J.Crew News: Listening to the Consumer

"Thanks!" to as Casual-Crew who shared an article from the L.A. Times (click here to read the article in its entirety) about First Lady Michelle Obama's influence on fashion. What is interesting is the quote or two about J.Crew's attention to customer demand.

First Lady Michelle Obama creates her own fashion trend
Michelle Obama's unique fashion sense is inspiring women and giving a little lift to the industry.
By Booth Moore
January 17, 2010

...On dozens of occasions Obama has turned to J.Crew for embellished cardigans and jacquard pencil skirts, and the retailer had a very good year in 2009. "There is a halo effect," said J.Crew creative director Jenna Lyons. "It's hard for us to pinpoint her specific influence. But any cardigan with a ruffle or a detail, whether it ends up on her or not, customers love them and want them. Also pencil skirts, they're not necessarily a trend thing right now, but our customers still want them."

In April, after Obama wore J.Crew's sparkly constellation cardigan to 10 Downing Street, the item sold out within an hour on the brand's website. After J.Crew received 75 e-mails about the piece, a similar style was released in October. "We pay attention to the blogs and to e-mails, and if we realize people have missed something we will do another version," Lyons said. ...

I guess I fall into the group of customers who loves a "cardigan with a ruffle or a detail". Oh J.Crew, you got me there! As for paying attention to the blogs and e-mails... I wonder how much it really influences their decisions. If it does have a strong impact, then... free shipping code with no minimum please! ;)

What are your thoughts on the quotes provided by Jenna Lyons? Do you feel like J.Crew is responding to customers (in terms of products, quality, fabric, fit, price, etc.)?