J.Crew's Schoolboy Blazer in Wool Flannel

This jacket has been getting a love of love in the blog-o-sphere. I think it is on everyone's list of must-have-now!

How many of us JCAs were excited to see the Schoolboy Blazer in Wool Flannel (Item 48682; $188.00) in J.Crew's Fall Collection? I know I was. Was? Yes, the word "was"!

The jacket featured in the "J.Crew Email: Fall's finest: shop the latest in st..." post got a lot of reviews from JCAs who saw this jacket firsthand. The overall sentiment: this jacket does not live up to the quality standards of the Lexington, Bellas, Wool Oxford, Celtic Herringbone, and Juliette of yore. From being too thin, the material not being quite right, and prone to wrinkles...

I have not yet tried on this jacket in a J.Crew store, so I cannot speak about it firsthand. (My local J.Crew was unpacking its new arrivals when I was last there.) I love jackets and this was "the" item that I was looking forward the most to buy. So I am truly disappointed to hear that the jackets are not as lovely as they could have been. (Doesn't J.Crew's CEO, Mickey Drexler, repeatedly mention in interviews that quality in products is of the utmost importance to bringing customers back to J.Crew in this economy?!?)

Lastly, for a review with real life images, check out shopwithm's great "j.crew review: viridian green double serge, red schoolboy blazer & quincy tartan!" post.

What are your thoughts on the Schoolboy Blazer in Wool Flannel? Have you tried on or own it? Does your local brick & mortar store carry this jacket? If so, please share.

J.Crew Email: Shop it first: new fall arrivals & FREE SHIPPING

"Thanks!" to many of you, who shared the following news from J.Crew this morning.

J.Crew Factory (click here to shop online) is open for the weekend. There are some new arrivals that made it online.

As JCAs know... if you live near a Factory Store, check them out first. The B&M Factory Stores tend to have better promotions and sale prices.

What are your thoughts on J.Crew's Factory offerings? Will you check them out?

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 (if anything!) in the SUMMER sale, or to see some new SUMMER 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!

Darlings, is it time for a coupon code?

Yes, it is that wonderful time!

A big "thanks!" Rose (of the "1 More Shopping Blog"), who shared that J.Crew is offering free shipping on orders of $100+ with promo code SMB3K2. This offer expires August 12, 2011.

P.S. I have noticed that other blogs & websites post J.Crew codes & coupons *after* this blog does. If you happen to get codes & coupons from the JCA blog & post them at your site, could you please give give a "shout out" to the JCA blog? This way more JCAs are inclined to share. TIA! :)

Madewell Email: Sneak peek: our fall lookbook (+ free shipping on all orders)

"Thanks!" to many of you, including IRL, as well as A Bigger Closet (in this post), who shared the following email from Madewell this morning.

Madewell is giving us a sneak peek inside their Fall LookBook (click here to view online). There are definitely one or two stand out pieces worth checking out!

Madewell is also offering free shipping on all orders (no min!) with promo code YESPLEASE. This offer expires Sunday, July 31, 2011.

Will you be checking out the Fall Collection at Madewell? Are there any items you are interested in getting? If so, please share. :)

JCA "Help Style Me!" Weekly Post

This is the weekly "Help Style Me!" post, where we can share items we are having trouble putting outfits together with. Elaine (in this post) says it best, "You know, that thing you bought because you love it and you keep pulling it out and then putting it away without wearing it?"

Please share your J.Crew item (either that you own or are thinking about getting) that you would love help creating an outfit with.

Also, please help out by offering your styling advice. Feel free to include links to your blog (where you incorporated that piece) or to Polyvore (where you showcased an outfit with that piece). Thanks in advance! :)

"Looking to LOVE" with J.Crew

This is the weekly "Looking to LOVE with J.Crew" post, a place to share our favorite experiences with J.Crew.

If you have recently experienced a positive situation with J.Crew, maybe you might be willing to share that information with us in this post.

Please feel free to share your story on almost any topic— including stellar experiences with purchases & orders, promotions/ offers, in-store visits, transactions with store associates, etc.

J.Crew Email: Fall's finest: shop the latest in stores & online (plus, FREE SHIPPING)

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Irina, who shared the following email J.Crew sent this morning.

The email features the Schoolboy Blazer in Wool Flannel (Item 48682; $188.00), described as

A style icon: one of our all-time favorites (and best sellers)—the schoolboy blazer—updated for fall in classic wool flannel. Featuring a posh, slightly shrunken fit and finished with authentic haberdashery-inspired design details like a lapel buttonhole, a ticket pocket and crested gold buttons for a touch of legacy luxe. Lapel collar. Long sleeves. Chest welt pocket, welt flap pockets. Functional buttons at cuffs. Fully lined. Hits at hip. Import. Dry clean.

I positively love this jacket! And I want one in each delicious shade: Pearl Gray, Decadent Red, & Heather Caramel. And clearly J.Crew was listening about complaints that their previous jackets lack luxe buttons. This jacket comes with beautiful crested gold buttons that are sure to shine all season long. Can't wait for my local J.Crew to start carrying them! :)

What are your thoughts on the Schoolboy Blazer in Wool Flannel? Have you tried on or own it? Does your local brick & mortar store carry this jacket? If so, please share.

"Looking to VENT" with J.Crew

This is the weekly "Looking to VENT with J.Crew" post, a place to share our not-so-stellar experiences with J.Crew.

If you have recently experienced a frustrating situation with J.Crew, maybe you might be willing to share that information with us in this post.

Please feel free to share your story on almost any topic— including poor experiences with purchases & orders, promotions/ offers, in-store visits, transactions with store associates, etc.

Weekly Share: Other JCrew-like Retailers

This is the weekly "Other JCrew-like Retailers" post (similar to the "Off On A Tangent" posts), where we can share our finds from other retailers that have offerings similar to J.Crew (like LE Canvas, Gap, BR, Talbots, Ann Taylor, and the like.)

If you have recently encountered items that are similar to J.Crew, maybe you might be willing to share that information with us in this post.

Please feel free to share your story on almost any topic— including experiences with certain merchandise pieces, promotions/ offers, in-store visits, transactions with store associates, etc.

Chat with J.Crew's Wedding Designer, Tom Mora

J.Crew announced a live Facebook chat with their Wedding Designer, Tom Mora. The details for this event are as follows:

• Time: Wednesday, July 27 · 2:30PM - 4:00PM
• Location: Facebook
• Created By: J.Crew
• Save the date: Our wedding designer, Tom, will host a live chat all about aisle style tomorrow, right here on Facebook, from 2:30 to 4pm ET.

To check out their Facebook page, click HERE.

Madewell Loves You Seattle (+ 15% Off)

"Thanks!" to Fidele, who shared the following email & offer from Madewell.

The email announces that the Madewell is Seattle is celebrating their one year anniversary. Even better, you can take 15% off your in store purchase. Just click on the image above or HERE, to print out the email for the store associate. The offer ends August 8, 2011 .

Of course there is some fine print to be aware of:

*Present this card to redeem offer. Store associates: scan bar code. One-time use per customer during offer period. Valid only at the Madewell University Village store. Discount cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion and cannot be applied to denim hemming services, the purchase of gift cards or previous purchases. Some exclusions may apply. Valid 7/26/11-8/8/11 only.

To shop and check out the new digs, visit:

University Village
2666 NE University Village St
Seattle, WA 98105
(206) 525-0151

Congrats Seattle shoppers!

Related Note: Fellow JCA, très tippy, has started a new blog all about Madewell. Click here to check it out. :)

Calling All JCAs in the South Florida Area

A big "thanks!" to Milljcrew who shared with us some more great news! There is a shopping event for JCAs in the South Florida area.

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

• The Fort Lauderdale Galleria is hosting a Private "Fall Fashion" Shopping Event
  
• Sunday, July 31, 2011 at 11:00 AM
  
• Get 20% off of your purchase (an additional 20% off sale items), free alterations, personal shoppers, and light refreshments.
  
• Open up a J Crew Credit Card and get an additional 20% off your purchase.
  
• Pre-Order your items to be waiting for you in the store by calling Maritza at (954)566-6428.
  

So if you are in the area and interested in attending, please call Maritza at the store for more information.

P.S. How awesome is this event?!? Loves it! ... & keep 'em coming! ;)

Um, Where's the Additional 40% Off Sale & Free Shipping on Any Order J.Crew?

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Caitlin, WellFedFred, & iroar (in this post), as well as JCrewJD, who shared the following (& disappointing) update from J.Crew this morning.

J.Crew is running an offer for 40% off all final sale items (no min) and free shipping (no min!) with promo code LOVEIT. This offer expires today, Tuesday, July 26, 2011. (As stated in the image below.)

So why is it no longer available on JCrew.com? The sale section (click here to shop online) has a new image (as shown in the image at the top of the post) that removes any mention of the current promotion. Instead there is a new free shipping (on $175+) with promo code SHIP175 that expires Tuesday, August 2, 2011.

Now here's the weird part: the LOVEIT code still works!!! I just tried it on a mock checkout and sure enough it took off 40% and provided free shipping. So why is J.Crew trying to hide it?

Oh J.Crew! I really love this promo. It brought me back to shopping online. But removing it so it looks like it ended is weird. It's shady.

Did you notice that LOVEIT disappeared at JCrew.com? Will you be checking out the Sale section? Are there any items you are hoping to see or to get?

J.Crew Reviews {straight from the JCAs!}

This is the weekly "J.Crew Reviews {straight from the JCAs}" post, to help each other share our reviews.

So if you have recently purchased, or stopped by a J.Crew store to try on an item (or two) from J.Crew, maybe you might be willing to share that information with us in this post.

Also, this request is not just limited to clothes. Please feel free to discuss bags, shoes, jewelry, accessories, etc.

In particular, if you could mention a few of the noteworthy details like fit, size, fabric, and the like— that would be fantastic! Thanks in advance! :)

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.

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Please note: this posting is not for resellers. If you are a reseller, your comment gets automatically deleted & you will get publicly called out on it. :( So instead of this, simply do not post in the Weekly Exchanges. Thanks in advance for your cooperation! :)

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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?

Sought & Found: Did you visit J.Crew this {past} 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 stopped by a J.Crew store this past weekend to see what's available (if anything!) in the SUMMER sale, or to see some new SUMMER 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 was/ is carrying an additional percent off sale. Thanks in advance!!! :)

Take Extra 40% Off + Free Shipping (no min!) {J.Crew's best promo yet!}

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Any87 (in this post), Rosie (in this post) as well as Casey, who shared the following update from J.Crew this morning.

J.Crew is offering customers 40% off all final sale items (no min) and free shipping (no min!) with promo code LOVEIT. This offer expires Tuesday, July 26, 2011. The fine print includes:

*No exchanges, no returns on items marked as final sale. Offer valid at jcrew.com only. Offer is not valid at J.Crew retail stores or J.Crew Factory stores. Offer does not apply to previous purchases or the purchase of gift cards. 40% off discount applies to J.Crew sale and Factory online sale items only. Offer valid through Tuesday, July 26, 2011, 11:59pm ET. Free shipping applies to online orders only. Savings are applied at checkout with code LOVEIT. Offer not valid on phone orders. Cannot be combined with any other promotion. Limit one promotional code per order. Details of offer are subject to change.

This offer applies to Final Sale (click here to shop online) and Factory Online Sale (click here to shop online) items. This is the same promo currently being offered at J.Crew's brick & mortar stores.

Seriously, a round of applause for J.Crew. This is a FAB-ulous promotion. Really great move J.Crew to move out your inventory. Yey! I have not purchased anything online for a good month now because the stores were running better promos (and even then, I wasn't getting too much.) Well today I bought something in the wee hours of the morning because this deal is too good to pass up.

Will you be checking out the Sale section? Are there any items you are hoping to see or to get?

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 (if anything!) in the SUMMER sale, or to see some new SUMMER 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 Discontinues Catalog Viewing Online {c'mon now! seriously?}

Ladies, I am loving what I am seeing in the new Fall Collection from J.Crew. However, something was missing in this morning's update: the latest catalog. The link was missing too. However, I posted the old link (click here to view all catalogs) because the previous catalogs still existed and I thought they would just update it later in the day.

"Thanks!" to kdub727 (in this post) who shares some news about this:

I asked about the missing catalogs online.
Answer: I'm sorry to tell you that the Browse Catalog feature will no longer be available online. However, we appreciate your feedback and I will certainly pass your comments along to the appropriate team.

I have no doubt, that J.Crew reads the blog's comments for what we want to see (e.g. longer length skirts, amazing jackets, etc.). Who knows if they take the suggestions to heart, but I was really excited to see the beautiful new arrival of Hacking Jacket in Herringbone (item 48263; $198.00). How many of us JCAs (especially myself!) begged them to bring back the delicious shades of the Wool Oxford Jacket (Item 88574; $285.00) in both the Bright Flame & Liberty Blue, or the Lexington Jacket in Purple? And now we have all those colors available this Fall. {yey!}

J.Crew visits this blog multiple times on a daily basis (tracking software backs me up on this). So I beg them once more, please bring back the catalog browsing! Seriously, this is one of the better features of the site and no retailer should go without. Especially since some of us don't get the catalogs on time, or at all (no matter how many times we request a catalog online and over the phone!)

Seeing how clothes are styled beyond the product page is a great way to show customers (like me) how to style pieces, or get style inspiration.

What are your thoughts on the removal to browse J.Crew's catalog? Did you use it or not at all?

J.Crew Updates Website with New Arrivals!

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Candece (in this post), Gigiofca (in this post), as well as 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!} It looks like Crewcuts (click here) has been updated, as did the J.Crew Collection (click here).

As of time posting, the latest August catalog (click here to view all catalogs) is not yet available to view. I am sure it will be up later in the morning. :)

Honestly, it is hard to think about Fall when it is so hot outside. (I think most of the country is experiencing a heat wave.) However with so many pretty things, I might just manage fine. ;) I am off to check out the new arrivals myself now...

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More exciting news! J.Crew is offering free shipping with no minimum with promo code FREESHIP. This amazing offer expires today Thursday, July 21, 2011

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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? :)

JCA "Help Style Me!" Weekly Post

This is the weekly "Help Style Me!" post, where we can share items we are having trouble putting outfits together with. Elaine (in this post) says it best, "You know, that thing you bought because you love it and you keep pulling it out and then putting it away without wearing it?"

Please share your J.Crew item (either that you own or are thinking about getting) that you would love help creating an outfit with.

Also, please help out by offering your styling advice. Feel free to include links to your blog (where you incorporated that piece) or to Polyvore (where you showcased an outfit with that piece). Thanks in advance! :)

"Looking to LOVE" with J.Crew

This is the weekly "Looking to LOVE with J.Crew" post, a place to share our favorite experiences with J.Crew.

If you have recently experienced a positive situation with J.Crew, maybe you might be willing to share that information with us in this post.

Please feel free to share your story on almost any topic— including stellar experiences with purchases & orders, promotions/ offers, in-store visits, transactions with store associates, etc.

Mickey Drexler Talks About How to "Make It" in Fashion

A big "thanks!" to J.Crew Guy In Canada, as well as Gem Twin (in this post), who kindly shared the following article from Refinery 29 with us (click here to read in its entirety) that talks about Madewell's move into San Francisco:

Peep S.F.'s First Madewell— Plus An Exclusive Chat With J.Crew CEO Mickey Drexler!
By Katie Hintz-Zambrano
Photos by Shilpi Tomar
July 13, 2011

One of the most revered visionaries in the fashion business, J.Crew CEO Mickey Drexler has a thing or two to share when it comes to making it in the uber-competitive industry. On the eve of the grand opening fete celebrating San Francisco's first Madewell store, we caught up with the marketing and product genius—who not only founded Madewell and Old Navy, but was also responsible for Gap’s revolutionary heyday in the ‘90s—to find out about what’s inspiring him now, his take on the fashion scene in S.F. (where he lived for 18 years), and his tips for success! Here's how to get Made, Mickey style.

Why was it important for Madewell to open a S.F. location?
"It’s important because it’s a Madewell kind of town. There’s a lot of classic here, there’s a lot of Haight-Ashbury here, there’s a lot of Mission here, there’s a lot of everything going on in San Francisco and there’s a great appreciation for fashion in this town. I think the city has its own unique vibe and we’re also opening in Corte Madera on August 30th."


How did you decide upon this space and neighborhood?
"We waited two years for this spot. We looked Downtown and we felt that this floor, in this center, in this store was the best first move for Madewell because of traffic, etc. I love doing business with, well, I like to call them artisans. And so we have a lot of great hometown heroes stuff in here, from Mollusk Surf Shop and other unique companies."

You lived in San Francisco for 18 years back when you worked for the Gap and Old Navy. What do you have to do when you come back to visit?

"We go to Unionmade to visit and hang. Todd Barket [Unionmade’s owner] used to work with me and we sell J.Crew there. I went to Bi-Rite ice cream, which is fantastic. I love that. Today I’m going to Mollusk Surf Shop and I’m going to the DODOcase offices to see new colors [J.Crew currently has a collaboration with DODOcase]. And I stay where I always stay: The Four Seasons. I actually come out to San Francisco every three months for Apple board meetings, but this is an extra trip for me."

There’s been sort of a J.Crew-ification of several other mainstream retailers of late. Does that annoy or flatter you?
"There will always be competition in this world. Someone is always going to watch what you’re doing. And as long as you were there first, you were there dominantly, and with the best style and quality, then you’re going to win and the followers will always be behind the leaders. You’re always going to be copied if you’re a leader. Look at Apple. But last I knew, Apple was way, way ahead of #2. We strive to do the same thing. We run this business with very high standards, quality, fit, and point of view. And as I’ve said to one of our competitors, I think it’s better that you follow your own vision instead of someone else’s because that’s what makes great companies. But let the followers follow and in the end of the day, the customers know."


You've been a very successful business man. Do you have business icons that you look up to?
"
I learn as much from my own mistakes as I do from anyone else’s mistakes. But I’ve been on the board of Apple for 12 years and I’ve had an extraordinary education there. Steve Jobs is an easy one to use as an icon. And for me, I know him very well and I’ve admired and watched what he’s done. He certainly fits the bill. I don’t have a lot, because a lot of us who are trying to be better everyday are constantly raising the bar on who we admire. But I learn from everyone and anyone. We wake up everyday as a team and we’re looking for who does it better than us. And everyday, somebody’s doing something better than you and those are the people we learn from. Whole Foods I admire immensely. Starbucks. I also admire companies like Alden Shoes, for their craftsmanship more so than the commerce. They don’t compromise on anything in the world."

You interview almost everyone who wants to work at J.Crew. What do you look for in an employee?
"I call them associates, I don’t like the word employee. Some of what I look for is immeasurable and some of it’s measurable. I look for a certain energy and feeling and passion coming out of their bodies. I like someone who’s focused and can tell me what they’ve done well and not well and who’s very open, honest, and self-aware. If you get someone right out of college, and I meet a lot of them, you’re not going to get a lot of experience at all, so you have to feel the ambition and desire, which is based on a lot of factors. You banter and you talk and you get a sense of the speed of thinking and flexibility. If they’re not flexible or they don’t think quickly, maybe they’re not in the right place. It’s not terribly scientific, but I interview a dozen or two dozen people a week and I get a certain vibe reasonably fast. You’re not always right. Sometimes you’re wrong, but I’ve learned to go with my gut and my judgment."


If you look back, what do you think your keys to success have been?
"I think the key to success is vision that adjusts on the way, but doesn’t at all falter. It's about not compromising and following your gut to a certain degree, based on knowledge, instinct, etc. And not listening to the naysayers. This business [Madewell] right here, is 6-years-old and I’m really happy to be where we are. We opened that first store in Dallas and it didn’t do well. The second store was in a bad location in Las Vegas. And I didn’t stick with it because of emotion, but because I feel that long-term there was an opportunity to succeed. The other thing that’s really important is when you get knocked down, you sort of have to bounce right back up. You develop strength through adversity. You have to keep moving towards your goal through huge obstacles. It’s not easy. Especially a business like this where there are so many moving parts. You have to build a good team and know who’s good and not good and you have to keep raising the bar on your life. For me it’s always, 'I have to get up and do a little better today and go to work to learn.'"

The new Madewell location looks really nice. Definitely worth a visit if one is the area. I also enjoyed reading Mickey's interview. Especially when he talks about quality and competitors copying J.Crew. And I learned a new term: J.Crew-ification! :)

What are your thoughts on the newest Madewell store? Will you stop by and check them out? If so, please share! :)

"Looking to VENT" with J.Crew

This is the weekly "Looking to VENT with J.Crew" post, a place to share our not-so-stellar experiences with J.Crew.

If you have recently experienced a frustrating situation with J.Crew, maybe you might be willing to share that information with us in this post.

Please feel free to share your story on almost any topic— including poor experiences with purchases & orders, promotions/ offers, in-store visits, transactions with store associates, etc.

Weekly Share: Other JCrew-like Retailers

This is the weekly "Other JCrew-like Retailers" post (similar to the "Off On A Tangent" posts), where we can share our finds from other retailers that have offerings similar to J.Crew (like LE Canvas, Gap, BR, Talbots, Ann Taylor, and the like.)

If you have recently encountered items that are similar to J.Crew, maybe you might be willing to share that information with us in this post.

Please feel free to share your story on almost any topic— including experiences with certain merchandise pieces, promotions/ offers, in-store visits, transactions with store associates, etc.

Cardmember Email: Bonus perk for Cardmembers: FREE SHIPPING on your next order

"Thanks!" to Jaime, who shared some news about an email sent to J.Crew credit card holders.

J.Crew is sending select cardholders a unique promotional code for free shipping (any order! no minimum!). Just make sure you use your J.Crew card as payment. This offer expires August 2, 2011.

It looks like J.Crew is really stepping up their efforts to reward their card members. Even though I am not one, I like what I am seeing. Way to go J.Crew!

So if you are a card member, *check* your mail to see if you got this email! :)

J.Crew New Arrivals: What's to Come {this Thursday!}

A big "thanks!" to shopwithm (in this post) who shared the following exciting tidbits about the upcoming catalog from J.Crew with us:

OMG you guys. I *just* saw the fall catalog -- my PS gave me a sneak peek, but I couldn't take it home. Um, LOVE. We were all sitting there squealing in happiness. My favorites:
-- Viridian green double-serge wool pencil skirt (also camel and purple)
-- Tweed pencil skirt with browns I think and blue scattered in it
-- Flame orange schoolboy blazer
-- Gorgeous green and blue wool blazers
-- leopard pumps and pretty lower-heeled leather pumps

Um, yeah, I'm in trouble.

Oops, forgot, there also was a double serge skirt in the flame color!

"Thanks!" also to Amy (in this post), as well as Fabulous Florida Mommy (in this post) who let us know that the next rollout from J.Crew, the Fall new arrivals, will be online Thursday, July 21, 2011.

Sounds amazing!!! Can't wait to see the catalog and clothes now. And at least the wait to see & buy won't be too long. :)

Are you excited about the upcoming rollout? Are there any items you are hoping to get? Please share! :)

Madewell Email: It's tee week (20% off + free shipping)

"Thanks!" to many of you, who shared the following email from Madewell this morning.

Madewell is promoting their Tees & Tanks (click here to shop online) by offering an additional 20% off. This promotion ends Friday, July 22, 2011.

Madewell is also reminding us of their offer for free shipping on orders of $100 with promo code GOSUMMER. This offer is for a limited (yet unknown) time.

Will you be checking out the Tees & Tanks at Madewell? Are there any items you are interested in getting? If so, please share. :)

Summer surprise: a new J.Crew Factory store & 20% OFF

A super big "thanks!" to marymoo who let us know about another wonderful offer from J.Crew.

A new J.Crew Factory Outlet is coming to the Carolina Premium Outlets. To celebrate, J.Crew is offering customers 20% off any purchase of $125+. This offer is good from July 26 through August 7, 2011.

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 access the barcode).

The location for the new store is:

Carolina Premium Outlets
1025 Industrial Park Drive,
Smithfield, NC 27577
(919) 209-0035

Happy Factory Shopping!!! :)

J.Crew Reviews {straight from the JCAs!}

This is the weekly "J.Crew Reviews {straight from the JCAs}" post, to help each other share our reviews.

So if you have recently purchased, or stopped by a J.Crew store to try on an item (or two) from J.Crew, maybe you might be willing to share that information with us in this post.

Also, this request is not just limited to clothes. Please feel free to discuss bags, shoes, jewelry, accessories, etc.

In particular, if you could mention a few of the noteworthy details like fit, size, fabric, and the like— that would be fantastic! Thanks in advance! :)

J.Crew Email: Hold everything: the Marlow hobo & FREE SHIPPING

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Tammy (in this post) as well as Desert Flower, who let us know about the following offer.

J.Crew is offering free shipping on orders of $150+ with promo code HOTDAYS. This offer expires Wednesday, July 20, 2011.

Once again, I was expecting another type of promotion besides free shipping. But I will take what I can get! :)

Were you expecting a different promotion today? Will you be using the HOTDAYS free shipping offer? If so, please share! :)

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).

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Please note: this posting is not for resellers. If you are a reseller, your comment gets automatically deleted & you will get publicly called out on it. :( So instead of this, simply do not post in the Weekly Exchanges. Thanks in advance for your cooperation! :)

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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.

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Please note: this posting is not for resellers. If you are a reseller, your comment gets automatically deleted & you will get publicly called out on it. :( So instead of this, simply do not post in the Weekly Exchanges. Thanks in advance for your cooperation! :)

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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?

Sought & Found: Did you visit J.Crew this {past} 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 stopped by a J.Crew store this past weekend to see what's available (if anything!) in the SUMMER sale, or to see some new SUMMER 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 was/ is carrying an additional percent off sale. Thanks in advance!!! :)

Starts Today: J.Crew Warehouse Sale {Lynchburg, VA}

Quick reminder: "Thanks!" to BoaWen (in this post) who let us know that J.Crew is having another warehouse sale. Also shared are the times:

Saturday, July 16th 8am-8pm
Sunday, July 17th 12pm-6pm

The location for this shopping event is:

25 Millrace Drive
Lynchburg, VA 24501

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

J.Crew Email: THE CLOCK STARTS NOW: UP TO 60% OFF summer styles + FREE SHIPPING

"Thanks!" to many of you, who shared the following news from J.Crew this morning.

J.Crew Factory (click here to shop online) is open for the weekend. Some factory items are priced an additional 60% off. Also, there is free shipping on all J.Crew Factory items.

As JCAs know... if you live near a Factory Store, check them out first. The B&M Factory Stores tend to have better promotions and sale prices.

What are your thoughts on J.Crew's Factory offerings? Will you check them out?

Madewell Email: Midsummer sale (up to 50% off + free shipping on all orders)

"Thanks!" to many of you, who shared the latest email from Madewell this morning.

Madewell added new styles to their Sale section (click here to shop online) with some items priced up to 50% off!

Madewell is also offering free shipping on all orders (no min!) with promo code YESPLEASE. This offer expires Sunday, 7/17/11.

Great time to check them out with free shipping!

Will you be checking out Madewell? Are there any items you are interested in getting? If so, please share. :)

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 (if anything!) in the SUMMER sale, or to see some new SUMMER 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!

Free Shipping for J.Crew Cardholders!!!

"Thanks!" to LaurenPhD, JCrewJD, Irina, as well as jbird (in this post), who shared some news about an email sent to J.Crew credit card holders.

All JC cardholders get free shipping (any order! no minimum!) with promo code JCCC. Just make sure you use your J.Crew card as payment. This offer expires Sunday, July 17, 2011.

The email (shown above) also featured the not-yet-officially-released-online Cashmere Cable Sweater (Item 46703; $228.00). I totally agree with LaurenPhD about it being so hot, that we cannot even think about sweaters of any kind right now. ;)

As for the free shipping code... Love that this promotion is available exclusively for J.Crew card holders. There are not enough perks for this group, so it is really nice to see this one!

Did you get the card holder email from J.Crew today? If you are not currently a card holder, do you think this promotion will entice you? Please share!

Win a $2,000 Madewell Shopping Spree...

"Thanks!" to many of you, who shared the following promotion & code from Madewell.

Madewell and InStyle are running a new sweepstakes to win a Los Angeles shopping trip and a $2,000 Madewell shopping spree. Plus, an invite to Alexa Chung For Madewell launch party. This sweepstakes ends August 10, 2011.

To enter, click HERE. This sweepstakes ends 7/20/10. For official rules, click here.

Madewell is also reminding us about the offer for free shipping (no min! any order!) with YESPLEASE. This offer ends Sunday, July 17, 2011.

Good luck to all the Madewell Aficionadas! :)

Goodbye Borge Garveri! {farvel for alltid}

A member of the Borge Garveri family recently reached out to me to let me know that the tannery is no longer in business. It was a family run operation for 120 years (established around 1870).

Unfortunately, last year they had to close their doors due to a series of factors including the "global financial crisis, the strength of the Norwegian kroner, a lack of raw-materials caused by a strong increase in raw-material prices, internal quality challenges and frost and flood damage". [Reference here.]

J.Crew frequently used Borge Garveri products in their leather handbags. Customers would see the "leather tumbled by Borge Garveri exclusively for J.Crew" in product descriptions. J.Crew would even go as far as sharing: "By the way, it's pronounced "Borg-ee," with a rolled R." ;)

Their leather was always beautiful, "indescribably rich" as J.Crew would say. One of my favorites, is the Frankie Bag (as shown in the image to the left). I personally own (& love) this bag.

So it is with sadness that I say "farvel for alltid" ("good-bye forever" in Norwegian) to Borge Garveri. :(