30% Off Madewell's Must Have Tops, Shoes & Bags

Madewell is offering customers to take an additional 30% off select full priced tops, shoes and bags. (Prices are already marked.) This offer expires September 19, 2016. The fine print includes:

Prices as marked at madewell.com reflect discount. In-store discount as advertised. Offer valid on purchases of select tops, handbags and shoes made in Madewell stores and at madewell.com from September 16, 2016, 12:01am ET through September 19, 2016, 11:59pm ET. Offer not valid on phone orders. Offer cannot be applied to previous purchases or the purchase of gift cards and cannot be redeemed for cash. In-store discount automatically taken at the register. Terms of offer are subject to change.

This is basically an extension of yesterday's promotion with the addition of tops. So it must have been a good sale if they extended it.

Will you be taking advantage of this promotion? If so, please share!

30% Off Madewell's Must Have Shoes & Bags

Madewell is offering customers to take an additional 30% off select full priced shoes and bags. (Prices are already marked.) This offer expires September 15, 2016. The fine print includes:

Prices as marked at madewell.com reflect discount. In-store discount as advertised. Offer valid on purchases of select handbags and shoes made in Madewell stores and at madewell.com from September 14, 2016, 12:01am ET through September 15, 2016, 11:59pm ET. Offer not valid on phone orders. Offer cannot be applied to previous purchases or the purchase of gift cards and cannot be redeemed for cash. In-store discount automatically taken at the register. Terms of offer are subject to change.

I am surprised to see a lot of the Transport Totes on sale. They are recent additions to the collection.

Will you be taking advantage of this promotion? If so, please share!

Choose: J.Crew Downing Tote or Madewell Transport Tote

I have been meaning to do this post for sometime now... If you had to choose between J.Crew's Downing Tote (item A4399; $168.00) or Madewell's Transport Tote (item 53228; $168.00), which one would you get?

As an owner of both bags, I understand how hard this choice can be! They are both beautiful totes that will carry everything you need to bring. Honestly, I think you cannot go wrong with either one.

Pro J.Crew: (1) I like how soft the leather is, (2) the bottom seam is pretty and helps keep the bag better propped up, and (3) the wristlet comes off like a cute accessory.

Pro Madewell: (1) I like how easy to maintain the leather is, thanks to the smoothness, (2) the inside zippered pocket is key!, (3) the leather feels like it will last forever, and (4) the simple style really appeals to me. 

Overall: I have an ever-so-slight preference for the J.Crew version in English Saddle. Yet, I prefer Madewell versions in all other color schemes.

Which tote would you personally get? Which one would you recommend?

Quick Poll:  Would you get the Downing Tote or the Transport Tote? 

What's Your J.Crew Bag?

J.Crew sent out an email featuring four different bags from J.Crew asking customers what their "purse-onality" is. (Oh J.Crew, you got me there!) ;)

Honestly, I really like this email as each bag is given a brief style list of what is loved for, carried by, and paired with. It doesn't hurt that every single bag is lovely in its own way! The bags featured include:

• Teeny Edie Purse (item 53108; $128.00)
• Invitation Clutch in Cork (item 72402; $98.00)
• Tartine Satchel (item 21986; $325.00)
• Biennial Cutout Hobo (Item 31145; $335.00)

It is worth nothing that Biennial Cutout Hobo is already sold-out. That was fast (and pretty impressive for the new arrival handbag!) I love the look of the new Biennial Hobo- it screams Spring thanks to its lighter shade and the half-moon cutouts. However, my concern is whether or not it will get dirty quickly. It just looks like it would require more maintenance than I care to give.

What are your thoughts on the latest email ? Do you like the latest handbag styles from J.Crew? Do you own any of the pieces featured above? If so, please share your review!

Quick Poll: Which J.Crew bag would you purchase?

J.Crew Email: A Parisian story... {envelope dreamweaver clutch}

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

The email not only features the Envelope Dreamweaver Clutch (item 74955; $325.00), but also shares its back story with customers:

We're dreaming in Deco... Our classic envelope clutch gets a punch of graphic glamour courtesy of our handbag designers. The collage of inspiration of their mood board? "Parisian wicker bistro chairs, Cubist paintings, marble-floored salon interiors- even these great black-and-white photos of expat types spilling out of Left Bank cafes." In luxuriously textured leather handwoven into an intricate geometric pattern and topped with gold hardware, this is one retro closet extra we can't keep our hands off.

This clutch is super cute but the price tag is outrageous! Yeah, it is made out of leather but it is also small, measuring at 9"H x 14"W x 1/2"D. I do not know why J.Crew marked this clutch at such a high price point. For that price, I rather go with the Biennial Satchel (Item 57107; $348.00), which is considerably more versatile.

What are your thoughts on the Envelope Dreamweaver Clutch from J.Crew? Have you seen it in person? If so, please share! :)

Product Review: Edie Purse

Edie Purse
Click here for product page
Item 44804
Regular: $238.00

I have not written up a product review in some time I realized! So here is my take on J.Crew's Edie Purse. J.Crew describes this handbag as follows:

This season we're trading our usual slouchy styles for ladylike carryalls that add polish to whatever we're wearing. Crafted in a new leather developed exclusively for us (we love the smooth matte finish and structured feel), with vintage-inspired hardware and a detachable shoulder strap that makes it easy to carry on the go. An interior front-wall patch pocket and a back-wall zip pocket keep pencils, cell phone and keys organized. Flap and turnlock closure. Brass-finish hardware. Cotton twill lining. Import. 14" removable shoulder strap. 3" handle drop. 7"H x 10 1/4"W x 2 3/4"D.

When J.Crew first introduced it for their Fall 2011 Collection, I immediately spotted this gorgeous handbag. What is not to love about the structured style of the carryall that blends the classic look of a messenger bag with the ladylike silhouette of a handbag. A win all around for me!

I ended up getting the Flame because the shade of red is absolutely gorgeous! It definitely adds a beautiful focal point to any outfit styled. I purchased the Pecan version as well, but found it bland in real-life (so it got returned). The color did not look as rich as it did in the photos. I suspect that the shade of leather changes to the beautiful tan hue we see in catalogs over time.

I love that the Edie Purse comes with a detachable shoulder strap (it makes carrying it super easy). The shoulder strap's length is also perfect for carrying the bag via top handle. Why? Because the shoulder strap is not long enough to touch the ground. Fantastic!

I was initially concerned that there was no main zipper under the flap of the bag. Pick-pocketers would have an easy time, right? Things will jostle out of it, yeah? Not really. The flap and turn-lock closure is very tightly constructed. Thankfully, nothing should fall out and no one should be able to slip their hand in.

The leather is beautiful. It definitely holds up better to scratches (but you still need to be careful in handling it). However, this is more of an event/ statement bag than an everyday bag so avoiding scratches should be easier. And that is where my main complaint is...

Because of the size, I can't stuff in everything I would like to. I am lucky if I can get my wallet, cell phone, and my tiny make-up bag inside. That is pretty much it. As a result, this carryall is more of a special-occasion bag for me.

Lastly, this bag must be selling well because J.Crew introduced two new shades (Casablanca blue, Sagebrush) in addition to the original three (of Flame, Pecan, and Black). Moreover, I have yet to see it go on sale and doubt it will go on sale any time soon.

For more reviews on this handbag, check out the following additional reviews & real life images:

• A Bigger Closet: "J.Crew Edie Purse in Sagebrush" {sagebrush}
  
• Alterations Needed: "Filling in the Gaps – Ann Taylor Chambray Blouse & J.Crew Handbag" {pecan}
• iStyleLikeMe!!: "iStyle... A Friendly Visit!" {flame}
  
• Pretty In Pink Megan: "Why Yes, I did wear a floral ONESIE!" {pecan}
  
• See Creatures: "Structured Elegance" {flame}
• See Creatures: "Annie Hall" {flame}
  
• Shopping with M: "J.Crew Edie purse review!" {flame}
  
• Streets of Sparkle: "{dallas style} Easy Chic at Neiman Marcus" {black}
• Where Did U Get That: "Structured" {pecan}
  

What are your thoughts on the Edie Purse? Do you own this handbag? Have you tried it on at a store? Do you like this style? If so, please share with us your review. :)

J.Crew Product Review: Tillary Tote

Tillary Tote
Click here for product page
Item 63158
Regular: $328.00

J.Crew describes this gorgeous bag as follows:

Thanks to our detail-obsessed design team, this tote doesn't skimp on style, quality or function. Traditional with a modern twist, it comes loaded with lots of extra pockets to keep things organized inside and out. Crafted in a superfine-grain leather that was specially developed to age beautifully, which means it'll hang in your closet—and on your arm—for years to come. Zip closure. Brass-finish hardware. Interior zip pocket, split-patch cell pocket. Cotton twill lining. Part of J.Crew Collection. Comes with dust bag. Import. 6" handle drop. 11 1/2"H x 11 3/4"W x 3 5/8"D. Catalog/jcrew.com only.

A big "thanks!" to Desert Flower (in this post), who shared her review of this must-have bag:

The Tillary tote arrived! First off, I worried from the website description that it might be smaller than I want. Website says 11 1/2"H x 11 3/4"W x 3 5/8"D. My measurements are approximately 12 1/2"H x 13"W (across the bottom) x 5 1/2"D. It's wider across the top where it flares out.

The blue sea color is gorgeous, just what I hoped for, a cross between dark blue and navy. The handles are well stitched, and look very much like the handles on the Celine luggage tote. The front zip pocket has a working zipper, however, I'd say it's decorative since there isn't much room. The zipper and stitching remind me of the Phillip Lim Pashli satchel I lusted after.

The leather is very nice quality. I can see this bag lasting a long time. The front and back are slightly pebbled, the flared sides are smoother. The cotton lining is nice, a taupe-grey color. One inside zip pocket, two open top pockets for cell phone, etc. There are four feet on the bottom, a nice touch. The handles just allow me to put it on my shoulder (although it's not meant to be a shoulder bag). They're rolled and will be comfortable on the arm.

The bag itself is somewhat heavy. Once I get stuff in it, it will be one of my heavier bags I think. It will easily hold all my day to day, plus my iPad, and when I travel I can throw in a bottle of water.

This is very comparable in quality to Coach bags I have, for which I've paid $300 to $500. I don't think this is overpriced although I realize $328 is not cheap. This will be a work horse in my wardrobe for years. I'm not waiting for sale. I have learned my lesson with a few J. Crew pieces I wished I just bought when they came out because I never found them once they went on sale.

In my opinion, this is a major win and one of the nicest pieces I've ever purchased from J. Crew. I'm adding to my wardrobe very judiciously these days, and being ruthless with returns. I'm sure this will be one of my best purchases of 2012.

"Thanks!" again to Desert Flower for her great in-depth review of this tote!

What are your thoughts on the Tillary Tote? Do you own this bag? Have you tried it on at a store? Do you like this style? If so, please share with us your review. :)

J.Crew Email: Holding out for the bag of your dreams?

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Irina, who shared the following email J.Crew sent this morning.

The email features the Brompton Mini-Hobo (item 63020; $258.00), which they describe as:

Our design team's fallen head over heels for the mini hobo—a luxe little sister to our iconic Brompton hobo. Smaller in size but deceptively roomy inside, this scaled-down favorite packs the same functional features you love about the original (think tons of pockets and a cross-body strap). In array of amazing hues and leathers, including a brand new, beautifully buffed matte version. Turnlock closure. Brass-finish hardware. Interior zip pocket, split-patch cell pocket. Cotton twill lining. Comes with dust bag. Import. Removable, adjustable shoulder strap fully extends to 20". 6 1/2" handle drop. 12"H x 10 1/2"W x 5"D.

Now some might say J.Crew just got lazy and thought, "What handbag design should we do next? Hey the Brompton Hobo is really popular, let's just make it smaller and call it a day!" And who knows, those people might be right. However, it is a pretty darn cute bag and I actually like the smaller version more than its larger counterpart. :)

What are your thoughts on the Brompton Mini Hobo? Have you seen it in-person? If so, please share! :)

Product Review: Edie Tote

Edie Tote
Click here for product page
Item 44801
Regular: $348.00

J.Crew describes this gorgeous bag as follows:

This season we're trading our usual slouchy styles for clean-edged, ladylike carryalls that polish and pull together whatever we're wearing. Crafted in a new leather developed exclusively for us (we love the smooth matte finish and structured feel), with a vintage-inspired turnlock and top zip, so everything's safe—and sleek—on the go. An interior front-wall patch pocket and a back-wall zip pocket keep pencils, cell phone and keys organized. Perfectly sized to fit a standard laptop, it's the one we're wearing to work and beyond. Brass-finish hardware. Exterior flap pocket with turnlock closure. Cotton twill lining. Import. 5" handle drop. 16"H x 14 1/2"W x 3 1/4"D.

A big "thanks!" to ER, who shared her review of this must-have bag:

...I purchased the tote in black. This purse is definitely a investment piece and the JCrew design team did a amazing job on the execution, style and function of this tote. What I enjoy about this tote is that it works for the student and the corporate professional. It's large enough to hold a 13" laptop and can hold a lightweight jacket or cardigan.
I took a trip to San Francisco and tested it out during my day of leisure. What I discovered is that:

• It's a very light bag and doesn't get heavy even after I stuffed my scarf and camera in the bag
• The shape of the bag contours with your body and when you walk it doesn't jet out in a annoying fashion
• There are 3 inside pockets and one has a zipper and makes putting your cell phone and keys in a secure fashion without fishing for them at the bottom of the bag
• The leather is like butter!!! I found myself touching this bag throughout my adventures in the city and complementing myself on what a great purchase I made
• The hardware on the purse is not over the top and actually elevates the bag
• The large outside pocket is pure genius!!! If you are a commuter and have to ride public transit you can put your transit pass in this pocket and it will be secure. There is no need to keep going inside your bag to fish out your transit pass.
• The double zipper closure at the top of the bag is great!!!! It gives you a sense of security and I tend to keep my ipod in the zip pocket inside the bag and keep the bag partially unzipped in order to have my ipods earplugs available so I can listen to music while walking.

In conclusion, if you do not own the Edie Tote I suggest you go out and purchase this as soon as possible. I've decided I'm going to purchase the flame color. I was a bit hesitant at first due to the fact I work for Target, but I'm not letting that stop me due to it being such a great bag. If you are hesitant to purchase this based on the price think of it as paying for itself with constant use over time.

"Thanks!" again to ER for her great review of this tote!

What are your thoughts on the Edie Tote? Do you own this bag? Have you tried it on at a store? Do you like this style? If so, please share with us your review. :)

J.Crew Email: Just for Cardmembers: a luxurious carryall

"Thanks!" to Desert Flower, Irina, & Ramona, who shared with us the latest email from J.Crew to its card members.

The email above features the not-yet-officially-released-online Biennial Satchel (Item 57107; $348.00). J.Crew mentions: "this classic silhouette in rich pebbled leather that just gets better with age- you'll love it twice as much next year." The description also includes:

We're head over heels for the perfect proportions of this luxe satchel. Crafted in supple pebbled leather, this sleek two-handle bag- a design team pick- has enough room for your laptop, your lipstick and even your little cashmere cardigan. It's just what we've always wanted: a can-do carryall with effortless elegance. Leather. Zip closure. Cotton twill lining. Comes with dust bag.Import. 6" handle drop. 11"H x 16"W x 7"D.

I am really impressed with J.Crew's handbags in the new collection. They are going back to more classic shapes and rich shades.

And of course, this means that new arrivals are once again around the corner!

What are your thoughts on the new satchel? Do you like the style and size of the bag?

Goodbye Borge Garveri! {farvel for alltid}

A member of the Borge Garveri family recently reached out to me to let me know that the tannery is no longer in business. It was a family run operation for 120 years (established around 1870).

Unfortunately, last year they had to close their doors due to a series of factors including the "global financial crisis, the strength of the Norwegian kroner, a lack of raw-materials caused by a strong increase in raw-material prices, internal quality challenges and frost and flood damage". [Reference here.]

J.Crew frequently used Borge Garveri products in their leather handbags. Customers would see the "leather tumbled by Borge Garveri exclusively for J.Crew" in product descriptions. J.Crew would even go as far as sharing: "By the way, it's pronounced "Borg-ee," with a rolled R." ;)

Their leather was always beautiful, "indescribably rich" as J.Crew would say. One of my favorites, is the Frankie Bag (as shown in the image to the left). I personally own (& love) this bag.

So it is with sadness that I say "farvel for alltid" ("good-bye forever" in Norwegian) to Borge Garveri. :(

Cardmember Email: Shop it first: fall's chicest handbag

"Thanks!" to Desert Flower, who shared with us the latest email from J.Crew to its card members.

The email above features the not-yet-officially-released-online Edie Purse in Italian Calf Hair (Item 44802; $448.00). J.Crew describes these sandals as:

This season we're trading the usual slouchy styles for clean-edged, ladylike carryalls that polish and pull together whatever we're wearing. This wardrobe game-changer is crafted in Italian calf hair in an eye-catching animal print with leather trim and a vintage-inspired turnlock. Flap with turnlock closure. An interior front-wall patch pocket and a back-wall zip pocket keep pencils, cell phone and keys organized. Cotton twill lining. Import. Removable shoulder strap fully extends to 14". 3" handle drop. 7"H x 10 1/4"W x 2 3/4"D.

I like this version of the Edie too! Not only do I love the shape, but I like this print. (Which makes sense as I already own J.Crew's Printed Calf-Hair Sofia Bag from back in the day).

And of course, this means that new arrivals are once again around the corner! Could it be this week or next???

What are your thoughts on the Edie Calf Hair Purse? Do you like the style and size of the bag?

P.S. Sorry for the delay in posting. I am just getting back into the swing of things from the holiday weekend. :)

Cardmember Email: Just for Cardmembers, a new must-have bag

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Desert Flower, PatmosJD, & Irina, who shared with us the latest email from J.Crew to its card members.

The email above features the not-yet-officially-released-online the Marlow Hobo (Item 45653; $298.00). J.Crew describes these sandals as:

A classically contoured all-purpose carrier that's quickly achieving can't-live-without-it status. The finish was inspired by antique chesterfield sofas (we sourced the leather from a former upholstery tannery to achieve the perfect timeworn lustre and rich undertones). Add in high-gloss brass-finish hardware, a metallic top latch and a generously proportioned interior and it has all the hallmarks of a cult favorite. An interior front-wall patch pocket and a back-wall zip pocket keep pencils, cell phone and keys organized. Top zip closure. Exterior snap pocket. Cotton twill lining. Import. 8" shoulder strap drop. 5" handle drop. 12 1/2"H x 17"W x 6 1/2"D.

This bag is not wowing me. I might change my mind in person (as I often do). I mean the leather looks rich, and the shades are gorgeous. But right now, I just can't get past how big, how really big it is to me.

On another note, this email means that new arrivals are once again just around the corner! :)

What are your thoughts on the Hobo? Do you like the style and size of the bag?

J.Crew Email: What to tote today: the Bronwyn bag (plus, FREE SHIPPING)

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Irina, who shared the latest email from J.Crew this morning.

The email features the Bronwyn Hobo (Item 42142; $268.00) which J.Crew describes as:

This garment-washed, go-everywhere carryall is the ultimate summer travel companion. Crafted in beautifully battered leather for that lovably worn, well-traveled feel, it sports adjustable buckled straps and plenty of pockets (so it's always adventure ready). An interior front-wall patch pocket and a back-wall zip pocket keep pencils, cell phone and keys organized. Top-strap magnet closure. Dark pewter-finish hardware. Three exterior pockets. Cotton twill lining. Import. 8" handle drop. 15"H x 16 1/4"W x 2 3/4"D.

The Cognac version does look like a super cute bag for the Summer. The other two versions (Tuscan Olive & Black) are great for Fall.
J.Crew is reminding us that their offer for free shipping for on orders of $150+ with promo code SHIP150 expires Wednesday, May 18, 2011.

What are your thoughts on the Bronwyn Bag? Is this the kind of bag you would wear for Summer, Fall, or year round? Have you seen it in person? If so, please share! :)

J.Crew Email: Our latest carry-all crush

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Desert Flower & Ketan, who shared the following email J.Crew sent this morning.

The email features the Lockwood Collection, which includes:

• Lockwood Bucket Bag (item 37129; $138.00)
• Lockwood Hobo (item 37078; $258.00)
• Lockwood Satchel (item 37077; $238.00)
  

I love the look of the leather and the colors offered (masala chai, mineral green, black, & soft sandalwood). However, I am not "wow-ed" by any of the bags overall-style. I will reserve finally judgment after I see them in-person. (I find J.Crew bags to be more lust-worthy after an in-person visit.) ;)

What are your thoughts on the Lockwood Collection? Have you seen in-person or own any of the pieces? If so, please share.

Product Review: Buena Notte Bag

Buena Notte Bag
Click here for product page
Item 29477
Regular: $188.00
Sale: $99.99

I really liked this bag when it first came out back in August 2010 (refer here). It has that classic styling with a twist. J.Crew also loves this bag, as they affectionately describe it as the following:

A bit of couture-inspired arm candy in ladylike metallic tweed with downtown-cool touches. Our designers used a luxurious buena notte jacquard (a stunning metallic tweed we found at an esteemed Italian mill) and added tough-chic accents: a handle of raw-edged silk chiffon woven on a curb chain, a silk chiffon side bow and a cluster of gunmetal jewels. For day or night, it's perfect for keeping all your accoutrements safe and ultra-stylish. Acrylic/wool/silk/poly with leather trim. Top flap with push-lock closure. Hematite-plated metal hardware. Interior back-wall zip pocket, front-wall split-patch cell pocket. Cotton twill lining. Part of J.Crew Collection. Import. 3 1/2" handle drop. 6 1/4"H x 10"W x 4"D.

So for starters, I really love this bag. I am a sucker for tweed on an accessory. Full disclosure, I own {and love!} J.Crew's Metallic Tweed Charmed Mini Bag (Item 20279; $198.00) too.

The size is great for a small handbag. By no means is it meant to carry your everyday essentials. However it does manage to carry a full size wallet, cell phone, and a few other odds and ends, with ease.

The tweed fabric is amazing. It's substantial enough to make you feel like your bag will stay together (and not fall apart). I also see it hiding any dirt pretty well.

I also love all the embellishments. The bows on the bag are a nice touch of femininity. The handle (of "raw-edged silk chiffon woven on a curb chain") is amazing! Definitely easy to hold and lovely to lay flat on your arm when you want to be hands-free.

The downside: that push-lock closure is so annoying after awhile. It definitely becomes a hassle to use the closure. When you want to close the bag, you have to push the lock closure again. This is annoying and as a result of fumbling, causes some scratching on the closure.

Overall, I really enjoy the bag. I definitely recommend it! For a review and real life images, check out AudreyBella's posts (here & here).

What are your thoughts on the Buena Notte Bag? Have you seen or own this bag? If so, what is your review of the style? Would you recommend it to another fellow JCA?

Product Review of J.Crew's Helmet Bag

"Thanks!" to Trip who let us know about his review on J.Crew's exclusive Helmet Bag (read his "J. Crew Helmet Bag" post for his review).

J.Crew has described these types of bags as the following:

This bag is derived from the military pilot bag used to carry helmets worn on the head during flight. Perfect to carry your laptop around in the city or just as a day bag.

Trip provides several real-life images, including an interior shot. The most amazing part of his post... he scored this bag for $50! I know, what an amazing deal! Now I am searching for this bag at this price too. :)

What are your thoughts on the Helmet Bag? Are you a fan of the style and/or design? Do you currently own this bag? If so, please share! :)

J.Crew Email: Buy now, love forever

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta, who shared with us the latest email from J.Crew this morning.

The email above features the Grommet Parlour Hobo (Item 23176; $298.00). We already got a sneak peak to this bag awhile back (refer to the January 21st "Cardmember Email: A sneak preview from our spring collection (just for Cardmembers)" post). J.Crew describes the hobo as:

Our design team (and everyone else) is mad for this handbag. Part motorcycle chic, part impeccable uptown construction, it's one of our favorite shapes in soft pebbled leather and a tricked-out body with a smattering of studs and grommets. With multiple pockets to keep you organized and an adjustable strap for versatility. Top snap closure with two zip pockets. Shiny gold hardware. Interior front-wall split-patch cell pocket, back-wall zip pocket. Cotton twill lining. Part of the J.Crew Collection.

There are now more colors/ versions to enjoy. Originally it came in either Black or Pale Buff. Now it also comes in Rosy Peach and Soft Dove (grey).

I originally did not care for the bag. After seeing it in person... I actually think the Pale Buff version is quite lovely. The gold tinted grommets actually play quite well against the light tan leather. I also saw the Black version in person and it did not seem that bad either.

What are your thoughts on the hobo? Have you seen it in-person? Has your opinion on the hobo change? Do you like the style- from the size to the style with its studs & grommets?

Cardmember Email: A sneak preview from our spring collection (just for Cardmembers)

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta, DinDin, dinagideon, Elizabeth, Shannon, & Cass, who shared with us the latest email from J.Crew to its card members.

The email above features the not-yet-officially-released-online Grommet Parlour Hobo (Item 23176; $298.00). J.Crew describes the hobo (which comes in either Black or Pale Buff) as:

Our design team (and everyone else) is mad for this handbag. Part motorcycle chic, part impeccable uptown construction, it's one of our favorite shapes in soft pebbled leather and a tricked-out body with a smattering of studs and grommets. With multiple pockets to keep you organized and an adjustable strap for versatility. Top snap closure with two zip pockets. Shiny gold hardware. Interior front-wall split-patch cell pocket, back-wall zip pocket. Cotton twill lining. Part of the J.Crew Collection.

Me don't likey. I don't care for the studs and grommets at all, which dates this bag as a current trend. For this price point, I expect the bag to be a timeless keepsake.

By the way, when I think of J.Crew the term "motorcycle chic" does *not* come to mind. J.Crew, please do not go this route. Instead, think Paris 2007. You know what I am talkin' about J.Crew. {wink}

On a bright note, this email only confirms that new arrivals will be available online soon. {wahoo!}

What are your thoughts on the hobo? Do you like the style- from the size to the style with its studs & grommets?

Product Review: Metallic Beacon Purse

Metallic Beacon Purse
Click here for product page
Item 23189
Regular: $168.00

When this bag arrived online, all I could think was pretty, pretty, pretty bag. J.Crew describes this Collection bag as the following:

This metallic-leather purse has a sporty-chic twist that we're coveting for spring. Impeccable detailing includes the extra-long strap (so it can be worn either flat across the body or over the shoulder), polished gold hardware and a reverse-metallic finish. With enough luxe touches to take you from the conference room to cocktails. (We see it slung across a little black dress.) An interior back-wall zip pocket keeps your lipstick and cell phone in line. Leather handles. Top flap with turn-lock closure. Cotton twill lining.

A big "thanks!" to DinDin who shared her review of the Beacon Purse, as well as some real-life images. Just click on any of her images to view larger. The following is her review:

I think this purse is shinier in person than in the photo on the website. One photo is of the bag compared next to my tv remote so you can see the size comparison. This purse will hold an iphone, a wallet (on the slimmer side), and maybe a few small things like a couple lipglosses.

If you put anything that is round or thick into the bag it will pull at the top flap. This is because the bag is very slim. There is no width at all actually.

I'm short, 5'2". When worn cross body the top of the bag hits at the top of my hips. When I put it over one shoulder, it dropped below my hips. (please excuse my mirror/camera, i don't know what that smudge is.)

The strap is removable, although it would look slightly off with those two gold rings attached to the bag. The bag itself is very light which is a plus if you're going to use this bag for a "going out" bag. As far as the strap, it is studded, little pyramids on one side and flat rounds on the other side.

The inside is lined in plain cotton, beige in color. As for the feel of the leather, it's not particularly smooth, obviously because it is metallic.

Overall, I'm not sure what I think of it. Maybe 3.5 stars out of 5.

"Thanks!" again to DinDin for her great review of this bag! I, along with many other JCAs, had been curious about the size of the Beacon— especially since J.Crew did not offer any additional photos of the purse.

What are your thoughts on the Metallic Beacon Purse? Have you seen or own this bag? If so, what is your review of the size & style? Would you recommend it to another fellow JCA?