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 FALL arrivals {sigh!} in person, maybe you might be willing to share that with us in this post. In particular, if you could share with us a few of the noteworthy items that are available, at what prices, and potential sizes the store is carrying (as well as the store location)- that would be fantastic!

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

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

J.Crew Announces Latest Quarter Results {making money!}

"Thanks!" to Kat (in this post), who shared the following from WWD (click here for the article in its entirety):

J.Crew Profit Vaults Ahead
By David Moin
August 29, 2012

J.Crew Group Inc. is running strong and bringing its business to new markets.

“It’s been a nice year so far,” Millard “Mickey” Drexler, chairman and chief executive officer, told WWD. “Every day we get a bit smarter about our business, but you can never let your guard down.”

On Wednesday, the company reported a robust second quarter, marked by a return to the black and strong sales and full-price selling across several categories. Executives also cited plans to add more men’s wear stores this year, and divulged the time frame for opening the first J.Crew stores in Europe and Asia, meaning the company is getting close to signing leases. A London store is seen opening in the second half of 2013, and a store in Hong Kong is seen opening in the first half of 2014.

...J.Crew reported net income of $22 million for the second quarter ended July 28, compared with a $10.5 million loss in the year-ago period. Last year’s loss was due to nonrecurring inventory and litigation costs associated with its acquisition by TPG Capital L.P. and Leonard Green & Partners L.P. in March 2011. In the 2011 period, the amortization of inventory from purchase accounting cost the company $22 million, and litigation costs reached $6.5 million.

Total revenues in the latest quarter rose 21 percent to $525.5 million, while comparable company sales increased 14 percent. Gross margin increased to 45.1 percent from 36.5 percent, reflecting healthy full-price selling.

Operating income increased to $62.1 million, compared with $12.3 million in the second quarter of 2011.

Men’s wear, according to the company, increased at a higher rate than women’s last quarter, and executives cited plans to open two more units this year, including a Ludlow shop in Copley Place in Boston on Sept. 18, and a J.Crew men’s shop in The Grove in Los Angeles on Nov. 21, bringing the total to nine men’s units. J.Crew men’s wear, Drexler said, has become “quite well known as a strong franchise. Our Ludlow suit business is a business unto itself, as is our shirt business.” Ludlow is a J.Crew label.

With the rollout of men’s stores, “We are ramping up, only selectively,” Drexler said. “We are not running fast. We are running strategically and appropriately….I don’t think men have had a great choice in the last number of years to buy high quality at prices that are reasonable.”

Overall at the company, “We intensified our product offerings from a creative point of view,” Drexler said. “I would characterize the J.Crew product and merchandising as standing out in the marketplace. People voted with their pocketbooks, but we worked hard at it, and we continue to innovate and create every day….A lot of designers sell primarily accessories. We are in the apparel and accessory business.”

Drexler said that the brand’s pricing below designer and the fact that J.Crew is not sold at discount in channels other than its own “long-term builds loyalty into the customer base.” He also said not being a business that designs products flaunting the logo enhances the appeal. “We maintain the friendliness of the brand.”

Drexler also said that certain categories were identified for intensification this year, though he declined to specify, and also stressed the marketing efforts, including reformulating the catalogue, were intensified as well.

Regarding the Madewell brand, Drexler said, “We are expanding it both storewise and onlinewise. We’re very excited. We’re launching our fourth catalogue in September.”

Great news for our favorite retailer! I have to say, I am surprised menswear increased at a higher rate than women. (Although I bet, the actual figure still shows women outspending men at J.Crew.) ;)

I also have to agree with Mickey about not flaunting the label. When I was younger I did not mind having the label of the clothing company visible. However, not so much anymore.

Lastly, I am not sure why Madewell does not keep up with a catalog. Seems like they could at least be rolling one out every season. Just a thought...

What are your thoughts on this latest news? Any points you found interesting?

J.Crew Factory: A can't-miss fall offer (plus, credit card perks!)

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Catherine K. (in this post), who shared the following news/ email from J.Crew.

J.Crew is offering Factory Store shoppers a special treat. Customers can take 20% off any purchase of $125+. This offer is good through September 30, 2012. They are also offering double points when you use your J.Crew credit card. This offer ends September 9th.

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).

This is a fantastic offer, especially with all the in-store promotions. {Wahoo!}

Happy Factory Store Shopping!!! :)

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 Store Location Series {Delaware}

*Image above is from Etsy (found through UrbanFootprintDesign)

A big "thanks!" to GigiOfCa {of the delightful Gigi's Gone Shopping blog} who came up with a brilliant suggestion for a series of post: a city guide where JCAs can suggest which J.Crews to shop at.

This post will focus on Delaware! With so many stores in the area, it might be too much to visit them all. So if you are a local, or a knowledgeable tourist, please share what stores a fellow JCA has to visit!

Feel free to share other tidbits of advice. For example... What are your top three spots? Are there certain stores that should be avoided at certain times of the day/ week? Are there stores that have a better selection than others? Which stores have the best sale offerings?

Which J.Crew brick & mortar (B&M) stores {in the state of Delaware} should an out-of-towner shop at? Which stores should be avoided? 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.

J.Crew Cardmembers only: shop the latest with 25% off and free shipping

"Thanks!" to Jen, reedandbamboo, Dina, Emily, & Irina, as well as kasia (in this post), who shared some news about an email sent to J.Crew credit card holders.

J.Crew cardholders should be receiving an email for 25% off *and* free shipping (any order! no minimum!) with a unique promo code. This offer expires September 11, 2012. The fine print includes:

*Offer may not be combined with any other promotion and does not apply to previous purchases, alterations or the purchase of gift cards. Offer valid 8/28/12-9/11/12. Offer does not apply toward J.Crew Collection and third-party branded merchandise. The J.Crew Rewards Program is provided by J.Crew and J.Crew may change the terms of the program at any time. The J.Crew Rewards Card cannot be applied to previous purchases. Rewards cannot be used as payment on the J.Crew Credit Card account. Subject to full terms and conditions of the J.Crew Credit Card Rewards Program (see jcrew.com).

It is unclear if you have to use your J.Crew card as payment. It is mentioned in the email image but not so much in the fine print.

Also, "thanks!" to Cousy (in this post) who let us know that if you do not get the email you can still have the code applied. She shares:

I'm a cardholder but as of 2:00 hadn't received my cardholder promo email. I called customer service and they told me that I could phone in an order between now and Sept. 11th and they would honor the 25% discount and free shipping.

Hope this helps for anyone who hasn't gotten an email yet...

I just want to say, good move on J.Crew's part! It is nice to see such a perk to card holders. Yey for all those with the email!!!

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!

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 of Seasons Past: {a look in the closet}

It's that time again, to take a look at an image of J.Crew pieces from seasons past! As caribbelle (in this post) so beautifully termed, "ye olde j crew of yore".

This post features a dress from J.Crew's Holiday 2006 collection. I do not know anything about it (name or item number or cost). But what I do know is that I want it! Besides the classic shape, it features a darling peter pan collar (which is all over J.Crew's current Fall 2012 offerings). Check out the length of the skirt too... it hits the knees! I am in love!!!

What are your thoughts on the look(s)/item(s) from the past? Do you find the look(s)/item(s) classic or do you think they are dated?

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 SUMMER sale, or to see some new FALL arrivals {sigh!} in person, maybe you might be willing to share that with us in this post. In particular, if you could share with us a few of the noteworthy items that are available, at what prices, and potential sizes the store is carrying (as well as the store location)- that would be fantastic!

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

J.Crew Email: The velvet slipper

"Thanks!" to Irina, who shared the following email J.Crew sent yesterday.

The email not only features the Stubbs & Wootton® for J.Crew Classic Velvet Slippers (item 10264; $400.00), but also shares its back story with customers:

Though Stubbs & Wootton founder Percy Steinhart opened up shop in a tiny Palm Beach boutique in 1993, his heart was in early 20th century England: Steinhart wanted to recreate the handmade needlepoint house slippers that men would change into after muddying their boots on unpaved streets (and which quickly became fashionable options for formal, evening and dinner wear). The results are chic (and sometimes cheeky) designs handcrafted by a small community of artisans in La Mancha, Spain, known for their tradition of quality and expertise in stitching and assembling footwear. Luckily for us, Stubbs & Wootton created these quirky, totally-up-our-alley pairs exclusively for J.Crew, which means they're even more special complements to everything from dresses to tapered trousers—and you can't find them anywhere else.

Uh, I don't know what to make of these. Don't get me wrong, I think they are cute. But are they cute on? It is really tough to make velvet slippers work with an outfit.

And of course there is the price tag... $400 is a lot to spend on a trend that I am not sure will last more than a season or two. (I should add, that I do own some loafers myself. Just not at that price point.)

What are your thoughts on the velvet slippers from J.Crew? Have you seen a pair in person? If so, please share! :)

Quick Poll: Do you like the Classic Velvet Slippers?

Hen Sweater Keeps Company {spotted: hen scarf!}

We have discussed the French Hen Sweater (Item 14492; $95.00) quite a bit. (It definitely is a conversation starter!)

Well J.Crew has decided to add another French Hen design item to the mix: the wool scarf! I briefly stopped into a J.Crew store today and imagine my surprise to see a wool scarf in navy adorned with tiny-hens-wearing-berets print.

I actually thought the design was quite brilliant. From a far, it looks like a great scarf that works with most outfits. Up close, there is a whimsical tiny print. Well played J.Crew!

A big "thanks!" to Audball (in this post) who shared images of the scarf with us (to view all the photos, check them out here). She also shared with us the price ($65), item number (24441), and material (100% wool).

There's more! "Thanks!" to wellfedfred (in this post) who shared: "My September catalog finally arrived, and on page 18: "The French hen is our mascot for fall (you'll find it scattered throughout the collection)." Didn't find it anywhere else in the catalog, but was wondering when it would start turning up..."

This news is confirmed by fellow JCAs... "Thanks!" to JSR & Cate (in this post), as well as Carmen, who spotted this print on additional items (like trouser socks and an iPhone case).

Have you seen the French Hen print items (like the Scarf) at your local J.Crew store? If so, please share!

30% Off Select J.Crew Sweaters & 40% Off Select Factory Items

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

J.Crew is offering 30% off select Sweaters for Women (click here to shop online) and Men (click here to shop online), as well as Crewcuts. This offer ends Monday, August 27, 2012. The fine print includes:

*Prices as marked. Offer valid on select women's, men's, boys' and girls' sweaters only. Offer cannot be redeemed for cash or applied to previous purchases. Offer valid at jcrew.com only. Offer is not valid at J.Crew retail stores, J.Crew Factory stores or on J.Crew Factory items. Offer valid through Monday, August 27, 2012, 11:59pm ET. Offer not valid on phone orders. Terms of offer are subject to change at any time.

"Thanks!" to Irina, who shared the latest email from J.Crew with us too. J.Crew Factory (click here to shop online) is offering 40% off select Factory Store items for Men & Women, plus 30% off select Crewcuts items! These offers ends Sunday, September 2, 2012.

Will you be taking advantage of either promotion? Are there any Sweaters 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 FALL arrivals {sigh!} in person, maybe you might be willing to share that with us in this post. In particular, if you could share with us a few of the noteworthy items that are available, at what prices, and potential sizes the store is carrying (as well as the store location)- that would be fantastic!

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

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

J. Crew Emphasizes Hospitality {well, how do you do}

"Thanks!" to Alyssa, who shared the following story from CBS (click here to read in its entirety) that talks about an upcoming episode focusing on J.Crew's Mickey Drexler:

J.Crew CEO Drexler emphasizes hospitality
The Associated Press
August 23, 2012

There's no ivory tower surrounding J.Crew CEO Millard "Mickey" Drexler.

He visits every office, store and distribution center, and makes an effort to meet every new employee, although he's always Mickey, not Mr. Drexler. He'll notice if light bulbs are too dim, or how long the water cooler has been broken. And it's up to him to remember his cousin's birthday, although one of his assistants jots down the note once he says it aloud and she'll gently remind him later.

There have to be some perks to being in charge of a company that has steadily gained style cred since Drexler took over in 2003. It's also expanded from its signature prepster khakis and T-shirts that launched 30 years ago as a catalog-only business to a high-design collection of casual and dressy clothes in bold colors and prints in 287 free-standing stores, including its Madewell label, and is available in 103 countries online.

Michelle Obama famously told comedian Jay Leno on his talk show during the 2008 presidential campaign that she would order J.Crew clothes online late at night.

J.Crew lands in China this fall with its first retail presence outside North America in Lane Crawford department stores.

The company even previews at the upcoming New York Fashion Week, sandwiched on the schedule between Tory Burch, Badgley Mischka and Vera Wang.

Under Drexler's leadership, J.Crew has carved out a place in the fashion hierarchy that's just between trendsetter and accessible, and he seems to like living in that space.

His name means something, and he can get a reservation at any restaurant he wants, but, he says, he'll judge that hot, hip eatery by how they treat people on his staff when they call for their own table. "I used to be not me, 'Mickey Drexler.' I was me, just regular Mickey Drexler, the rest of my life, and I remember that," he says.

It takes a little effort to keep up with Drexler, 68, who previously served as CEO of Gap Inc. and is a director at Apple. He jumps from topic to topic as if he's playing pingpong but never seems to take his eye off the ball.

He gives more than a cursory glance to an email blast about the brand's new ironless shirts for men. The pitch is good, although he personally isn't completely sold on the ironless shirt — he is, after all, in a slightly rumpled pinstripe button-down that is part of his daily uniform with dark-wash jeans and a navy single-breasted, double-vent Ludlow blazer — but, he rationalizes, it's what some customers want. And what customers want, he tries to deliver.

He's been known to personally respond to a letter from a shopper who has a problem or a suggestion. "People think it's special if we respond, but it shouldn't be that way. For us, it all starts at the store and with our customers."

It nags at him that a sales associate reported moms have complained about the scratchiness of some embellished shirts in the company's children's line.

Drexler seems to be honest and candid with his employees, sometimes resulting in criticism but more often he'll give a happy shout-out.

During a recent tour of a J.Crew store in the Union Square neighborhood of Manhattan, not far from company headquarters, the staff isn't surprised to see him. They tell him the new bridal salon in that location is doing well, better than J.Crew bridal was doing as a stand-alone shop on Madison Avenue.

When it comes to light that the Goldsign Jenny-style skinny jeans (with a $288 price tag) are popular with shoppers, he calls the office to congratulate the denim team. "Put me on the loudspeaker," Drexler says.

He makes regular announcements at headquarters, sort of like the principal of a school. "When you say something and a thousand people are hearing it, you hope you leave an impression. I'm also sort of advertising."

He adds, "I don't know who listens and hears me, but someone is." In reality, all the people within striking distance seem to have at least one ear trained on what Drexler is saying. In the open-space office, people respond to his questions without him even really asking.

They also keep him moving on schedule, nudging him to this meeting or that. Drexler often takes the long route there, just to pass by others' work spaces to check in on what they're working on or the daily buzz.

Having breakfast with investment bankers — like he did on this day — isn't his usual routine, but maintaining relationships with the business community is part of his job. Later, he was breaking bread with the company's 27 corporate interns.

"I gave them all an assignment yesterday. I said, 'If they had the power to make the department they're working in better, what would they do?'" Drexler says. "And I want individual answers, not a 'group.' I want people who are looking to do things better. ... I'm an agent of change all day long, and I want to meet other people like that."

This talk about interns leads Drexler back to his management training days at Bloomingdale's. He was in the program with the son of the CEO of Macy's. Meanwhile, Drexler and his new wife — to whom he's now been married 42 years — had just bought a couch from Macy's that left them cold.

"Too big, too expensive, all wrong," Drexler describes. They tried to return it, or even exchange it, but they didn't get anywhere until Drexler tapped his relationship with the CEO's son.

Not long after that, the couch was gone, but they still had to pay a return charge, and Drexler says he still thinks about it. "Service drives a lot of my decisions," he says.

This month J.Crew relaunched its personal shopping program, renaming it Very Personal Stylist. It will be available at all stores with an emphasis on accommodation, whether that's body type, budget or time.

"I didn't like the name 'personal shopper.' That makes it sound like too much of a commodity and not personal enough," Drexler says.

He also hopes the new approach takes the sting out of asking for help. Right now, not enough people seek the expert fashion guidance they can get for free, Drexler says. Maybe it's because they think they'll be in for the hard sell or they'll end up with a look that's not really who they are, he muses, but everyone can use a second opinion and a little friendly advice.

Drexler asks a new sales associate — someone who's been on the job in the men's department for just two days — what style of jeans he should wear. "Vintage straight," the employee answers without hesitation.

Yes, he's in the fashion industry, but he's not a fashion guy. He relates more to the hospitality business, Drexler explains, which is why he uses a lot of food metaphors and compares J.Crew to a fine restaurant or hotel more than he does other retailers.

"The No. 1 thing is the product. The goods have to be good, but I care about how you feel about it," he says, noting that he doesn't believe any advertising — not the company's new ad strategy that broke in September fashion magazines or its 40 million catalogs a year — can compare with word of mouth.

"Treat others as you want to be treated," Drexler says. "Isn't that in the Bible or something?

Oh Mickey! I am on board with everything you said (like the product being good, treating customers well, etc.). For the most part I agree they provide excellent service (one of the many reasons I keep coming back to them). I only wished that it was consistently applied across the board at J.Crew.

What are your thoughts on the article? Any points you adamantly agree or disagree with? If you could make some suggestions to J.Crew, what would they be?

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 Store Location Series {Salt Lake City}

*Image above is from Etsy (found through confettielove)

A big "thanks!" to GigiOfCa {of the delightful Gigi's Gone Shopping blog} who came up with a brilliant suggestion for a series of post: a city guide where JCAs can suggest which J.Crews to shop at.

This post will focus on Salt Lake City, Utah! With so many stores in the area, it might be too much to visit them all. So if you are a local, or a knowledgeable tourist, please share what stores a fellow JCA has to visit!

Feel free to share other tidbits of advice. For example... What are your top three spots? Are there certain stores that should be avoided at certain times of the day/ week? Are there stores that have a better selection than others? Which stores have the best sale offerings?

Which J.Crew brick & mortar (B&M) stores {in the Salt Lake City area} should an out-of-towner shop at? Which stores should be avoided? Please share! :)

Last Day Tomorrow! {Take 30% Off J.Crew's Final Sale }

Tomorrow is the last day J.Crew is offering customers 30% off all final sale items (no min) with promo code LOVEIT.

The Final Sale section (click here to shop online) had a very good update this morning. Lots of merchandise for everyone (1100+ for Women and 240+ for Men). Hopefully some of you JCAs are able to get some fabulous finds!

Will you be checking out the Sale section? Are there any items you are hoping to see or to get? Does your local B&M offer an additional percent off as well?

"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.

How to Rock the Bangles {do tell!}

"Thanks!" to Lisa, who raised a great style related question:

I love all the stacking bracelets in the jcrew catalog but I'm curious how many people stack, how many is too much and do they only stack the same brand?

The trend of multiple bracelets is one that J.Crew truly embraces. They even had a post on their blog called "Wristy Business" awhile back, that features their employees take on it.


Layering bracelets and watches together is an art. But the question is how to do it properly, without looking crazy.

Personally, I like wearing 2 {small} bracelets with a watch on my left wrist. It is just enough bracelets to look like some stacking going on, without going overboard. I honestly don't know how some ladies wear more than 4 bracelets without it interfering (like typing on a laptop).

How do you layer jewels on your wrists? Is there a technique you employ? If so, please share! :)

Questionable Item of the Week: Tangerine Resin Petal Necklace

"Thanks!" to Cousy (in this post) who pointed out an interesting addition to J.Crew's Jewelry Collection: the Lulu Frost for J.Crew tangerine resin petal necklace (item 25490; $278.00).

I have to share Cousy commentary on this statement piece because it is pretty amazing:

You know how there are J Crew items that aren’t your style but you can see how other people might like them? I call that Not My Thing, or NMT for short. ...

But every once and again there’s an extraordinary item that defies taste, reason and the laws of nature. Judgments about these items aren’t subjective, but objective: their hideousness is fact, not opinion. These items join the Pantheon of Ultimate Ugliness (PUU, pronounced “pee-you”). To qualify for PUU status, it has to be universally unfathomable that the item was designed, approved, manufactured, wholesaled, priced and offered to the masses. Indeed, it must boggle the mind that dozens of experienced people signed off on it.

It is our sad obligation to acknowledge another entry into the PUU: the Lulu Frost for J Crew Tangerine Resin Petal necklace. Please – before you click on the link, make sure your children are in bed and your pets are secured.

...I am a deep believer in the Almighty, but one look at this necklace caused me to fall to my knees and plead WHY??? WHY???

And then it dawned on me. This $278 “pitch perfect mash-up” can unite the world. This necklace is so dreadful ... JCA’s, together we can draw the line, take a stand and right a wrong. J Crew, for the good of all mankind, please don’t sell this necklace! Do I hear an AMEN?

LOL! Oh yes, this necklace is hideous. The definition says "showstopping" and that it does. That it does.

This looks like a craft project, where someone took the tin can full of remnants (from necklaces of yore,) and pieced them together. (How did J.Crew come up with "marigold" as its color?!) The individual pieces are quite lovely, but all together it looks ...complicated.

If you are interested in this necklace that features "a pitch-perfect mash-up of antique, vintage and modern influences that makes for supersweet retro-chic designs with a twist", you will have to wait until November 5th. (Is this wait-listed?)

P.S. The Bugle-Beaded Bug Pin (Item 11348; $50.00) is looking really good right now! ;)

What are your thoughts on the Tangerine Resin Petal Necklace? Would you buy this or leave it at the store? Have you see this first hand, and if so, what are your impressions?

Quick Poll: Do you like the Tangerine Resin Petal Necklace?

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 of Seasons Past: {a look in the closet}

It's that time again, to take a look at an image of J.Crew pieces from seasons past! As caribbelle (in this post) so beautifully termed, "ye olde j crew of yore".

This post features the Cashmere Lion Critter Tee (item 85997; $160.00) with a a regal lion crest across the chest. This long sleeve sweater is gorgeous in its eye catching bright shade. Move over Hen Sweater, this tee is purrrfect!

What are your thoughts on the look(s)/item(s) from the past? Do you find the look(s)/item(s) classic or do you think they are dated?

LOVEIT! Take 30% Off J.Crew's Final Sale

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Rose (in this post), mack (in this post), as well as StG & Irina, who shared the following update from J.Crew this morning.

J.Crew is offering customers 30% off all final sale items (no min) with promo code LOVEIT. This offer expires Thursday, August 23, 2011. The fine print includes:

*Offer valid at jcrew.com only. Offer is not valid at J.Crew retail or J.Crew Factory stores. Offer valid in US and Canada only. Offer does not apply to previous purchases or to the purchase of gift cards. 30% off discount applies to J.Crew sale and Factory sale online items only. Offer valid through Thursday, August 23, 2012, 11:59pm ET. 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.

The Final Sale section (click here to shop online) also had a pretty good update this morning. Hopefully some of you JCAs are able to get some fabulous finds!

Will you be checking out the Sale section? Are there any items you are hoping to see or to get? Does your local B&M offer an additional percent off as well?

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 SUMMER sale, or to see some new FALL arrivals {sigh!} in person, maybe you might be willing to share that with us in this post. In particular, if you could share with us a few of the noteworthy items that are available, at what prices, and potential sizes the store is carrying (as well as the store location)- that would be fantastic!

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

JCA Community {quote it!}

We are in for a treat as there are two related quotes on J.Crew's French Hen Sweater (Item 14492; $95.00) :

Straycat (in this post):

...All I think when I see it is "put a bird on it"....ha! I'm from Portland, Oregon and it's a joke around here because we really embraced "putting a bird on it". ...

Life as a Cat (in her "Overheard: J. Crew sales associates puzzle over the French Hen Sweater" post):

Store Associate 1: I don't get it. I mean, I don't have to get it, I guess, but I just don't get it . . .

SA 2: It's like in Portlandia - you know, "put a bird on it"?
SA 1: Yeah, but that's supposed to be making fun of the whole put-a-bird-on-things trend, not advocating for it.
SA 3: Well maybe we're being ironically ironic?
SA 1: No, that just doesn't work . . .

HA!

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 Updates Website with New Arrivals!

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Joanie & JulieStyles (in this post), as well as Dalya, Andréa & 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, but not the J.Crew Collection (click here).

The August catalog (click here to view) is available to view. However, the latest Fall/September catalog is not yet up.

Exciting News: J.Crew is offering free shipping on all orders with code FREESHIP! This code expires Sunday, August 19, 2012.

And there is more...

J.Crew is also offering free shipping on select handbags & shoes. (As some of you already pointed out, most bags already qualified for free shipping as they are priced over $175.) This offer ends November 8, 2012.
As for new arrivals... I am very excited about what I am seeing. There are lots of items that look absolutely fabulous.

Want. The Tippi sweater in colorblock stripe (item 11809; $95.00) is perfect! I love the stripes. I love the colors. This is the sweater you wear all the time, with anything (from jeans to capris to skirts).

So cute! I saw the French Hen Sweater (Item 14492; $95.00) in store earlier this week and it is just as cute in person. Now I thought the sweater was "too young" for me, but kudos to J.Crew who styled it in such a way on the mannequin, that it would easily work for all ages.

Big category winner- Jackets! I am super jazzed about what J.Crew has in store for blazers! Take the Collection crepe shawl blazer (item 99209; $350.00). The shawl collar on the tailored jacket looks chic. Can't wait to check this number out in person!

Plea to J.Crew. I am over dresses and skirts that are {way} above the knee. Some of us are tall (not model tall, but tall enough), that we are unable to comfortably wear these items. (I would like to bend down without the worry of flashing an innocent passerby.) Please J.Crew, add a couple of inches to those hem lines!

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? :)