Promotions, Promotions, & More Promotions at J. Crew!

We have been seeing a lot of promotions (& really good ones at that) from J.Crew lately. A big "thanks!" to Irina who shared the following that might shed some light on why:

...We went to a jcrew store yesterday, and the store manager told us that they didn't meet their expected black Friday numbers by 30%! Guess that's why the sales!

Very interesting tidbit! Interesting indeed. I am surprised to hear that J.Crew missed their target by that much. (I should add, that this figure is not confirmed by J.Crew. This figure may also be specific to one store, and not company-wide.)

I didn't expect that since it seems like a lot of the items I am interested in are on back order or selling out. On the other hand, (as many of you have noted throughout posts on the blog,) there are a lot of items in the Sale section that aren't moving out. Maybe J.Crew just needs one super-incredible sale to clear out Sale inventory (like 60% off and make it Final)?

Ultimately I want J.Crew to perform well (so they stick around a long time). However, I don't mind seeing more customer-favorable promotions in the meantime. Lastly, does this mean we can expect another {fantastic} promotion for tomorrow? I only hope so!

J. Crew to Open Store in Hong Kong {oh yeah!}

A big "thanks!" to Channing, who shared the following news from ButterBoom (click here to read in its entirety):

J. Crew to Open Store in Hong Kong
The US retailer continues to launch large-scale assault on HK.
Butterboom Buzz
November 25, 2011

Popular US brand J.Crew is rumored to be heading to Hong Kong in summer 2012 according to our sources. They will be targeting Central for their first store, and will look to expand almost immediately to tackle the huge mid-tier fashion market that’s growing here like wildfire.

J.Crew is a huge brand that all of our American readers will know well. In fact, it doesn’t end there as they have around 250 retail stores and 76 locations in Japan alone! You can see their current collections at Jcrew.com and expect a formal announcement in December. As always, watch this space for the latest!

That is exciting news! I am happy for all our Hong Kong JCAs who will be able to shop at a J.Crew store.

I am also happy to see J.Crew's recent moves to expand into other countries. (J.Crew has always been very cautious about setting up stores and selling online in international markets. Now they are selling online to Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, & United Kingdom, in addition to the United States.)

Are you excited about J.Crew's move to Hong Kong? Do you think J.Crew is moving too slow or too fast in the international retail market?

Madewell Email: Three days only: 25% off select boots (+ free shipping)

"Thanks!" to many of you, who shared the following offer from Madewell.

Madewell is offering 25% off select Boots (click here to shop online) and free shipping. The offer expires Monday, December 19, 2011. The fine print of this offer includes:

*Prices as marked at madewell.com. Offer valid on select Madewell boots only and cannot be redeemed for cash or applied to previous purchases. 25% off select boots offer valid at madewell.com only through Friday, December 2, 2011, 11:59pm ET. Free shipping offer is valid only on madewell.com orders shipped via regular shipping (3 to 6 business days). Free ground shipping is applied automatically at checkout. This offer cannot be applied to previous purchases. Free shipping offer is valid through Monday, December 19, 2011, 8:59pm ET.

Will you be checking out the Boots at Madewell? Are there any items you are interested in getting? 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 Anthropologie, 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.

30% Off & Free Shipping on Select J.Crew Sweaters for Men, Women, & Kids

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Rose (in this post), as well as Irina, who shared the latest promotion from J.Crew with us today.

J.Crew is offering 30% off *and* free shipping on select Sweaters for Women (click here to shop online) and Men (click here to shop online), as well as Crewcuts. This offer ends Wednesday, November 30, 2011. The fine print includes:

*Prices as marked at jcrew.com. Discount taken at register in stores. Offer valid on women's, men's and kids' sweaters only and cannot be redeemed for cash or applied to previous purchases. Offer valid at jcrew.com and J.Crew retail stores only. Offer is not valid at J.Crew Factory stores. Offer not valid on cashmere or third-party brands in stores. Offer valid through Wednesday, November 30, 2011, 11:59pm ET on Internet orders shipped via regular shipping (3 to 6 business days). Free shipping applies to online orders of women's, men's and kids' sweaters only. Free ground shipping on women's, men's and kids' sweaters is applied automatically at checkout. Offer not valid on phone orders. Terms of offer are subject to change at any time.

This offer doesn't seem that great compared to the last few ones. I was hoping to see an additional percent off their sale. But I will say that I am {pleasantly} surprised by how many promotions they are running back-t0-back. I will take what I can get! :)

Will you be taking advantage of this promotion? Are there any Sweaters you are interested in getting? If so, please share!

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 Men's Empire Expands

The following article is from the Wall Street Journal (click here to read in its entirety):

J.'s Crew: As its men's empire expands, the co-branding pioneer rolls with a growing gang of specialty outfitters
November 26, 2011

"Men's fashion has moved more quickly in the last 10 years than it has over the last 40," said Millard "Mickey" Drexler, J. Crew's dynamic CEO.

One of the key moments in that acceleration may have been the company's 2008 opening of the Liquor Store, its first men's-only shop built in an old spirits seller in Manhattan's Tribeca neighborhood. It introduced a formula that has served as a clever template for the six J. Crew men's shops that followed (including a newly opened space in Manhattan's Columbus Circle) and planned outposts in Los Angeles, Toronto and London.

Feeling more like individual boutiques than J. Crew's integrated stores, the spaces are stylized, site-specific environments. They are filled with not only the brand's merchandise but antique furniture, inspiration books plucked from the designer's offices and exclusive collaborations with little-known labels.

"We collaborate with people that are doing what we can't do," said Mr. Drexler, who, with the help of president and creative director Jenna Lyons and head of men's design Frank Muytjens, has brokered more than 100 partnerships with brands such as Timex, Thomas Mason and Red Wing. "Now we're sharing customers with every high-end designer in the world. We want to offer something a little more scarce, a little more hard to find," he added.

The result: Obscure Japanese labels and so-traditional-no-one's-bought-it-for-decades brands become famous in a season. Here, Mr. Muytjens tells us about a few of those brands you probably haven't heard of...yet.

J.Crew Men's Shop colloborates with several designers:

• Gloverall | This brand has been producing the duffle coat since 1954 in Northampton, England. It's slim and short and the quality is beautiful.
• Drakes London | Such a great English brand. They've been around a long time, so the scarves have a very traditional look. I love the snowflake pattern.
• Ricker Handmade | This is an exclusive bag design we have from Ricker. It's made out of old postal bags with patches of vintage Japanese indigo sewn over it. No two bags are the same.
• Scott-Nichol | We love the chunky knit and the tweed yarn—they're the iconic English Hunting Sock. The Fair Isle print is my favorite.
• Fratelli Rossetti | We're always looking for the ultimate loafer. Fratelli Rossetti's are pretty amazing. The toe is not too round nor too square.
• Kato | We discovered Kato, this obscure Japanese brand, during a trip to Tokyo. It's a fresh perspective on a work shirt. We're the only ones outside of Asia to carry it.
• Mougin & Piquard | This was a defunct French watch brand that Tourneau relaunched with us. We went back into their archives and designed the Grande Seconde. We're the only ones to carry the brand in the world.
• Wallace & Barnes | These jeans in our salt fade wash are from our new vintage-inspired capsule collection, which you can only get at our men's stores. They're made in the USA from beautiful Japanese denim, and the fit is not too slim and not too straight. I've been wearing them for a month!

First, I had no idea that J.Crew had so many partnerships. They have been involved in more collaborations during the past few years, just didn't realize how many!

Second, I think their store concept for Men is great. Although I am curious if they plan to expand that across the country (not just in major cities).

What are your thoughts on the article? Any part you found particularly interesting? If so, please share! :)

American Express + J.Crew = Gifts!

A big "thanks!" to jbird (in this post) who shared the following news with us:

Do you have an Amex card? Register it here: https://giftchain.amexnetwork.com for their gift chain promo. JCrew is one of the participating retailers.

Definitely sign up and register if you have an American Express card! The rules seem pretty simple:

Join The Gift Chain by registering any eligible American Express® Card. Then, use that Card to spend $25 or more at a participating online store between November 28 and December 21, 2011, and you could get a surprise gift. That’s it. It’s that easy. With gifts ranging from statement credits, to ShopRunner memberships to incredible gift cards, some of which you can share with 3 Facebook friends, you never know what you have a chance to get.

Good luck American Express card-holding JCAs!

Surprise! 25% Off & Free Shipping {any order!}

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Y (in this post), Rose (in this post), as well as Irina, who shared the following promotion with us.

J.Crew is offering 25% off *and* free shipping on ANY order with promo code SURPRISE. This offer expires today Monday, November 28, 2011. The fine print includes:

*Offer valid on jcrew.com only. Offer not valid at J.Crew retail stores or J.Crew Factory stores. Offer does not apply to previous purchases, alterations or the purchase of gift cards. Offer not applicable on third-party branded merchandise. 25% discount applies to online orders before shipping, handling and taxes are added. Free shipping offer is valid on Internet orders shipped via regular shipping (3 to 6 business days). Offer valid through Monday, November 28, 2011, 11:59pm ET. Savings and free shipping are applied at checkout with code SURPRISE. Offer not valid on phone orders. Cannot be combined with any other promotion or redeemed for cash. Limit one promotional code per order. Details of offer are subject to change.

I do not remember J.Crew offering a specific Cyber-Monday promotion, let alone one this good. J.Crew is really stepping up with amazing offers this holiday season!

As for me... I already took advantage of this offer and picked up a new watch strap for my recently acquired Timex® Traveler Watch (Item 37301; review here; $98.00, now $78.00). Couldn't resist with the additional 25% off. It's especially nice having it delivered for free, since I want to avoid the malls (and their crazy parking lots during the holiday shopping season). Yey!

Will you be taking advantage of the SURPRISE promo? Are you loving the new promotion from J.Crew? Did you pick up an item or two? Please share! :)

Madewell Sale is On (30% off + free shipping)

"Thanks!" to many of you, who shared the following offer from Madewell.

Madewell is offering 30% off their Sale (click here to shop online) and free shipping with promo code ENJOY. The offer for 30% off ends today, Monday, November 28, 2011. The fine print of this offer includes:

*No exchanges, no returns on items marked as final sale. Discount valid in Madewell stores and at madewell.com only. Discount does not apply to previous purchases or the purchase of gift cards. 30% off applies to sale items only. Savings are applied at checkout with code ENJOY. Discount not valid on phone orders. Limit one promotional code per order. Details of offer are subject to change. Discount valid through Monday, November 28, 2011, 11:59pm ET.

**Offer is valid only on madewell.com orders shipped via regular shipping (3 to 6 business days). Free ground shipping is applied automatically at checkout. This offer cannot be combined with any other promotion and cannot be applied to previous purchases. Offer is valid through Monday, December 19, 2011, 8:59pm ET.

Just make sure the sale item you buy is the one you want as all items are Final Sale.

This is a pretty good Cyber Monday deal over at Madewell. I am not usually a shopper of theirs, but I will be checking them out this morning.

Will you be checking out Madewell? Did you already pick up an item or two? 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).

---

Please note: this posting is not for resellers, retailers or businesses. If you are a reseller, retailer, or a business, 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! :)

---

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, retailers or businesses. If you are a reseller, retailer, or a business, 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! :)

---

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 FALL sale, or to see some new FALL/WINTER 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!!! :)

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 FALL sale, or to see some new FALL/WINTER 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!

You Paid How Much? {eBay edition}

This blog has mentioned some sky-high pricing on J.Crew items listed on eBay before. (Check out the "The Secret is Out {pricey J.Crew finds on eBay}" post as an example.)

The following are some recent examples of some top bids being placed on eBay.

Alexia (in this post) gave us the heads-up about the Dot Flouncette Blouse being sold for a whopping $399.99 on eBay. Mind you this was originally selling for $98 and went on ultra-sale for around $30. Best part? Alexia reached out to the Seller to ask if there was a typo to find out there was not. Yikes!

"Thanks!" to Liz, as well as Cuckoo (in this post), who let us know that a Bella Jacket in Navy recently sold on eBay (click here) for an incredible price of $405! There was also a Bella Jacket in Grey that sold for $350 (click here). The retail price was far less just a few years ago, just a mere $198 in J.Crew stores.

It's kind of incredible with some of the final bids on J.Crew pieces. On a bright note, it does show how timeless J.Crew items are.

Are you surprised by how much certain items are going for on eBay? Please share your thoughts on this topic!

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.

Madewell: Save Up 30% Off (+ free shipping)

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Y (in this post), as well as IRL & Bikbik & Roro, who shared the following offer from Madewell.

Madewell is offering a stacked promotion for the start of the Holiday shopping season:

20% off purchases of $150+
25% off purchases of $250+
30% off purchases of $350+

No code necessary, as it is automatically applied at checkout. {nice!} There is also free shipping on all purchases from Madewell (no minimum, any item!) The fine print of this offer includes:

*Offer is valid on madewell.com orders from Wednesday, November 23, 2011, 12:01am to Sunday, November 27, 2011, 11:59pm ET. Offer is valid at Madewell stores from Friday, November 25, 2011, 12:01am to Sunday, November 27, 2011, 11:59pm ET. Offer not valid on telephone orders. 20% off discount applies to purchases of $150 or more before shipping, handling and taxes are added. 25% off discount applies to purchases of $250 or more before shipping, handling and taxes are added. 30% off discount applies to purchases of $350 or more before shipping, handling and taxes are added. Discount is applied automatically at checkout. Offer does not apply to previous purchases, alterations or the purchase of gift cards.

Here is the tricky part (if I am reading it correctly)... This offer starts today for online purchases, but does not start in brick and mortar (B&M) stores until Friday, November 25th. The offer does end for both online and in stores on Sunday, November 27, 2011.

Will you be checking out Madewell? Did you already pick up an item or two? If so, please share!

Thanksgiving Surprise: 25% Off & Free Shipping on $150+ at J.Crew

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Jcrewobsession, easy petite looks, & Caitlin (in this post), Tiffany Rose & Rose (in this post), GigiOfCa (in this post), as well as Irina & Jennifer, who shared the following promotion with us.

J.Crew is offering 25% off *and* free shipping on orders of $150+ with promo code YOURGIFT. This offer expires Sunday, November 27, 2011. The fine print includes:

*Offer valid on jcrew.com and at J.Crew retail stores only. Offer not valid at J.Crew Factory stores. Offer does not apply to previous purchases, alterations or the purchase of gift cards. Offer not applicable on third-party branded merchandise. 25% discount applies to online orders of $150 or more before shipping, handling and taxes are added. Free shipping offer is valid on Internet orders shipped via regular shipping (3 to 6 business days). Free shipping applies to online-only orders of $150 or more before shipping, handling and taxes are added. Offer valid through Sunday, November 27, 2011, 11:59pm ET. Savings and free shipping are applied at checkout with code YOURGIFT. Offer not valid on phone orders. Cannot be combined with any other promotion or redeemed for cash. Limit one promotional code per order. Details of offer are subject to change.

I am pleasantly surprised to see this promotion available for Thanksgiving (and back so quickly from the last one). Yey for J.Crew!

Will you be taking advantage of the YOURGIFT promo? Are you loving the new promotion from J.Crew? Did you pick up an item or two? Please share! :)

Happy Thanksgiving Day! {celebrating w/ J.Crew}?

First and foremost... Happy Thanksgiving Day everyone! It's the time of year where we can spend time with our loved ones and enjoy a fantastic meal. It also officially starts the Holiday season. :)

Per JCA tradition, this post is to find out what everyone is going to wear. I find it really interesting to see what other Aficionadas and Aficionados plan on wearing (and of course it gives me lots of wonderful ideas for future outfits). :) So for this post, what we are planning to wear on Thanksgiving Day? :)

For tomorrow, I plan on going casual but chic. I am going to go with J.Crew's Lexington Jacket (in gray with white trim), Perfect-fit Long-Sleeve V-neck Tee (Item 97761; $24.50), and the Printed Scarf in Wool (Item 51927; $59.50). This outfit is finished off with a pair of Anthropologie's Dixie Trousers (Style 21114186; $98.00) in Red.

What are you planning to wear this Thanksgiving Day? Are you planning to go "head to toe" J.Crew or parts J.Crew?

"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 Anthropologie, 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.

Jenna Lyons Makes TV Appearance

"Thanks!" to PatsyStone (in this post) who shared the following news with us:

Sorry a bit unrelated but I caught an ad for this week's Project Accessory. Seems Jenna Lyons will be the guest judge this week. I haven't watched that show (and this latest season of Project Runway kinda was disappointing)...but thought it may be of interest.

First, I did not know Project Runway had a spin-off called Project Accessory (click here for their official website). I stopped watching Project Runway when it left Bravo. Not sure why, just did.

Second, I am intrigued by the new show's concept. According to the Wikipedia page (click here), Jenna Lyons will be a guest judge in their fifth episode titled "Beach Blanket Blingo" whereby "the designers go to the beach for a challenge". It also says this episode will air Thursday, December 1, 2011. (I will be TiVo-ing it.)

Will you watch Jenna Lyons on the Project Accessory? Do you think the tv appearance is a good fit for Jenna Lyons? Please share! :)

Product Review: Timex® Traveler Watch

Timex® Traveler Watch
Click here for product page
Item 37301
Regular: $98.00
Sale: $78.00

J.Crew describes it as the following:

Introducing our very first ladies' watch designed in collaboration with the iconic American watchmaker. Inspired by a 1960s wristwatch we found at an estate sale, it fuses vintage elements with world-class modern crafting. Featuring an unfussy yet feminine silver-tone case, a crisp analog dial and a cherry red arrow at the second hand (a rare vintage detail we adore), this is one you'll wear day after day, year after year. Brass and stainless steel watch case. Nylon strap with stainless steel hardware. Diameter of watch case: 25mm. Strap width: 12mm. Import. Timex is a registered trademark of Timex Group USA, Inc.

Earlier in the year, I mentioned how J.Crew's Timex watch for women caught my eye. (Refer to the January 25th "New Lady Watch from Timex For J.Crew" post.) I already own J.Crew's Timex Military Watch (Item 10884; $150.00), and could not justify another one... or could I? Yup, I can! I simply could not resist when the Timex Traveler Watch went on sale last week with an additional 30% off! (I think so many of us jumped to buy this watch because of the sale too.)

My watch has finally arrived and I have to say... loves it!!! I normally favor larger watches. However, this one is so pretty thanks to its beautiful design. Some might think the poly straps would make this watch look more casual. However, the diminutive size of the watch adds to its overall delicate nature, giving it a really chic feel.

Similar to the Timex Military Watch, the straps are interchangeable and too long (requiring it to be folded over and tucked). The original Timex comes with a black strap. However, the women's version includes an olive green strap– a perfect shade that will work with almost any outfit. The cherry red arrow on the second hand really pops on the watch too!

Overall, very pleased with this watch! I already ordered an additional Women's Watch Strap (Item 39298; $12.00; select colors $2.99), and plan to get a few more colors in the upcoming year.

The real life image above of the watch is from the Sincerely Sammie blog where she beautifully incorporates J.Crew's Timex® Traveler Watch with her outfits. Check out her "Mint Cherry" (where the above image was from) and the "Orange Crush" post to see more images of this watch! :)

What are your thoughts on the Timex® Traveler Watch? Do you own this watch? Have you tried it on at a store? Do you like this style? If so, please share with us your review. :)

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! :)

Madewell Email: Our holiday catalog is here (+ free shipping on all orders)

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

Madewell is sending out their Holiday Catalog. If you have not signed up for the catalog, click HERE.

The first catalog from Madewell is pretty big. (Refer to the "Can Your Mailbox Handle Madewell?" post.) I finally got mine in the mail and I have to agree with Sydneygirl's review: it is fun to look at, but not like J.Crew's. (I have no plans to hold onto them like I do with my collection of J.Crew catalogs.)

They are also reminding us about free shipping on all orders (no min!) until December 19, 2011. This offer is applied automatically at checkout. Great time to check them out with free shipping!

Will you be adding your name to the Madewell catalog list? Did you already receive your copy? Are you excited they will have their own dedicated catalog?

J.Crew Factory Email: Thanksgiving treat: We're staying open all week!

"Thanks!" to Irina, as well as Michelle P. (in this post), who shared the following news: J.Crew Factory (click here to shop online) is open for the week! They are also offering free shipping on all Factory Crewcuts items.

As always... if you live near a Factory Store, check them out first. The B&M Factory Stores tend to have better promotions and sale prices (especially since they will competing for your $ on Black Friday!)

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

Up to 25% Off & Free Shipping on Outerwear

"Thanks!" to many of you, including GigiOfCa (in this post), as well as Irina, who shared the following promotion with us.

J.Crew is offering up to 25% off AND free shipping on {select} outerwear for women (click here), men (click here) and kids (click here). This offer expires Tuesday, November 22, 2011. The fine print includes:

*Prices as marked at jcrew.com. Discount taken at register in stores. Offer valid on select women's, men's and kids' outerwear only and cannot be redeemed for cash or applied to previous purchases. Offer valid at jcrew.com and J.Crew retail stores only. Offer is not valid at J.Crew Factory stores. Offer valid through Tuesday, November 22, 2011, 11:59pm ET on Internet orders shipped via regular shipping (3 to 6 business days). Free shipping applies only to online orders of select women's, men's and kids' outerwear only. Free ground shipping on select women's, men's and kids' outerwear only is applied automatically at checkout. Offer not valid on phone orders. Terms of offer are subject to change at any time.

This is a pretty nice offer for those of you needing a new Winter coat (or two!) There is plenty of stock available. Although there are some pieces in certain colors already on back order!

What are your thoughts on this latest promotion? Are there are pieces you are interested in getting?

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, retailers or businesses. If you are a reseller, retailer, or a business, 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! :)

---

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, retailers or businesses. If you are a reseller, retailer, or a business, 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! :)

---

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 FALL sale, or to see some new FALL/WINTER 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!!! :)

J.Crew Factory Email: Give thanks for great gifts: 60% OFF select holiday styles

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Irina, who shared the following news: J.Crew Factory (click here to shop online) is open for the weekend.

They are also offering up to 60% off on select factory items in stores between November 24th through November 27th. (Prices automatically adjusted). Customers can also take an additional 40% off clearance items during this time (at Factory Stores).

What are your thoughts on J.Crew's Factory Fall 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 FALL sale, or to see some new FALL/WINTER 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!

Go for it: EXTRA 30% OFF fall sale items continues, in stores & online

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Irina, GigiOfCa (in this post), as well as A Bigger Closet (in this post), who shared the following email & news from J.Crew.

J.Crew is reminding customers to take 30% off all sale items (no min) with promo code MUSTHAVE. This offer expires Sunday, November 20, 2011.

I am happy to see that there have been a few good updates to the sale section– including this morning! From the looks of the stock numbers (women at 890+ items earlier this morning and now at 840+), things are moving quickly. :)

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

J.Crew Fall/ Holiday 2011 Fashion Event in NYC

It is that time of year again... the Crew's Holiday Party Time! {Although in my head, I am singing it to the tune of "Peanut Butter Jelly Time".}

"Thanks!" to Dara (in this & this post) who let us know the following:

On a semi-related topic, just received my invitation to the NYC holiday party. First off, it's at the Fifth Avenue store this year instead of Madison Avenue Collection, presumably because the Fifth Avenue store was just renovated. Excited about this since the Fifth Avenue store is much closer to where I live and a bigger store means way more merchandise to choose from. Second, it seems Jenna won't be in attendance this year which I find strange (and frustrating because I left just before she arrived the last 3 years in a row!) Tom Mora and Frank Muytjens are hosting.

This event will take place this evening (although I am not sure what time it starts).

For those who attend, please share the details of this event with us! Who was there, who wore what, and all the other good stuff! :)

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's Guest Editors Wish List

J.Crew included a new feature that is quite darling: Guest Edited Wish Lists (click here to check it out!)

It showcases 10 of J.Crew's favorite people to "reveal what they're hoping for this holiday season".

What makes it fun is they submit a holiday photo, as well as answer questions like what holiday tradition they look forward to the most, what food they will be eating, best gift received, and favorite holiday movie.

What are your thoughts on the Guest Editors Wish List? Have you checked it out? If so, please share! :)

J.Crew Sample Sale Back in New York City

"Thanks!" to Spring 2011 (in this post) who let us know about an upcoming J.Crew Sample Sale in New York City. It will be running from November 29th to December 3rd.

What to expect? The Fall/Winter sample sale will include clothes, shoes, accessories, as well as winter outerwear from J. Crew (plus Madewell).

For the event's days/hours:

Tuesday, November 29th (10am - 8pm)
Wednesday, November 30th (10am - 8pm)
Thursday, December 1st (10am - 8pm)
Friday, December 2nd (10am - 8pm)
Saturday, December 3rd (10am - 6pm)

As with all their sample sales, all sales are final. The location for the event is:

260 Sample Sale
260 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10001
nr. 29th St.
212-725-5400

Will you be attending this latest sample sale? If you are, please let us know! If you could also share any information (e.g. merchandise selection, quantity, prices), it would be greatly appreciated. :)

"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.