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! :)
I'm wondering when J. Crew will next either have a sale on regular merchandise or send out rewards cards. Does anyone know?
ReplyDeleteMy SA said rewards will be mailed out this month
DeleteI think it's crazy how long rewards take to get issued. The quarter ended on 12/31/13! And the rewards will likely expire on 3/15.
DeleteRewards shouldn't have an expiration date at all!
DeleteI went to the store this weekend. The VPS said no sales for awhile since they just entered a new fiscal year. They also claimed prices were cheaper this spring (doubtful). If they were cheaper it was maybe $5.
DeleteI so agree on the rewards - they should not expire or should be good for several months. My Banana Republic rewards are always good for a long time and they mail rewards every month - they come right in the bill. I think J. Crew should follow this model.
Deletehooded basketweave jacket, lightweight merino tunic sweater, et al. reviewed HERE
ReplyDeleteHooded basket-weave jacket (09619) - I tried my usual S. Even though the description says "oversized fit", there is no way I could have sized down because it fit exactly in the shoulders, and then belled out in a kind of A-line shape. The sleeves were lined but the body was not. The color is not true to the website at all - I was expecting a true navy (as opposed to JC's usual almost black navy) but it was a faded blue-grey. I have a navy Gap mac jacket that's probably 15 years old that started out navy but has faded to the color that this jacket was. It's got a zipper and buttons. The fabric is stiff - I don't know if it will repel water.
ReplyDeleteStretch matchstick jean in dark Luella wash (A1467) - These had a slightly higher rise than my other matchsticks and a nice wash that seemed a little darker than the website image. I got my usual 28R and appreciate the shorter inseam (32" instead of 33") but still found them to be a bit too long (I'm 5'5"). As far as the denim goes, they were thin and stretchy and felt a lot like some Loft jeans I tried for half the price. I'm not totally sure how I feel about stretch denim yet. 92% cotton/6% polyester/2% spandex.
Collarless popover in indigo oxford (02850) - I can't believe this one hasn't gone to markdown yet, it's been around forever. The body is thick oxford cloth and the shape adds up to something that feels kind of like a nightshirt on me. I tried a 4 - it fit everywhere except the upper arms, which were like cutting-off-circulation tight. There's no way I would've been able to move my arms in it. Sizing up would've made it too big everywhere else. I'm done with popovers and thought this one was odd overall.
Weekend sweatshirt (A1646) - Thick, not boxy (thank goodness). Pretty standard piece. I wish it didn't have the triangle in the front (the catalog image obscured it with a necklace) as I'm kind of over those as well. I didn't find the fit to be "slightly loose" - more like a perfect fit in my usual S but I'd be hesitant to put it in the dryer.
Overall, no FP must-haves for me. I'll keep an eye on some of these as they get marked down.
A few more...
DeleteWeekend skinny sweatpant (A1782) - as far as fabric, see above review on the weekend sweatshirt. These are slim and warm, fit just right in S but I'd worry about drying them.
Reversible leather belt (A3161) - The 'haven' color is a cross between a dark blue and purple-y grape color. Hard to describe, but read more purple to me than blue. The cobblestone color looked darker/somewhat shinier than the online image. Love the twisty buckle that makes the belt reversible. If the colors were more neutral I'd say it'd probably be worth FP because it would get a lot of wear.
Seamed motorcycle pant (09616) - Although I liked the color, I didn't really like the fit. All of the pants in store had "ankle" printed on the interior, so I tried 28A. There doesn't appear to be a short version online so I'm assuming that the regulars in these are ankle length? Either way, they felt a bit dumpy on me...too low in the rise, too short in the leg. Changing those proportions may have helped the overall fit (for me personally).
Lightweight merino tunic sweater (A1917) - I tried S in "vibrant flame". The color was pretty and the fit was okay (you may want to size down). I found it to be very sheer in a way where you can see the outline of your bra cups (I'm 32B). While I appreciate the design and new silhouette, I'm apprehensive about how featherweight merino is going to hold up. A few of these in store had those little "puffs" on the outside that aren't quite a snag, not quite a pill.
Can you comment on the sizing for the skinny sweatpant? They looked to me like they ran pretty small. Trying to decide if I'd need a S or M if I do get them. I'm a 4/6 in JC tops, pretty solid 6 in pants. TIA!
DeleteHi Jruby18 - I'm a 4/6 in pants and the S felt like they had absolutely no give. I think it's personal preference in fit - go with the S if you want them truly 'skinny', go with M if you're looking for a little more comfort. HTH!
DeleteI reviewed them in my last post on my blog.
Deleteina-wonderland.blogspot.com
HTH
Thx girls! I'll probably go w/a M, since I like to toss things in the dryer.
DeleteSilver_lining:
ReplyDeleteThanks for your thorough review of the items in your post. Appreciate it very much.
I tried the drapey crepe pencil skirt from this most recent roll out.
ReplyDeleteFirst the good news. For 100% poly, it didn't feel too bad. The lining was nice and soft. The navy is a great color, a true navy that would go with a lot in my closet. True to size, my normal size 2 fit perfectly in the waist.
Now the bad news, and the reasons it's going back. It has the front pleats and since polyester has trouble laying flat, at least in the crepe, it blouses out and makes me look like I have a tummy. It isn't really a pencil shape, it's more A-line. The straw that broke the camel's back is no pockets. On the Pinterest sneak peek, the model had her hands in the pocket. They didn't make it into the skirt once manufactured. I love pockets, it was one of the things that drew me to the skirt.
Also, the lining is not loose at the bottom like on most skirts. It is actually sewn down to the hem at the bottom. I know I'm not describing it correctly. The point is, it would be difficult to remove that lining and replace it with a better quality fabric, which had been my plan if the skirt itself had been wonderful. It's not wonderful, to say the least.
I've reviewed a few items earlier but will do it again here.
ReplyDeleteEmbroidered bib peasant top - comes in blue and white. I ordered the blue. I took it in a sz. 4. Normally am a 4/6, so I'd say size down if between sizes. I like this top, but am on the fence. I got it on promo plus 40% off, but if I didn't get it at such a good price, wouldn't keep it. What I like is that it looks really cute w/boyfriend type jeans. It's not too blousy, but it is on the short size. And sizing up didn't change that and only looked too big otherwise. So, it was cute w/jeans, but I tried it w/Pixies/leggings, and it didn't look good b/c it was too short. I also think it would look really cute w/shorts, but didn't try that combo. It wasn't too sheer either which can be a problem w/a lot of JC tops. Undecided.
Pixie pants in leather tuxedo stripe - ordered a sz. 6. Fit good everywhere but in the waist. It is a totally different waist than regular Pixies. The rise is higher which I normally really like, but b/c these were a tad snug in the waist, I had some muffin top going on. I've been told by several people (JCA's and SA's) that the waist really stretches. I'm going to try them on a few more times before I make my decision. If the waist gives a little, I will LOVE them. They're really nice. The length is great for me, but for tall ladies, they may be too short. I need short inseams b/c I'm about 5'3" and these were perfect.
Lightweight Merino Tunic Sweater - I tried this on at the store and I really like this one. Hoping for a FP promo so I can grab a few. Will not pay FP. I tried a sz. S, my normal JC sweater size and it was perfect. It's fitted through the shoulders, so even though it's oversized, it's not overwhelming if that makes sense. Will look so cute w/skinny jeans or leggings. The material is very lightweight and the sleeves are 3/4. I personally don't care for the 3/4 sleeve thing on most sweaters, but b/c this is a transitional weight, I can live w/it.
New Balance sneakers in grey color - I ordered a sz. 7.5, my normal size. That is the right size, so TTS, but I'm not sure if they're entirely comfortable on me as I felt they might rub a bit at the back of the ankle. I really like them, and that might just be particular to my foot, but I'm not sure if I'm keeping them or not. They were FP, no promo or anything, but I don't think these make it to sale anyway.
I looked at the new t-shirts at my b&m and while they're some really cute patterns/designs, I just cannot stand that linen material! It is so sheer and cheap looking. Looks like F21 t-shirts b/c of the crummy material. I hate t-shirts that are so sheer you can see the material of the pants/jeans/bra underneath. I think it looks sloppy and distracting. Too bad. they need to go back to better t-shirt material. The graphic T's used to sell out before being marked down. Now I see many of them hitting the sale rack. Maybe JC should take note.
I ordered the new balance sneakers and feel the same way. They definitely rub at the ankle, which is annoying because they are super cute. Super comfy would have been a bonus since they ARE sneakers. Hoping once they break-in I won't notice it anymore.
DeleteI wear a full size bigger in the Nike Air Pegasus than I do in regular shoes. I've been going up a full size in my real running shoes too. I haven't tried the New Balance, but it sounds like they'd be the same.
DeleteWell, if it was rubbing the back of your ankle too, I'm less optimistic that it will work for me. It might be a design flaw. Bummer, I really liked them, but I think I'm going to take them back b/c I don't want to rub blisters on the back of my foot.
DeleteI felt the same away about the peasant blouse and returned it - it was just too short to be versatile. I also have the NB in 2 colors - no ankle rubbing, but I'd size up if possible. I usually size up 1/2 a size for running shoes but didn't for these since they'll be fashion footwear for me.
DeleteForgot to mention that the Pixies were my regular Pixie size and I'm sort of ruler shaped - not super curvy, so ladies w/really teeny waists may love these pants.
ReplyDeletebought 2 things over the weekend:
ReplyDeleteCutout floral sweatshirt (item A2668) in Navy, Size Small: I normally waiver between XS and S and although the XS body of this shirt fit better, the arms and shoulders were too tight. so the S is a little looser in the body but I can actually move my arms.
French-print popover (item A2470): bought my usual size 2. when I first saw the print, I was kinda "eh" about it but when I saw it in person and tried it on, it was love. since there's so many colors in it, I think it could go with just about anything. plus, I can only deal with so many flower prints and plaids. :/
also ordered the Zip-pocket dress (item 03344) in hthr pewter. it's getting delivered today so i'll pop back in with info on that later.
p.s. REWARDS CARDS? anyone get there's yet? I was hoping to be able to use it when I went to the mall this past weekend, but I still haven't gotten it yet. :/
Just got the zip pocket dress. . Love it! Sized down to a 2 from my usual 4. I'm ruler shaped so that helps with the fit. 5'4" and it's definitely short but perfect with tights and flats. I also plan on wearing a button down shirt under it too. I didn't like the black version. But gray is more my color anyway. For $40 it's a steal. :)
DeleteI reported on the Misty Fog Floral Capri Pants last week but wasn't able to comment on wrinkle factor as I had not worn them for a full day. I wore them yesterday and had no issues with wrinkles. The fabric is linen and silk and reads more linen to me but has a slight sheen. Patten matches on the front and back seems not on the sides. Colors are gorgeous. Fit is TTS. Even though it is super cold here I wear capris/ankle pants year round - I wear by boots in to the office and then change into my heels.
ReplyDeleteI have several reviews on the blog, including the Collection Blakely Printed Pump which runs a half size big.
ReplyDeletehttp://audreybella.blogspot.com/
* Factory fatigue jacket
ReplyDelete* Factory jewelry - the beaded rose necklace in both bright sun & neon rose, and the bloom bracelet (thumbsup)
* Factory tops - classic button-down shirt in printed cotton (love this print), scarf-print popover, printed draped popover & paisley tunic
Gigi- I just received the retail version (from the 40% sale) and I'm on the fence. I wish it were a tad bit heavier cotton to give it weight. however, I do like it. So the factory is probably a no for me if I want a heavier weight cotton? thx for the review.
Deletepathos - It's been months since I tried the retail fatigue, but from what I recall it was a little heftier than the Factory version.
DeleteI just tried (and bought) the new Campbell capri in the abstract wave print. Surprise love, I thought I wouldn't like them because I was happy with the cafe capri. They fit TTS and are real capri length on me (I am 5'2" and the cafe capri looked more like regular pants). Fabric is very substantial and they added stretch. The print is a bit darker IRL than in the online pics. I would have waited for a promo but I thought these will be perfect for my weekend in Miami in ten days.
ReplyDeleteAlso bought the French popover in my usual size (0). I usually size up in popovers but this one was too big. It looks really cute tucked in (it's long enough).
I also tried the new toothpicks. The pair that I tried was labeled "ankle" but they were just the perfect length on me. They definitely added stretch and I really liked the fit in the legs (the are almost legging jeans). However the rise is higher than the old toothpicks and I have to get used to that. Looked really good on the B-side as per SA comment. All in all I liked them but not sure about the rise (low rise is usually more flattering on me).
Lastly, I tried the Andie tipped chinos. This was the first time that I tried the Andies and I didn't feel the Andie love. They didn't look bad but I felt like a 15-year-old, they are a bit boyish. There was a bit of gaping in the back in my regular size but overall they felt a bit on the small side.
I have pics of everything on my IG (crazyaboutjcrew)
I was also trying the new ankle toothpicks this morning and was surprised how well they fit.It was the perfect length for me and they looked great.Usually i wear a lower rise too,but i think those could be an alternative.
DeleteGlad to hear a positive review on the Campbell capri Ema. I haven't been able to try them yet but hopefully I'll like them too.
DeleteReceived the Peacoat Trench in British khaki just now! I tore open the box in my excitement to try it on. Surprise love! At first I was uncertain because when it first came out of the box, it was very stiff and tent-like, but as the fabric came up to room temperature, the silhouette of the coat softened and relaxed. (It is freezing outside, so the coat itself was very cold and stiff when I took it out of the box.) The oversize buttons are a really cute detail, and I like the quilted removable vest inside. It will be really good for chilly spring days. Looks really good with skinny dark jeans.
ReplyDeleteSize-wise, I think it is true to size - I ordered size S (I normally wear size 4 in JC tops but occasionally take XS in tops). At first I thought that I might need an XS because it looked so tent-like when I first put it on, but then I noticed the arm holes fit perfectly, and the sleeve length is just right. When I had ordered it, I had discussed with the VPS about the sleeves, and the XS has shorter sleeves. The shape reminds me a little of my stadium cloth cocoon coat (which I also love), except in heavy duty cotton canvas - for anyone considering this coat, it definitely has room through the body of the jacket and with the buttons undone, it has a swing/A-line shape.
I tried on a few things this morning,sorry no pics:)
ReplyDeleteThe pima jersey drop should tee is tts and i liked the fit.The lighter colors were see trough,so i am probably getting grey and black once they go on sale.
The other thing i tried were the new ankle stretch toothpicks and they are TTS.
i also tried the merino tunic again,def size down in that one. the SA told me they were selling out in all the stores,so i might cave and maybe get one,as i really like the feel and length.
Just received the faceted cone bracelet in blush in the mail and i am dissapointed.The color is beautiful,butnthe bracelet feels very light and cheap to me.
Deletei think i might bite on the merino tunic also just because i don't think any promo is coming soon. but it comes in SO many nice colors i can't imagine every single one of them selling out...
DeleteTried and bought the Lightweight Merino in Haven Blue in size M (my usual). I agree with previous reviewers that it is sheer in the lighter colors (a problem even with J Crew's regular weight merino). I didn't have that issue with the color I bought, but will be wearing it with a tank underneath anyways because the side slits start above the waistband of my pants.
ReplyDeleteTried and liked, but did not buy, the Matte Crepe Tee in Black in size 8 (again my usual size). Very flattering and looks more put-together than a regular t-shirt, but I just didn't see myself wearing this until late spring (I prefer long or 3/4 sleeves). Will probably buy later in the season. Hoping for more colors.
Just realized the Cleo Eyelet Loafers are only available online...fell in love and wanted to try them on in person! I can wait, though...silly to even be thinking about them with 8 inches of slushy snow on the ground : )
How would you wear the tank underneath the merino sweater with the deep side slits, tucked in or not? I like the sweater but I can't figure out how I could wear it. I don't need to show the skin!
DeleteYeah, I'm not interested in showing the side of my pale winter waist either! : ) I'm gonna look for a not-too-clingy tank in a cute color to wear underneath, untucked, over Minnies. Will let you know what I find...
Deleteoh wow, i hadn't thought about the slits showing skin! i'm too short for that issue, but i either wear petals or bra-tanks (like helmut lang's asymmetrial bra...most popular color online is black but it comes in white and probably other colors too) that are styled in such a way that exposed straps looks trendy rather than trashy. hope that helps!
Deletebabayaganyc, Dmitri, thanks for the ideas! I have the silk cami from J. Crew, maybe that would work under it.
DeleteI think a silk cami would be perfect...in fact, that's what I'm going to look for. Incredible though, how hard it is to find colorful ones in stores! Everyone (including J Crew) seems to sell them online only. Gonna check something out at Ann Taylor, and also a crepe de chine one I spotted from Tibi.
DeleteGranted, I hate buying things that require me to buy other things in order to wear them...but I feel like I can sort of justify this because it's a silhouette I'll get a lot of mileage out of.
babayaganyc, I had a hard time finding a silk cami in stores last year too. I bought a silk tank from Talbots, but in the end I like my J. Crew silk cami best. I like the skinny straps on it and it fits me perfectly, a bit closer to the body than the Talbots tank. I was going to say exactly the same thing earlier, I don't want to buy things that make me need to buy things!
DeleteForgot to mention I also noticed and loved the Stubbs & Wooton loafers in red with whale print...totally adorable although fairly outrageously priced at $400 (not blaming J. Crew though-- they've always been crazy pricey).
ReplyDeleteWhat is going on with J. Crew denim and the higher rises? Is that going to be a thing now? I like that they're putting stretch into their denim, but the higher rises (even the mid-rise) are really bad on me. I guess the trends come and go and this one seems to be coming.
ReplyDeleteI love the slightly higher rise...wish it was on capris as well....the lower rise ones are always too low on the back ide as well....
DeleteI can also appreciate the higher rises, but don't know why they couldn't offer both. Madewell has the Skinny Skinny jeans and the Skinny Skinny High Riser jeans, for example. I think it's odd that they're replacing their popular items with new versions (unless they weren't as popular as we thought?).
DeleteI think J. Crew is always looking for something "new" to keep customers interested, whether it's the rise on the pants or a new version of something we already like.
DeleteHave a couple of reviews mixed in as part of ootd posts over at the blog. :-)
ReplyDeleteMedallion sweatshirt. Post on it here.
Marled Colorblock Sweater and Factory Metallic Snowflake Tee. Post here. Second outfit for the tee, third outfit for the sweater.
Just received the retail Venus Flytrap Necklace (39566) that was on promo with 40% off. I know I have not looked at this item in store since last year but I remember it being much better quality. This was very cheap looking shiny gold even though the description says dark ox gold plating, the crystal were very opaque and the necklace was very light. I wondered if they were shipping the factory version by mistake?? Wondered if any other JCA ordered this and their thoughts. It is definitely going back tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteWell yes, that is exactly what it is. I just checked the Factory website and it is the same item (39566) for the same price on the retail and the factory websites. Someone tell me that this is not correct??
DeleteI went to factory yesterday and i saw the version of the flytrap neclace and it looked excactly as you described.
DeleteMore factory jewelry reviews. 3 bracelets and a necklace.
ReplyDeleteGood morning JCAs! Has anyone ever tried the Factory leather front Gigis? Just wondering how fake they feel....and if it might be a good way to try that trend.
ReplyDeleteThanks!
Electric avocado pants! And a couple more things from the Crewlet reviewed in this post.
ReplyDeleteReview of the flower sleeve sweater,the toothpick in miller wash,the surf varsity jacket and the deco arrowhead pendant on my blog here.
ReplyDeleteI also reviewed some jcrew look alikes from Old Navy!
I tried on the new white denim jeans in toothpick and matchstick last weekend and love both! The new stretch is super flattering and will make them much more comfortable to wear on warmer days. Also, the white is not too thin in that there are no visible underwear lines or pocket lines. (I also tried on the factory white jeans and you could definitely see the pocket lines.) I did not discern a noticeable difference in the rise of either--usually I find that stretch jeans have more give in the rise and never feel quite as low. I have a long torso though so the rise would probably have to be a big change to make a noticeable difference on me. Such a good improvement in my opinion. I would have bought the matchstick at full-price but I don't need them until a trip in a month, so I'm going to wait for my rewards card :)
ReplyDeleteI don't recall reading any previous reviews of the new Pixie's with the two front zippers/pockets. I received these yesterday and was surprised that there was NO zipper - they just pull on. The front zipper/pockets are at a slight angle, and I will have to try them on again to see, but I'm not sure it was flattering and the pants will bend there, when sitting for example. Anyone else have these?? What do you think?
ReplyDeleteProbably late to the game on these reviews but here are a couple of coats I picked up on Final Sale:
ReplyDeleteColorblock Funnelneck Coat item 06288
I wear a size 2 at JCREW and have at least 5 other coats - but this fit is VERY SLIM through the shoulders. I definitely wish I had sized up to a size 4. Love the coat - color red/gray/blue nice and the thinner wool is nice for going further into spring than the stadium cloth. I would not be warm in this under 35 degrees. I do not have a bust so can still wear but would imagine most people would need to size up at least one full size.
Double Breasted Cocoon Coat in Wool Cashmere
item 06677
Much thinner material than the stadium cloth - so good if you want this to last toward spring. I would probably not be warm in this under 35 degrees. Fit is oversized in the body but a little short in the sleeve. Collar is interesting fold in, doesn't stand up. Has an interesting drape.
Question? I recently bought the Campbell capri's and love them! Is there a pair of pants (regular length) that are similar? I need a work appropriate so no chino's. Is the Bristol Trouser similar in fabric/stretch etc...? They don't have them in my store to try. Thanks!
ReplyDelete