J.Crew Email: FENTON/FALLON for J.Crew (plus, FREE SHIPPING)

"Thanks!" to Desert Flower, Marietta & HeidiG who shared the following email J.Crew sent today.

The email once again announces the Fenton/Fallen for J.Crew collaboration. They also share the following:

Jewerly designer Dana Lorenz, visionary behind the rebel-chic statement jewelry lines Fenton and Fallon created a covetable collection just for us (you won't find it anywhere else).

Also, "thanks!" to Raina who shared the following article from Style.com (click here for the original article):

Dana Lorenz Is New To The Crew
By Maya Singer
April 14, 2010

When you need a favor, it helps to have friends in high places. Or, in the case of Jenna Lyons, to be a friend in a high place. Several months ago, Lyons, the creative director of J.Crew, was trying (and failing) to track down a few pieces of Fenton/Fallon jewelry, a problem with no real solution until she ran into Fenton/Fallon designer Dana Lorenz (pictured, with Lyons) at a dinner. “It was a party hosted by Maria Cornejo,” Lorenz recalled last night the Soho J.Crew store. “I remember, I was wearing a chambray shirt with paint all over it, because I hadn’t expected to be able to make it. Anyway,” Lorenz continued, “Jenna told me that she was looking for these pieces, and they were all sold out. I offered to make them up for her, as a favor.” Lyons decided that the real favor Lorenz could do for her was to join the J.Crew fold for a season.

The Fenton/Fallon for J. Crew collection is on the sales floor now; Lorenz describes the range as a “mash-up” of her two brands. “It’s a little less statement-y than Fenton, a little more statement-y than Fallon,” Lorenz said, “and I’m kind of loving the contrast with the preppy little blazers and things.” Prices start at $95 for the Carrington chain bracelet, below.

This is the type of collection where customers fall into one of two camps: "loves it!" or "hates it!". Frankly, I fall into the latter. To each their own! :)

What are your thoughts on the collection? Have you seen any in-person at your local brick & mortar stores? If so, please share! :)

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J.Crew's Jenna Lyons is the Go-To Girl

A big "thanks!" to KitsMommy (in this post), who shared the following article from the London Times Online (click here):

The go-to girl for fortysomething fashion
Jenna Lyons is the creative director of J.Crew, the American brand worn by the First Lady and other stylish US women
By Lisa Armstrong
April 14, 2010

In your 40s and can’t find anything to wear? This woman thinks she has the answers. And she has form. Because this is Jenna Lyons, 41, the creative director — and according to many saviour — of J.Crew, the American clothing chain to which Michelle Obama, among others, turns when she needs a chic wardrobe reality check.

The 6ft New Yorker with a three-and-a-half-year-old son and a 75-year-old mother (both J.Crew customers), along with the 55 other designers who work with her at J.Crew, has been so successful at tapping in to what grown-up but still fashion aware women want to wear that at the end of last year her bosses slapped a million dollar handcuffs deal on her.

Her secret? “I like what we do, and I wear what we do. I wouldn’t say I’ve made J.Crew over in my image, that would be presumptuous. You do have to work from instinct, while keeping a very clear head about what it is your brand stands for.”

Under the helm of Lyons, J.Crew has come to stand for a clear, reassuring refuge for women who are desperate for a dose of fashion flair combined with a bracing accessibility and clean lines. It is a combination that it is frustratingly hard to find on this side of the Atlantic, where the high street excels at throwaway trends but can’t seem to step up to the challenge of well-made, contemporary classics. The labels that do manage to come up with a more sophisticated, thoughtful take — such as Joseph or Jaeger — operate at the upper end of the high street.

Lyons seems at a loss to explain why others find the task so tough. “Looked at from one point of view, there are a lot of clothes that women of any age can wear now. I love short skirts, for instance, but I wear them with tights. And the twentysomething who sits down the corridor from me wears the same dress, but with bare legs. My mother wears my toothpick jeans — actually she stole mine — but she’ll team them with ballet flats, a blazer and a stripy Breton T-shirt whereas I always wear mine with a high heel and a nude colour top.”

Every time she visits, Lyons ends up pulling all the clothes out of her mother’s closet, styling them into new permutations and then taking Polaroids of all the outfits for her mother. That could be why she has such an empathy with the dilemmas women face down daily when it comes to getting dressed.

“It’s easy to get overwhelmed, bored or alienated by what’s out there,” she acknowledges. “My mother’s always saying she has nothing to wear — and she has tons. What’s lacking are role models. I think that it is symptomatic of a lot of other issues we have about ageing. When I go to LA I see that everyone is dressing like a teenager. Maybe it’s panic,” she muses. “Or the cult of fame — everyone wants to dress like celebrities, and celebrities are all chasing youth.”

Lyons, who is married to an artist and commutes daily to her Manhattan office from her home in Brooklyn, says: “The fact is, you have to get more selective as you get older. You need to learn what works for you, both in terms of functionality and shape.” Lyons is impressively clear-headed about what works for J.Crew. “We’re a clean, American brand.

“Military is good for us — it’s versatile, chic, timeless. Rock chics aren’t us, although we would do a biker boot because that’s a classic which looks great with everything. Ethnic is something we tend to steer clear of, especially if everyone else is doing it. Pale, nude colours are great. Camel is a much tougher call — most women don’t like how they look in camel. I know it’s what Phoebe Philo’s done a lot of at Céline, and I love what she’s doing there, but it succeeds because she’s working with the best, most expensive fabrics.”

J.Crew has been known to push the boat out, however. Lyons laughs when I tell her how last winter I became obsessed tracking down a bouclé tweed jacket that had sold out in every branch in New York (damn Michelle Obama, she wore the matching skirt and the vultures swooped before I got there). I eventually found the last one in town — two sizes too small, but nothing that couldn’t be (drastically) altered. It was worth it. The tweed is excellent and the jacket even has a gold chain stitched into the inside hem, a nice further homage to Chanel. It’s better, in other words, than it needed to be.

“It’s true. We could have got away with less,” she notes. “But you noticed that it was good \[the tweed came from Linton, the Cumbrian company that also makes tweeds for Chanel\] and that cannot be underestimated as a marketing tool. In fact, forget everything else — what our research has told us over again is that the key factor in turning customers on to our brand is word of mouth. Women trust their friends over and above anything else.”

While Lyons loves fashion (“it’s frightening how much I shop”), she’s not wildly interested in trends. Unlike British high street chains, J.Crew, guided by Lyons, scythes a path through this season’s key looks (“we’d do ruffles, although I’m not a huge fan of droopy or wispy ...”).

When she studies the catwalk, she’s looking for moods rather than specifics. “The problem as you move through your thirties, forties and beyond,” she muses, “is that there’s almost too much choice. So many women have no idea how to put it all together.” Her advice: aim for a degree of counter-balance, and edit ruthlessly. “If you like a soft, slouchy feel — a pyjama style pair of trousers, for instance — wear it with a tailored jacket, a menswear jacket and a pair of heels. Structure is your friend.”

So, too, are beautiful items that transcend (and justify) that feverish impulse to buy that infects the most restrained consumer. “Ask yourself when you’d wear it and how long you’ll love it for. Does it make you look better than the outfit you walked in in? It’s not so much about limiting your choices as empowering them.”

I enjoyed this article! There were a lot of great quotes from Ms. Lyons like being more selective about clothing as you become older & knowing what works for you. I also think that J.Crew's collection (for the most part) consists of classic staples. I know what I buy will be worn for years to come. So its great to hear the different ways I can wear a piece as I mature.

What are your thoughts on the article? Any points you found particularly interesting? What is your take on Jenna Lyons' contribution for the Women's line? :)

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Spring Sale Has Arrived {wahoo!}

The "Final" in the Final Sale is officially gone, allowing for customers to return and exchange sale-priced items purchased online (& hopefully in brick & mortar stores).

With the arrival of Spring, so comes the Spring Sale (click here to shop online). There are even some new reductions in prices of certain items. {wahoo!}
Lastly, today is the last day J.Crew is offering free shipping on orders of $150+ with promo code SHIP150.

Did you check out the Final Sale section today? Were you able to snag any amazing deals? If so, please share! :)

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J.Crew Spotted in Lonny Magazine

A big "thanks!" to Raina (of the lovely "If The Lamp Shade Fits" blog) who shared the following J.Crew sightings in the April issue of Lonny Magazine (click here).

In one photo, celebrity cook Katie Lee is wearing the Watercolor Potpourri Mini (Item 23003; Regular $68.00, now $49.99). I would never consider wearing a striped top with a watercolor floral print skirt. However, it works quite nicely together. :)

In the other photo, Lonny Editor Michelle Adams is wearing J.Crew's Sunshine Peony Skirt (Item 22591; $98.00). For more on this skirt, refer to the March 19th "Product Review: Sunshine Peony Skirt" post.

What are your thoughts on either skirt? Do you like the way the skirts are styled in the magazine? :)

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J.Crew Teams Up with Warehouse Denim

"Thanks!" to James & AppGal who shared the following news with us.

Over at the DenimBlog (click here), there is news that J.Crew is teaming up with the Japanese denim label, Warehouse Denim. The post shares the following:

J.Crew to Collaborate with Warehouse
By Jennifer
April 13, 2010

Once known for it’s American classics, J.Crew has quickly becoming a haute fashion Mecca. J.Crew’s popularity is sure to increase with the brand’s collaboration with Japanese denim designer, Warehouse.

Frank Muytjens, J.Crew’s head of men’s design, said he discovered Warehouse denim while on a trip to Tokyo last year. “I haven’t been able to take them off since,” said Muytjens of his jeans.

The collaboration will be called Lot 484 (named after J.Crew’s 484 fit as well as the Men’s shop address in NYC), which will be constructed from Warehouse’s 14 ounce selvedge denim. The fabric originates with cotton grown in Memphis and dyed in Japan, that will be untreated, yielding a beautiful fade with wear.

Lot 484 will feature traditional Warehouse signatures, such as a 34-inch inseam, rivets and fly buttons. The collection should have a similar price point to previous collections, around $170 and should be in stores soon.

Moreover, HypeBeast (click here) add the following:

New York retailer J.Crew has collaborated with Japanese selvedge denim label Warehouse on this exclusive men’s style, the “Lot 484″. The Lot 484 has been created from Warehouse’s 14-ounce selvedge denim; with the fabric being composed entirely of Memphis-grown cotton that has been both woven and dyed in Japan. Details include steel rivets and fly buttons that have been designed to rust over time. The Lot 484 will retail at $300 USD and will become available on J.Crew’s webstore and within its Men’s Shop and Liquor Store locations.

This brand is for the "diehard of denim aficionados". So it makes sense for J.Crew to seek out a partnership with them. However, call me crazy, but I don't understand paying close to $200-300 for steel rivets and fly buttons that "rust over time". It seems like that would be a flaw, not a feature of the jeans.

What are your thoughts on the latest collaboration? Are you a fan of Warehouse Denim? :)

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J.Crew's Fall Preview Is Here! {for men, part II}

We got a preview of the Fall collection in the April 2 "J.Crew's Fall Preview Is Here!" post. Well, here is a bit more!

"Thanks!" to J.Crew Guy In Canada who shared the following news with us. Over at A Continuous Lean (click here), there are several photos of the Fall 2010 Collection for MEN. The post also shares the following:

It couldn’t have been a more beautiful spring day last Thursday at the penthouse at Milk Studios when J.Crew presented its fall 2010 collection to editors. The sun was shining, the wind was blowin, the Dark ‘N’ Stormys were flowin and there were lots of familiar faces in attendance.

It has just started to get warm in NYC and looking at autumn clothes took some concentration, but J.Crew really nailed it with this collection. As I studied the looks at the presentation I told a friend — this is how I would dress everyday if I wasn’t so distracted or lazy, or a combination of the two.

Since the event and clothes have been out there on the internets, I thought it would be fun to take a different sort of approach and give you a comprehensive wrap-up of what was shown and what was said. That way you will be prepared come late summer when the collection starts hitting stores.

What did the bloggers think?
GQ said: “Too many stellar items to list.”

Secret Forts said: “You just want to put the clothes on, and with this collection, go get lost in the woods like Nick Adams”

The Pursuit Aesthetic said: “[J.Crew has been] transformed what was used to be little more than a preppy mail order catalog into one of the definitive sources for menswear.”

Por Homme said: “The Fall 2010 lineup is a versatile one with everything from a wool blazer to a Levi’s denim jacket all the way to a pair of classic chinos.”

Inventory said: “The fall collection aims to put a slightly toned down take on a number of outwear staples and J.Crew classics.”

Seriously, the Men's Collection is amazing. The outfits, the styling, and the presentation are all flawless. Bravo J.Crew!

What are your thoughts? Are you looking forward to the Fall Collection?

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Interior Shots of J.Crew's Liquor Store

"Thanks!" to Jennifer who shared the following news with us.

Over at Apartment Therapy (click here), there are several images of the Tribeca Men's Store (in NYC). The post also shares the following:

The long-established Tribeca tavern called Liquor Store may have closed its doors, but in its place J. Crew extended its brand with a curated selection of men's clothing and accessories by its designers and others — all while maintaining the original vibe of the bar situated in a classic 1825 townhouse.

What are your thoughts on the layout? Do you like that J.Crew has created such a unique-feel for some of their stores?

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The Great (Weekly) Exchange {exclusively for men!}

This post (of weekly posts) is for individual members who are interested in (1) swapping/selling/sharing and/or (2) looking for and interested in buying certain items from J.Crew's Men Collection. Please feel free to share a J.Crew store location and/or your outside listing/ auction site if it matches the requests made in this post.

Please note: this posting is not for resellers.

Also note that any transactions are independent of this blog. (Especially since you will be using an outside listing/ auction site like eBay or eCrater.) I have no dealings or interactions with any of the potential communication, listings, or transactions. :) Moreover, please limit comments about items to swap/sell/share/finding to the "Great (Weekly) Exchange" posts. (Refer to "A Quick Note to J.Crew Aficionadas" post.)

Do you have any items you would like to swap/sell/share among yourselves through your outside listing/auction site? Is there an item (or items) that you are looking for and interested in purchasing?

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Final Sale Updates {oh my!} & Free Shipping

As many of you have noticed & noted, the Final Sale section (click here to shop online) had quite an update this morning! There are lots of pop-backs from seasons past as well. Although, by the time I got to the sale, the ghost pages (item pages with no stock) were all that remained for the items I was interested in. Ah well! But there are still lots of items available left! :)

Also, "thanks!" to many of you, including Summer (in this post) & Marietta, who let us know that J.Crew is offering free shipping on orders of $150+ with promo code SHIP150. This offer expires 4/14/10.

Did you check out the Final Sale section today? Were you able to snag any amazing deals? If so, please share! :)

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The Great (Weekly) Exchange {looking to sell}

This post (of weekly posts) is for individual members who want to swap/sell/share among yourselves. This post is where you can mention your items and outside listing/ auction site (like eBay and eCrater & the corresponding user ID).

Please note: this posting is not for resellers.

Please note that any transactions are independent of this blog. (Especially since you will be using an outside listing/ auction site like eBay or eCrater.) I have no dealings or interactions with any of the potential communication, listings, or transactions. :) Moreover, please limit comments about items to swap/sell/share to the "Great (Weekly) Exchange" posts. (Refer to "A Quick Note to J.Crew Aficionadas" post.)

Do you have any items you would like to swap/sell/share among yourselves through your outside listing/auction site?

Sidenote: What's up with JCAs writing "sub" or "subscribing" as their comment? It just means they are subscribing to all the comments (which are then automatically sent to their email) in that particular thread. This way they can stay aware of all the comments posted. :)Great (Weekly) Exchange

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The Great (Weekly) Exchange {looking to find}

This post (of weekly posts) is for individual members who are looking for and interested in buying certain items. Please feel free to share a J.Crew store location and/or your outside listing/ auction site if it matches the requests made in this post.

Please note: this posting is not for resellers.

Also note that any transactions are independent of this blog. (Especially since you will be using an outside listing/ auction site like eBay or eCrater.) I have no dealings or interactions with any of the potential communication, listings, or transactions. :) Moreover, please limit comments about items to swap/sell/share/finding to the "Great (Weekly) Exchange" posts. (Refer to "A Quick Note to J.Crew Aficionadas" post.)

Is there an item (or items) that you are looking for and interested in purchasing?

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Sought & Found: Did you visit J.Crew this {past} Weekend?

This is the weekly "sale watch" post, to help each other find sale items at our various local J.Crew stores. ;)

If you are stopped by a J.Crew store this past weekend to see what's available (if anything!) in the RESORT & early SPRING sale, or to see some new SPRING arrivals {sigh!} in person, maybe you might be willing to share that with us in this post. In particular, if you could share with us a few of the noteworthy items that are available, at what prices, and potential sizes the store is carrying (as well as the store location)- that would be fantastic!

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

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J.Crew Email: We're celebrating at Los Gatos + 20% off

A big "thanks!" to Lolo who let us know about another wonderful offer from J.Crew. The J.Crew in Los Gatos, California is having its first anniversary. To celebrate, J.Crew is offering local customers 20% off any purchase of $150+. This offer runs from 4/14/10 through 4/28/10.

Just click on the image above or here (which will take you to a larger version of the image) and print it out (so the associate can read the email).

The location for the store is:

105 North Santa Cruz Avenue
Los Gatos, CA 95030
(408) 354-1590

Congrats to all those in the area!!! :)

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Final Sale Ending Soon {april 13th to be exact} :)

The April 8th post "J.Crew Email: Shop our final sale. Only 5 days left." announced that the "Final" in "Final Sale" would be removed and to quickly shop now before it ends (um, okay). ;) However, the email also raised some concerns whether Final Sale (click here) would be entirely removed.

A big "thanks!" to Nichi (in this post) who shed some light on the situation for us:

This email really bothered me. I thought I wasn't "getting it" as I didn't see the down-side to final sale being gone. So, I sent them an email...

"I received an email today saying that final sale will be over in 5 days. What happens in 5 days? Are sale items being removed from the site? Going back up to full price? Able to be returned again? I guess I just don't understand the email."

This was the response I received...

"Hello, Sorry to hear there was any confusion regarding our sale site -happy to help clarify.

While our sale section will remain online, the items will no longer be noted as final sale. Items currently on our sale site are available in limited quantities and will sell out soon. Our spring sale site, however, will be up shortly."

So, there it is, you will shortly be able to RETURN AGAIN!!

Hopefully this helps clear up any confusion from the email J.Crew sent. Lastly, "yey!" for the end of "Final Sale". :)

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Darlings, is it time for a J.Crew coupon code?

Yes, it is that wonderful time!

A huge "thanks!" goes t0 Kara, who is super nice to share with us that J.Crew is offering free shipping on orders of $150+ with promo code AC64QY. This offer expires 4/19/10.

P.S. I have noticed that other blogs & websites post J.Crew codes & coupons *after* this blog does. If you happen to get codes & coupons from the JCA blog & post them at your site, could you please give give a "shout out" to the JCA blog? This way more JCAs are inclined to share. TIA! :)

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Crewcuts Email: introducing a new favorite jacket (plus, free shipping)

"Thanks!" to Desert Flower & Marietta, who shared the following email from Crewcuts this weekend.

The email features the Kids' Military Jacket (Item 21515; $75.00) from the Boy's Crewcuts line. (Click here to shop all Boy's Jackets online.) The jacket is described as:

Inspired by a U.S. military jacket, this is a classic utility style to keep your little soldier warm. We love the hood that zips into the collar. Lightweight cotton chino.

I love this jacket! Not only does the style remind me of the Downtown Field Jacket (Item 19034; $148.00), but I am jealous that the boy's version has a hidden-hood. (I want my jacket to have that feature too!)

P.S. I am glad that some of you mentioned this, because I thought it was just me... but what is up with the Downtown Field Jacket (Item 19034; $148.00) returning to full-price?!? Over the holidays, I got this jacket for $59.99 and was pretty pleased at that price. At a few points, it even went down to like $40 (with the additional percent off during the after-holidays sale). Now it is back at full-price. Seems bizarre to go from sale (not even promotional sale) to full price after several months, right?

What are your thoughts on the Crewcuts Jackets? Do you think you will pick some up at your local J.Crew & Crewcuts stores?

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Seek & Find: Will you visit J.Crew this Weekend?

This is the weekly "sale watch" post, to help each other find sale items at our various local J.Crew stores. ;)

If you are stopping by a J.Crew store this weekend to see what's available (if anything!) in the RESORT & early SPRING sale, or to see some new SPRING arrivals {sigh!} in person, maybe you might be willing to share that with us in this post. In particular, if you could share with us a few of the noteworthy items that are available, at what prices, and potential sizes the store is carrying (as well as the store location)- that would be fantastic!

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

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

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J.Crew Video: Daddy Day {adorableness!}

"Thanks!" to audball (in this post) who shared the following video with us.

The video features a crewcuts wearing daughter being doted on by her J.Crew loving dad. It's so charming, you can't help but watch the video a few times and smile. Cute, cute, cute! And the tag line "everyday is a special occasion" is a fantastic message.

What are your thoughts on the video? Do you like the concept? Would you like to see more of these videos from J.Crew?

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J.Crew's Mickey Drexler Talks On Retailers' Comeback

There is an article (with video) over at CNBC (click here) where J.Crew's CEO, Mickey Drexler, discusses the current state of the retail industry.

J.Crew CEO: Retailers Have Come Back, Not Consumers
By Christina Cheddar Berk
April 8, 2010

A record jump in monthly retail sales has some cheering the comeback of the consumer, but J.Crew CEO Millard "Mickey" Drexler isn't impressed. "I don't talk about the comeback of the consumer," Drexler told CNBC in an interview. "...I talk about the comeback of great retailers, or of good retailers."

According to Thomson Reuters, retail same-store sales rose 9.1 percent in March, the biggest gain since the company began tracking those numbers in 2000.

Drexler said he doesn't think last month's sales are as good as they first appear. He explained that March 2009 was "the easiest month in the history of the retail world" to compete against, as sales were depressed last year by the "tsunami recession." The timing of Easter, which occurred a week earlier this year than last, also helped bolster results. "We look at 20 retail companies in our industry, and there is just a handful that are ahead on a two-year basis," Drexler said.

Like a growing number of retailers, Drexler's company doesn't report monthly same-store sales. However, under Drexler's leadership, J.Crew [JCG 46.75 -0.10 (-0.21%) ] has improved its performance. Last month, the retailer swung into the black in its fiscal fourth quarter and posted full-year earnings that surpassed pre-recession levels.

Drexler said the key to J. Crew's success has been to sell items that "cannot be sold anyplace else." According to Drexler, retail sales are improving not because the consumer is coming back, but because those retailers are taking market share from others.

"The consumer either shops value, or they shop emotionally, or it's both," he said. He also thinks the Internet has made competition more fierce because consumers research prices and know a product's true value.

I couldn't agree more with the last line. Thanks to blogs (like those listed on the JCA Blog Roll Call) and product reviews on company e-commerce sites (like Anthropologie), I always do a bit of research before any purchase online.

Also, I laughed a bit at the line that "the consumer either shops value, or they shop emotionally, or it's both". Doesn't that cover about everyone? ;)

What are your thoughts on the article & video? Disagree or agree with any of the points mentioned? Do you think customers shop either on value, emotionally, or both? :)

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J.Crew Email: Shop our final sale. Only 5 days left.

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Silver_Lining (in this post), RatsOnParade (in this post), & Marietta, who let us know about the following email & news.

J.Crew announced that the reign of "Final Sale" will end in 5 days, on April 13, 2010. {wahoo!} To shop Final Sale online now, click here.

Let me begin by stating that I l-o-v-e this news. I am thrilled that the "Final" in "Final Sale" will end. With that said, I don't understand marketing's push to shop now. Um... I think I will wait 5 more days {if I can}, thank you very much! ;)

Did you get the email? What are your thoughts on the email itself (e.g. its message)? Are you happy with the news that Final Sale will end?

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J.Crew's First Wedding Boutique is Coming Soon!

A big "thanks!" to Joyce, who not only shared the following news, but also scanned the images for us to view!

Joyce received the following card (shown below, with an up-close view above) announcing J.Crew's very first wedding boutique. The store will open its doors on Madison Avenue in NYC on May 27th. That street is already home to J.Crew's Collection Store (1035 Madison Avenue) and Crewcuts Store (1190 Madison Avenue).

In the February 23rd "J.Crew In The News" post, the following tidbit (from an interview with J.Crew's Jenna Lyons) was shared:

You mentioned interiors, and I know you are deeply involved in store design, too.
Totally. We are working on a wedding atelier uptown; we've been designing the store for the past few years. I'm going to Paris in a few weeks hoping to score some vintage picture frames. Whatever I can't do in our house, we do in the J.Crew stores (she laughs). Fashion and interiors are so connected— textiles, mixing the old and the new.

The location for the new store is:

769 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10065

I think it is a great idea to have a dedicated store for wedding & parties. I remember going to J.Crew's Rockefeller store (in NYC) and seeing a wedding party trying on different gowns & bridesmaids dresses. Not only was the store too crowded to have the party take over the entire changing section on the first floor, they didn't have that many options to try on. (Only one or two dresses for the bride & bridesmaids were available for them to try on.) This will make it much easier for parties to shop for their special day. :)

On a related note, "thanks!" to Kate who let us know that J.Crew provided Brides.com (click here) a sneak peek at an upcoming wedding dress design. The following was shared as well:

Runway Sneak Peek
By Brides.com
April 5, 2010

This dress is J.Crew's modern take on ruffles and classic French lace. "The streamlined bodice with it's racer back is the perfect contrast to the romantic and dramatic, asymmetrical ruffled skirt," says the designer who was inspired by classic architecture, Rene Gruau illustrations, and celebrities like Carey Mulligan, Maggie Gyllenhaal, and Dree Hemingway. Expect to see more French lace, duchess, washed silk crepe, French tulle, and satin-backed crepe throughout the collection.

What are your thoughts on the Wedding Boutique on Madison Avenue? Are you excited about its arrival? Do you think you will shop there? Do you like the latest ruffle wedding dress from the sneak peek? :)

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Product Review: Ripstop Cargo Pant

Ripstop Cargo Pant
Click here for product page
Item 19952
Regular: $79.50
Now: $39.99

J.Crew describes these back-to-basics pants as the following:

One of our designers' favorite pants of the season, a new supersoft cargo in authentic cotton ripstop fabric that's been garment-dyed and washed for over 300 minutes to get the most broken-in shades (we love how the color changes in the puckered seams). The ultra-flattering fit is amped up with boyish details—we're pairing ours with a feminine blouse and heels for a fabulous look. Drawstring waist with zip fly. Slant pockets, back patch pockets with flaps, patch cargo pockets with flaps.

Did you catch all of J.Crew's favorite catch phrases in the description like the "designer's favorite ... of the season", "boyish details", and "pairing with feminine ... and heels". LOL! But I digress...

A big "thanks!" to Belle de Jour who shared the following review:

I purchased these in the safari colour featured on Molly in the March Catalogue. I ordered my usual size 6. I am looking for something to replace my chinos which seem dated (chinos are what J Crew was built on, lol) and don't fit very well.

The pants appear to be slightly baggy on Molly. Well, I must say I could pull them on without even undoing the top button. The fabric is lighter than my old chinos but I can't compare it to any of the new fabrics. It certainly is a great weight for cooler summer evenings, though not as breathable as linen.

The pockets on the thighs add volume and don't compact. You may want to keep this in mind if you are concerned about your thighs.

When I called to make an exchange, I asked for detailed measurements. The size 4 didn't take enough off to make up for how big they are. In the end, I went with a size 2! Yes, 2 whole sizes smaller. I was anxious that I'd made the wrong choice, but no problem. They are a better fit in the leg, and won't fall down. In fact, they fit perfectly. My only hesitation is they are too casual (mind you they can't compare to the un-sweatpant). My comment is a reflection of the number pockets and the drawstring.

I am interested in the Delancey's (Item 22735; $85.00, now $49.99), but I'm not a camo girl. I like the clean legs. Overall, I'd say the Ripstop's are going back, and I'll replace my chinos with Minnie's.

"Thanks!" again to Belle de Jour for her great review of these pants!

What are your thoughts on the Ripstop Cargo Pant? Have you seen or own these pants? If so, what is your review of the fabric & cut? Would you recommend it to another fellow JCA?

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J.Crew in the News {transform!}

There is an article over at Styleite (click here) that has some interesting takes on J.Crew's change in direction:

J.Crew Continues Its Quest To Be America’s Chicest Export
By Megan Baldwin
March 31, 2010

Fashion has a ridiculously short memory. Take J.Crew, for example. We’re pretty sure it wasn’t too long ago that the mass-market retailer was more or less indistinguishable from The Gap, what with its prep-friendly range of high-rise khakis, $40 cable knit sweaters, and the occasional peacoat.

But thanks to the entree of C.E.O-cum-magician Mickey Drexler and creative director Jenna Lyons, there is a definite chic in the chain. Gone is the drab, dress code-approved garb, and in it’s place is some serious Mo-Bama endorsed fashion cred, not to mention higher price tags — $300 satchels, anyone?

And now, with the transformation of Frankenstein proportions nearly complete, comes the news that the all American chain has opened itself up to the U.K. market via Net-A-Porter. Yes, that Net-A-Porter — the same one that sells Chloe, Marchessa and Valentino. Well, if we can have TopShop then we suppose the Brits have a right to enjoy all the red, white and blue glory that is J.Crew.

Still, we can’t help but attempt to piece together at what point exactly J.Crew became a full-fledged, Net-A-Porter approved luxury brand? Our best guess is that it happened somewhere amidst the Michelle Obama’s sunshine cardigan on the Jay Leno Show, Erin Wasson fronting their catalogue, and the recession — which, as we know, drove even the most fashion faithful to the sale racks.

So as much as we bemoan the uptick in prices (since it drives us to bankruptcy every season), you’ve got to admire their image overhaul. Because what’s more fashion-y than a makeover? And hey, if worked for J.Crew, maybe mass-market, mom-friendly retailers like Ann Taylor and Talbots might just be able to stage some mall madness of their own. (Because, god knows, they’re trying.)

Even though there is nothing new in the article (to us well-researched JCAs anyways!), I thought it summarized what is going on quite nicely & even made some good points. The company has definitely set itself apart from its old competitors like the Gap. And the line about admiring the image overhaul is great. I definitely give "mad props" to J.Crew for managing to change their image successfully, while so many others have failed.

I also couldn't agree more with the last line too. Growing up, Ann Taylor and Talbots were "mom-stores". Today, I look at their offerings and definitely see pieces that are stylish & classic for all ages. Here's to hoping they can stage some of their own magical transformation too! :)

What are your thoughts on the article? Do you agree or disagree with any of the points made? Do you think J.Crew is moving in the right direction? :)

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J.Crew Models: Are They Going Too Thin?

So many of you have pointed out in the last catalog (refer to the March 25th "J.Crew Updates Website with New Arrivals!" post as an example), that the model featured is too thin. When I changed the JCA banner with this model, many of you noticed how thin her legs appeared.

Even over at J.Crew's Facebook page (click here), several fans commented how "disturbed" they were by the model's "unhealthy weight". Well, the media is discussing the weight of J.Crew's model as well, in particular an article over at Salon (click here).

"Sickening" skinniness in J.Crew
By Tracy Clark-Flory
April 6, 2010

This morning, I was forwarded a link to images of the "extremely thin" lead model in J.Crew's new spring catalog. The original e-mail read: "She is so thin her arms are like twigs, her collarbones jut out and her face is gaunt and drawn." I clicked the link to the photos and -- huh. I saw a woman looking to be just your average, run-of-the-mill model. Was there a link mix-up, was I looking at the wrong photo?

Then the responses from the e-mail's other recipients began pouring in: "My girlfriend gets the J.Crew catalog, and we were gawking at the alien-like skinniness of that girl the other day. Her girlfriends at work were all talking about it too." Then another: "Ugh, one of these pictures is almost sickening. ... A thigh, about the size of my forearm." And another: "I have NO idea who, outside of petite Asian preadolescents, fits into their fucking clothes." They all echoed the shock and dismay of the original e-mail.

So, I took a more careful look at the photo: OK, yes, her arms are very thin, it does look like her head could topple off her brittle body at any moment and, by god, her calves are almost indistinguishable from her forearms. But her body didn't strike me as shocking or unusual -- not upon first glance and not even upon further inspection -- even though I logically know it to be so. The women in my real, everyday life do not look like that, and if one of them did, I would probably be sick with worry for her. However, the girl in the photo exists in an alternate universe where the usual rules do not apply. I was primed to see the image as a grotesque example of impossible beauty standards run amok, but all it elicited from me was a half-hearted shoulder shrug.

I wrote back to the group, "I am slightly disturbed by the fact that these images didn't even strike me as unusual, at all," and a friend quickly responded: "You and me both."

Also, "thanks!" to audball (in this post) who let us know that Jezebel (click here) has once again, done a phenomenal job of stating their humorous take on the latest catalog.

My thoughts on this... I think the model used is absolutely gorgeous. With that said, I do think she is a tiny bit on the too-thin side. (Especially after some of you pointed out how thin her legs appear in the JCA banner.)

I get J.Crew wants to compete with the high-end fashion retailers, but I don't know if this is the way to go. Instead, how about using both the (1) models featured a few years ago (they were also thin & beautiful, but maybe not quite this thin) and the (2) "real-life" women from the "Who's That Girl" catalog? Honestly, I hope to see more of both these groups.

What are your thoughts? Do you think the models used by J.Crew appear healthy/unhealthy? Do you think this conversation is much ado about nothing? What kind of model would you like to see J.Crew feature?

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20% Off & Free Shipping on Knits & Tees {for women}

"Thanks!" to many of you, including GigiOfCA & Heidi (in this post), as well as Heather & Genny (in this post), who let us know the following promotion.

J.Crew is offering 20% off *and* free shipping on select full-priced Women's knits & tees (click here to shop online). The fine print of the offer includes:

Prices as marked. Offer valid on jcrew.com only. Offer does not apply to previous purchases. Free shipping offer is valid through April 12, 2010, 11:59pm EST on Internet orders shipped via regular shipping (4 to 7 business days). Free shipping applies only to women's tees & knits online orders. Free ground shipping on women's tees & knits is applied automatically at checkout. Offer not valid on phone orders.

Much like the last time (for pants), I am loving that this offer is automatically applied (no need to input a code) and that they are throwing free shipping with this offer. Way to go J.Crew! :)

Will you be taking advantage of this promotion? If so, what items are you planning to get. Please share! :)

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Product Review: Adriana Silk Rows Tank

Adriana Silk Rows Tank
Click here for product page
Item 23399
Regular: $79.50
Now: $69.50

J.Crew describes this ready-for-warm-weather-top as the following:

Our office is buzzing over this update to the classic tank. Our designers hand draped rows of raw-cut silk on the bodice to create a beautiful back-and-forth detail. The silhouette is slouchy but slim, with a slight empire cut. Silk

A big "thanks!" to Phyllis who shared the following review:

I purchased the Adriana silk rows tank in navy with the intention of sprucing up my wardrobe with a few dressier tops that would work in a variety of outfits. In theory this tank should have done the trick but it ends up in the return pile because it just wasn't quite right for me.

I usually wear XS/0 and so I chose the top in 0. I considered buying it in P0 but think I read somewhere that the top is a bit short and I didn't want to sacrifice length. Right off the bat it definitely did NOT look like the model's top -- I think the top in the photo was manipulated to look more textured/ruffled, etc. Real product is very smooth and flat. I personally liked the navy color but I can see this being more of a statement in a lighter color.

Fit on me is a bit too loose though it can be hidden under a cute cardi. But without something to cover up the looseness, you would tell that the armholes are much larger and looser on my frame. Other than that, the rest of the tank fit nicely down the sides with a bit of flare at the bottom with the hem hitting just below my hip, which I thought was a perfect length.

The rows of silk look little underwhelming in person, very flat and kind of blah (again, not as cute as ruffled as the picture). Detailing on the flaps are a nice touch. Definitely easy to dress up or down.

I suppose someone more familiar with J.Crew's silk tops and a bit more daring could have played around with this top to get the desired look/texture. But even so, without the proper fit, I can't really justify paying what I did, even if it was on sale. All in all, a pretty top with potential but not just didn't make the cut for me!

"Thanks!" again to Phyllis for her great review of this top!

What are your thoughts on the Adriana Silk Rows Tank? Have you seen or own this top? If so, what is your review of the fabric & cut ? Would you recommend it to another fellow JCA?

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Madewell Email: Spring in a scarf

"Thanks!" to Marietta, who shared the latest email Madewell (click here) sent yesterday.

The email features the Tie-Dye Circle Scarf ($38) which is described as the following: "it adds a laid-back vibe to everything you toss it over".

The circle scarf is the latest trend since Fall 2009. Part of me likes the idea of wearing one, because it looks seamless. However, the other part of me thinks this is just a temporary trend, so why waste the dollars on it. Besides, I like how regular scarves look too! :)

What are your thoughts on the Tie-Dye Circle Scarf? Do you like or dislike the style of the endless circle scarves?

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J.Crew Aficionada Fan Page {facebook edition}

Just wanted to let you all know that the JCA blog has a new Fan Page over at Facebook. The personal page (Alexis J.Crew Aficionada) will still be around for awhile, until the transfer is complete.

The new JCA Fan Page will offer a lot more advantages to fellow JCAs, including: (1) creating discussions, (2) uploading JCA fan photos, & (3) storing videos.

If you are interested in becoming a fan, just click HERE.

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Darlings, is it time for a J.Crew coupon code?

Yes, it is that wonderful time!

A ginormous "thanks!" goes again t0 Heidi, who is super nice to share with us that J.Crew is offering free shipping on orders of $150+ with promo code B67M1Z. This offer expires 4/12/10.

P.S. I have noticed that other blogs & websites post J.Crew codes & coupons *after* this blog does. If you happen to get codes & coupons from the JCA blog & post them at your site, could you please give give a "shout out" to the JCA blog? This way more JCAs are inclined to share. TIA! :)

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Additional New Arrivals are Here {yeah!}

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Desert_Flower, Marietta, Heidi (in this post), as well as Silver_Lining (in this post), who let us know that J.Crew had a mini-update to its website today (click here to view & shop online).

There are new April arrivals for men (click here) and women (click here), both online and in brick & mortar (B&M) stores.

Are you excited about the latest items? Which items are you surprised (or not surprised) to see? Which items did you hope would be included? Were you expecting a bigger roll-out today? Also, did you receive the latest catalog? :)

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J.Crew {& Jenna Lyons!} Spotted in Lucky Magazine

"Thanks!" to Desert Flower, as well as Silver_Lining (in this post), who let us know about several J.Crew items (as well as Jenna Lyons) being spotted in the latest issue of Lucky Magazine. A big "thanks!" to Desert Flower who also scanned the image for us to view! (Click on the image above to see it larger.)

In addition to showcasing several J.Crew pieces, the article shares the following:

We love her style: Jenna Lyons
It's safe to say that the level of obsession with the J.Crew creative director's knockabout glamour has reached fever pitch. Here, some tips from the master.

"I'd describe my look as a little tomboy, a little disheveled, and a little granny. It's about pairing opposites: the sweet eyelet piece with the military jacket; the classic striped tee and the chunky, chunky jewelry."

"I'm in heels 90 percent of the time- I wear them with sweatpants. Being tall is fun, and there's something nice about not only being tall but then making yourself appear even taller."

"I like exaggerated pants: super-skinny, super-wide, super-high, or really slouchy. But I don't do well with a basic trouser. What interests me is going with something that's a bit more dramatic."

Do you like Jenna Lyons style? Do you agree with her tips/ quotes? What are your thoughts on the items featured? Have you tried on or purchase any of the items listed here? If so, please share! :)

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Get On J.Crew's List {& get 10% off}

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Pamela (in this post), who let us know about a new promotion that J.Crew is offering customers. When you make a purchase at any of their brick & mortar (B&M) stores *and* share your email at the time of purchase, J.Crew will reward you with a coupon for 10% off your future purchase.

The following is an image as well as details offered on the card:

{Front}
You're officially on the list...

Now you'll be one of the first to know about new arrivals, online exclusives, special offers and more.

And as a special thanks for sharing your email address, please enjoy 10% off your next in-store purchase.*

{Back}
*Present this card to redeem offer. Only valid on J.Crew, J.Crew Factory and crewcuts in-store purchases. Discount cannot be combined with any other promotions and cannot be applied to previous purchases or the purchase of gift cards. Discount cannot be used on any partnership merchandise or any J.Crew Wedding styles. Offer valid 4/10/10-4/24/10.

I love that J.Crew is offering this promotion again. Kudos to you, J.Crew! :)

Incidentally, I find it interesting that J.Crew will not allow customers to receive the 10% off on partnership-items. This comes on the heels of news (from several JCAs) that J.Crew will no longer permit the teacher/ student discount to be used on partnership items either. I am not sure if this is a new policy or not, but something worth mentioning.

So the next time you are buying something at a B&M J.Crew store, make sure you get one of these cards! :)

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Miriam Haskell Partners Up With J.Crew

"Thanks!" to Becca, as well as Heidi (in this post), who shared the following exciting news from Racked National (click here for original post):

Miriam Haskell x J.Crew
By Danica Lo
April 5, 2010

Miriam Haskell, the American costume jewelry house opened in 1926 that has created pieces for women including Coco Chanel, Joan Crawford, Lucille Ball, and the Dutchess of Windsor, has collaborated with fashion powerhouse J.Crew to design a bridal collection that will be unveiled next week. Sounds like a brilliant collaboration. We've been hearing rumors that J.Crew will be expanding its bridal offerings and will open a standalone bridal store on the Upper East Side of Manhattan later this year. Stay tuned for more details. [WWD]

The original source of this news is from WWD (click here) which reveals:

SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW: Miriam Haskell, the 84-year-old American costume jewelry brand, is teaming up with J.Crew for a special bridal jewelry collection. The line will be unveiled to editors on April 12 at Core Club in Manhattan.

I checked out Miriam Haskell's website (click here) and liked many of the pieces from the Legacy Collection. As for the prices ...dayum! Not sure why costume jewelry is costing more than real jewelry from Tiffany's, but okay. On a bright note, here's to hoping that the partnership produces some lovely pieces of jewelry! :)

What are your thoughts on this recent partnership? Is it a good "fit" with J.Crew's style? Do you like the pieces from Miriam Haskell?

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The Great (Weekly) Exchange {exclusively for men!}

This post (of weekly posts) is for individual members who are interested in (1) swapping/selling/sharing and/or (2) looking for and interested in buying certain items from J.Crew's Men Collection. Please feel free to share a J.Crew store location and/or your outside listing/ auction site if it matches the requests made in this post.

Please note: this posting is not for resellers.

Also note that any transactions are independent of this blog. (Especially since you will be using an outside listing/ auction site like eBay or eCrater.) I have no dealings or interactions with any of the potential communication, listings, or transactions. :) Moreover, please limit comments about items to swap/sell/share/finding to the "Great (Weekly) Exchange" posts. (Refer to "A Quick Note to J.Crew Aficionadas" post.)

Do you have any items you would like to swap/sell/share among yourselves through your outside listing/auction site? Is there an item (or items) that you are looking for and interested in purchasing?

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