J.Crew Price Listing For Super 120s Pinstripe Two-Button Jacket

"Thanks!" to Gina who let us know that there is a price-listing glitch on the website- so as to not get our hopes up too much (which I actually did for a second!) ;)

In the J.Crew Collection Flash slide show (click here to view), there is a gorgeous suit jacket shown. When you roll over the image, the items' name (Super 120s pinstripe two-button jacket) and price ($129.99) are listed. When you click on the jacket's link, it takes you to the item page (click here) with the jacket's price listed at $240.00- which is a bit confusing (well for me anyways). ;)

J.Crew explained to Gina that this jacket was on final sale for $129.99 in the Heather Carbon at one point (and now is sold out)- which is why the $129.99 price was in the Collection Flash piece. Hopefully, J.Crew can quickly fix this minor hiccup on the website, to prevent any confusion concerning the price. :)

Incidentally, I think that suit jacket looks great with that outfit. I normally don't wear suit jackets without the matching suit pants or skirt. However, this jacket- with the sequin tank and chino- looks absolutely fabulous!!! :)

What are your thoughts on this jacket (do you like/ dislike; would you buy/ not buy)? Do you like the way the jacket is styled (in the image above) with the tank and chino? What additional ways could this jacket be worn (besides the traditional suit pants and skirt)?

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Product Review: Herringbone Fiona Jacket

Herringbone Fiona jacket
Click here for product page
Item 96553
Regular: $198.00
Sale: $150.00-$89.99 (depending on store)

I recently bought the Herringbone Fiona Jacket in pumpkin orange. Although I like the jacket, I can't say that I love the jacket.

First, I picked the sweet potato color because I thought it would be a "fun" color to wear once in awhile. The color in person is very cute (although not as vibrant as in the picture) and perfect for Fall.

Second, sizing. I am normally a size 0-2 in jackets and I bought this jacket in a size 0 (which I am glad I did!) Unfortunately, this jacket runs into a problem when it comes to sizing... the body of this jacket is a size too big but the shoulders are a bit narrow. So if I went with a size 2, the shoulders might fit me better but the body would have been too big on me. With the size 0, the body of the jacket fits me better, but the shoulders and arms are a bit snug. I highly recommend trying on this jacket before purchasing, to determine what size will work best for you.

Third, the material (described as "midweight Scottish lambswool herringbone") is i-t-c-h-y. Unbelievably itchy- but alas that is the price to pay when wearing wool anything. ;)

Fourth, the sleeves are short. I compared the sleeves with the Bella jacket (from last year) and the Fiona is clearly 2 inches shorter in the sleeves. Seriously, what is up with J.Crew and short sleeve jackets and coats this season? If this jacket had another inch or two in the sleeves, they would be completely fine. ;)

Fifth, I do like how the jacket looks with a belt cinching the waist. It actually makes the jacket more tailored- which improves the look drastically in my opinion. Also, I should add that I don't think the jacket looks too great when it is worn open. Maybe it is just me, but I appear more bulky when I wear it open. :)

Lastly... would I recommend this jacket for a fellow Aficionada? I guess it depends on what price you pay for the jacket. I don't think the jacket is worth the $129.99-150.00 price tag (especially in certain colors which limit the amount of usability). However, I think it is a fine buy at $89.99 (which some stores are offering this jacket for), plus an additional 20-50% off (depending on which store you go to).

What are your thoughts on this jacket? Were you planning on purchasing one in the future? Do you already own this jacket? If so, please let us know what you think of it. :)

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Product Review: Wool-Cashmere Dana Coat

Wool-cashmere Dana coat
Click here for product page
Item 96695
Regular: $340.00

"Thanks!" to Silver_lining (in the "Darlings, is it time for a J.Crew coupon code?" post)who gave us a great and insightful review of this coat:

"Just wanted to give a quick review of the Wool-Cashmere Dana coat I just received (in Camel).

It was packed in a big gift box with the cream colored ribbon around it, in tissue paper but not in any plastic, with a black hanger bag and the little bag of cedar balls enclosed. Nice presentation!

However, the material looked almost a little ratty, and was not as smooth as I had anticipated. Nice color, but was apprehensive about the fabric.

I am a 2 top and bottom, and my other JC coats are also a 2. The fit on the Dana was just... off. I know that the major complaint with JC's trench-style coats and jackets as of late is that they're too big in the torso. I found the Dana to have almost the opposite problem - that shirring across the shoulders in the back made it feel tight (and this is with a tissue tee underneath, so a heavier sweater would just not do). However, the bottom part of the coat was quite huge! It fit comfortably in the waist area, but then flared out and hit right at my knee (not at midthigh like the website description says - I'm about 5'5"). Overall, it looked like it was swallowing me, but then there's the problem of it being too small in the shoulders, so sizing down wouldn't have helped. Doesn't look like there's a petite option, either - this coat must have been pinned all over the place on the model in the catalog!

I'm quite disappointed, but not totally surprised given the weird sizing issues lately. This one's going back. Boo!

Oh, and PS - my coat did not have buttons at the cuffs as depicted in the picture on the website - Now give me THAT coat and I think I'd have better luck! ;)"

"Thanks!" again to Silver_Lining! :)

What are your thoughts on this jacket? Are you thinking of purchasing it soon? Do you already own it? If so, please let us know what you think. :)

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Product Review: Metallic Giraffe Day Coat

Metallic giraffe day coat
Click here for product page
Item 96171
Regular: $425.00
Now: $129.99

When I first saw this jacket being offered, I did not think much of it. I neither liked or loathed it. However, (like so many of you,) when I saw this coat marked down from $425 to $129, I just had to give this coat a second look. ;) After the application of an additional 40% off (in addition to the educator's 15% off), the coat was a "must have" for me to get at $66.

Now that I have received the coat, I am happy with it (although I don't "love it"). The fabric (described as "Korean cotton/metallic thread cloque jacquard exclusively woven for J.Crew") is actually a lot lighter than I expected it to be. The sleeves could also be an inch or two longer. A Winter coat it is not. A cold Fall day coat it is not either. The metallic thread fabric itself, really does "pop" on this coat too. If the sun hits you just right, you will be glowing while walking anywhere. :)

When it comes to sizing I would stick to your normal size. For example, I am typically a 0-2 in jackets and a size 2 in coats. I got this coat in a size 2 and I am happy that I did. Although the body of the coat is loose, the shoulders are quite narrow. Also, the back of the coat could really use a slit on the bottom of the coat (which unfortunately it does not). Without a slit, the jacket looks slightly awkward from the side, when your hands are in the coat's pockets.

As for the "Mandarin collar with perfectly tied ribbon at neck", it is beautiful. The bow is exceptionally adorable when the collar is closed. However the bow looks a bit "out of place" when the collar is un-button. Thankfully, the buttons are super easy to use (they are snap buttons). (Very much unlike the Katie sweater's buttons!)

Moreover, the fully lined interior of the jacket is lovely with its "interior contrast piping" alongside the "grosgrain trim at interior waistband" (which I think is one of J.Crew's signature moves).

Lastly, would I recommend others to buy this coat? For $425, I would definitely not. This is not a coat that I find exceptional in its quality, warmth, or style. I think Aficionadas would be better off with a Stadium-cloth Bridget coat or a Wool-cashmere plaza coat, in terms of warmth and ability to be used for any occasion and for multiple years. However, for $120 (or in my case $66), I would purchase this coat to wear (alongside my other coats) during this Fall season.

What are your thoughts on the Metallic giraffe day coat? Would you buy it or leave it? If you already own this coat, please let us know what you think. :)

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Questionable Items Of The Week: The Lucido Coat and PatchWork Suit

There were some great suggestions for a "Questionable Item of the Week" post that I just had to use! :)

Lucido Coat
Click here for product page
Item 96559
Regular: $1,800.00

Auryane (in the post "J.Crew Wedding & Parties Get's Updated!") suggested this "lovely" coat and commented how it "looks like a shinny, too-big raincoat". I could not agree more! ;) First, I generally l-o-v-e J.Crew coats and jackets- I think they the most stylish and classic pieces. However, this jacket is a total "bust" for me. I mean I loathe it: (1) I do not like the "Generous A-line fit" (which is way too generous!); (2) I despise the elbow sleeves (which makes even the gorgeous model look like she has weird arms); (3) I don't think the "shiny Italian patent leather" brown works, let alone warrants the $1,800 price tag!

Patchwork Sportcoat
Click here for product page
Item 97061
Regular $595.00

Classic-Fit Wool-Cord Patchwork Pant
Click here for product page
Item 96068
Regular $298.00

Heather (in the "J.Crew Website Updated {yey!}" post) suggested the Men's patchwork sportcoat and matching pants to the "ugly list" and I agree with her on this outfit. I just don't think the patchwork suit concept is a "classic" one. ;) Even though I appreciate that "each patch is hand-placed for exclusive, one-of-a-kind patterns", this outfit is a total "pass" for me. I don't think that this suit is worth the $900 price tag. In fact, if I saw someone wearing this I would think they got the suit from a tag sale or from their grandparent's attic. (Sorry J.Crew! But I think you other suits- like the solid Classic-fit wool herringbone suit- are so much better!) :)

What do you think? Do you think I am being overly critical about these items? Do you think these items are worth the price tag? Will you purchase any of the items featured here? If you already own them, please let us know what you think. :)

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Product Review: Snow-leopard Simone Peacoat

Snow-leopard Simone Peacoat
Click here for product page
Item 96475
Regular: $260.00

"Thanks!" to Julie who guest blogged about J.Crew's Snow-leopard Simone Peacoat. The following is her review:

As soon as I saw this coat online in the new Sept. arrivals I fell in love with the styling of it! I looked at it several times a day contemplating it for over a week….I had a generous rewards card to spend and wanted to be sure of my purchase. I received mine last Tuesday………When I took it out of the box I loved the styling just as much as online.

First, the wide notched collar is fabulous and looks very fashionable and the button detailing in the back adds just that extra special touch. It is beautifully tailored as well. I found the bracelet sleeves to be actually full length on me and I am almost 5’10” so this was a surprise!

Second, the fabric, as it is described online: “The combination of wool and silk creates a truly magnificent feel and the kind of quality you’d expect from couture.” Well, this was my only let down on this jacket…I thought the fabric would feel wonderful to the touch…nice and soft and that just isn’t so in my opinion. Even my 7 year old fashion plate daughter (without me saying a word—later on, when I just showed her the jacket) said, “The fabric isn’t as soft as I thought it looked online….” In all fairness, I believe she was thinking it would be soft like a kitty/snow leopard’s fur….but, you get the idea…..nice enough fabric just a bit different than expected/describe in my opinion.

Third, sizing. The jacket fits true to size if you plan on wearing a light to medium weight sweater underneath. If you are going for something a bit lighter underneath, I might size down. It is cut a bit generously around the mid section in my opinion. Otherwise, the arms/shoulders fit me true to size.

Fourth, the lining is two tone. The body is a gray poly silk and the arms are lined in a purple poly silk. Purple is my favorite color so I liked this touch.

Overall, I am happy with the jacket and plan on getting lots of wear out of it. For me this was my first animal print article of clothing that I have purchased. I have never been a fan of animal prints but I really like looking at the snow leopards when I visit the zoo-- combined with the styling of this jacket-- made it a must have for me.

"Thanks!" again to Julie for her fantastic review! :)

What are your thoughts on the Snow-leopard Peacoat? Do you already own this Peacoat? If so, please let us know what you think! :)

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Love It Or Leave It: Bouclé Mohair Lucille Jacket

Bouclé Mohair Lucille jacket
Click here for product page
Item 96407
Regular: $285.00

Namtaro actually suggested this particular jacket's for a "Questionable Item of the Week" post due to the colors this jacket is being offered in (which is orange and spicy mustard).

Namtaro mentioned: "the jacket is beautifully made – the construction and fabric are superb, and I love the collar, which is what attracted me to the jacket in the first place. However, the jacket is SO orange, it could be used to direct air traffic at Chicago O’Hare in thick fog! There is a mustard colour (which I don’t like and doesn’t like me back), which is unique and colourful but hard for many people to pull off."

I have to agree with Namtaro on both points: (1) that the jacket's cut, length, and fabric are quite beautiful- and I really love the foldover collar; and (2) the color choices are also very limiting. And because I really do love the style of the jacket so much, I just could not see it in a "Questionable Item of the Week" post. ;)

What I don't understand is why these beautiful coats are being restricted to some really selective colors. Why can it not also come in more neutral shades like black, white, tan, and navy? Even a dark red would be a beautiful choice for this coat. Although the orange and spicy mustard shades are lovely, they are also extremely difficult for many Aficionadas (including myself) to pull off. :)

What do you think of this coat? Do you love it or would you leave it? Do you like the jacket in either the orange or spicy mustard? Do you own this coat? If so, please let us know what you think?

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Ruffled Mandarin Jacket vs. Herringbone Fiona Jacket

Ruffled Mandarin Jacket
Click here for product page
Item 96785
Regular: $250.00

When I saw this jacket, I could not help think that it bears some resemblance to the Herringbone Fiona jacket that J.Crew is also currently offering- and I have to add that I love the look of both jackets! :)

Herringbone Fiona jacket
Click here for product page
Item 96553
Regular: $198.00

There are some differences between the jackets of course. First, the material is different as the Mandarin is made of Midweight wool/nylon and the Fiona is of midweight Scottish lambswool.

Also, the ruffles around at the collar and down center front are different in that the Fiona has larger ruffles than the Mandarin jacket. Moreover, the Fiona jacket has patch pockets while the Mandarin jacket has ruffle detail at the pockets and even the placket (which I love!)

The only issue I have with both jackets, is that they are a bit boxy in cut. I would personally prefer a more tailored fit for each jacket. However, this is not to say that I won't purchase either in the future. I own the cotton Fiona Jacket offered in the Spring and absolutely adore it! :)

If you had to choose between the two jackets, which one would you get and why? Do you own either the Ruffled Mandarin Jacket or the Herringbone Fiona Jacket? If so, please let us know what you think. :)

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Love It Or Leave It: Double-Serge Tuesday Trench

Double-serge Tuesday trench
Click here for product page
Item 95681
Regular: $275.00 Now: $199.99

So many Aficionadas have commented on this particular jacket and already purchased it (congrats to Weab, kitsmommy, and others!), that it definitely needed its own post! :)

I have to say that I do love it! I have seen the coat in stores and I really like the material (which is a "refined wool double-cloth from a 100-year-old Japanese mill"). I am always attracted to coats with belts as they are a great way to emphasize a slimmer waist. I also love the trench style with its large lapels. My only concern is I am not sure how well it would be at keeping me warm during the cold New England winters.

Although I have not personally tried on the jacket yet, some Aficionadas have mentioned that the coat may need to be sized down. Lindsey B. (in the "Darlings, is it time for a J.Crew coupon code?" post) mentioned the coat was "too big through the bust and under the arms" for her and "is really kind of baggy in the torso. In fact, in the Trench in size 0 the shoulders were too tight, yet the coat was just way too big still". Anonymous at 6:11 PM (in the same post) also agreed that one would need "to size down! Even the 0 seemed huge in the body, despite the waist-cinching tie".

What are your thoughts on the Double-Serge Tuesday Trench? Do you "love it" or would you "leave it"? Are you currently considering the coat now that it is on sale (with an additional 20% off)? If you already own this jacket, please let us know what you think (in terms of style, color, warmth, and sizing)?

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Floral Astrid Jacket: Not Exactly "As Shown"

Floral-ruffle Astrid jacket
Click here for product page
Item 96281
Regular: $285.00

A big "thank you!" to Julie (who is Anonymous at 12:27 PM in the "Accessories Catalog: J.Crew Indulgences" post) who let us know that the Floral ruffle Astrid jacket does not come with the trim around the cuffs. ("Thanks!" to Kater, in the "J.Crew's Fall Looks For Women {Do you like?}" post, and Natedac who let us know that there was no trim around the cuff of this jacket as well.)

Julie was also kind to share with us the email J.Crew sent her in regards to this jacket:

We looked into this for you and the item does not come with the trim around the cuffs, but does have the trim as pictured on the front of the jacket. Some items are modified before they go to production to be put on the market and in this instance this is the case. We do apologize for the inconveniences.

If we can be of further assistance, please let us know by responding to this email at contactus@jcrew.com or calling a J.Crew Associate at 1-800-562-0258.

There had been some confusion about this jacket, which is completely understandable since the images on J.Crew's website clearly shows the jacket with the trim around the cuff. However, the trim around the cuff (or lack thereof) is an important detail for consumers to consider before ordering the jacket- so I am surprised that J.Crew let these images (of the wrong version) remain on their website.

What are your thoughts on the Floral Astrid Jacket? Do you like the jacket with or without the trim around the cuffs? Did you purchase this jacket not knowing about the cuffs/trim?

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Product Review: Chino Cooper Jacket

Chino Cooper Jacket
Click here for product page
Item 96789
Regular: $98.00 (now $78.00)

I have been lusting after this jacket for some time. I actually was contemplating purchasing it at full price. (To be honest, I was surprised to see it being offered at $98 to begin with. Most of J.Crew's jackets seem to be in the $100-$200 regular price range.) When the jacket was on promotion, I gave in and got this jacket in british khaki (although I was strongly considering the bright rhubarb as well- and who knows- I still might!) ;)

This jacket is gorgeous and I am really happy with the purchase. First, sizing. I ordered a size 0 (I am normally a size 0-2). The size 0 could be a little bit more fitted on me (although it really is minimal). Second, the entire jacket is lined. I don't know why the website mentions the "bodice is lined" only, as the sleeves are lined as well. Third, the pockets. Although the jacket has faux patch pockets, the real pockets are cleverly hidden on the vertical seems of the front jacket. (Which makes putting your hands in the pockets a lot more convenient.) Fourth, I love the inverted back pleats on the jacket. They really add that feminine touch on such a lovely jacket. Fifth, the buttons. (I have a thing about buttons. I just like the extra detail that they bring to clothes.) This jacket has really great round buttons that are super cute! Overall, I really do like this jacket and think it is definitely worth purchasing.

What are your thoughts on the Chino Cooper Jacket? Have you tried this jacket on? Would you love it or leave it? Are you planning to purchase one? If you already own this jacket, please let us know what your review is.

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J.Crew Winter Coats: When To Buy?

In the "Love It Or Leave It: J.Crew Opera Gloves" post, many of us (like KatherineD, Melissa, Ashley and myself) started discussing J.Crew's winter coats. I mentioned that I thought this topic was a great one and deserved its own dedicated post. :)

One of the things discussed is when to purchase outerwear from J.Crew. I personally think it is a gamble on when to buy winter coats. Although, the coats usually are offered at their greatest sale prices during the January and February months, you can never be sure that what you want (in terms of preferred size and color) will still be available.

I own 7 J.Crew winter coats and they were all bought at different points of the fall/winter seasons. In most cases, I wished that I had waited a bit longer before buying them. For example, I bought the J.Crew Sybil Coat (in the bright poppy color) last year for almost full price at the end of the Fall season when I noticed it was already on back order. A month after I received the coat, the coat was slashed drastically in price (almost half of what I paid). I also bought the black Bella winter jacket (which is my new personal favorite!) last year for about $150, and saw it in late January for around $80. ;)

I am also a sucker for buying the more expensive Thinsulate version of the coat. I am not sure if the Thinsulate really makes a difference, but I completely "fall" for it. In fact, most of my J.Crew winter coats that have Thinsulate (like the Sybil, Lady Day, and Plaza) are not that great at keeping me warm. The best J.Crew coat (in terms of warmth) is my navy Stadium Jacket (which doesn't even have Thinsulate- the fabric is just awesome).

When do you buy winter coats from J.Crew? When do you think are the best months to buy a winter coat (in terms of selection and price)? What is your favorite J.Crew winter coat (past or present coat)? Would you recommend a J.Crew winter coat (in terms of style or warmth) or do you prefer another brand?

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Product Review: Berry-trim Astrid Jacket {delicious!}

Berry-trim Astrid Jacket
Click here for product page
Item 96309
Regular: $248.00
Colors: Plum, Bright Blue, Heather Charcoal

A big "thanks!" goes to Weab who was kind enough to share with us her review of the Astrid Jacket she purchased (in the scrumptious heather charcoal,) recently. The following is her review in its entirety:

As I mentioned, my mom was with me this time. The second she laid eyes on it (in charcoal) her jaw DROPPED! My thoughts exactly. I (and the SM) insisted she try it on but she didn't want to buy the same one I just bought. She finally caved and the second she got it on her face just lit up! She bought it. :)

I have to note that she saw the other color options in the cat but felt the same way I did: not versatile enough in such bold colors for that kind of money.

It's more structured than I expected. And SOOOO CHIC!!! I thought the jacket was so novelty looking and had been advising everyone to stay away from it. However, I think this particular combination of charcoal with the special details makes it a showstopper but with class. You won't feel self conscious or kitchy walking into a room with this on. But I believe it's one of those pieces that will draw compliments every time you wear it. It looks like a $2000 Chanel jacket. Again, I believe it's the neutral color that really makes it work so beautifully (somehow the bolder colors don't have quite the same effect imo.)

The "berries" seem to be sewn on very securely and have some firmness to them. It doesn't seem like they're going to fall off as soon as you put the jacket on. I do understand the concern of the backing fraying but, if it does, I really think it will add to its character. It also has hidden hook closures that I didn't even know were there until the SM fastened them for me. But a nice feature to add to it's versatility.

I found the fit true to size. I took a 2. I usually need a petite but this jacket is cropped and has bracelet sleeves so I was fine with a regular. I think it's something that can be dressed down and worn with jeans and a graphic tee or dressed up with a skirt and pearls. SO beautiful!!! (In fact Tracy Gardner is photographed wearing the Astrid in this very color in the "How Much does the J. Crew Team Make?" post. )

Now, I just have to be sure my mom and I consult with each other first before arriving anywhere. ;)

First, "thank you!" again to Weab for sharing with us her awesome review. Second, I am totally loving the heather charcoal color! It seems like such a fabulous shade that transitions well from business to casual. Love it! Also, I actually tried on this jacket but at the time there were no other colors in the store besides the bright blue. Although I liked the jacket (especially the berries), I didn't think the bright blue was versatile enough to warrant the full retail price. So I am thrilled to see that heather charcoal is an option for this jacket. :)

What are your thoughts on the Berry-trim Astrid Jacket? Have you tried this jacket on? Would you love it or leave it? Are you planning to purchase one? If you already own this jacket, please let us know what your review is.

P.S. What are your thoughts on J.Crew calling the heading "jackets" now "blazers" on the website?

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Love It or Leave It: Piqué Andrea jacket

Piqué Andrea jacket
Item 95680
Regular $230.00

Many of you Aficionadas have mentioned this jacket. I have not seen it in person yet, but it looks quite lovely online. I also think the bright rhubarb & honey glaze are beautiful colors that will transition from summer to fall quite nicely. (Although considering the jacket is wool, I doubt anyone would be wearing it during the end of summer. ;) )

What do you think of the Piqué Andrea jacket? Would you buy it? Do you own it? If you do own it, please let us know (1) what is your review of the jacket and (2) how would you wear the jacket. {"Thanks!" in advance for sharing!)

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Love It or Leave It: Tuesday Trench

Tuesday trench
Click here for product page
Item 95682
Regular: $225.00
Sale on select color: $159.99

Many of you are already fortunate enough to own this beautiful jacket! I have to say there are so many reasons why I really love this jacket: (1) the flattering style of the waist belt & wide lapel with notched collar; (2) the versatility of having long sleeves with button cuffs; (3) the ability to easily machine wash thanks to the cotton/nylon.

What do you think of the Tuesday Trench? Would you buy it? Do you own it? If you do own it, please let us know (1) what is your review of the jacket and (2) how would you wear the jacket (including what types of weather this jacket is best worn in- fall, late spring?). {"Thanks!" in advance for sharing!)

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J.Crew Secret Sale on Wool Fiona Jacket

Thanks to Gigiofca who let us know in the "J.Crew Stores: 40% Off & New Markdowns" post, that there may be a "secret sale" on the new wool Fiona in stores. The sale price may be $158 from the regular $198. As gigiofca pointed out, there are three fabulous colors to choose from: orange sherbert, grey, & pink rhubarb.

Gigiofca was lucky enough to purchase the Orange sherbet (which is my personal favorite color of the three)! :)

Are you planning to get the new wool Fiona Jacket now that it may be on sale? Do you own the new wool Fiona jacket? If so, what do you think of the jacket? ("Thanks!" in advance for the review! We really appreciate it!)

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Love It or Leave It: The École Jacket

I think in every recent post, an Aficionada (okay several Aficionadas) has mentioned the École jacket- which sparked its own discussion in each post. ;) I think it is time for this jacket to have its own dedicated post. :)

The following are the jackets in the image above:

1. Velvet École jacket (Item 97130;$168.00)
   
2. Herringbone école jacket (Item 96698;$198.00)
   
3. Donegal tweed école jacket (Item 97471;$198.00)

Personally, I am not a big fan of the velvet version. I tried it on today, and it didn't work for me (but I think that is just me- because on the model the jacket looks great.) However, the Herringbone and Donegal both looked fantastic in the image- and I look forward to trying those on (since I am a big fan of those fabrics). I also have to say the colors that are available for all three jackets are fabulous!

What do you think of the École jacket (either the velvet, herringbone, or donegal tweed)? Would you buy it? Do you own it? If you do own it, please let us know (1) what is your review of the jacket and (2) how would you wear the jacket. {"Thanks!" in advance for sharing!)

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Love it or Leave it? The Optical-Print Jacket

Optical-print jacket
Click here for product page
Item 94136
Regular: $170.00

The Optical-print jacket is one of J.Crew's latest arrivals. At first, I thought this jacket was a definite "leave it". But after looking at it some more, I see some things I like about it (like the rolled collar). Ultimately I am just not sure about it.

Since I have not seen this jacket in person, I have no clue whether the fabric or shape is nice. I have a feeling this jacket is one of those jackets that looks really awful on the majority of J.Crew shoppers (e.g. me), but über-fabulous on the select few who can pull this look off (e.g. the model in the picture).

I also do not think it is worth the $170 price tag. Especially since it is a three-quarter sleeve jacket. (I find for three-quarter sleeve jackets, that I am more limited in terms of when, season-wise, I can wear it).

Do you own the Optical-Print Jacket? Have you seen this jacket in your local J.Crew store? Do you love it or would you leave it? Do you think it is worth the price tag? Let us know what you think! :)

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Surprise Buy: The Polka-dot San Telmo Jacket!

Polka-dot San Telmo jacket
(Item 90979)
Click here to visit product page
Regular: $175.00
Now: $119.99

I was compelled to visit my J.Crew (in Westport, CT) after Sue.bee mentioned in the "Summer Sale: New Styles & Reduced Prices" post that she recently stopped by her local J.Crew and noticed that they marked down additional items.

As I was there, I tried on a few different items that I have been lusting over for a couple of weeks now. The first was the Italian Matelassé Lucia Jacket (Item 90816). Not worth it! As others have commented (in previous posts about their experience with a different version of the Lucia jacket,) this jacket was too boxy in the chest (even with the size 0 that I tried on!) It was also much longer than I expected it to be. Although, the fabric itself is gorgeous- the boxiness of the front chest (and the $200 price) made me "pass" on this purchase.

However, the real find came with a jacket I never thought I would purchase: the Polka-dot San Telmo Jacket! I tried it on for fun, not expecting to take it home with me (and I did!) The jacket is actually a lot more flattering than the pictures on the website illustrate. It is quite fitted in the shoulders. (Although, I recommend you order a size smaller than your usual. For example, I am typically a Size 2, but bought this jacket in Size 0). The jacket then fans out in a lovely A-line swingy shape, that hits at the hip.

The coat is fully lined and the outside material is a midweight cotton canvas, which keeps the jacket structure well. It also has pockets- when you have your hands in the pocket, the jacket looks even better (e.g. more flattering)! There is also a cute button detail on top of the inverted pleat at the center back (which is the same "design" illustrated in the picture, but the picture shows the Refined canvas San Telmo Jacket). What is truly great is that the jacket can be worn either open or buttoned up.

To wrap up this post: I highly recommend the Polka-dot San Telmo Jacket! :)

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Love it or Leave it: Chessy & Tulip Jackets

Brushstroke-print Chessy jacket
(Item 93407)
Click here to visit product page
Regular: $148.00
Now: $79.99
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Solid tulip jacket
(Item 93731)
Click here to visit product page
Regular: $148.00
Now: $89.99
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Both of these beautiful jackets are now on sale, which makes them (even) more attractive (to me!) As Franko and "Anonymous at 10:25pm" in the "Summer Sale: New Styles & Reduced Prices" post mentioned, both jackets look super cute but unclear how they would look in person. I too have been "eying" the Chessy and Tulip jackets, but hesitate making any purchase before I know more about the fit of them.

In particular, how does the jacket sit on the top frame: does it nip a bit in at the waist or does it goes straight down? What type of body (athletic, pear shape, etc.) would look best for either of these jackets?

Please share with us your product reviews on the jacket if you have tried it on or own it. Do you think the jackets are worth the sale price? If you have questions about either items, please share those too in hopes that someone can answer them.

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