteI'm intrigued by the blazecoat, but found the description funny - "worn open, it looks like a blazer over a traditional coat". But who does that? ;)
The photography of their items is nice as usual, which I think is what really sucks me in every time. Luckily, I have the JCA reviews to bring me back down to reality. And unfortunately, if the quality has not changed (which I assumed it hasn't), I feel like even looking at items I can tell what their fate will be.
That being said, this is probably the biggest rollout we've seen in a while, so hopefully they'll skip the next one in two weeks.
Finally!!! There are definitely some items I will be ordering today!! This is the first roll out that I actually like!
ReplyDeleteGreat colors....
OH MY GOD OH MY GOD THEY STARTED MAKING SOME SWEATERS IN XX-SMALL!!! I am so excited right now! Ordering 2. Impulses winning me over.
ReplyDeletesub
ReplyDeleteThey're looking a little more J.Crew this time...although, as Tim Gunn says, I think they're still in the "monkey house" with most of their jewelry. I was thrilled to see a new color for the sherpa hoodie- my simple pleasure in the winter.
ReplyDeleteSo nice to see a larger rollout and more interesting pieces this time.
ReplyDeleteYawn...
ReplyDeleteWhat are you seeing that is interesting you so? All I see are the same cheap wool blends (tweed skirts/boutonniere blazer, I'm pointing at you), ruffled or "tuxedo inspired shirts," and itty bitty minis as they have been rolling out for months.
I think I am the most disappointed in the coats as only the dollop coat intrigues me. The rest just seem so boring, compared to even last year's Friday coat, Boulevard trench, etc.
I picked up the striped serge skirt from the last rollout and the little paisley blouse, but nothing appeals to me at all from these additions.
I'm excited to see new (bright!) colors in the Jackie - specifically, the tavern green, dried parsley and cerise. The merino dore cardigan looks cute, too. Also liking the taffeta marvelle mini - I definitely can't wear it to work, but 16 1/2 inches seems doable for holiday parties.
ReplyDelete(All of that said, I'm not a fan of any promo that doesn't include free shipping at some level, so I won't be ordering with this one.)
Hi kitsmommy - I think you hit on something that resonated with me... the cheap fabric and shortcuts on on construction are a turnoff no matter what the piece looks like in pictures. I like the double-serge skirt in nightfall blue, but after seeing the way they cheaped out on it compared to my 08/09 skirts, I'm afraid of how long it will last (and it should be a long time since it's a classic shape). Same for the unlined jackets - I like the look of the softwashed wool blazer but it's unlined (come ON!) and I fear that 'softwashed' may be code for 'pills after 2 wearings'.
ReplyDeleteI like the Alexie sweater. It's nothing ground breaking but it looks like a good staple for winter.
ReplyDeleteStill not going to buy.. I'd want to buy 2 and that doesn't even qualify me for their lousy 20% off (which would be null and void anyway once I pay $17 in shipping).
I like the "Liquid Gold" tank, but it's $148! For a viscose/poly blend! I do not understand the pricing there.
ReplyDeleteI also like the tipped chale cardigan, but again, it's too pricey. Other than that, I'm a little meh.
Oooh...Lisette Lace Shell and Muse Tank have my interest. However, I will wait for price reduction as I know it will be forthcoming.
ReplyDeleteNot taking advantage of current promo - no free shipping = no REAL savings.
There are a few tops and sweaters I am interested in. This was a big rollout. I like some of the accessories, too. Two new pencil skirts caught my eye. Unfortunately they're a full 2" shorter than last year's pencil skirts and that doesn't work for me. I abhor this trend toward minis and shorter skirts in general. I think those skirts can be fun and have their place but it's not in the office where I work. I was blown away by the length of the new suiting dress. Suiting!!! At mid thigh!! Where do these fictional people work?!
ReplyDeleteYay to XX-Small!! If they're going to continue with the vanity sizing, may as well not size out the smaller ladies, right? Now if we could only get a wide range of sizes on the larger end, we might actually all fit into their clothes :)
ReplyDeleteI have my eye on the Marled Alexie sweater and I'm hoping to check it out at my B&M at lunchtime... didn't see it yesterday but I was mainly perusing the much picked over sale section.
Desert Flower: I was told that longer skirts are going to be offered in the not so distant future. We should also be seeing much less embellishment, especially on the tees.
ReplyDeleteDesert Flower- perhaps they were taking inspiration from Ally McBeal? ;)
ReplyDeleteReally saddened to see that they dropped size 00. They don't even have it in petite - 25 is the biggest in petite while 0P used to be smaller. At the same time they add xx-small for sweaters? Very mixed signals. I will buy a cashmere cardigan. I bought cashmere from Jcrew before and it was so big that I put it in the dryer until it was completely dry so it would shrink to a normal XS. No corduroys for me this year. Last year I bought every color in 00. I'm glad to see the lady coat in a blue that isn't so bright. I may spring for that (they do offer coats in 00). Lisett shell is a winner.
ReplyDeleteOrdered the Cashmere Femme in navy & the Merino doré in rustic barn (kind of regretting this one -- the pockets just look weird on second glance). I have another 4 or 5 things in my cart that I want but I'll wait...and I'll probably have to return the Cashmere v-neck henley that's already on its way to me. May as well get it in my actual size (XXS) now that it's available.
ReplyDeleteI am waayy too excited about the introduction of XX-Small and I had actually considered writing them begging to have this size made. Maybe they read my mind...
It looks too trendy for me up take the bait. Gone are the days when jcrew used to make cute prints and preppy clothes!
ReplyDeleteWe wanted you to go back to 2007, not 2009.
Thanks, FFM. I will wait patiently. I'd have bit on the Sunnie pencil skirt today if it had been longer. I love the colors and the plaid. Well, money saved :)
ReplyDeleteI'm really excited to see a bigger rollout and to be able to actually distinguish old from new. It does look like a different J. Crew to me... I've only started paying attention to JC within the past year so I'm not sure if this is a direction towards their old stuff. Either way, I found a few things I like. I am really excited the merino boyfriend sweatshirt is offered in XXS! The XS was way too baggy on me so I'll definitely be ordering this one, even though I don't care for the beads. Overall though, I'm bummed I didn't find more sweaters that piqued my interest. I'm also pretty disappointed in the outerwear selection-- more interesting shapes and in petite sizes, please!
ReplyDeleteI actually put 5 items in my shopping cart! So this is the best roll out in a long time for me. I won't be buying any of the items--at least for now or until a BIG sale is on--I like all the items but I realize that are not that unique and that is what I used to shop JCrew for. Items with a twist that I could NOT find elsewhere. When I reflect on what I put in my cart I know I can find similar items elsewhere for less. Still happy to see better selection.
ReplyDeleteTheir blazers used to be the first section I looked at along with the skirts. It does not seem like they have many blazers this year. Also all the skirts are unwearable for me with the length.
I really, really like the new rollout. Finally there seems to be something for everyone. And the November catalogue is actually inspiring this time around. I found something to like on almost every page whether an item, outfit or color palette.
ReplyDeleteloves it. finally broke my no-credit-card-statement dry spell.
ReplyDeleteI, too, am intrigued by the blazecoat! I like the sharp lines and tailored feel. If my wool-cashmere trench doesn't work out, maybe I'll try the blazecoat.
ReplyDeleteNot excited about anything in the men's section. I was hoping there would be a stand out piece I could get for my bf's upcoming birthday, but nothing really caught my eye. Oh well.
Not biting as it will all go on sale soon and no free shipping means no savings!
ReplyDeleteOooh, the Langford 2-tone High Heel Oxfords are adorable. I'll have to go search the site now for reviews of the Langfords again.
ReplyDeletesilver_lining, Monica, and anyone else intrigued by the blazecoat- I tried it on at my B&M last week and found it to be quite tailored and flattering actually. I would probably pick it up if it was offered in petite. My main complaint was the buttons. I believe the buttons are actually facing you, and you have to button them INTO the coat... if that makes sense.
ReplyDeletesub
ReplyDeleteJackie, any comments about the thickness of the material of the blazecoat? It may look beautiful but I'm curious about whether it'll keep me warm through a NE winter. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteA: as far as I know, there is actually a free shipping code currently in effect. It expires on the 18th. If it's still active, the code is BTR45K. Hope that helps you (or someone else)!
ReplyDeleteTwo-tone Langford Oxford heels!!! Loving!!!
ReplyDeleteThere are a number of sweaters that I have my eye on, but I need another cardi like I need a hole in the head. Must take some deep breaths and move my hand away from the mouse...But those shoes will be mine! :)
Michelle, I have the stadium cloth Winnie from last year and I believe that one's a little thicker than the blazecoat, but I have nothing else to compare it to. Don't quote me on that though, I don't really remember. Sorry!
ReplyDeleteDesert flower: I also don't understand the shorter length for the pencil skirts. I would understand it more in the spring/summer, but in the colder months? So weird. The moss tweed is shorter than their "summer length"! I still love that skirt, but every time I think about it, it makes me shake my head...
ReplyDeleteI'm glad some of you are finding things to like, but nothing grabs me. It all looks the same (as what we've been seeing) to me. Disappointing, especially after a mgr told me this rollout was supposed to be a move AWAY from the recent over-trendiness/ruffles/sequins and TOWARD classic JCrew. Don't see any classic JCrew.
ReplyDeleteOops - I wanted to add I love the merino lace tank and skirt, but the skirt is too short (WHEN WILL THEY GET IT?) and they are both overpriced, IMO.
ReplyDeleteMeh. Still unexcited.
ReplyDeleteWhy is everything so drab? I know it's for fall/winter, but that just means it's *cold outside* -- not that it's ditch-digging season, or funeral season. Isn't a bright pop of cherry red usually a winter color? Or you know, a deep hunter green? How about some jewel tones? Even the lady day coats are dull, and the swimsuits are the least cheerful vacationwear that I've ever seen.
No? you're going to stick with the faded colors of military clothing and mouldering leaves? Okay then J.Crew -- I guess I'll try and catch up with you next year.
Apple: There are plenty of vibrant, new colors I'm seeing in this roll out. There's a yummy plum and topaz color I'm drooling over in several of the sweaters. I'm also loving the nightfall blue and tavern green. For some reason, they don't feature those colors on the thumbnails; instead they pick the most boring of the bunch. Not good marketing!
ReplyDeleteI have reviewed it last week when i tried the items in my B&M but I am posting again since I can now add names of the items:
ReplyDeleteCorvara cable cardigan
Nice concept but with acrylic blend I would be afraid that it will look like a rug when it pills. And the cables are not so easy to treat with sweater shaver. This one runs big and bulky, size down for sure. At least they had some sense to make the sleeves plain, but it was boxy in not a good way and added a lot of bulk in front. I tried on Small which is smaller of my sweater sizes. With my 34D chest I looked like a jolly good grandma, ready to knit you some more sweaters. Maybe XS would fit better.
V-neck maxi sweater
This actually draped well and looked cute with skinny jeans and boots but with 50% acrylic just not worth the price to me.
Marled Alexie sweater
I bought this one. I was not planning to buy anything because I overspent this month already but this was a steal at about 50% off.
But I think it is reasonable at $69.50.
It is a really nice basic that looks great with a pair of jeans.
Fits TTS, I actually bought this in M for more roomy fit. Buttons and marled yarn add some interest. It is slightly itchy if you are very sensitive. That's the con of having 100% merino. Maybe it is softer in plain colors.
I also saw the blazecoat in light grey but I did not have any desire to try it on. Looking at the model I think that maybe it looks better on the body than on the hanger. That would be a good thing. However, I would be afraid is one of the items that just look strange but are not necessarily flattering and functional. I will try it next time in store out of curiosity.
I just noticed that item 32987 in the blue and henna color have the word sample written on them (at the bottom). If you put your cursor over the color, you can see it in the picture. Its fairly obvious so I guess they just didn't do a review of the pictures before putting them out there.
ReplyDeleteI am pleased to see some more feminine looking sweaters (cashmere femme cardigan) and love the new sequin lank and lace tank. Unexcited about the trend towards cheap wool/alpalca/acrylic blends on the sweaters--won't buy those even if I like the style due to the itch factor.
ReplyDeleteStill a bunch of thrift-store looking pieces and shoes and tapered sweatpants that I wish they would leave for Madewell. Differentiate the brands! That's the point of having separate brands!
Nothing grabbed me this time except that pretty nipped-waist peacoat that comes in so many colors. The olive and charcoal palette doesn't excite me. And all the miniskirts--yikes. I can't wear those. Fortunately, I don't
ReplyDelete"need" anything anyway.
Suiting is the first place I look when a new rollout arrives. Got a good LOL out of the "falls to the knee" description of the Petale dress, given that it hits a good 7" above the model's knee.
There's some cute stuff, but nothing I'm really tempted to pay full price for.
ReplyDeleteMaybe it's the color selection in the thumbnails though -- I'd like to see some of the new colors in person.
I wanted to say that I like the two tone Langfords but I burst out laughing, looking at the model at the top of the shoes page. OMG, she totally looks like she has hairy legs. Borrowing from the boys?
ReplyDeleteI am almost tempted by the Lisette shell in the pink color. However, the shell differs in its pictures from the "Jena's Picks." One has a back zip, and the other does not. Anyone know which image is correct? I know from experience that I can't rely on the text for the correct info.
ReplyDeleteI'm loving a few things! Especially that Alexie sweater in the blue color. The bracelets also look lovely and aren't too pricey! I wish this promo included free shipping and applied to shoes and accessories.. then I would probably bite!
ReplyDeleteajc- LOL just looked at the picture right now!
Can't wait to see it all in store!
ReplyDeleteSub
ReplyDeletekitsmommy, I saw the Lisette in the store earlier in the week and it does have the back zip. I remember because I was so excited to see something without the dreaded side zip!
ReplyDeleteI really like the Merino Lace Shell and the Lisette Lace Shell in pink.
ReplyDelete$540 for a camo vest? Really?
Just ordered the Silk taffeta Gillian dress in Dark Pewter! Since she's Catalog/jcrew.com only I will let you know how it fits!
ReplyDeleteI like the look of the leopard perfect shirt. That's about it, though. Not terribly fond of the new Collection pieces either. I feel like I'm on that old commercial that says 'you have reached the end of the Internet. you have seen everything there is to see. please go back.'
ReplyDelete'Cause I am going back, to my wool and velvet Bellas and Edens, to my glorious double-serge wool pencil skirts from seasons past, and that's all right with me. :-)
I'm glad to see less embellished tees with glitters, sequins and beads. The chunky sweaters remind me of older JC but I wonder how well they fit and hold up considering high nylon content. I'd like to check them out before I'd order.
ReplyDeleteI'm interested in few pieces including the Merino Lace Shell, but it's not practical for me at that price point. Wow, the prices of some of the shoes are ridiculous...they care close to designer prices.
I haven't even received the October catalog on the mail. I wonder if I'd be getting the November one.
I pre-ordered the Merino lace shell, Tweed Tatum jacket, and the Timber tweed pencil skirt. There are even more things that I like, and will order eventually. This is a step in the right direction, JC!
ReplyDeleteOmg I actually like several things. This is NOT good, I thought I broke my JC addiction! I won't be ordering online though. Nice of them to extend the 20% but frankly it's not remotely tempting since we all know 99% of the items will be marked down significantly. I'm committed to going in store, trying on multiple sizes, taking my sweet ass time, inspecting quality, taking notes, and then holding out for sale!
ReplyDeleteI haven't received a Nov catalogue, but then again, I JUST got the Sept one! I guess that's part of living in Canada now (moved here from TN). I love the sweaters this year - at least in the pictures. Though, I am starting to get very iffy about anything Dream. Of the brand new items, the only thing that really stood out to me was the Montreaux cardigan. However, I just got a few items in and thought I would give a quick review as I haven't seen any reviews of these particular items anywhere. To start, I am 5'4" and have a pretty short torso which unfortunately means I don't have a greatly defined waist - I am a 36C on top, ~ 30-31 in the waist, and ~37 in the hips. I normally wear a small, but have everything from XS-M in my closet. From my last order:
ReplyDeleteCambridge Cable shawl-collar cardigan - ordered an Small in dove. So disappointed, but this is going back. The color is absolutely gorgeous and looks so soft and plush. However, it was thinner than I expected. I think I have decided that dream fabric needs to be thick or it doesn't maintain it's shape. It was a bit too big and, in my opinion, looked a bit frumpy. Not worth the full price. I would possibly consider re-ordering in an XS if it dropped below $50 - maybe.
Merino Whisper Ruffle Sweater - Small, Black Pine. This fit PERFECTLY - and the color is absolutely gorgeous! It does fit a little loose in the body, but I like it on this particular sweater. The only (small) issue I might have with it is the neckline is about "this" far from being too low. It works okay, but it was just enough for me to hesitate in ordering another one in the dark raisin - but only because I have a couple other sweaters I would rather have. At $29.99 right now though, it's definitely worth picking one up - especially in the pine as that's a color that doesn't come around too often.
I just ordered the Arrow Sweater-Jacket in black and the Dream open-shawl collar cardigan in navy - both XS based on my prior experience with Dream fabric and the pics I have seen on the Arrow. I know everyone is saying that one fits TTS, but I think I would rather mine fit a little more than some of the pics I have seen on other people. Crossing my fingers they fit! I figured it was worth a try, as they are sale, but not final sale and I am waiting for the Arrow in camel to go on sale and want to order the right size when it does. Anyway, when I get them in, I will let you guys know what I think.
I ordered the collection robe jacket- it looks interesting and cozy. I will review once I receive it as I am a bit nervous it may look too much like a robe...
ReplyDeleteAnyone else find it interesting that this catalog seems to be on location in the jcrew offices back room (with some fun overturned furniture) vs. some exotic location? I usually love to see the photos from the shoots, but this one just struck me as lackluster. Not too many items that interest me this time.
Ugh, the colors are awful...I miss the tissue tees in a great spectrum of colors. What they offer now is straight out of Dickensian England.
ReplyDeleteI would love the Invitation Clutch but they ruined it with that hideous exposed zipper. Hate that trend.
Kitsmommy - The Lisette lace cami does have a back zip. The look alike featured in Jenna's Picks is the dress.
ReplyDeleteI bought the cami. And I am so glad to have a back zip for a change. Love the color combo too.
I think there are some great items! I tried on the Linley chinos in store last week. Very cute . . they didn't have my size though. I might order those. (SA told me they were Savana pants. . .not sure why B&M and on-line have different names.)
ReplyDeleteAlso bought the drapey stripe baseball tee in grey in store last week. It does run large and the store didn't have the XXS, so I ended up with XS. Oh well, still comfy, but you might want to size down since it does come in that weird XXS size.
LOVING the Crystal cascading necklace I snagged on sale last week. Wearing today. . .very cute! Not on-line anymore, but maybe you can find at B&M.
ajc - lol!
ReplyDeleteI agree that they need to feature the pretty colors a bit more, so it doesn't have that overall drab look. There are some nice colors hidden in there.
I wasn't overwhelmed with the rollout, but did like the Sunnie pencil skirt, the Boutinierre Blazer (have to see quality in person), Lisette Lace Shell, the Blazecoat and the Alexie sweater.
But like everyone else, I'm waiting. The 20% off and no free ship doesn't do anything for me. Plus I know everything will go to sale soon enough.
There are about 3-4 pieces that I am interested in...I would only order online as that way I have 60 days to return. I just cannot get past the 30 day store return policy/no credit/nothing.
ReplyDeleteI mean if store credit was still offered I would have no problem with it....This really impacts how I shop/buy with JCrew now esp. with the holiday season ahead...
I don't think I will ever pay full price for anythihg from them ever again.
I agree that the 60-day return policy for online purchase is an incentive for me to shop online even though there's no free shipping being offered. The 20% off offsets shipping and taxes for me. I consider that to be a decent deal. Plus I have more time to stalk those items when they go on sale.
ReplyDeleteBut I, too, am sick of JC's constant sales and promotions. It's tough work trying to keep up.
It would be SO nice to see one...just one...skirt that is neither a mini nor a pencil skirt. Would one knee-grazing, moderately A-line (non-suiting) option be too much to ask??
ReplyDeleteHi everyone! I finally got a chance now to really look at the new roll out. I updated the post with my take. I am also pasting my thoughts here:
ReplyDeleteWhat I like: Like so many of you, I am really crushing on the Marled Alexie Sweater (Item 32851; $69.50). I love the slim fit, the longer length, and the fabulous "marl black white" shade. Just when I think am done with sequins, something like the Drapey Sequin Tank (Item 32360; $69.50) sucks me back in. The black and olive moss versions are gorgeous!
Not so crazy for: The Boiled Wool Shimmery V-Neck Sweater (Item 32803; $98.00) might have been a good idea in design, but doesn't look that great in reality. It's one of those hard-t0-work-with pieces.
C'mon now: What can I say about the Dulphine Boa Cardigan (Item 32171; $138.00) except for, "oh no!" And what about the Muse Tank (Item 32367; $59.50)? Yeah, from the front it looks okay. However, the side views makes the model look like she has a pouch. Who needs that? Not me. ;)
What happened: Where are all the great coats from J.Crew? Usually Fall brings the most fabulous styles of Winter coats. So far, I am not seeing one that I am heads-over-heels with. And while I am ranting, where are all the knee length skirts? Is it just me, or are the skirts looking rather short as of late? As someone who is on the taller side, I can't rock them without risk of exposure. :(
sub :)
ReplyDeleteI ordered the gilded sweater jacket (I'm a sucker for that gold color) and I have to say I love the Sunnie pencil skirt. The moss tweed wasn't great on me (2 was too small, 4 too big) so I may have to try that one.
ReplyDeleteAt first glance of the Emerald Crystal Cuff (35538) I thought JC had gotten some of my kids Lego wheels and dipped them in "gold ox-plated brass." Definitely a pass for me...
ReplyDeleteLots of eye-candy to glimpse. Some of these items I've already been seeing in the store.
ReplyDeleteOne item, that popped up today-the Tissue sweatshirt tee $35 (33283). I bought this instore last week during a sale. It's priced way different instore ($49.50). I swear it's exactly the same item but w/ a different style # 31730.
Well, I'm going to sound like a broken record but I'm happy there are two new colors in the Double-serge pencil skirt. Yes, the quality has declined on these from the original 2008 version but I've worn my 2010 versions a couple times already this fall and they are still lovely skirts. I really like the nordic blue, which is selling out in quite a few sizes already. I've got the new ones in my cart.
ReplyDeleteI also want the Gemini pouchette. I love small bags and this one is very pretty. The description says you can attach the shoulder strap to the middle and fold it over. I can't see any other place to attach the strap so I'm not sure what that's about but I do like the folded-over look. It's similar to the foldover Lexi clutch and tote, which I love.
The plum orchard color is very pretty. Can anyone confirm that the Alexie sweater is the dream yarn, or is it something else? I'm a bit leery of the blend and may just go for the Tissue turtleneck to get my plum orchard fix.
Now to go look at the new menswear.
Hi xoxo - I'm assuming that anything with "wool/nylon/cashmere in a 12-gauge knit" in the description is Dream yarn, which would also include:
ReplyDeleteCambridge cables
Ribbed open shawl-collar cardigan
Alexie sweater (solid)
Double-breasted cardigan
Tipped châle cardigan
There are quite a few items I'm interested in.
ReplyDeleteI like: merino dore cardi in rustic barn (love this color!); jackie in tavern green, nightfall blue, and henna; always pocket cardi (pockets!) in orchid shadow; double serge pencil in nightfall blue; crystal bloom ring in pecan; and the sunnie pencil skirt.
I'm curious about: lisette lace shell and linley chino (wish these came in short - must be a reason they don't).
I'm open to trying on some of the other items, but at first glance, they're not for me. There are also only a few crewcuts items I'm interested in. I usually go crazy for most of the line - not sure what's happened to their kids' designers.
silver_lining, thanks for confirming my suspicion. I'm avoiding the dream yarn, no matter how pretty the color or style. It's just not worth it to buy something that will pill and shed like crazy when there are so many other beautiful sweaters available in the boutiques near my office. More expensive mind you, but with taxes, duty, shipping and the angst of biting before a markdown, I'm willing to spend more for the quality and peace of mind.
ReplyDeleteUsually with the big fall rollout I have well over $1K in my shopping bag on first run through. This time around it is just over $500 and that includes a couple of items for my husband. It's kind of nice for a change and I did spend a fair bit on Brooks Brother's cashmere for myself and gifts during their recent 25% off sale so I should probably take a breather now anyway.
Has anyone else already tried on the Alexie sweater and comment on the sizing? Maybe in comparison to how the cambridge cable crewneck fits? Having my mom run into the store to pick these up for me.
ReplyDeleteThanks!
OT - xoxo, would you mind sharing your favorite places to buy good-quality cashmere? Would love it if others chimed in too.
ReplyDeleteI dropped a lot of $$$ on J.Crew cashmere last year and am seeing pilling even on sweaters I have only worn once (plus a split seam)! Will be avoiding it this year unless I hear it has better durability!
Thank you!!
Caroline - I Agree! Check out the Ribbed open shawl-collar cardigan - item 31973. In all 3 images you can see where they have sewn/altered the sleeves and did not bother to photoshop it out.
ReplyDeleteSarah - I read an article in Real Simple about the best cashmere, and they rated Ann Taylor as having the #1 best cashmere as far as quality and price goes.
ReplyDeleteLast year I bought a sweater jacket from J Crew and it did pill like crazy. Sucks. I think it IS the dream fabric.. it is wool, nylon, cashmere.... however, I bought a sweater stone and it took away all the pilling.
Aren't sales and promotions good things? If you don't like them feel free to buy the full priced items and leave the sale items for those of us who like getting deals. :)
ReplyDeleteWant to see pretty printed skirts. Where are they?
ReplyDeleteSarah, I really like Brooks Brothers cashmere. Their cotton cashmere is very nice too. Unfortunately they don't have as many fabulous colors and trendy styles as J.Crew, but the quality is excellent and if you have any issues at all - ever - they will take it back and give you a full refund.
ReplyDeleteBB prices are reflective of the higher quality. If you want to get a deal then sign up for BB email and you will get $10 off your first online order, occasional F&F discounts of 25% off everything online and in store as well as feature promotions, like the most recent, which was 25% off sweaters. The semi-annual sale starts on December 26 and is 40% off almost everything, cashmere included.
I've also bought some fabulous Burberry and Donna Karan (not DKNY) cashmere pieces. Look for cashmere made in Italy or Scotland. Best quality commands a high price so if it's outside your budget at full price I recommend you scope out your favorites and watch for sales during the holiday season or markdowns immediately after. Retail sales are down this year as consumers hang on to their money. It's a good opportunity to be discerning and find some deals on quality goods.
One thing about paying more for quality cashmere, it will last for years and you won't need to replace it as often so the cost/wear over time makes it good value in the long run.
I posted my picks and pans on my blog.
ReplyDeleteonetoomanyclosets.blogspot.com
I too love the new colours of the cashmere sweaters but will not allow myself to buy anymore even remotely close to full price. It'll have to be seriously marked down for me to take the plunge on them... but those colours! so lovely! Must. Not.Get. Sucked. In. I have 2 sweaters from Pringles of Scotlan handed down to me from mom. They are over 20 years old and not a pill on either of them. Quality counts.
Have been browsing Brora for cashmere and Boden for the pretty skirts (they do A-line! what a concept!).
Thank goodness there's nothing I have to have from JC, as I splurged on an investment piece, so no more shopping till Boxing Day!
Thanks so much ladies for the cashmere tips! xoxo, you are so right about high quality = low cost-per-wear. That's my mantra now. BTDT with the low-quality! Even on sale I can't justify it.
ReplyDeletewhat the name of the male model in the recent jcrew catalogue? the one with the ears...
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