Tuesday, August 28, 2012

J.Crew Reviews {straight from the JCAs!}

This is the weekly "J.Crew Reviews {straight from the JCAs}" post, to help each other share our reviews.

So if you have recently purchased, or stopped by a J.Crew store to try on an item (or two) from J.Crew, maybe you might be willing to share that information with us in this post.

Also, this request is not just limited to clothes. Please feel free to discuss bags, shoes, jewelry, accessories, etc.

In particular, if you could mention a few of the noteworthy details like fit, size, fabric, and the like— that would be fantastic! Thanks in advance! :)

128 comments:

  1. Reviews of some items from the September rollout, including the Schoolboy Blazer in Houndstooth, which is not online yet, here.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Reviews of the Allie Dress, Schoolboy Blazers in Navy and Wool Flannel on my BLOG.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Review of the always classic Cece Ballet Flat here

    ReplyDelete
  4. Has anyone else noticed that the polka dot Tippi fits differently (larger) than the solid Tippis? I'm usually between XXS and XS in tops. The XS polka dot Tippi is really baggy in the body, while the XXS solid Tippi is skin-tight in the arms.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I've noticed Tippi sizing discrepancies in general. I held one of my xs solid Tippis up to another solid tippi in S the other day and they were identical in size.

      Delete
    2. Darn... I haven't tried on multiple solid Tippis (I did try the polka dot in two different sizes at different stores, weeks apart) so this makes me wary of ordering online.

      Delete
  5. Port of Call sweatshirt--I took it in XS which is TTS for me. It is a bit slouchy but obviously it's meant to be, it's a sweatshirt. The material is pretty comfortable against my skin. It's a little short so I put a tee shirt under it to guard against muffin top, but given that I wanted to wear it with dark jeans, a tee shirt peeking out at the hem broke up all that navy anyway. I loved it! Got several compliments and also some old sea stories about the ports from the Navy guys who were at work on Saturday.

    Pic here:
    http://chocolateshoesanddebate.blogspot.com/2012/08/this-is-what-saturday-0700-looks-like.html

    ReplyDelete
  6. Keilialexandra - that is bad news about the Tippis. Such a pretty sweater but last years version fit fine in the arms but way too much extra fabric in the body! It looks like things have gotten worse instead of better. I will say the factory version fits better but wool is thinner and apparently pill-city.

    I got two double serge wool pencil skirts in my normal size and the wool is noticeably thinner. Other people have discussed this thoroughly and I won't repeat what they said but the skirt is thinner and softer - less structured. The one good thing is it is definitely knee length and not above the knee.

    I got 2 colors - crimson maple and romance pink. The crimosn maple is definitely lovely and a keeper - wish they had released it last year when the skirts were more structured.

    The romance pink is going back definitely. First, the color is way different from the light pastel pink in the picture. It is more of a mauve pink. Not mauve but definitely not light pastel. And the herringbone is sort of lame. The material is too thin and it looks like it will pill even without wear! Not impressed.

    I lost weight on my hips after having my first so baby so my normal size is almost A-Line on me. Not cool. Wondering if I should size down or just keep it in case I get my hips back eventually. I generally keep clothes for 10 + years (I still wear J Crew dresses I bought 15 - 18 years ago!) so I would like to always wear it (and I expect to have another baby). Any moms have any thoughts about my conundrum? I am 36 if that matters.

    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. FlowerPower, it's not just you... my normal size looked almost a-line, too. And I have most definitely NOT lost weight anywhere. Ha! I am pretty annoyed. I should not need to size down, as my smaller skirts from 2008 and 2009 (size 4 as opposed to 6) are too small. So I think maybe this year's is just running huge or not as pencil-y as it should be.

      Ugh, the fabric. It is SO disappointing. I love the festival blue and I will keep it (in a smaller size) but I honestly do not understand why they would mess with one of their most popular, actually high quality items. I guess I will just hold on to my 2009 double serge skirts a little tighter now.

      I tried the tall size, which is nice and long. It hit at the bottom of my knees when standing and didn't flash thigh when sitting.

      Delete
    2. What a great problem to have! My hips expanded after my first baby so now I'm decidedly pear shaped. Everything fits differently now!
      I would keep it. If you're planning on having another baby and you keep your clothes that long, there's a good chance your hips will return. If anything, you can always tailor down but you can't tailor up!

      Delete
    3. True you can always tailor down. Tailors where I live are so expensive that I prefer not to tailor at all. Or get sewing lessons! I can't say the weight loss is a good thing because my boobs shrank to practically nothing and I am now sized out of most major brands, including a lot of stuff at J.Crew. I am spending a lot of time at H&M now.

      Delete
    4. weird- I thought previous reviewers had noted these were cut a little tighter this year? I was pretty much in-between two sizes the last few years so I went for the larger size. dang. sometimes I hate only being able to order online :(

      Delete
  7. Reviews of some new arrivals not yet online, including new colorblock blazer and French hen shirt HERE

    ReplyDelete
  8. I received 2 orders from the 30% off promo. The good, the bad, and the ugly:
    UGLY - The collection silky pleated pant. These arrived horribly wrinkled and that didn't bode well for sitting at work all day. The fabric had more of a matte look/texture than compared to the website, where it had sheen. Not lined and not forgiving. The cut was strangely tight in the thighs, I ordered a 0 and could have sized up to a 4 maybe? So glad I had CS mark these returnable. Do not buy FS unless you've tried them before.
    BAD - Marigold earrings. I ordered these as a gift but they are too big. If they quality had been better, I may have kept them for myself, but the stones in the middle are crooked and I can't justify the price.
    OK - No. 2 pencil skirt in crimson maple. As many others have said, the fabric is lighter than last year. However, I love the color and it will work with so many things in my closet, I will keep it. I think the 30% off price ($69) is fair for the quality.
    GOOD - Tippi cardi in leopard--I know many have had issues with the sizing, but I took my usual XS and the fit is fine. I don't have last year's tippi to compare to.
    LOVE - Wool scarf in snake print. Very cute neutral scarf. Generously sized and not too scratchy. Wish the edges were finished but not a deal-breaker for me.
    LOVE - Allie dress in abstract floral. This was a FS gamble, I took a 0, the larger of my dress sizes. I probably could have take a 00 but I worry the waist would have been uncomfortably tight. The 0 fits fine, the length is definitely going to be too short for most; I am petite 5'3" and it hits about 3 inches above my knee, fine with tights or bare legs for social events. The print is TDF and the details (seaming, pockets, pleats) are very cute and flattering.

    ReplyDelete
  9. I received the Piped Trouser in heather carbon and the Valentina pump in rooftop red this past week.

    First, a big thanks to Gigi for posting in-store prices regularly. Through her blog I discovered the Valentinas in that color were $99 in store (still $228 online). The sales associate gave me in-store pricing on my order, and it had gone down since Gigi posted and was $69!! I'm late to the Valentina party and will add to the love for these. I had been looking for red shoes that were leather, not suede or patent. These have a great walkable heel, not too much toe cleavage, a nice shape and are super comfortable. The red is gorgeous.

    The piped trousers are terrific. The fabric is lightweight and not itchy. It's a blend, doesn't seem like it's going to wrinkle. They are fairly short. I'm tall and they hit me a little lower than they do the online model. I actually like that length and think it's chic with heels, however, there is a generous hem that could easily be taken down for those who want a bit more length. For those of you not tall, I think the length will be great. The leg is a bit wider and the rise higher than cafe capris, both things that drew me to the pants. My regular size 2 fit perfectly. Highly recommend these.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Has anyone tried the stovepipe trouser? I'd love a review on those.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I really like them - the 32" inseam is perfect for me (I have to hem 33-34" pants), I like the slightly higher rise. I like the slimmer leg (I don't like full skirts, full leg pants, too much fabric to manage). A great work pant.

      Delete
  11. I had to exchange Minnies for a different size last night and when I was in the store had the chance to see the French Hen Sweater in person--I think it's really cute. Certainly not for everyone though. One thing I hadn't picked up from the catalog is that the black trim on the hen is slightly raised (like it's embroidered), definitely gives it a little more detail.
    I also saw the houndstooth blazer, which is very striking!
    (p.s. this is Pink Maple posting under my new username AJLinBoston.)

    ReplyDelete
  12. Just a few reviews recently... all can be found HERE
    minnies - love these, sized down
    collection silky pleated pants - very comfy, not really flattering, got stains on them yesterday (awesome)
    silk-linen henley tunic - love, its huge
    liberty shirt in leo scarlet - very nice pattern and fit
    schoolboy blazer in navy - pretty, just not on me. sizing was wonky with the ones i tried
    tippi in polka dot - cute, but a pass
    ... there's other stuff in there, too :)

    ReplyDelete
  13. Has anyone tried the lexington loafers, either suede or patent? I love the look of them but am concerned they may be super narrow, or run small/large.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I tried the black suede ones, and thought they were TTS but a little narrow for me (my feet run on the wider side of medium I think). They will probably stretch a little, but I returned them anyways as I didn't like the shape of the front of the shoe once I had them on my feet.

      Delete
    2. JD, I have the Lexington loafers in patent. I took my true size. I think the width gives enough in a short amount of wear time. My main concern is the depth of the toe box. I feel like the top of the shoe is too firm against my toes. I wouldn't recommend sizing up, as they are not short in length. HTH!

      Delete
    3. JCJD, Audrey Bella did a review, looks like she found it TTS and liked it a lot:

      http://audreybella.blogspot.com/2012/08/shoes-day-j-crew-lexington-loafer.html

      Delete
    4. Thank you, everyone! I still have no clue what size to order, but that is the peril of being a size 10.5.

      Delete
  14. OT - Natile is wearing a tippi on Today this morning. As others have observed, she wears quite a bit of Crew. It's always fun to see how things look on her.

    ReplyDelete
  15. Cardholder promo! 25% off and free shipping!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Really!!??? Is there a code to use?

      Delete
    2. Just received the email too! It is a unique code, one time use until sept 11. Says it cannot be combined with any other promotion or on collection or third-party branded merch. Purchase must be on a JC card.

      Glad us cardholders are finally getting some love!!

      Delete
    3. Wow, I am a long-time cardholder and the absence of promised cardholder benefits has been one of my pet peeves as you all know from my posts here.

      I would say that is really great and about #$%@ing time . . . . but I did not receive the e-mail. And I get zillions of e-mail messages from J.Crew at three different addresses, so they know where to find me.

      Delete
    4. I am a cardholder but did not get the email! Where is the love j.crew? :(

      Delete
    5. I didn't get the cardholder promo email either. I'm wondering if it's sent to people who haven't used their card in awhile? That shouldn't be the case, but in the Crewniverse that would be daily business doings.

      Delete
    6. Gigi, I just received the promo email, and I can assure you, my JC card has been used often... Too often, LOL. I'm going to hold off until 9/11 to see if there's another rollout posted. I have a few things already on my list.

      Delete
    7. I blush to admit I have PROOF that the promo is NOT just for people whose cards have been inactive.
      Hangs head...

      Delete
    8. My email only just came through, so keep an eye out, they're still coming. So excited to see this since I haven't spent my rewards card yet. Yay! Nice job j crew, should definitely keep these cardholder perks coming!

      Delete
  16. Like some of you have noticed, the Tippi sweaters are smaller this year. I wore in a Tippi sweater into the store yesterday. It was a medium from last year. I tried on a small in this years version and it fit me just like my last year medium fit. I also sized down to a small in the Tippi Cardigan after buying one in medium and having it too large. I guess we all have to renew our sizes with the standards...which of course no longer makes them "standards". I'd like to order the Sterling skirt, but I'm waiting to hear a review about sizing.

    ReplyDelete
  17. Can anyone compare the crimson maple color to the golden burgandy color? Also, anyone review the Sterling skirt?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. AppGal did a lovely review of the sterling skirt on her blog Musings on the Mountain.

      http://musingsonmtn.blogspot.com/2012/08/jcrew-review-sterling-skirt.html

      Delete
    2. Just got my crimson maple no. 2 pencil today - it is very similar to the golden burgundy, which is what I hoped for. The golden burgundy is just a bit brighter, which is also influenced by the shine of the fabric.

      Delete
    3. I just got my Crimson Maple No. 2 today and the colour is quite similar to the Golden Burgundy...it's definitely has more red/wine undertones than brown, which is exactly what I was hoping for. A beautiful, beautiful colour.

      Delete
  18. I didn't get the cardholder promo! Figures.

    Has anyone seen the Collection Jules dress in silk scarf foulard IRL? I so desperately wanted to purchase this for my birthday next week and because I was left out of all these recent promos, the backlash was that I ordered a Marc by Marc Jacobs dress from Nordstrom instead which I've just decided was a BIG mistake after seeing the same dress on other sites and realizing the fit is completely different than how Nordstrom made it appear. Can someone please tell me the Collection Jules is hideous in person so I can feel better about my JC boycott? This will be the first year I'll be without a birthday dress and I'm really, really sad about it.

    ReplyDelete
  19. Just got an email: 25% off and free shipping code for cardmembers. Looks like a one-time code.

    ReplyDelete
  20. Hi... I tried the toni tassel loafer in store and loved them. I ordered through the U.S site and used my coupon for 20% (canadians were tossed these and I already wasted one with an order that I returned everything ) and this made the cost $ 206. Still alot for shoes but I love them. Carolyn from Vancouver P.S I am a size 9 and they were tts.

    ReplyDelete
  21. WTF I didn't get the cardholder promo. I'm starting to get really agitated. I was left out of the 20% promo, and now I'm not getting a cardholder promo either?!

    ReplyDelete
  22. I usually get J.Crew e-mails late in the day, so I am holding out hope for the cardholder one. But I am 99% sure that if you are a cardholder and don't get the e-mail, they will give you the discount if you ask.

    ReplyDelete
  23. Has anyone tried the pepper tweed jacket? I have a long torso and worry that it will be too cropped looking. I am waffling on a Rebecca minkoff tweed biker jacket and am wondering if the classic look of this jacket is the better buy. Thanks!!

    ReplyDelete
  24. Same as JCrewJD, my emails always come later than everyone else. If I don't get it later I'll ask my personal shopper to honor it. I think I'll try the stovepipe trousers!

    ReplyDelete
  25. Can anyone comment on the Tillary purse? I've been searching for reviews, and I haven't found anything too detailed. I just purchased one, and tested it around the house. The buttons keep unsnapping, and the purse falls to the ground. Not very secure, and was wondering if this was a major flaw with this bag.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. love2shop4bags: I have the Tillary in mint and have not had any problems at all. I carried it for a week straight on errands etc., and the snaps were fine. You may have a dud ... go for an exchange and hopefully that will fix it.

      Delete
    2. Definitely return it. I've been using mine a few times a week for 2 months now and haven't had those problems - only complaint is that the color has flaked off in a few places. Not too noticeable.

      Delete
    3. love2hshop4bags - I reviewed the in this post. I have the canvas one w/blue leather and I had that happen a couple of times. I don't think it matters how much or little you put in it. I didn't put a physical wallet, only a few items from my wallet. It's like the snaps aren't deep enough to keep it together.

      Delete
  26. Aw..25% for card holders..still wish it was 30% on purchases above $175 for everyone, like last year's promo around October. I do hope they do that in the near future.

    ReplyDelete
  27. Mine come late too. I just placed a first time VPS order yesterday (20% discount) to take advantage of the sweater promo (30% discount). I have not gotten the email but if I do I may reorder some of the items that were not included in promo. Sorry J Crew you want to play pricing games, us JCAs can too.

    ReplyDelete
  28. Strangely enough I received the cardholder 25% email and I have not had a j.crew card in years! I wonder if it will still work?

    I also have some factory reviews:

    Factory hacking jacket in green, nice material, looks well made, however it is very long and my normal size 2 I felt fit well in the shoulders but was large through the body. Overall, the hacking jacket style just does not suit me.

    Factory accordion skirt, ordered black in a 2 and it is lovely! Very nice weight to the wool, it is lined and fits perfect. A nice alternative to the retail city mini.

    Factory winnie in navy, again ordered normal size, fit well, a keeper. I really can't tell the difference between retail and factory.

    Factory houndstooth pleated mini, fits true to size, very cute, nice wool material, a bit short, so not sure if it is a keeper.

    Factory classic crewneck cardigan in scatter dot, fits true to size, feels a bit thinner than my other factory crewneck cardis so not sure if I will keep this one, it is very cute, but I wish it was wool instead of cotton for fall.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Alyshops, same here. I haven't been using mine since 2009, and I received the email, too. I wonder If the code works if you pay with any credit card and it doesn't have to be JCrew. I read the details on the promo, it didnt say that customers have to use the JCrew card to get the promo.

      Delete
    2. Next to the code it says "use with your jcrew card"

      Delete
    3. I did a "test" checkout and it worked!! Did not use my j.crew card and had no problems, however i did not go so far as to actually submit the order so maybe it would have kicked out the discount, but I don't think so. I also wonder if j.crew will catch on and change their system? In any event, I am going to wait and see if there is anything good in the next rollout that is worthy of the coupon.

      Delete
    4. I feel the same way about the hacking jacket. arms were good- but long and the body felt huge

      I was impressed with the quality of the fabric, the fit was just off for me.

      Delete
  29. I just received some of my FS items, and the biggest hit of the bunch was the scoopneck silk top in zebra. Based on a few reviews I'd seen, I was worried it wouldn't be a flattering cut, but I think it's marveous!

    It's a lovely silk fabric with pops of navy trim at the sleeves and waist. I know that some reviewers felt it was too shapeless/loose, but that's not my experience with it. It's fitted through the shoulders, which I like, and doesn't blouse out too much on me. The bottom hem doesn't have a lot of give/stretch, but that also seems to work well with the top's structure/fit.

    I am wearing it today with my BR grey trousers and raspberry-pink heels. I am 5'2", 115 lbs, 34B, and I took a 0 in this top (I usually wear a 0 or 2P in Talitha and Blythe blouses). HTH, if anyone is still considering this blouse. It's a great addition to my office wardrobe!

    ReplyDelete
  30. the pop dot capri in navy arrived. They run a bit big. I normally wear a 6 in JCREW CAPRIs and these are a bit loose. Could have gone down to a 4. They have stretch but are super comfortable. Love the cuff at bottom. Going to have tailored so they fit better. These were a great purchase especially last week at the 30% off sale. Great for SPRING/SUMMER but I plan on wearing through the fall with more yellows, oranges and pinks. Recommend if you like the dots! Didn't think I would but on the legs, pretty fun.

    ReplyDelete
  31. Has anyone tried or even seen the Collection Pleated Maxiskirt? I know it's poly and I'm not excited about the high price but I want it desperately for a party. Urban Outfitters has a pleated Maxiskirt at a more reasonable pried but it just doesnt look as full. Thoughts?

    ReplyDelete
  32. I recently purchased the schoolboy in romance pink. The first one I got had defective stitching in the bust dart. Made it look like an inverted nipple. I also think the wrong size was sewn in the jacket because it felt very tight. So strange. CS was awesome and I had another sent out right away. The second one arrived and as soon as I slipped it on it was pure love! Love the color, fit, and how it was made. I am very busty and have big upper arms so I have to go up in size usually. I'm really happy with this purchase.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. How is the length? I'm taller and am always concerned about jacket length. The bad sew job on the first makes you wonder what else you are trying on and ordering that is sewn funky!

      Delete
    2. Yeah, I'll be sure to look over everything VERY well from now on. About the length I am short(5'2) and the bottom hits the middle part of my bum. The sleeves are long on me and when my arm is straight down all I can see are my fingers but I plan on rolling them anyway.

      Delete
  33. How does the Charley sweater fit in regards to the Tippi or even in general? Does it run small? The have the Heart Me Tippi is M, but it is a tad too baggy (S was too snug). I’m a 6 in perfect shirts if that helps.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. TXgirl14, I only tried the polka dotted Charley, but I felt that it ran larger than the Tippis I have (which are from Spring/Summer 2012, not Fall 2012). The medium was kinda dumpy looking... the small was tight, but not too. So if I had purchased, I would have bought the small, while all my Tippis are mediums.

      Delete
  34. For anyone who wants to see the irl size comparison between this year's Swiss Dot Tippi and last year's Solid Tippi, I just did a post on my blog:

    http://onlyboringpeoplearebored.blogspot.com/2012/08/jcrew-tippi-sweater-size-comparison.html

    To sum up, the body of the Swiss Dot Tippi is about 1/2"-3/4" wider than last year's Solid Tippi. I couldn't tell much of a difference while wearing the sweater, though, so it's TTS for me in a size M.

    ReplyDelete
  35. Does anyone know if different colors of the toothpicks fit differently? I bought the red pair in a 28 and they fit fine but just received the golden sunflower in a 28 and they were too big. I don't think they could have stretched out as they were from the catalog.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I can't answer your question but I've been making a lot of duplicate purchases lately when I haven't been able to get price adjustments and I've noticed big size discrepancies from garment to garment. I noticed this with two pairs of size 27 matchstick cords (1/2 inch difference in the waist when held up to each other). It makes online shopping so much more challenging when garment measurements vary like this.

      Delete
    2. I've experienced the same thing. My sunflower color is loose at a 28 but the mint green in same size, a bit tight. Frustrating. I need to not eat the night before if I plan on wearing the green since they didn't have the 29 in the store.

      Delete
    3. Someone has brought this up before, and probably explains the sizing variations you saw in the pants and perhaps the tippi sweaters that others have experienced. JC (and other clothing manufacturers) have begun stacking many layers of fabric to cut their garments. This results in less precise cuts and more variations as the stacks get higher, meaning garments of the same style can have different measurements once completed.

      Ridiculously frustrating for the online shopper, and even those who try on in-store and wait to buy on sale online. Makes it difficult to know what you will get.

      Delete
    4. Thanks everyone! Perhaps I will reorder in a size 27--with my luck, they will probably be too tight!

      Delete
  36. I know this review may be late, but after purchasing the sequin zig zag tee (black/white) at the first rollout of Fall...I'm returning. I just cannot justify the price and it's too hard to get on and off. It's not worth it. I think it's cute but maybe they should have gone with a short sleeve. Anyway, I've lost the original receipt but hoping the SA at the store will return based on debit card information. Anyone having a love affair with this item? I'm just not loving it weeks later and that's just sad.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I love this top! I found that the sizing was a bit off on this top though. I tried on a medium at one store and it was huge. I gave it another chance at another store and the medium fit well. Maybe try another size since the sizing is weird?

      Delete
    2. Also, one of the reasons I bought the golden sunflower toothpicks mentioned above was to wear with this top! I'll pair with them the printed python viv flats, and gold J crew jewelry.

      Delete
    3. I wish my store had this top so I could judge the quality in person. I guess I'll stalk it online instead until it comes down in price.

      Delete
  37. I bought the wool-cashmere Icon trench in cabernet. The color is gorgeous and the material is definitely very luxe, though I don't know how it's going to hold up in Maine winters. Lovely coat overall. It's a little larger than I expected (my size 4 Stadium trench was much more TTS), but not so much of a problem that I'd need to exchange it for a 2.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. So happy to see a review on this. Thanks! I’m in love with this coat, but being in Texas, my use for coats is slim. I may have to splurge on this one though.

      Delete
  38. Just got my 30% off order.
    Like previously commented, the PENCIL SKIRT IN WOOL is thinner fabric this year and roomier in the waist. the color- crimson maple- though is gorgeous
    the PLEATED SWEATER SKIRT made me look like a grandma with a belly pooch , due to the drop waist-it goes way past my knees, even when i raise the skirt really high on my waist(for reference i'm 5'4" 95 lbs i wear a size 00 or xxs in jcrew). color is really nice, heather burgundy, and the fabric is a nice wool, not scratchy (but i'm not that sensitive to wool).It may look better on a pear shaped bottom. definitely going back.

    mulTISTRIPE LONG SLEEVE BOATNECKT, in red currant lilac: nice color combo, XXS was a bit boxy but the fabric is so thin that it drapes a bit. if it came in a size smaller than xxs i would probably size down. the fabric is thin and ever so slightly sheer, and the length is long- reaches in middle of my bum. stil deciding on this one.

    PAINTER CREWNECK CARDIGAN- in XXS heather burgundy . nice design, poor execution: the body is slightly cropped and slightly boxy, but boy are the sleeves tight (and i have anorexic looking arms) also the buttons were way heavier than the fabric so on or off the sweater gaped as the fabric was too lightweight for the buttons. the bottom of the placket was folded over ans not tucked in so it looked ugly and caused the sweater to fold out in that spot. overall not an epic failure, and i likely will try another one to see if this was a defective one.

    ReplyDelete
  39. FlowerPower-

    Reply never seems to work for me and I am too lazy to work it out. I TOTALLY agree re: the romance pink herringbone #2. In fact, I just called to exchange my other two #2 from my 30% off order (festival blue & crimson maple double serge wool) and commented to the sales rep that online it was a lovely ballet-slipper pink, and in person it was bubble gum pink, very very different, it is going back. I actually found that these double serge wool #2s fit a bit tighter than last years, I even did a try on to compare and confirm (didn't think I'd gained weight, but wouldn't have been surprising). I was right, it was just a bit snugger than last years, though I agree the bottom is a bit of an A, just wish that room was in the upper thigh and I'd be golden. Regardless, as with others I LOVE the color of the crimson maple, it is beautiful, and unique but will go with anything, I really cannot think of a color it wouldn't work with other than true red (and maybe then with the right look). The festival blue is also nice, I was nervous it would be too close to my peacock teal from last year, but its a more true-blue. Exchanging both to go up a size in petite, but otherwise keepers.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The crimson maple is so pretty that I am contemplating asking J Crew to send me the next smaller size so I can debate.

      Delete
    2. Erin- I also found the crimson maple no.2 to fit slightly tighter than last year, but didn't think it was enough to size up.

      Delete
    3. I found the No. 2 to fit slightly tighter this year as well, specifically in the thigh area. Otherwise I think it fits similarly.

      And agreed, the Crimson Maple colour is stunning IRL.

      Delete
    4. I bought 4s in last year's wool No. 2s and they are definitely thicker wool with less give. This year's wool is thinner but I feel it will stretch a bit but yeah, the 4 was snug in the thighs so I went w a 6 but the waist is huge. (That said, measurements are the same as the cotton No2 and I take a 6 in those because the cotton is so stiff). I tried on last year's No2 last night in size 4 and I'd better lose some weight if I plan on wearing them this fall. I've gained a few since I bought them.

      Delete
  40. Thanks Gigi and Rayna for sharing my Sterling skirt review!

    I just posted a review of the Jardin skirt in apple print on my blog here. I was surprised to see that no one (that I could find) had done a review of this skirt, so I hope that this will be helpful to anyone who wants to try for a popback of this skirt!

    ReplyDelete
  41. Just to let everyone know, I saw the pink elephant bracelet marked down to $69.99 in my local store!

    ReplyDelete
  42. I received a pair of Classic Cafe Capris today from the final sale. They fit OK but does anyone know if they stretch out through the course of the day? Also, I can't find them offered in the new fall collection. Have they moved to only offering the new Cafe Capri? The new ones have pockets and I sure don't need anything else adding bulk to my hips!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Heather, the classic cafe capris do not stretch out much at all. I will cry if they do not reissue the classic cafe capris. They are my favorite pants at J.Crew!

      Delete
    2. Really? Mine stretch out an entire size over the course of a couple of hours. I wish they didn't!

      Delete
    3. I found that the "new" cafe capris do stretch out, but the classic don't. I only have black... maybe it is different for other colors?

      Delete
  43. Can anyone comment on the fit of the Pixie pant vs. the leggings? I need some new leggings for fall to wear with sweaters and boots, but was wondering if the Pixie pants were more substantial. Also wondering if either have a tendency to pill. Is there a seam running up the back of the Pixie pants?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The Pixie is like a cross between the Minnie and legging. The fabric is more substantial than a legging and I don't foresee a problem with pilling. I took the same size as my Minnie in the Pixie.

      Delete
  44. OT: There are new Promo-priced items (along with some items that have been marked down further) today for both the women and men. I have updated the women's list here and the men's list here.

    ReplyDelete
  45. I have the cotton cafe capris and they do stretch out- one whole size! I wish I would have sized down. So, Heather, I think yours should work just fine!

    ReplyDelete
  46. Thanks everyone for your help regarding the cafe capri fit. Mine fit great in the waist, but are a smidge tight in the thigh...so if they stretch even a quarter inch during the day they'll be perfect. Sure hope I can snag some more on popback if they don't re-release them this fall/winter.

    ReplyDelete
  47. OT: There are a few new arrivals on Net-A-Porter today that I haven't seen elsewhere like this and this. (Not a fan of that dress at all).

    ReplyDelete
  48. Does anyone have a review/pictures of the Allie dress in aqua floral? Does it fit like the Allie in silk/wool, or would I have to size up? Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I got the Allie in aqua floral last week. I went with the size 0, which is the larger of my two dress sizes. I prob could have gotten the 00 but worry the waist may have been a bit tight. For reference I am 5'3" with a relatively long torso and this hit me about 3" above the knee. I haven't tried on the solid color allie so can't comment on fit differences. I know it is FS but you can always ask CS nicely and they will prob mark it returnable for you. HTH!

      Delete
    2. StylishlySpoken, could you comment on the hem? I would need to let it down... how much fabric is there?

      Delete
    3. JCrew JD - there is about 1.5 inches in the hem, so you can probably let it out about an inch. HTH!

      Delete
    4. Call me insane, but I am considering getting the aqua floral allie (I am about 5'9"). I tried the solid version last night at my b&m, and yes it was shorter than I'd like, but it bells out so it doesn't look hookerish. It really just didn't seem super short! (See how well I can justify?!) And the hem was like 2" or more. Sounds like it isn't as generous in the aqua floral, but I think I can work with an extra inch. If I wear it with gray tights and boots and a blazer or something, it might be acceptable for work. Right?

      Or, what I should really say is, stay tuned for a size 6 allie dress in aqua floral on the weekly exchange in about a week :)

      Delete
  49. I thought I would chime in about the comments on the 2012 No.2 pencil skirt. I just received an order last night, and I tried on the warm jade, festival blue, berry, and crimson maple colors of the No.2 pencil skirt in size 4.

    I'm almost always a size 4 in JC skirts (and bottoms), and definitely a 4 in these pencil skirts from 2008-2011. I agree that the wool on this year's version is thinner, and I think it may come off as tighter because of that. I find thinner fabrics show and pull more, whereas the thickness of say the version from 2009 really held you in.

    However, thinner fabrics aside, I did find these a smidge smaller in the warm jade, festival and berry colors. The crimson maple was INCREDIBLY smaller - at least one size. I put that one on last coincidentally, and it was tight that I could barely zip it up and I couldn't even move in it. It was about 1 inch smaller on the sides. This definitely was not my imagination, since I just tried all of the other colors on in the exact same size.

    So, my verdict is that there are definitely size discrepancies between colors and probably between sizes too. I wouldn't be surprised if I order the crimson in a size and then it's two sizes too big. I will reorder all of these skirts in a 6 to compare, and possibly even another set of 4s.

    As far as the colors, all were beautiful. I agreed with previous comments that the warm jade is definitely a different color than the viridian green from last year, and crimson is beautiful as well. The berry color did not wow, and was as expected. Festival blue was nice, but I did not find it as a true blue. A true blue to me is dull, and this was more vibrant and closer to the brilliant blue color that we've seen.

    On a completely different note, I tried the wool skimmer pants from factory (their version of the new cafe capri wool pants), and I like them much better than the retail version. I haven't had any luck with the new cafe capri style, so if those haven't been for you because of the fit but like the style, try the factory version. Also, the factory version is LINED!!! I took the larger of my two sizes in the factory skimmer pants too.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I picked up the long No. 2 pencil skirt, and I actually found that the skirt ran a bit big in the waist. I'm generally a size 4 in a skirt (6 in a pant), but the waist on my size 4 is quite roomy. I will definitely have to tuck a shirt in. And I feel that the fabric is really very heavy.

      Are the colors you ordered all in wool?

      Delete
  50. Review of the optic-dot dress in this post. The gold critter/animal pendants went down to $19.99 in-store. Most were in-store only. Irl pic of the cheetah in this post.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. gigi, thanks for posting about the critters! I am running right over to J.Crew after work now to see if my B&M has any. I didn't even know about them!

      Delete
  51. Has anyone seen or tried the sequin bow pants? I love the look of them, and would love to know how they are IRL. Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  52. Sizing is running all over the place this season. I bought a size 2 in the Navy Schoolboy last fall but this year if I were to buy it I'd have to take a size 4. And I found the fit to be off. I really wish I'd bought last year's version in red too. My size 2 from last year looks great and is roomy but this year's size 4 could barely accomodate a button-front shirt under it. It was tighter under and through the arms too.

    ReplyDelete
  53. Here's a review of the navy/limone colorblock silk V neck dress, currently marked down to $179. I love the elegant style, but it just doesn't fit right. This dress is promising for larger chested gals (like me). And the length is fine - it hit my knees and I'm 5'6". But the back gapped in funny ways, perhaps just on me. With sadness, I'm sending it back.

    But I urge others to try it - the price is good and it isn't final sale.

    ReplyDelete
  54. Has anyone tried on the Stovepipe trousers or the Collection Lucille dress in Cheetah Brocade? Any fit info?

    ReplyDelete
  55. Hi Heather, scroll up this post to LTee's response for info on the Stovepipe trousers or do control F and type in Stovepipe. :)

    ReplyDelete
  56. I tried on the Janey flats today (ordered them online), and they are quite pretty in person, though the gold heel looks like an overlay that will peel or scuff off pretty easily. It'd be nice if it were actual metal plating.

    Anyway, if you have a narrow-medium width foot, these will fit you great. If you have a medium-wide foot, these will be ridiculously tight. If you just have a plain medium foot, you will likely be able to wear these, but they won't be your most comfortable shoes. Definitely runs narrow. Runs fairly TTS in length, though. Maybe a smidgen short, but not enough to be a big deal.

    ReplyDelete
  57. Just got my Cabochon Fan Necklace in Spearmint in; reviewed it here.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Glad I didn't buy it after all. I think I like the orange IRL better though it was more rosy peach than the orange/peach it appears online.

      Delete
  58. can anyone tell me whether the vibrant flame color Tippi is this years or last years? meaning, if I normally take a size small in sweaters, should I go for the XS or S? based on the discussion about size discrepancies...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It is last year's. Go for the small. Right?

      Delete
    2. JulieY - I also say go for S in the Tippi. I've taken S in last year's and this year's. You can see the vibrant flame on Tweed and Toile.

      Delete
  59. Has anyone seen/tried on the collection crepe shawl blazer in pink? Dying for a review on this one. TIA!

    ReplyDelete
  60. Does anyone have the matchstick jeans in starlight wash? Could I size down a whole size? I've read that they ran slightly big. The chat rep said that the waist on the size 28 is 32.5" which seems big for that size, but I am scared to order it instead of my normal 29. Help?

    ReplyDelete
  61. Has anyone seen or tried on the wool crepe v neck dress? The description says that it falls to knee but it looks shorter on the model. Also wondering about the sizing.

    ReplyDelete

Dear J.Crew Aficionadas & Aficionados: Please feel free (and encouraged) to share your thoughts and opinions. :) However, please note that this is still a personal blog. So comments that are considered inappropriate (e.g. obscene, racist, homophobic, personal attacks, rude, and just plain mean) will be removed.

And now back to J.Crew! :)