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! :)
Having fun (and fighting the winter blues) by playing with my clothes and dreaming of fun outfits. Got the Elsie stars and collection calf hair ankle boots and put some looks together. I found both of these ran large. 1/2 to a full size. Details here. And pics on my IG @wearthislikethis
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The Elsie stars are so cute! I bought the flat version & love them.
Delete@mygoddy, I loved the flats but was concerned they might look too delicate on my feet! I was tempted to get the off white ones but figured I'd destroy them. I admit I am a bit concerned about the fabric. Have you worn yours yet?
DeleteJust around the house so far; feels more like a spr/sum shoe for me. I understand the concern about wear. I don't have a lot of fabric shoes, but I've found that having the shoe shop add a tip @ the toe is helpful with wear, particularly for a pointed toe shoe.
DeleteThey feel a bit 4th of July/Captain America/Wonder Woman for me, but they are a nice vibrant color. I don't think I own any fabric shoes outside of chucks and I wear them casually.
DeleteAbsolutely! But my clothes are pretty classic/subdued, so it's a fun way to add a little whimsy/personality.
DeleteLove the shoes. Suz, your blog is great. I don't have many fabric shoes either, but it is a fun way to spice up an outfit!
DeleteThat's so sweet, thanks. I've been thinking about blogging (on an actual blog and not just on different boards) for years, so I'm glad I decided to finally do it. Hoping to get more into the writing aspect, which I enjoy, and not just the clothing (which I also enjoy!).
DeleteLOVE the Chateau in cotton. Took my regular size. Not sure yet how "water resistant" it will be but it's a keeper!
ReplyDeleteI may be in the minority here but I liked the Feb Style Guide. There isn't much that I need at this point, but I appreciate that the copy suggests they are at least thinking about who they are as a brand. I have a few things on my wish list and as long as I can get them at a price after promos that I feel is a good value for the quality, I'm happy!
Hi ruffles - I also liked a lot of the February SG, but it may have had unintended effects...after going through it, I went to eBay and bought a blazer from 2006! ; )
Deletesilver_lining, which blazer did you get? 2006-2008 had some gorgeous ones!
DeleteHi ruffles - it was the wool hacking jacket from Fall '06. Funny - when I searched for an image the first one that came up was from a 2011 post from JCA lamenting that their blazers aren't what they used to be! It's the navy blazer against the barnboard in this post. Some things truly never change!
DeleteI ordered a few items online that weren't in my store, the metallic jacquard pencil skirt, the Teddies in mirrored floral and the plaid Sloan flats. Flats were TTS and so pretty but I am worried about dirt. The metallic jacquard skirt was a disappointment, the larger of my sizes just fit and I'm not loving the slits on the side of the skirt. I've seen J.Crew do jacquard well and this was not one of my favorites. I didn't have the energy to try another size in the skirt as it would probably be too big.
ReplyDeleteI posted photos and a small review of the Teddies in mirrored floral on my blog here.
I took a 12 in these which is the smaller of my two pant sizes - I'm usually a 12 in the cotton Campbell pants, Minnies and Marties and a 14 in wool suiting. They are a different fabric composition than the solid ones, a little stiffer, they still have stretch but they don't feel as stretchy as the solid ones did. At 5'8" I prefer these pants with heels and wish the printed ones came in tall to try!
Also, I posted in the weekend thread but in case you haven't seen it, I tried on a bunch of the new arrivals - solid Teddie pants, striped Tippi, clip dot blouse in neon dahlia(surprise love!), the so far in-store only stripe a-line skirt, multi-color tweed dress, deco floral blouse and a few other items. You can see photos on my blog here
Hi Anne - have you considered treating the Sloans with Scotchgard? I'd be concerned about dirt as well.
Delete@sliver_lining - yes, great suggestion, if I keep them they'll definitely get a layer of Scotchgard. Still deciding if I will wear them enough to justify their full price...
DeleteThose mirrored floral Teddies look very, very good on you, Anne, and I'm very tempted to order myself a pair.
DeleteBut I'll wait until the solid colored Teddies I ordered show up (they are taking FOREVER - will apparently be here Friday), and make sure I like the shape on me.
@carmencatalina thank you so much! I'd love to see a full price promotion on the new arrivals...I hope the solid Teddies work out for you. :)
DeleteAnne...I know that someone already said it, but let me just say it again...those pants look ahhhhmazing on you!!
DeleteAnne, very helpful reviews. I really like the tweed dress. The colors are so nice, but I'm concerned about the wear over time. In your photo, I can see threads that appear to be loose already at the hem & there's a fabric flaw that's noticeable too. I'd definitely need to see this in person.
Delete@Jeannie thank you so much!!
Delete@mygoddy - glad to help with reviews :) Re: the tweed dress, I am wearing the long-sleeve tweed dress from holiday 2012 today item #16104 (you can see a pic on my Instagram here. Aside from where the dress has frayed at the collar from wearing statement necklaces - the material is completely tight knit and not filled with loose threads which is apparent in the photo of this year's version of this dress. Having the dress on today I can say that the current dress is definitely much lighter and less substantial than the one from a few years ago. I haven't had trouble snagging this current one but I think I'd definitely be worried about the current one looking messy after awhile and more prone to snagging.
I love the pants on you too, Anne! I hadn't even given them a look prior to your review, but now that I have, I think they are gorgeous! I actually like that the colors are more muted, personally. I think you should keep them! :)
Delete@anne, I love the pic of your black and white tweed dress! I can see why you don't need this year's version.
DeleteMy review of the Chateau trench is here.
ReplyDeleteRuffles-- I did a quick test of the fabric and it is water resistant. HTH!
Great review, five south! Glad to hear its water resistant. I got the Barley color. I think the cut is still classic but a cute change from a trench style.
DeleteI received my Chateau trench coats today in the "barley" and "fiery sunset." Great coat. I take a 2 in J. Crew blazers but a 4 in the Lady Day winter coat. I ordered the Chateau trench in a 4 and it just fits in the shoulders - no room for anything too bulky underneath. I think the A-line shape is cute and fits the casual feel of the coat.
DeleteI also tried the Banded Sleeve Topper over at Ann Taylor. This coat comes in two colors similar to the chateau. This coat has much more professional look and a straight shape. Fabric feels great - substantial. The lining in the body part seems clingy. No hood. There is band detail on the back which is lower than usual to create/emphasize the straight shape - works ok. Very classic coat and Ann T regularly has 40% sales. I tried the S and XS - both could work but I think the XS is best. FYI: I had a bit more room in the shoulders in this XS than the Chateau 4 but the hips just fit.
I'm probably going to keep both colors in the Chateau and the "coast" (neutral) color in the Banded Sleeve Topper -- which should more than round out my spring coat needs...
Yesterday I wore the navy midweight striped boat neck long sleeved T from the new rollout. Bottom line, its a keeper. Ordinarily I wouldn't pay FP ($45) but I was in a hurry to pack for a trip.
ReplyDeleteThe description says loose - and it is. I took my regular size but some may choose to size down - I didn't try the smaller size given my haste but almost wish I had. It is close to a tunic in length. Nice hefty weight - not a summer shirt.
This shirt works for me but if painter tees are your thing (light weight and slim fit) then proceed with caution.
Also I would like to quibble with the description of the shirt as boatneck. I've worn some boatnecks that were wide enough that my bra straps showed. No danger of that with this shirt - not a wide neck opening - only slightly wider than a crewneck.
DeleteI really like that new midweight stripe tee, too. It's the perfect weight. I held off because I am tall. If I raise my hands, I worry my midriff will show. It looks like there is a little extra fabric in the hem so I may buy and lower the hem to gain an extra 1.25". However I'm going to order Boden's long line (aka tall) Breton to see if it is better. They're both roughly the same in price.
DeleteI really wish they would start making their tops and tees longer again. I have a few stripe tees from J.Crew purchased several years ago that are the perfect length, and they are still going strong. The striped tees that L.L.Bean offers are very nice, as well. Great quality and decent price. They're offering them in a new cowlneck version, too. I actually have a post on my blog today about striped tops: One is Never Enough...because really, can you ever have too many in your wardrobe? ;) I've shared various options available across the web, too (including the cowlneck from L.L. Bean).
DeleteBased on Melissa recommendation, I ventured into H&M and purchased a great boatneck striped tee from their label of graded goods line. Organic cotton, very substantial and love the fit. I took an XS so it is not too oversized. $17.99. They came in different blue/white and Black/white combos and even one with zippers on the sides.
DeleteI have a few reviews of new arrivals here, including the Teddie pants and tweed mini. Hope they help!
ReplyDeleteToo bad you couldn't try the Teddies on in tall (non sailor version). Looks like it was a disappointing shopping trip! :(
DeleteAmy, my thoughts exactly on the Regent :)
DeleteLots of reviews this week. You can find them here, here and here
ReplyDeleteI should be writing a lit review but my brain needs a break! So, instead I'll share my thoughts on recent JC finds.
ReplyDeleteMy only new arrival purchase was the oversized plaid popover. I tried an 8 & a 10 to see the difference; there wasn't a noticeable contrast so went with my normal size 8. I like the look & think this will look fresh for spr/sum with white denim.
Received the collection buffalo check sequin shirt and this is a love. I've worn it twice in the last three days. Fit is tts, and I really like the fact that when you turn up the sleeve, you can see the buffalo check pattern in a cotton fabric. Sequins are secure & well done. Styled it with a leather shell so I could wear it open with a single button fastened. Paired with Vince leather joggers & Loubie slingbacks to church. Wore yesterday with leather crops & flats. This is really fun piece and it was a net of $67.
Received collection suede fringed skirt. This skirt is yummy! The suede is so soft, not stiff like cheaper suede versions. The salmon color is beautiful. I ordered a 10; I have room in the waist, but fit is really nice, particularly in the hips. Length is appropriate too; was a little concerned since I'm over 5'8". I wouldn't size down to my normal size because I don't think I'd be comfortable. For just over $105 this skirt is a steal & can't wait to wear it.
Finally, received pleated metallic skirt in gold. I'm torn over this skirt because of the fabric; I'm not really a fan. Fit is tts & I like the pairing options with white, green or black. I've tried each of these combos and they all work. It's a really good price ($30) for a trend piece, so I'm going to keep it because I know I'll regret it later in the season.
Re: the pleated metallic skirt, what didn't you like about the fabric? I was thinking about that skirt it ever went on deep sale, but I'm wary of how wrinkled it looks online, and I suspect it would be near-impossible to steam it to remove them because of the pleats.
DeleteHi Xan, it's the feel of the fabric; I'm not a fan of the choice because it feels sort of cheap. It's true about the wrinkling; I'm taking to the cleaners this week to see if they can take care of that.
DeleteThank you! That was my suspicion, re: the fabric feeling cheap, based on the reviews on the site. I hope getting rid of the wrinkles works for you!
DeleteMini skirt with grosgrain ribbon (E4080) - This is definitely one of those items where, had I been able to try it on in-store first, I'm not sure I would have bought it, even on sale. It fit a bit large -- I took my usual size, and had to pull it down from my natural waist for it not to gap, but is workable. The micropleats seem to run longer than they appear in the photograph online, which made the skirt look more rumpled and the pattern kind of busy and squished by comparison. I'd say the pattern on the dress version looked much better, with it being able to lie flat. I didn't have an issue with it flaring out in an unflattering way, but I also have narrow hips. Length was fine, what I'd expect for a mini-skirt without being too racy and short for an adult. It was final sale though, so I'll be keeping it and I'm sure I'll find a way for it to work.
ReplyDeleteTri-buckle waist belt (33440) - This is a really old item (holiday 2010?) that I bought off eBay after coveting it for years, and I love it! I had to buy a size up from my usual, as that was all I could find, and it's workable. I still have to stretch the belt to make it fit my natural waist, but I'll have to punch a few extra holes so that the belts don't hang loose and away from my body depending on how I buckle them up. Even so, I'm really happy with it and can't wait to try it out with different outfits!
Thanks for review on that skirt, was wondering how fellow JCAs felt about it, as I really wanted it to work on me. I loved the dress version, missed out on the top version, could never work the jumpsuit version, so I was hoping the skirt would work on me, but alas (was able to try it before it became final sale.) I agree with you re) the pleats making it looked squished & busy in parts -- I couldn't pinpoint what wasn't working but i think that was it. In any case, glad it's working for you, I think that's a great fabric & color! Congrats on the belt score!! Love successfully hunting out beloved items.
DeleteHi Xan, are you in canada? If so because of borderfree there is no final sale from online so you could return it. Atleast that was the case two months ago. CS told me that and I did return a number of items from online that were final sale with no problem. I hope this is still the case as it's the only thing I like about borderfree.
DeleteThat's what CS told me when I did a recent order and I was able to return the item I ordered in store with out any problem. HTHs
DeleteYou're welcome, TM93! And yeah, I was so surprised about the pleats (it didn't look that messy in the online photo), but I'll see if I can make it work. I think I'd like to get the dress version of the fabric either instead (if I choose not to keep it) or in addition to it, as I like how the pattern look on that more, but no way would I go for it with the price as it is right now and shipping (and the US-Canada conversion), even if there's only a few left in my size.
DeleteJan and Amahendra, thank you! I'm in Canada, and I thought I heard something about Borderfree transactions not necessarily being final sale, but I wasn't sure about the details. I might be keeping the skirt for now, but if I do change my mind, I'll definitely look into that.
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ReplyDeleteI know some have commented on the fit of the Teddie pants in the weekend posts but I will also share my thoughts. I ordered the 4 and 6. I take a 4 in the Minnies and Campbells but opt for a 6 in the Marties and in the silk/wool collection pants. I'm about 5'5 and 125. I'm torn between the two sizes. There is some pulling on the low hip in the 4, which I think should stretch out but I do not want them to look tight. The low hip is great on the 6 but the waist is quite loose. So, I'll mull it over awhile. The "kick" on the low leg is cute. I got the "golden brandy," which is a saturated ginger color that will be an alternative to khaki. The fabric is good weight. I love the zippered pockets - they do these on the wool/silk collection pants and I was happily surprised to see them here - these are the details I want to see from J. Crew.
ReplyDeleteI'm styling the Pointelle sweater in pink on the blog today. It runs small in my opinion. I sized up.
ReplyDeleteI'm also wearing the Elsie Sequin leopard pumps, which are currently on sale. I LOVE these shoes. They fit exceptionally well. Took my normal US size in these.
Heather
Partial to Pink
I love those pumps!
DeleteThank you! Very comfortable too
Delete
ReplyDeleteI happened to be at the Village last weekend so went to JC. See some reviews here.
So IN LOVE with the Tweed Pencil Skirt with Fringe. Super soft, not stiff tweed. The fringe is subtle and pretty and gorgeous navy color. I actually paired it with the Tweed Motorcycle Jacket with fringe with just a white vintage cotton V-neck tee underneath, long strand of pearls and t-strap rose gold heels. Pretty and very feminine for a work lunch or dinner. Looks like a nice suit when paired together but both the skirt and jacket so versatile on their own. Both items True to Size, I think, although I always size up in JC pencil skirts to avoid sausage casing feel :) Best item(s) of new "pre-Spring" roll-out IMO.
ReplyDeleteAnother post with some recent purchases and details, (especially now that they've been worn several times).
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Also pics on IG @wearthislikethis
I posted reviews of the sailor Teddies, mirrored floral midi skirt and cap-sleeve dress, 10% tees and more on my IG (crazyaboutjcrew). Enjoy!
ReplyDeleteEma, thank you for the great reviews! I was interested in the 10% tees but not happy about the sheer factor for the price. The dalmation pants look great on you!
DeleteSunday Slim Patchwork Chinos #E8727--the color is much darker in person, like a pine green, and vibrant. I was expecting a faded army fatigue green. I am not a fan of the fit of the Sunday chinos (too high waiste-d, balloon-y in the hips and butt but slim thighs, on me they pooch in the butt and crotch like I'm wearing a diaper.) Regardless of all this, they are very cute on. The patchwork (which is a darker, stiffer cotton) saves them by making the fabric feel stiffer and tighter, since I find these chinos, to begin with, have too much stretch. They are also placed in the right spots -on the side of the thigh under the butt, and the other is on the hip but don't make you look wide.
ReplyDeleteA few more pics/reviews of coats and boots posted on my blog. I really love the collection calf hair ankle boots. The belted zip trench is a great coat! I was unsure about it after reading some negative reviews, but it's a great fit.
ReplyDeletehttp://wearthislikethis.blogspot.com/2016/02/february-6-color-fun-and-clothes-that.html