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! :)
My Factory Seersucker Eyelet Dress just arrived, I missed the retail version. From what I can tell they seem identical with the exception of the black ribbon tie at the neck on the retail version. For those who didn't like it, this version might be a good alternative. It's fully lined, hidden back zip, and seems very good quality. It washed well. I sized up from my normal Petite 4 to a 6 (no petite offerings) and it fit loosely but not sloppy, the armholes were a little large but you couldn't see my bra. The pockets laid flat which was nice. It was long for a shift so I will need to get it shortened but overall I was happy at the quality (and cotton) of Factory. HTH.
ReplyDeleteReviews from my latest Try-On Box:
ReplyDeleteReese pant in tuxedo strip and regular style (grey version): Both of these fit true-to-size. Did not pull on my dancer legs and elastic waistband made that fit a non-issue. If I needed some more basics, I would have considered keeping. Not a wow, but nice to know they could work for me.
Tailored wool pant: These are the only pair of pants I'm keeping. The fit is similar to the Reese, but it has a tailored seam pressed into the front which really made a difference in the overall look. Plus, the fabric is thicker giving the pant a bit more structure. The fabric was what I love most about these. Yes, it's fairly thick but super soft. I felt like I was wearing sweats or pjs, then would look in mirror and knew it sure didn't look that way. I'm keeping these in black and can't wait to wear in the fall!
Crossover pant in chambray: Ugh. These are humongous. I never say that about JC pants on me either. I can nearly pull over my narrow hips and bubble butt without unbuttoning, and I had sized down (which, again, I almost never do in pants). I was in a size 0 and could go down two more sizes.
Maddie pant in metallic matelasse: These skimmed every bit of me in my regular JC size. As usual, I'd have to alter the waist and upper hip, but not as much as on other styles. I love the fabrication but just didn't feel myself in them. Glad I tried them, but sadly, not for me.
Grosgrain ribbon top: For $15, how could I go wrong?? And I didn't! This was a surprise love for me. Loose, drapey, but with a fun detail in the ribbon. Great spring/summer/fall basic.
Dulci suede kitten heels in bronzed brown: I've been waiting to try these and waiting for a non-final sale. With only this color to choose from, I didn't even hesitate. My non-JC size is perfect (7-1/2 when, until recently, I've always ordered an 8 from JC), and the color is a saturated neutral that I can wear with tons of stuff. Want to buy every color in the shoe style!
Mixed-stripe sweater: I'd eyed this sweater when it debuted, thinking it to be the perfect spring-summer throw-on-everyday sweater. It is. I like the weight of the yarn, medium-heavy but soft and light. I was expecting a bit looser fit in my usual JC size. Looking at the pic of the model, it fits me similarly. If you want a looser shape, size up. I would have liked to try to compare, but still happy with it. The sleeves are short-bracelet length, hitting me a good 4-5 inches above the wrist. Also, sleeves are the slimmest part of the sweater.
1. Sleeveless silk shell in aquatic floral (c4041).
ReplyDeleteAccording to some of the reviewers on the website, the blouse runs a bit small but that wasn't my case. In fact, it's a bit large in the chest and arm holes. (I took my regular size 4, and am 32C-34D depending on the brand.) I still maintain that proper bust darts would solve a lot of these issues. The print and colors are lovely. As most of you probably already know, the silk is not of the best quality but they don't pretend it to be and the price reflects that. I thought I would like this shell enough to wear it with a pair of white wide-leg pants to a casual wedding I’ve been invited to, but I just couldn’t get over the way the baggy fit on me. I’ve been in a funk when it comes to clothes lately and couldn’t really put my finger on why. Then, I pulled an old (5 or 6 years) J. Crew sleeveless silk shell from my closet, put it on, and had a sudden revelation! The old top is made of heavy silk, is fully lined(!), has a beautiful lace detail on top, and there is no gaping under the arms or anywhere else because there are bust darts to give it a great shape. I felt so pretty in this top like I haven’t in a long, long time. This, to me, is the essence of what’s missing in JC’s (and not only JC’s) clothes today. After that, I could no longer justify purchasing the aquatic floral shell.
2. Cutaway linen jacket (a6393).
I liked, but didn’t love the jacket on me. Also, there was an odd reddish stain on the inside lining and even though I could not detect a bleed-through to the outer part of the jacket, it bothered me so much that I couldn’t keep it. I just refuse to settle anymore. The jacket is sold out but might pop back up, so if anyone is interested and wants details I’ll be happy to oblige. :)
I hope this helps someone!
I cannot say enough good things about the double stripe cap sleeve dress - and nor can random strangers on the street!! I have worn the dress twice and have gotten stopped several times to be told how gorgeous it is! It is a bit roomy in the hips, so I will be getting it tailored when I take it in for dry cleaning :-)
ReplyDeleteOh and another one - I have been on the hunt for a classic red pencil skirt for a while and thought that the super 120s pencil skirt in "modern red' fit the bill, but alas, it is borderline neon orange. Why is it so hard to get a classic RED skirt from J.Crew?
ReplyDeleteHas anyone tried the Marcie suede wedges? Are they comfortable? I can't decide if I think they're cute or frumpy. Curious about the fit.
ReplyDeleteI tried them. They are comfy(at least for that short time i tried them) and TTS.
DeleteI did not care for the look of them.
They reminded me of the Hayes sandals so I thought they'd be equally comfortable, but they hurt my feet just trying them in the store. I don't think they were too small. I have wide feet, but these weren't going to work for me in any size unless they stretched out considerably at the toe width. I thought they were cute, though, and they felt more like a platform than a wedge to me which is another reason I was drawn to them. I think they will work for others, but they were a poor match for my feet.
DeleteI bought the navy and the darker brown. I have narrow feet and bought my usual size. I have arthritis in my toes and these have been extremely comfortable. However, they do squeak when you walk. I think the platform must be made out of stryofoam or something. It was sort of annoying when I walked where it was quiet on a hard surface floor. I do love them and since I can't wear a heel, these work great for me.
DeleteSorry. Styrofoam...
DeleteThanks everyone! I may have to try them just to see. I have narrow-ish feet in the toe area, so maybe they'd be good for me. I have a lot of trouble finding sandals that fit snugly across the toes without rubbing due to too much space.
DeleteCheck out my instagram account: @marielarue7 for a review of the gold foil leaf dress (spoiler, I loved the fit, but the front zipper was too much for me.)
ReplyDeleteThe beautiful dark green ("cayman blue") collarless leather jacket went back. This is B9872. Other reviewers have noted some issues -- I was fine with the rose gold hardware, didn't much mind the inside waist drawstring arrangement, but the puffs in the upper arm were too much for me. I even got a price from my leather guy on puff removal - doable, yes, but would cost more than half of what as the jacket cost. And so, with a sigh....
ReplyDeleteHi WFF - Sorry to hear that the sleeves didn't work out for you, too. I thought about sizing down, but now I'm thinking that the sleeves will still be a problem.
DeleteI tried a few items today.
ReplyDeleteGold foil leaf tank,TTS, felt stiff,but i liked the pattern.
Gingham shirt in navy,loved it,TTS.
Sleeveless drapey shell,another love,TTS.
Tropical fond shirt,it was baggy in my usual xs and sizing down didnt help.Love the print,fabric is very non-flowy which i didnt like.
Tropical front pull-on short,fit in my usual 0. I might try the 2 to see how they fit in comparison.
Tropical front pull-on pants,fit in my regular 0, but were loose. Might try the 00 to see the difference. I found the fabric to thick and bulky.
Love the new midsummer pendant and my store already the sold the only one they had.
Thanks so much for the reviews, Ina. I like the gold foil leaf print so much, I ordered the pencil skirt and the contrast paneled shell in this print. I can't tell from the on-line pic if the shell has the metallic gold outline, but I think the contrast panel is so interesting.
DeleteI have the Sleeveless Drapey popover on my wish list. What did you think of the colors? I'm wondering, in particular, if the ivory and the peruvian pink are sheer.
@maryeb The ivory sleeveless drapey popover is sheer.
DeleteI have not tried the pink,but it does not look sheer at all.
The fit on this one is perfect,it drapes well and it doesnt show cleavage. I am getting probably navy or the bright blue.
I saw the gold leaf pencil skirt today,but didnt try it.The print is beautiful on all of the different pieces.
HTH
Two recent purchases:
ReplyDeleteCollection shearling vest in Oyster - It's better IRL than as shown on the model and is TTS. I am a 2 in jackets & outerwear and I took an XS. It is not oversized or bulky. The shearling is not the best quality but ok for the price point. The ad copy indicates that it is reversible. Well it is.... if you cut out the label & care tag. FYI the interior/reverse is a different color: more pale butterscotch than oyster.
In case you see it pop back, the Collection leather front top (04320) in ivory (Can't recall the J Crew color name) also fits TTS. The description may say "boxy", and it is, but I found it to be flattering and not oversized. The leather portion is soft - not at all stiff. It is unlined, so I had my tailor added a detachable lining for the front portion to extend the time between cleanings.
Bunch of Factory reviews coming atcha!
ReplyDeleteFactory sailor sweater in stripe (a5602) - this was the piece in my box of stuff that I wanted to wear immediately. TTS, thick cotton, nice boatneck, not too short, true navy (not that “is it navy or is it black?” color). Thumbs up.
Factory printed rope strap camisole (c4497) - JC did this silhouette, including the rope, a bunch of years ago (’07, maybe?). It’s cute and I like the shape, but it’s a bit tricky. I ordered my usual 4 and it was generous in the armholes and body, but I think that if I sized down it would be too restricting in the rope neckline. Also, the color is a little more “khaki” IRL than it appears online, which is not the best for my coloring. Might be great with a cardigan, though - I’m going to play with it a little more.
Factory striped knit top (c4239) - I always have to check the striped options. This one is very long (almost covered my bum) and thin fabric. It felt like jammies you’d get from Target - I can’t believe the opening price. As always with their “ivory” options, it looks whiter online. The stripes are printed on and look like they’d fade quickly. All that said, it’s comfy and may be a nice layer if you can get it for cheap.
Factory striped infinity shirt (c3531) - I think this may be an exact dupe of the Endless shirt on the retail side at half the price…. oh wait, it doesn’t have the grosgrain placket but I didn’t like that in the Endless so for me, this one is better. TTS. Fabric feels nice but I have no idea where I’d wear a shirt this long. Have to think on it.
Factory 5” boardwalk pull-on short (c0434) - I have the 3” version of these from retail a few years ago and these are exactly the same with some extra length. TTS.
And from earlier:
Factory lace-front tank (c5889) - This was HUGE in my usual S. Armholes were so low as to expose bra band. I would definitely size down (and maybe even try 2 sizes down if I were in the store and could try both). The coastal pink was more vibrant IRL, a little more coral than the softer ballet pink in the picture. The back is incredibly sheer. That being said, I think in the right size and under a cardigan or jacket it would look really pretty.
Factory french terry pencil skirt with curved hem (c4115) - I didn't think of this as a pencil skirt so much as a tube-mini-from-the-90s-skirt. Not the right shape or length for me. Fabric was okay, but the curved hem was "flipped" up upon delivery and I could not get it to lay straight. Pass.
A review of the J. Crew Gold Foil Leaf Pencil Skirt It's a gorgeous print in my opinion. HTH!
ReplyDeleterynetta, that skirt looks wonderful on you!
DeleteVava: you're super sweet! Thank you SO much!
DeleteI second that...love it on you. I definitely will take a closer look at this skirt. Just got the May style guide in the mail today. Really like some of the styling of the new arrivals. They matched the pants in this print with a chambray shirt which made it casual but interesting. Was disappointed that the Striped Eyelet skirt and dress are poly, they certainly look like cotton in the pictures.
ReplyDeleteJRSConifer: thank you SO much! I really appreciate the compliment. I love how the pants in the gold foil leaf print look with chambray!
DeleteWhat colors are in the skirt ? can't tell on my monitor if it is green or blue on an ivory (flax?) background with the gold ??? thanks
DeleteUnknown: it's green on an ivory background! HTH!
DeleteSummer weight Cotton V-neck cardi - finally received the back-ordered heathered dusk color. Love the color, just as pictured on the website. I ordered one size down. It's still plenty drapey for me. The sleeves fit fine. I'm planning on wearing it with tank tops. If you want to style it as shown in the Style Guide, over a long sleeve shirt, I'd recommend ordering your usual size, to accommodate the shirt sleeves.
ReplyDeleteI may have preferred the the petite length on my 5'3" self, but I like it so much as is, I just ordered the Barbados Blue.
The Barbados blue is a nice dusky green/blue.
DeleteI wanted the pale pink color, too. But it sold out lightening fast.
DeleteI have the pink one @maryeb, you can see it on my IG.
DeleteI saw the pic when you posted it. It's really a lovely color and I love how you styled it! Thanks again!!
DeleteOT - Talking about the place where many of your favorite bloggers have gone and many JCAs hang out. Instagram and getting started
ReplyDeleteThanks for the link to my IG feed!
DeleteGigi, you are awesome!
DeleteGigi, you ROCK!
DeleteThanks Gigi!
DeleteThank you so much Gigi... I really appreciate your taking the time to do this. You've inspired me to join. :)
DeleteThank you Gigi!
DeleteI tried two things yesterday, the Rayner wide-leg cropped white jeans and the Collection jungle silk dress with the ruffled hem. I posted a pic of the wide-leg jeans on my Insta. I liked them but they felt a bit a thing of the moment that I won't wear next year (trying to avoid that if I pay full price). The SA told me to size down but I don't think they fit particularly big. A bit difficult to say because they didn't have my size so I tried a size up and they weren't huge. They weren't that cropped on 5'3" me.
ReplyDeleteThe print on the Collection dress is stunning. I tried it because I have the perfect occasion but it is pretty much an occasion dress (although you can certainly dress it down). Fits is tts to slightly big. Now, it has this drop waist thing going on that I am not sure was the best idea, I think it accentuates the hips a bit. It was still flattering. though I was happy that it wasn't too long (needs no alteration) and that the ruffle at the hem is not an exaggerated high-low thing (it is just slightly higher in the front). Bottom line: if you have the occasion it's a beautiful dress in a stunning print.
Thanks for reviewing the Rayner wide-leg white jeans. I ordered it Monday. Curious how it would look on my 4'11 self. I like how it was styled with the Saint James tee which I also bought. Not sure if I'd keep the tee or both...Paying $89 for a tee is high for my budget. You are right about the trend thing. I don't own white pants. I always feel that I'd get it dirty no matter how I try to avoid it. And I also think since its wide-leg, its a lot of fabric; the jeans will wear me instead of me wearing the jean..if that makes sense.
DeleteA few Factory reviews:
ReplyDeleteTwisted back dress in stripe: Runs big. Lined, which is a plus for me, but if you don't like poly you'll hate this dress. I thought it was cute overall but the material would make sweaty Texas summer even worse.
Maxi dress with printed skirt: Also runs big. I really like this dress and will exchange for a smaller size. Partially lined with a big slit on the side, it feels lightweight and the pattern is really pretty in person.
Linen lace tee: Surprise, also runs big. The lace detail is a nice touch. While the white is a bit sheer, the linen is substantial enough to prevent it from being totally see-through and gives it some structure. Would definitely recommend.
Reviewed the laser-cut midi skirt: really knee-length if you're tall; true to size to slightly big, but great quality and with promo, not bad price.
ReplyDeleteI've been thinking about that skirt, it looks really nice on you!
DeleteHappy Hump Day!
ReplyDeleteHas anyone tried on the Convertible Jumpsuit in Tropical Fern? It looks adorable.
Thanks!
Have any JCAs tried on the Jacquard Zip Pocket Zip Dress? Would love to hear some reviews. I know it runs big but wondering about the material and overall style. I am looking to replace my Urbanite Shift dress from a couple of years ago, that I literally wore out and thinking this maybe similar. TIA
ReplyDeleteLong Sleeve Beaded Stripe Tee (#C3819). Wish this was longer. It wasn't cropped, but still not quite long enough for me. I really liked the sequin detail with the olive stripe.
ReplyDeleteCotton Faille Pull-on Short (#01850). TTS, felt kind of wide in the legs, shorter than I like.
Linen Zip Front Dress in Gold Foil Leaf (#C4625). I thought it ran a bit small overall. The golf foil is shiny on the dress, like it is on the pants (the gold is more muted on the tipped shell). The front neckline seemed too low for me. Just for kicks I tried the dress on backwards, too, and the neckline seemed to low for me that way too. It was about the same, worn the right way or the wrong way, so if the dress fits you well and you don't care for the front zipper, try turning it around? Could work, you never know. I didn't bother trying a size up in this because I didn't think it was a good match for me with the low scoop neck. The print is so pretty, though.
Gold Foil Leaf Tank (#C4194). This felt kind of big on me in my normal tank size (I didn't try another size down). I liked the texture of the fabric and the more muted gold in the print, but it didn't have any flow, was a bit stiff. Maybe that would work itself out with a wear or two.
Linen Gold Foil Leaf Pant (#C6454). Super cute, nice fit, TTS. They're linen, but not as wrinkly as the same pants in the solid colors. The gold leaf is shiny on these.
Tropical Frond Pull-On Short (C4167). Adorable, felt great, fit great, TTS.
Tropical Frond Shift Dress (C6097). I thought this ran a bit small. Really cute, a bit short. Nice fabric.
Tropical Frond Pant (C5297). Loved! So comfortable, nice cut, great fabric.
Embroidered Lace Tee (C3832). The picture in the catalog isn't very representative. The black and the blue colors are a semi-sheer almost burnout fabric. You would want a dark bra under it. The gray seemed less so. The scoop neck is very wide and low. They missed the mark a bit on this one, on the fit. The fabric feels great, but no one needs to see through my shirts. I really loved the blue/black one in the catalog and I'm bummed it didn't look so good on.
Great reviews!! Thanks for reviewing so many items. I'm surprised that the Embroidered Lace tee is semi-sheer in the darker colors. I'm really tired of tops that are too sheer. You saved me from a return!! I'm adding the two printed pants to my wish list. They sound like great Summer options. Would you say the the Tropical Frond Pant fits TTS, too?
DeleteYes, TTS for the Tropical Frond Pants.
DeleteI tried on the black and blue colors in the Embroidered Lace Tee with a nude bra so maybe that's why I could see through somewhat. It's not totally sheer, I didn't mean to give that impression, but it's more than I liked.
Thanks for the clarification!
Delete@maryeb i just tried the tropical frond pants again in the 00 ( one sized down from my regular one) and the fit was much better and i really liked them!
ReplyDeleteHTH
I did stop by to try on some of the new arrivals and left with nothing. My take on what I tried on and saw.
ReplyDeleteTextured Beach Sweater, I liked this but did not try on. In the catalog it looks like there is a slit on the side but there is not, just a swingy back.
Gold Foil Leaf Pant, not my style pant plus I thought the gold outlining was a little too bright for my lifestyle.
Gold Foil Pencil Skirt. The gold on this was more subtle and I really liked the skirt. Put the petite on my wish list.
Gold Foil Contrast Paneled Shell. I tried on an XS and S. Small was a better fit, the material portion does make it tighter so I felt that was a better size. But it had the huge armhole thing going on. I did order this online in petite but now think the sizes will be off. But hoping the armhole size will work better in petite and will reorder in a petite small at some point.
Striped Eyelet dress and skirt. Hate that this is not 100% cotton. The material felt sticky to the touch. Passed on trying on.
Tropical Frond Print Shift. Tried on XS small which did fit but I did not like the style on me. The front was too low, it did come in at the waist which was good but the large wings on the shoulders was not a good look for me, too overwhelming at my height 5' 1".
Embroidered Linen Top in Caribbean Sea was lovely on. The attention to detail was great, bracelet sleeves and somewhat fitted. I found it true to size. But a long sleeve lined linen top has a limited wear timeframe but I did wish list this and will wait for it to go on sale.
I did like the Floral Block Print Tunic with Silver Tape IRL. Also ordered this online in petite. Will see if that fit is good and will report back.
Summerweight Cotton Sweaters were pretty,liked the colors but again a sale item later on.
Palm Tree Drop Waist dress was lovely in person, well made, love the chambray. But I have no need for a dress like that right now so did not try on. But would love to hear some reviews.
I did however, go into Madewell. I love my Mini Transport in Rock and they had the new one in light minty green with silver hardware. I had to have it, at full price $148. It is a really subtle green, each one was different some more grey/green and the leather some smooth, some pebbled. I got a slightly pebbled light green one and love it. Highly recommend, it is a perfect size, smaller but you can put quite a bit in them. It can be cross body or you use the handles. Was happy to see this in store since the light pink one never was in my store to see IRL but glad I waited for the green.
Has anyone seen the tropical fern print IRL, in particular on the swimsuits? The green looks kind of muted on my monitor but I picked up a catalog and it looks much brighter (if darker) in the catalog pages. TIA!
ReplyDeleteThoughts on the Cropped Silk Popover? Has anyone tried it? I'm wondering if I should size down, given that it looks boxy, but am concerned that would make it too short.
ReplyDeleteI'm thinking of getting the Vintage Cropped Jean to pair with this top. The description says this jean is mid-rise and I'm wondering if that is a high enough rise for a cropped top. I am a bit short, 5'3". Thanks for any advice!!