Love It Or Leave It: Timex Watch For J.Crew

There is an interesting post at Cool Hunting about the "Timex for J.Crew" watch (click here). First, J.Crew offers Rolex watches (click here), now they are offering expensive Timex military watches (Item 10884; $150.00). (Well, "expensive" for Timex watches. ;) )

I am personally a big fan of Timex watches. However, I mostly remember wearing Timex watches in high school (with the different color buttons) because of their affordability and quality, not so much in terms of style. To see any Timex watch costing more than $100 is always a bit surprising for me. :)

What are your thoughts on the Timex for J.Crew watch? Do you think this is a good partnership strategy? Do you think you will purchase the Timex for J.Crew watch? If you already own this watch, please let us know what you think. :)

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Product Review: Sketchbook Roses Belle Skirt

Sketchbook roses Belle skirt
Click here for product page
Item 96173
Regular: $140.00

Michelle posted a great review of the Sketchbook Roses Belle Skirt (in the post "J.Crew Stores: Additional 20% 0r 40% Off Sale?") that deserves its own post. The following is Michelle's review:

"...I wanted to post a review of the Sketchbook Roses Belle skirt because I love it so much and feel like a lot of people might overlook it. It's not as flashy as some of the other pieces this season, but it is definitely a beautiful, classic piece.

I was curious about this skirt because the pattern is similar to that of a Chanel scarf I saw in Lucky magazine last month or the month before. I thought the skirt was pretty online, but I was afraid that it was overpriced. I was pleasantly surprised by it when I saw it in the store. I tried it on, and I fell in love with it. The silk taffeta is so soft and smooth and light as air. The roses do look like a charcoal sketch, as they are soft shaded graphite color, but they also have a hint of shimmer because of the silk taffeta fabric. I tried the skirt on and decided it was worth every penny; I took it home with me.

The shape of this Belle is a bit fuller than the cotton taffeta Belles. It almost looks as though it has some crinoline underneath it, even though it doesn't have anything but the thin lining layer. The fuller shape gives the skirt a flattering, waist-cinching 50s silhouette when paired with a form-fitting top. I paired this skirt with a tucked-in black cashmere ¾ sleeve turtleneck, skinny black patent belt on the skirt's waist, pearls, and simple black heels, and put my hair in a loose chignon. When I saw myself I was vaguely reminded of Grace Kelly in Rear Window, which is impressive because believe me I look nothing like Grace Kelly. I made a polyvore set with this look (which does even come close to doing it justice), and this is how I plan to wear it to my rehearsal dinner this Friday. I am so glad I paid attention to this skirt!"

"Thanks!" to Michelle for a great review! :)

What are your thoughts on the Sketchbook Roses Belle Skirt? Do you love it or would you leave it? If you already own this skirt, please let us know what you think?

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Dear FFM: Help Put Together A J.Crew Outfit For Me

FabulousFloridaMommy (FFM) regularly guest blogs on outfits she creates with items that you, the members, request. :)
FFM has done it yet again! A big "thank you!" to FFM, who has created a fabulous outfit for almost every single request in the "Dear FFM: Help Put Together A J.Crew Outfit For Me" post!

FFM writes:
"I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you to Alexis for asking me to Guest Blog…I can’t believe we are already on the 7th week now! I also want to thank all the Aficionadas who have submitted requests, posted compliments, and offered their support to me as I have done this each week…you are all FABULOUS!!!

Also, if you have previously submitted a request that wasn’t created and would still like to have one made…please resubmit and let me know that it was a prior request, and I will put it at the top of my list for this week.

Note: I have had a couple of requests in the past week or so that I have not specified by name on Polyvore, but ARE included in the other sets I have made. For instance, the Anonymous blogger who requested creations utilizing skirts, tops, and belts can use the ideas in numerous sets that have a name such as Museum Curator, or Engineering PhD Professional in the title, as well as many others. :)

Thanks again everyone!
Sincerely, FabulousFloridaMommy"

To view the sets, click on the links below. (The name of the link relates to the request for an outfit.)

Deep Atlantic Belle At The Office
Rhubarb Belle For The Office- Look #1 | Look #2
Rhubarb Ecole- Professional | Casual Chic
Jersey Knit Pant Casual Chic- Look #1 | Look #2
Metallic Boucle' Clea Tweed Jacket Casual Chic
Paintbrush Floral Belle Skirt For Fall/Winter- Look #1 | Look #2
Cashmere Audrey Dress For Fall- Look #1 | Look #2
Ivory Serge Pencil Skirt For The Office- Look #1 | Look #2
Italian Boucle' Pencil Skirt For The Office- Look #1 | Look #2
Kelly Green Cambridge Cable Sweater *Mommy Chic*- #1 | #2
Piper and Joelle For Fall
The Merino Paige Jacket *Artsy Chic*- Look #1 | Look #2
Chiffon Rosette Belt (Fall/Winter)- Casual Chic | Bus. Casual | Professional
Metallic Giraffe Day Coat- Professional | Casual Chic #1 | Casual Chic #2
A Trip To Paris For The Holidays- Look #1 | Look #2
Florentine Print Pencil Skirt- Look #1 | Look #2
Coral Vintage Boot Cut Cords Casual Chic- Look #1 | Look #2
10 Year Class Reunion- Icebreaker Night Casual Chic | Main Event Night
Museum Curator- Look #1 | Look #2

Are there any items from J.Crew (that you either own or are thinking about getting) that you would like FFM to create outfit ideas. Feel free to include additional info like: the climate/season you want to wear the item/outfit, as well as age bracket/lifestyle. :) After a few days, FFM will select a few items (from the feedback) to create a couple of Polyvore outfits with those items (which will then be posted for all).

What J.Crew pieces do you often wonder how to use in an outfit? What J.Crew items would you like to see an outfit created for (please include item name or item number)? Do you have any J.Crew items in your closet that you are unsure how to style with? Please, let us know! :)

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Off On A Tangent: Banana Republic Offers 15% Off

"Thanks!" to Mary who shared with us Banana Republic's latest offer of 15% off any purchase of $125+ using promo code FALLSALE. For, in-store purchases, print the image above (with the "discount code 893" legible for the cashier). This offer expires 10/1/08.

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The Return of the "Welcome Offer" {yey!}

J.Crew is offering free shipping on orders of $150+ with promo code FS1008W. This offer expires 10/9/08.

I know things are turning around (in a positive way) at J.Crew because they have returned the "welcome offer" for new customers! :) "Welcome Offers" usually consist of a promo code for new customers who sign up with J.Crew. This was a regular feature at J.Crew until the website upgrade occurred. (Then all the "welcome offers" stopped as they were trying to fix the system.)

Are you excited to see these "welcome offers" return? If you are a new customer who has recently signed up your email with J.Crew, have you received a "Welcome Offer"? :)

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J.Crew Email: Wide Leg Trousers {fabulous!}

J.Crew sent an email about their (beautiful) wide leg trousers. I absolutely adore the style and cut of J.Crew's trouser leg no matter what the fabric (cotton, wool, denim, etc.). I find that it is a flattering silhouette for most body types and offers a professional clean look.

The following are the pants featured in the image:

1. Favorite-fit stretch wool trouser; Item 99223; $138.00
   
2. Favorite-fit wool twill university pant; Item 96135; $139.50
3. City-fit luxe cord trouser; Item 99287; $89.50
   
4. Favorite-fit chalk-stripe university pant; Item 97014; $148.00
   

What are your thoughts of J.Crew's wide leg trousers? Do you own any of the wide leg trousers? If so, please let us know what you think. :)

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J.Crew Vintage Flower Pins: Sold Out!

Anonymous at 4:52 AM, Naomi, and Silver_Lining (in the "The Great (Weekly) Exchange" post) noticed that J.Crew's accessories page has a special notice on it: "We wish we had more. Because they're so special, our vintage flower pin collection has already sold out. We apologize for any inconvenience."
Like Silver_Lining, I did not see these pins for sale on J.Crew's website, so I am a bit curious how customers were able to purchase them. :) Silver_Lining thinks "that because they weren't on the site people Googled Dulken & Derrick and went directly to their website instead (where most of the flowers are more reasonably priced than JC's rumored $85-$110). They even had a section named "J Crew Inspired", although I believe they changed the name on that to "Special Collection". HOWEVER - if you go to their site the message on the main page reads: "*Due to relocation Orders will be processed slower than usual and many items listed are unfortunately sold out. Please be patient while we reconstruct the website, adding new flowers and categories."

Were any of you Aficionadas able to purchase one before they sold out? Do you already own one, if so please let us know what you think of the pins. :)

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The Great (Weekly) Exchange

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.

Individual members can also request in this post, items that they are looking for and interested in buying. :)

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

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J.Crew Stores: Additional 20% 0r 40% Off Sale?

Many of you have mentioned receiving J.Crew's latest email announcing the additional 20% off online (with promo code EXTRA20) and in-stores. However, as mentioned in Wednesday's post ("J.Crew Stores: 40-50% Off Final Sale {yey!}"), the additional percent off in most stores is 40%. Many of you have raised an excellent question about which "additional percent off" stores are offering this weekend. Unfortunately, I am not sure if all (or some) stores will reduce the additional percent from 40% to 20% off this weekend.

P.S. I just got this email today. I realize emails are sent in batches, but its too bad J.Crew can't send out time sensitive emails a bit earlier (or send them all on the day the promotion begins).

Which additional percent off (20% or 40%) do you think stores will offer? Is your local J.Crew offering the additional 20% or 40% final sale? Did you receive this email yet? :)

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Article: J.Crew Stock At A "Hold"

There is an interesting article over at Forbes.com (click here) about J.Crew's current financial status:

Ahead of the Bell: Analyst starts J.Crew coverage
Associated Press
September 26, 2008

An analyst started coverage of preppy retailer J.Crew Group with a "Hold" rating on Friday, saying that long-term prospects are good, but inventory is high and domestic consumer spending remains soft.

Jefferies & Co. analyst Randal Konik expects new stores and concepts, such as Crewcuts and Madewell, to drive growth. Long-term, Konik predicts sales growth of at least 10 percent and earnings per share growth near 20 percent.

Konik called J.Crew "a true standout in a dead sea of retail," given a "maniacal" commitment to customer service and product quality that attracts loyal customers.

However, Konik said shares need a catalyst, especially given high inventory, slowing sales and a weak U.S. economy. "Potential positive catalysts of reduced inventories and reaccelerating top-line are likely a few quarters away," Konik wrote.

Konik's $28 price target implies downside of 2.4 percent to Thursday's closing price of $28.69. Shares fell 3 cents in premarket trading Friday.

What are your thoughts on the article? Do you agree or disagree with the "hold" rating? Would you buy, sell, or hold J.Crew stock?

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Be Back Soon... I Remember You! ;)

As many of you have pointed out throughout posts on this blog, J.Crew's website is experiencing "on and off" difficulties. So if you see the "be back soon ..." image on your browser, don't worry- you are not alone! :)

Update: J.Crew's website is up and running as of 3:05PM. Hopefully it works for you too. :)

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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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J.Crew Final Sale Online: 20% Off {yey!}

"Thanks!" to Lesley, Danielle, Smagsy, Magnolia (in this post), Cass (in this post), Heather:D (in this post), as well as Blumre and Shannon (in this post), who let us know that J.Crew is offering 20% off their final sale items online with promo code EXTRA20. This offer expires 9/28/08.

I guess the "final sale" and needing to use a code for the "additional percent off" is now a permanent feature at JCrew.com. Oh well! ;)

Are there any items you are planning to get now with the additional 20% off? Will you use this code or a free shipping code instead? Will you go to a brick and mortar (B&M) store instead (since they're offering 40% off their final sale?) :)

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Off On A Tangent: Gap Sale This Weekend

"Thanks!" to Mary who let us know that Gap is offering an additional 20% off sale items (both online and in-stores). To use in-stores, print the image above and make sure the "reason code 893" is legible for the cashier. To apply this discount online, use promo code SALE20. This offer is good from 9/26/08-9/28/08.

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Covetable. Collectible. Coming soon... The J.Crew Collection Store

A big "thank you!" to Blumre who shared with us J.Crew's latest email. J.Crew is announcing that their J.Crew Collection Store will open for business next month, October of 2008. The store will be located on 1035 Madison Avenue at 79th Street (in NYC).

I am very excited to see that this store will be opening soon. To be honest, I was wondering if the store opening would be delayed with an unknown date, considering the issues J.Crew has been experiencing (related to the system upgrade). I definitely plan on visiting the store during November to see what they have "in store".

Are you excited about the J.Crew Collection Store opening soon? Do you think you will visit the store (if you are in the NYC area)? :)

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Product Review: Cashmere Butterfield Jacket

Cashmere Butterfield Jacket
Click here for product page
Item 97457
Regular: $398.00

This beautiful sweater-jacket has been purchased by many Aficionadas. I thought this definitely needed its own post since it sounds like it will be sold out soon. ;)

Sky (in the post "Seek & Find: Will you visit J.Crew this Weekend?") shared with us: "I purchased the cashmere butterfield jacket in gray and it arrived few days ago. It was expensive but I somehow justified buying it now. It came in a gift box with a garmet bag and a pouch of scented moth balls - I thought it was a nice touch. When I first took it out of the box I thought it would be way too small for me (size S) but when I put it on, it fit great. I like everything about it: the lenght, buttons, color, trim, and how soft it feels without loosing its shape. The only thing I am concerned about is the belt on the back. It has two buttons and even though they are light, they pull down on the sides of the sweater. I am thinking about removing them. Overall it is a great piece and I am seriously considering buing the orange one as well. With the second one I'll wait until it goes on sale :)"

Sky also mentioned (in the "J.Crew Stores: Additional 25% Off Final Sale" post): "I received the orange cashmere butterfield jacket yesterday. ...The jacket is beautiful but there are three things I discovered after examining it in person. One is the color. The orange is not as red as on the picture. It is actually closer to true orange, rahter bold, but I like it better this way. Second, on the picture it looks like the trim may not match the color of the wool, but it is not the case. The front trim (the wide ribbon) and the wool covered buttons match the wool color perfectly. It must have been the flash that changed the color. Third, the jacket has a dark pink (azalia) trim under the colar and on the inside behind the buttons and the wide ribbon. The pink trim has an orange sheen. I think the jacket is just lovely. I also have the gray one and love it as well. Both jackets are a bit shorter on me than on the model (I am 5'9) but they fit great anyway."

Lindsay (in the post "J.Crew Stores: Additional 25% Off Final Sale") said: "I just received my butterfield jacket in grey and wore it out last night!! i got so many compliments and it's SO soft and thick. i am very short (5'2") and it seemed shorter on me that i had hoped but i still love it anyway. People are mentioning final sale for this item but I talked to a CSR and they said it will just sell out and it most likely will never go on sale. So if you love this coat...i say it's totally worth it!! It's such a classic piece that you can wear for many years to come :)"

What are your thoughts on the Cashmere Buttefield Jacket? Do you love it or would you leave it? Are you waiting for this sweater jacket to go on sale? Do you think it will go on sale or sell out quickly? Do you own this sweater jacket too? If so, please let us know what you think. :)

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Did You Miss Buying That J.Crew Item? ;)

Anonymous at 5:10 PM (in the "J.Crew Aficionadas: Please Re-Read :)" post) requested a great post topic: "What has sold out that you really wanted,but didn't buy fast enough" post. She also writes, "That way if one of us sees something pop back on the site we can post it here."

Moreover, I think it would be great to extend this idea to discuss new arrivals that have already sold out (or close to it). For example, Melanie (in the same post) found that the twinkle tweed shift (click here) is already unavailable. The Ringspun chiffon graphic tee (Item 97428; $55.00) is only available in size "medium". Fidele (in the "J.Crew Stores: 40-50% Off Final Sale {yey!}" post) shared with us that "Mickey Drexler said as much, that they weren't going back to production when items ran out, because they didn't think their customers wanted to see "everyone" wearing their clothes."

Here is a list of some of the items sold out (or close to sold out) mentioned in this post so far (with the names of the members who shared the items with us):

1. Sequin tweed école jacket | Item 96556, $300.00
   (JCrewJunkie, A, Anon at 9:51AM, Anon at 10:30AM)
   
2. Snow-leopard Simone Peacoat | Item 96475, $260.00
   (Anon at 9:53AM)
3. Berry-trim Astrid Jacket | Item 96309, $248.00
   (Anon at 9:59AM)
4. Wool Charlie Jacket | Item #, $235.00
   (Anon at 10:30AM)
5. Wool Twill Pencil Skirt | Item 97916, $125.00
   (Lisa)
6. Sparkle Tween Pencil Skirt | Item 96176, $175.00
   (FFM)
7. Double-serge Pencil Skirt | Item 96477, $128.00
   (Dea, Naomi)
8. Wool Cashmere Shawl Collar Cardigan | Item 98417, $145.00
   (Anon at 10:56AM, FFM)
   
9. Cashmere Cardigan in heather plum (Anon at 9:53AM)
   

What J.Crew items have sold out that you wanted to buy? Are you surprised at how quickly some items are selling out?

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Calling All J.Crew Aficionadas: Can You Help? :)

I have received two requests to help locate items from fellow Aficionadas that I am hoping our community can help out with. :) Both Aficionadas have searched auction sites like eBay and eCrater with no luck.

Eyelet cascade gown
Click here for product page
Item 93739
Regular $1,200.00

Jenn is looking for the sold out eyelet cascade gown for her special wedding day. She has also contacted the wedding specialist (Ashley) at J.Crew and was unable to find the dress.

The item description is: "We found the fabric at an embroidered-lace house famous for beautifully finished eyelet. Cotton with a dramatic eyelet pattern cascading to the hem like a waterfall. Sleeveless silhouette. Demi-cup balconette bodice, full skirt with allover knife pleats. Empire waist. Side zip. Scalloped hem. Fully lined. Falls to floor; 45" from natural waist. Import. Dry clean. Specially packaged in a custom-made box to ensure your gown is always as beautiful as the first day you wore it. Catalog/jcrew.com only."

Ellen is looking for a winter coat (size 6) from the winter collection in November/December of 2005. The coat is the "orange/red vintage floral print lady day coat from J. Crew". The regular price was about $400+ and went on sale around $200. If you can help out with the name/item number of this coat, that would be wonderful too. (I tried looking through the Google catalog search and was unable to find this coat.)

Any additional suggestions on where to look for these items would be gladly appreciated! Thanks in advance. :)

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Madewell: Join Them On Facebook (& Get 15% Off)!

Madewell sent an email letting us know about their jeans and boots. What is interesting about the email is located at the bottom: Madewell has a Facebook page (click here)! And if you sign up at their Facebook site, they will offer you 15% off your next purchase. "Thanks!" to Beeshers and Anonymous at 10:12AM (in this post) who let us know that this offer expires 10/8/08 and is good for in-store purchases only.

I find this interesting and a clever marketing tactic. Clearly Madewell is targeting the affluent high school and college student who is wired with this latest ways of communicating. [This is also another reminder that I am not a part of Madewell's target market. ;) ]

Incidentally, Heather let us know that the salespeople at the SoHo store said the Madewell e-commerce site is delayed yet again and is now expected for the Spring of 2009. Originally their e-commerce site was to "go live" this summer, then delayed to early next year (click here).

What do you think of Madewell having a Facebook site (is it a smart move or a bad idea)? Do you think you will join? If you are already a member, let us know what it is like. :)

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J.Crew Stores: 40-50% Off Final Sale {yey!}

Mary (in the "J.Crew Aficionadas: Please Re-Read :)" post) let us know that her local store (in Rockaway, NJ) is offering an additional 50% off final sale items. Gigiofca (in the same post) also mentioned that her local store (in Pleasanton, CA) is also having an additional 40% off final sale items. I also called one of my local J.Crew's (in New Haven, CT) and they are offering an additional 40% (not 50%, but still a great percent!) off final sale items. The store associate also told me that the additional 40% percent off started today (but it could be just for that store). :)

So chances are that your local J.Crew store is offering an additional percent off final sale items ranging from 40-50% off (which is awesome!) :)

Is your local store offering an additional 40-50% off final sale items? If so, please let us know. Are you planning to visit your local store this week to see if they are offering a higher additional percent off on final sale? :)

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J.Crew Website Images: What Is Yawah?!? :)

Many of you Aficionadas and Aficionados have pointed out that J.Crew's website has some images with words ("YAWAH.COM") scrawled on top of them and wondering what it is.

As Covert5 (in the post "J.Crew Aficionadas: Please Re-Read :)") mentioned, the Yawah.com logo is tied to Adobe software. Audrey (in the same post) clarified that Yawah is an imaging software and the "yawah.com" appearing on J.Crew's images is most likely a website glitch. Audrey also shared with us about Yawah (from itpro.co.uk): "Adobe said companies such as Amazon, Harrods, Littlewoods and Levis Strauss use the platform to manage their digital graphic assets and dynamically zoom, update or reformat them for the web, catalogue or marketing content more cost-effectively."

I thought for sure the super-imposed images would have been removed by now. Hopefully J.Crew will recognize this minor error and fix it soon. :)

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J.Crew Email: Sincere flattery...

"Thanks!" to Julie who let us know about J.Crew's latest email promoting the Lulu Flats. I am normally a big fan of J.Crew flats, but I am not sure how I feel about these. I am not a super big fan of these bows on the side (and I love bows!), even though the bow seems to work very well on the heel version. However, I may change my mind when I see and try these flats on in person. ;)

Flats:

1. Lulu leather ballet flats (Item 96608; $160.00)
2. Lulu metallic-leather ballet flats (Item 96725, $165.00)

Heels

1. Lulu leather peep toes (Item 96727, $198.00)
2. Lulu metallic-leather peep toes (Item 96726, $250.00)
   

What are your thoughts on the Lulu flats? Do you like or loathe them? Do you prefer the flats or the heel version? If you own any of the Lulu shoes, please let us know what you think. :)

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J.Crew Aficionadas: Please Re-Read :)

A few of the recent posts contained some comments that were quite negative. Therefore, I thought it might be worthwhile re-posting this:

Let me start out by saying that overall, I believe this blog has the BEST members. In general, everyone has been super insightful and helpful with their comments, suggestions, and advice. Our willingness to share with each other is AMAZING!!! For example, I loved how we were all willing to report back from visits to stores this weekend with what was on sale and available. I am really grateful for everyone's help in making this blog so wonderful to be a part of. :)

My concern is as follows: I have noticed more and more comments (although they are still, thankfully, few in number) that are just negative with no value to the topic at hand. These negative comments not only distracts me from the conversation but also deters me from posting additional comments (and I can imagine it is deterring some of you from posting additional comments as well.)

Moreover, I notice that many (but certainly not all) of these negative comments are being posted under "Anonymous". I enabled the "Anonymous" posting feature because there are several members unable to log-in with a blogger account, not so a handful of visitors can anonymously attack other posters or make questionable comments. (I should also note, that the majority of "Anonymous" posters really have been and are fantastic members!)

So this is my plea for common courtesy...

1. Please don't post negative (or questionable) comments. (I hate the idea of "policing" this site by deleting negative comments with no added value.) If you are upset (which is totally understandable at times), please frame your point in a clear, logical manner without getting personal.
   
2. Please don't assume the worst in the comments. (Sometimes what we write doesn't always come across the way we intended it to.) :)
   
3. Please don't respond to negative (or questionable) comments. Just ignore it. ;)
   

Let's keep up the great community of sharing that we have built together! :)

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Dear FFM: Help Put Together A J.Crew Outfit For Me

FabulousFloridaMommy (FFM) regularly guest blogs on outfits she creates with items that you, the members, request. :)FFM has done it yet again! A big "thank you!" to FFM, who has created a fabulous outfit for almost every single request in the "Dear FFM: Help Put Together A J.Crew Outfit For Me" post!

To view the sets, click on the links below. (The name of the link relates to the request for an outfit.)

Cashmere Argyle V-Neck For The Office- Look #1 | Look #2
Cashmere Argyle V-Neck Casual
Whisper Lame- Casual Chic | Chic
Monochromatic Whisper Lame- Casual Chic | Casual
Silvered Tweed Pencil Skirt For The Office- Look #1 | Look #2
Chessy Jacket Casual Chic- Look #1 | Look #2
Italian Jacquard Fiona- Professional | Casual Chic
Daisy Eyelet- Professional | Casual Chic
Printed Silk Slub Shell- Casual
The Jersey Knit Bow Skirt, Gianna, and Paige
Primrose Cardigan Casual- Look #1 | Look #2
Elizabeth In Fresh Clover For Fall
Ruffled Seaside Jersey On A Tropical Getaway
Mercerized Cotton V-Neck Tee in Honey Glaze
Featherweight Merino Tunic- In Navy | In Ivory
Belle In Rhubarb Casual Chic
Engagement Photo- Look #1 | Look #2 | Look #3
Phoebe Dress Professional
College Campus Chic- Look #1 | Look #2
Engineering PhD Feminine Chic- Look #1 | Look #2 | Look #3

Are there any items from J.Crew (that you either own or are thinking about getting) that you would like FFM to create outfit ideas. Feel free to include additional info like: the climate/season you want to wear the item/outfit, as well as age bracket/lifestyle. :) After a few days, FFM will select a few items (from the feedback) to create a couple of Polyvore outfits with those items (which will then be posted for all).

What J.Crew pieces do you often wonder how to use in an outfit? What J.Crew items would you like to see an outfit created for (please include item name or item number)? Do you have any J.Crew items in your closet that you are unsure how to style with? Please, let us know! :)

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Menswear View: The Get – White Street Suit?

Note: Doug regularly guest blogs on J.Crew for men (the "menswear view")- which is wonderful! :) (Thank you Doug!) The following is his post:

As part of their new arrivals for October, J.Crew has added a Charcoal Grey Herringbone suit. At $570 the “slimmest, trimmest silhouette yet” has many of the details that have been heavily promoted elsewhere – felt collar, pick stitching and functioning buttonholes. Speaking of buttonholes, I may be in the minority but isn’t six a bit excessive? Typically three or four are the norm.

So what do you think of this latest addition to the J.Crew suit collection? Grey (or variations of it) seems to be the only color available. How about Glen Plaid or Brown? Does this latest offering entice you at all? Let me know what you think.

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

Yes, it is that wonderful time again! :)

In the October Catalog, J.Crew is offering free shipping on orders of $150+ with promo code DH-80. This offer expires 10/4/08. :)

Also, JenG mentioned (in this post) that she received a "$25 off $125+" in-store coupon in her catalog.

Did you receive the catalog (by mail) yet? If so, what are your thoughts? Did you get a special in-store or online promotional coupon/code? :)

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J.Crew Email: Bold gold...

Another "thanks!" to Julie who shared with us J.Crew's latest email about J.Crew's jewelry collection. They are featuring the Jenna bracelet (Item 98337, $75.00). It is certainly both "bold" and "gold" (not real gold of course, but metal- "12K shiny gold-plated metal" to be exact).

Moreover, Twiga (in the Anonymous at 11:45 PM comment at the "J.Crew Stores: Grand Opening List!" post ) mentioned "The Sales Associate did mention that the jewelry is not selling well at all and J Crew recently held a conf. call to discuss with stores why..."

What are your thoughts on J.Crew's latest jewelry collection? Do you like or loathe any pieces in particular? Do you like the direction the jewelry design in heading? Are you surprised (or not surprised) to hear about J.Crew jewelry not selling well?

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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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Menswear View: The Get – Hoodie or Pullover.

Note: Doug regularly guest blogs on J.Crew for men (the "menswear view")- which I think is wonderful! :) (Thank you Doug!) The following is his post:

Few things are as comfortable as a warm sweatshirt or as they are commonly referred to around planet J.Crew the Hoodie or Pullover. So which do you prefer? Both are incredibly soft and offer excellent resistance to the Fall chill. My choice would be the Shawl collar pullover in Navy.
What are your thoughts on the color pallet? Would you like to see greater variety? Does the price make you inclined to wait for a discount, coupon or either to appear in the sale section of J.Crew website?

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The Great (Weekly) Exchange

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.

Individual members can also request in this post, items that they are looking for and interested in buying. :)

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

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J.Crew Gives Cardholders Early Access :)

A big "thanks!" to Blumre who shared with us this email from J.Crew letting card members know about the New Arrivals at JCrew.com. I have to say, I am really impressed by how many emails card holders have been receiving as of lately... way to go J.Crew! :)

If you are a card member, have you been receiving a lot of J.Crew emails? :) What are your thoughts on this image (do you "love" or do you "really love" how great they all look)? ;)

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Crewcuts: New Fall Arrivals...

J.Crew sent an email announcing that Crewcuts has new arrivals. {yey!} Those kids look so cute with their outfits! I would totally wear all four of those outfits (yes- even the boys!) ;)

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J.Crew Wedding & Parties Gets Updated!

As Heather pointed out (in the post "J.Crew Website Updated {yey!}"), J.Crew updated their "Wedding & Parties" page (click here). They included photos of real customers' weddings utilizing the wedding clothes that J.Crew offers. Also, SlightlyOlderSally let us know that there is a great video link on the bottom of "The J.Crew Wedding Album" that reads "watch our favorite first dance video... ever" that is totally worth checking out. (In case you can't see the video through J.Crew, click here.)

I have to say that I really love this idea of showing real brides and grooms on their wedding day!!! :) It is great to see how beautiful real couples (and their family & friends) look in J.Crew clothes.

What are your thoughts on J.Crew's updated Weddings & Parties site? Do you like the Wedding Album concept? Are there any new Weddings & Parties arrivals that you love or loathe?

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J.Crew Tribeca Men's Store: The NY Times Take

"Thanks!" to Doug, Richard, and others who shared with us this interesting article from the NY Times on J.Crew's Men Store in Tribeca, which makes for a nice read this weekend). (Click here for its entirety.)
A Package Store for Preppies
By Mike Albo
September 15, 2008

THE new J. Crew’s men’s boutique on the corner of West Broadway and White Street used to be a busy bar, often crowded with loud, drunk TriBeCans. I think I went there once or twice in the 1990s to accompany one of my women friends while they tried to pick up bankers. Because it was the ’90s, I was probably wearing some baggy secondhand gas-station attendant shirt and pair of bootleg cords, refusing to look put together because I didn’t want to appear preppy. ...

Near the door was a $1,200 plaid mackintosh that looked tasteful and durable. Next to it was a $125 English wool pinstripe blazer and accompanying vest. Carl tried on a dark blue rain slicker ($800), which looked crisp and professional on him, while I coveted a $325 Yorkshire tweed jacket with pleated pockets, wishing I had married a loud, drunk banker so I could buy it. ...

It does not function as a bar anymore, but you get the sense the store wants you to feel buzzed enough to forget the dismal economy and slap down your debit card. It offers upscale impulse buys like Aesop grooming products, John Derian decoupage paperweights, vintage vinyl albums from New Order and Devo, and used books like “Rabbit Redux” ($18) and “City of Night” ($5). Shirts hang on the racks with the sleeves wrinkled and rolled up as if they are at happy hour, including some nice basic button-downs for $59.50, and an attractive yellow plaid check for $68. ...

J.Crew’s selections come in an array of prices that keep your eye tempted: a $795 motocross leather jacket was near a $58 plaid wool cap, close to a $34.50 gray henley. I was especially drawn to a long, shawl-collar cardigan with pockets and big buttons made in a gray sweatshirt material ($78). It was a smart hybrid probably fashioned by some budding designer at the brand who will to start her own line next year.

Still, some items were so outrageously preppy, I felt my original odium for the style rising in my throat like bad grain-alcohol punch. A series of knit ties in bright colors, $49.50, brought to mind a tragically alcoholic dorm mate from college on his way to a football game, and a quilted patchwork tote, for $850, was something his equally blotto girlfriend would use to carry around her pumps and kegger go-cup.

Some items were just plain outrageous, preppy or not. A pair of $245 jeans with patches sewn all over them hung proudly in the center of the front room. (Aren’t we done with the whole fake-distressed trend?) A small glass case at the front of the store displayed vintage watchbands, belt buckles, aviators and pencils that have been chewed by the celebrated TriBeCan writer Max Blagg on sale for $25 each. Yes, that’s right —chewed pencils for $25. This is mostly a promotional gimmick — the store will soon offer copies of his book “What a Man Should Know” — but I couldn’t help but think of this as a trend, and imagined the poor, spidery Joyce Carol Oates sitting at an assembly line, gnawing away.

Carl and I stopped in front of a stack of vintage V-neck sweater vests, which were decorated with bright snowflakes and squares around the collar and waist. They were interesting, but they were also $200. A magnetic store person walked up and persuaded Carl to try one on. The little sweater made him resemble a Keebler elf in grad school. Carl politely returned the garment, and I pulled him out, before one of us went home with something we would regret the next morning.

Did you like/dislike the article's take on the store? Have you visited the Tribeca store since it's opening? If so, we would love to know what you think of it. ;)

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Off On A Tangent: Old Navy Wants To Be BFF ;)

"Thanks!" to Laura1 who let us know (in the "J.Crew Website Updated {yey!}" post) that Old Navy is offering 20% off orders (both in stores and online) with promo code BFF. (Click here to see offer.) This offer expires 9/21/08.

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J.Crew Website Updated {yey!}

J.Crew's website is updated with new arrivals for men and women. Also, as Leslie pointed out (in the "J.Crew October Catalog: Have You Seen It Yet? :)" post) the October catalog (in its entirety) is now available online (click here).
Also, the final sale got updated with a lot more items (including past seasons). As Eddie & Stretch's Momma pointed out (in the post "J.Crew Website Updated!"), the {beautiful} Bella Jacket (click here) is also available on sale! :)

What are your thoughts on Jenna Lyon's picks (click here)? {Why is that bug pin doing there?!?} What do you think of the new arrivals? :)

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