Take an Extra 30% Off Final Sale Ends Today {tear}

Today is the last day that J.Crew is offering customers 30% off any purchase from Final Sale {no minimum} and free shipping (over $150 *after* discounts applied) with promo code EXTRA30.

This sale, and all its predecessors, have been a-m-a-z-i-n-g!!! I loved seeing this promotion back, and hope to see it return soon! :)

Have you been taking advantage of this promotion? Will you be taking advantage of this promotion today? Are there any sale items you are interested in getting before it ends?

J.Crew is Coming to Town (Canada & UK Edition)

A big "thanks!" to Leader Girl & HDNB, who shared the following article from the Guardian with us. (Click here to read it in its entirety.)

J.Crew Is Coming
By Jess Cartner-Morley
March 30, 2010

The preppy label beloved of Michelle Obama will soon be available to UK shoppers at net-a-porter.com – here's why we will learn to love this classic American brand

...Getting that American fashion fix is about to become a whole lot easier. J Crew – the jewel in the crown of the American high street – will at last be available to British shoppers on net-a-porter.com from early May. A 27-year-old brand currently riding high on the back of endorsement by Michelle Obama, who often dresses herself and her daughters in the label, J Crew has become a destination store for British fashion editors – no New York fashion week is complete without a visit. A year ago, I bought a collarless camel wool cropped jacket there. At around $200 it wasn't cheap – but the fabric is still good as new and it has been a staple of my wardrobe ever since, seeming to intuit the onset of the coming era of minimalism even before it had appeared on the Paris catwalks. It is almost boring, yet absolutely perfect: a classic J Crew purchase. ...

As Jenna Lyons, the creative director of J Crew, says: "The thing about preppy is it can be alienating to some people. It's very coastal and it leaves out a lot of Americans who aren't yachting or going to the beach club."

Michelle Obama may be the poster girl for J Crew, but Jenna Lyons is the woman in the director's chair. Over the last two decades, Lyons has worked her way up through the ranks of the company to become creative director. She has taken the colourful, classy-but-upbeat principles of American preppiness and – with a rolled-up trouser hem, a turned-up collar, kooky layering and an unexpected belt – brought them up to date. To the American casualwear basics (cashmere in great colours, crisp shirts) she has added new J Crew classics (vintage-look denim shorts, fantastic costume jewellery).

Lyons, who has become a fashion-industry girlcrush, has kept every copy of Vogue since August 1984 in her apartment, yet cites the New Yorker as her favourite magazine. She never wears flat shoes, but claims to be obsessed with Alexa Chung's tomboyish style. Derek Lam, feted American designer and a contemporary of Lyons at college, says she "brings a fashion editor's eye to an accessible brand".

For the spring collection, this means applying the principles of Céline-esque neutral-toned, narrow-but-boxy minimalism to the J Crew world to produce a slim oatmeal pencil skirt with (very flattering) black side panels. It means dreaming up the perfect chunky diamante and ribbon necklace, the kind you hope to find in vintage stores but never do. It means taking the sexy-military Balmain look and leavening the formula to produce the perfectly fitted-but-relaxed khaki weekend jacket, which also looks great over a cocktail dress. As Lyons told style.com recently: "That little cargo jacket that we would have shown 10 years ago with a polo shirt, we're now showing with a little sequin top and high heels."

Every country has a few fashion labels that occupy a space in the popular culture and seem to hold meaning even to those who don't shop there. Think Marks & Spencer and Burberry for us. J Crew has that kind of visibility in America, and with that comes a certain good-humoured lampooning, not dissimilar to that aimed at the Boden catalogue in the UK. NBC's fashion blog recently asked: "Do you ever live vicariously through the J Crew catalogue? Pretend you wear sweaters with bikinis with your blond children and geeky-hot husband?" The Jezebel bloggers run a page-by-page commentary every time the label sends out a new catalogue.

But the joy, for British shoppers, of bland American fashion – whether it's this season's perfect, washed-out Gap sweatshirt or the J Crew luxe T-shirt – is that it comes wrapped in plain white tissue paper, but gloriously free of baggage. Just the way we want it.

Also, a big "thanks!" to Get Fresh, who shared the following article from Toronto Life with us. (Click here to read it in its entirety.)

J.Crew looking for first Canadian location
By Carley Fortune
March 30, 2010

And J.Crew isn’t the only American retailer looking to open or expand in Canada. The Gap is opening 10 outlet stores, ... The reason: according to the Wall Street Journal, it’s because the U.S. market is over-saturated, and it’s too difficult to expand in Asia, where laws, shopping habits and body sizes are too different. ...

We were always told “slow and steady wins the race.” Despite our sluggishness, J.Crew will expand slowly north of the border and open 10 to 15 stores—a few of which, we assume, are sure to be in Toronto.

What are your thoughts on either article? Are you excited that the arrival in Canada and UK is becoming a reality? (I know I am!) Do you live vicariously through the J.Crew catalogs? ;)

Product Review: Pima Cotton Agadir Top

Pima Cotton Agadir Top
Click here for product page
Item 24643
Regular $49.50
Now $39.99

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

We love this simple cap-sleeve top in thinly striped, light-as-air cotton (especially the neon thread detail on the button placket). It's the perfect throw-on-and-go spring top. Scoopneck. Cap sleeves with elastic ruching.

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

Not much to say about this one.

I purchased this one for a casual summer shirt that wasn't a tee. The sizing was a concern as I am broad in the shoulders and have problems with broadcloths which don't have any give. I did however order a small because it seemed boxy. I take a small or medium in tees - small in the tissue, and mediums in the jerseys.

The small fits well, but not perfectly. There is some volume around my waist and hips, but the shoulders are right. It's a little long, but nothing that I can't live with; and it could easily be hemmed were you so inclined (may consider that yet, it's just straight).

It will look best tucked in. The fabric is a good weight, not paperthin or see-through yet light enough to offer protection from the sun when you want something other that a tee.

It's definitely casual not work attire; but someone with better styling ideas than me could probably figure out how to wear it. I can see that it will work well layered, as pictured. Don't plan on unbuttoning more that one button without something on underneath! The collar and the sleeves look as though they're elasticized, however it's painstaking gathering.

"Thanks!" again to Belle de Jour for her great review of this top!

What are your thoughts on the Pima Cotton Agadir Top? Have you seen or own this top? If so, what is your review of the fabric & cut ? Would you recommend it to another fellow JCA?

Madewell Email: Denim After Dark is back: 20% off jeans (and a secret sale)

"Thanks!" to Marietta who shared another email sent to Madewell customers.

The Madewell SoHo store (in NYC) will be hosting a special Denim after Dark event this Thursday, 4/1/10, from 7 to 9PM. Moreover, Madewell stores across the country are celebrating Denim after Dark events.

Some benefits these events offer include:

• 20% off all jeans
• complimentary denim hemming & custom embroidery
• denim styling tips from in-house experts
• tasty sweets & treats
• great tunes by a local DJ
• Plus secret, one-night only sale
  

Lastly, this email announces that Madewell will soon be available for purchase online (through its own Madewell online site). I have heard this statement over & over again, and I honestly hope it is true. ;)

Will you be attending one of these Denim after Dark events in December? If so, please share. :)

Madewell Email: Short story

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

The email features the Denim Midi Shorts ($59.00) which is described as the following: "so essential for Spring: our vintage-cool jean shorts".

I have mentioned this like a thousand times, but I am ready for Spring to come— with all the perks like warm weather and sunshine. (I am so over rain, torrential downpours to be exact. I mean, I could swim in my backyard and I don't have a pool!)

Seeing shorts reminds me that Spring is officially here, and the good weather is just round the corner. And it might be my desire for Spring to come to full bloom, that I enjoy the outfit featured in the email above. ;)

What are your thoughts on the Denim Midi Shorts? Do you like or dislike the style of rolled up jean shorts (aka: jorts)?

Take an Extra 30% Off Final Sale This Week

A big "thanks!" to many of you, including Eleni, Tiffany Rose, Marietta, as well as Pakcola (in this post), & Christy (in this post), who let us know about another offer from J.Crew.

J.Crew is offering customers 30% off any purchase from Final Sale {no minimum} and free shipping (over $150 *after* discounts applied) with promo code EXTRA30. This offer is good through this Thursday, 4/1/10.

I am happy to see this promotion return again. I will definitely be checking out the final sale section. :)

Will you be taking advantage of this promotion? Are there any sale items you are interested in getting?

J.Crew Spotted in In-Style Magazine

A big "thanks!" to Desert Flower, who not only let us know about several J.Crew items being spotted in the April 2010 issue of In-Style Magazine, but also scanned the images for us to view! (Click on the images below to see it larger.)

The first image shows off the Vintage Zebra-Stripe Mini (Item 23002; $68.00). For real life images and a review, refer to Gigi's Gone Shopping post "J Crew - vintage zebra-stripe mini".

The second image features the Cleo Platform Sandals (Item 20286; $165.00). To read a review and see some photos, refer to Two Hands Full of Daisies post "J.Crew Cleo platform sandals"

The third image showcases the Delphinia Gown (Item 24380; $350.00). To see a photo of Eva Amurri wearing it, refer to the "J.Crew Arrives at the Oscars In Style" post.

What are your thoughts on the items featured in the magazine? Have you tried on or purchase any of the items listed here? If so, please share! :)

Jenna's Pant Picks {mailer insert}

A big "thanks!" to Elizabeth who not only shared the following news, but also scanned the images for us to view!
In one of her orders, she found a tri-fold brochure with Jenna's Pants Pick. The front shares the following:

The finest fabrics. The best fit. A pant for every need. From our favorite matchstick jean to the magical Minnie, here are the season's can't-live-without pants. Own them all.

The first section features the Minnie & Skimmer Pants. They share the following advice:

The Minnie. Otherwise known as the magic pant (because it looks that good on everyone). Since our original stretch twill Minnie was so popular, we now offer the same amazing fit in lightweight stretch Italian wool and denim styles. Jenna Says: This pant is so versatile. Pair it with a crisp button-down for work or a feminine top for a night out- either way, finish with a cool military jacket.

The Skimmer. Your new go-to in seven stylish colors for every day of the week. Jenna Says. Wear the skimmer with your boyfriend's chambray shirt (untucked with the sleeves rolled) and a wedge sandal (they're back and better than ever).

The second section features the {questionable} choices of the Painter Scout Chino & Matchstick Pants. They share the following tidbits:

The Painter Scout Chino. A stroke of genius, splattered and distressed by hand, then washed for over 300 minutes. It's this season masterpiece. Jenna Says. Try pairing this distressed scout chino with a delicate sequin top- works for day or night. P.S. We love our classic scout chino too.

The Matchstick. Our much-loved matchstick, now in a repaired indigo wash. Looks and feels like a well-worn vintage pair, without the time investment. Jenna Says. Style this destroyed jean with more polished pieces for an unexpected high-low mix.

Overall, I like the concept of the marketing piece. I think it is great to offer some styling suggestions. I just question some of the choices (like the destroyed jeans), and the high-low pairings (of painted chinos with a delicate sequin top).

Did you receive this mailer insert in your recent order? Do you agree or disagree with the advice offered? Do you agree or disagree with the "pant picks" that Jenna selected?

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

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

Please note: this posting is not for resellers.

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

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

Lucky Magazine Shares Jenna's Shopping Secrets

Over at J.Crew's Facebook page (click here), they shared with us a video from Lucky Magazine (click here). According to J.Crew:

Check out this behind the scenes video with Jenna (our creative director) sharing her shopping secrets with Andrea Linett (Lucky Magazine’s creative director)

It is another behind-the-scenes look with J.Crew's Creative Director. Jenna Lyons discusses lots of topics, including what items she likes to buy over and over again. One thing that interested me, that she likes to shop alone. Frankly, I do too! Overall, it is a fun watch. :)

P.S. Is wearing all-denim the latest trend? If so, I am going to have to "sit out" on that one. ;)

What are your thoughts on the video? Do you like the tidbits that Jenna shared with us? Was there anything that struck you as interesting or note-worthy? :)

Sidenote: There is also an article interviewing J.Crew's Menswear Designer Frank Muytjens, over at Hells Kitchen (click here to read). Unfortunately, it is not in English. However, there are lots of great images. Also, if you happen to have the latest Firefox (it's an Internet Browser)... then click on the "Translate" button to translate the entire page into English. It does a pretty decent job too! :)

Way Off Topic: Image Issues with Blogger

If you cannot see many of the images on this blog right now, do not be alarmed. Blogger is experiencing some technical difficulties that is affecting the display & upload of images. For more info, refer here.

Update (as of 4:40PM EST): It works now. Hazaa!

J.Crew's Mickey Drexler Talks (& likes to ride his bike— who knew!)

"Thanks!" to Cory (Co-Founder & Editor at Valet), as well as Raina, who shared the following great interview with J.Crew's CEO, Mickey Drexler, over at Valet (click here to read it in its entirety).

Shop Talk with J.Crew's Mickey Drexler
By Cator Sparks
March 29, 2010

I recently had the pleasure of meeting J.Crew CEO and man of the moment, Mickey Drexler in Aspen during the city's second annual fashion week. The company hosted several intimate events and the mogul was always right in the middle of the madness—meeting people, asking questions and cracking jokes. The man himself is a humble boy from the Bronx who, since his days at The Gap in the '90s, has aimed to revolutionize the way many dress. Us boys owe him a lot these days. Along with designer Frank Muytjens, he's tapped into men's love of lore, offering clothes that won't break the bank yet still hold their own against a Bastian design. I pulled him aside for a quick chat after getting the inside scoop on the guy from his co-workers, err, employees, well, let him explain... ...

I hear some people call you "the Wizard of Oz" because of your love of the intercom.
It's this paging system throughout the building and what I like about it is it makes the organization feel spontaneous and emotional. It actually started on the first day I came on board. It's just so easy if you are looking for someone. When something has to get done, it gets done quickly!

I also use it as a survey technique. Who has heard of this brand? Who is from this city where we are thinking of opening a store?

When traveling, I become the 'Roving Reporter' and get on the intercom via phone and tell everyone where I am and what I've seen. It keeps it real and breaks down barriers. That's a positive. It's part of my DNA.

Speaking of which, explain the importance of open office hours everyone talks about. Anyone can come into your office and challenge the status quo?
How many people know what can be done better in their job position? Everyone. I just got a box from UPS the other day and didn't open as easy as FedEx. So I sent a note to the CEO of UPS and said they need to improve their boxes. We should all be open to hearing what can make things better. It's what I wish my bosses would of done in the past. But sometimes I announce open hours and nobody comes in. I guess they're afraid of angering me. So I have to send out another call explaining 'I am sure someone has something to say.' Then I get the traffic flowing!

J.Crew's creative director Jenna Lyons told me that you peddle a bike around the office.
That's just fun. And seriously, it's efficient. I just do it when I get the whim. It's a Madewell bike that they showed us in a meeting and I asked to keep it. I want people to always know that I'm approachable and it makes the office much less imperial. I hate the idea of an imperial office. And I can ring my bell so people know I'm on the way to their office. ...

This interview asked some fun questions. It's not everyday you see your boss riding around on a bike (& ringing the bell!) or even holding office hours for that matter. Sounds fun! :)

What are your thoughts on the article? Were there any points made that you found particularly insightful?

J.Crew Email: Introducing the fringed MacAlister boot for her

"Thanks!" to many of you, including HeidiG & Marietta, who shared the latest email from J.Crew this morning.

The email features the Fringed MacAlister Boots (Item 25486; $158.00) which is described as the following:

Just when we thought it couldn't get better: our famed MacAlister boot, now with fringe—and like the original, these are made from the finest Italian suede. Our original MacAlister is inspired by the crepe-soled boots worn by British officers in WWII. Unlined for a more casual feel. Hit at ankle. Crepe sole. Made in Italy.

The regular Metallic Suede MacAlister Boots (Item 24411; $145.00) are already "meh" for me, adding the fringe only makes it worse. Although, I will give "kudos!" to J.Crew for adding a bit of history about the shoes in the description. I do find those tidbits interesting.

Personally, this is not a look I am going to pursue. Even if they are super comfortable, the price makes me want to turn to my classic "go-to"— a simple pair of black Converse All Star Lo-Tops.

What are your thoughts on the MacAlister Boots? Do you like or dislike the style of the classic footwear?

The Great (Weekly) Exchange {looking to sell}

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

Please note: this posting is not for resellers.

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

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

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

The Great (Weekly) Exchange {looking to find}

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

Please note: this posting is not for resellers.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Random Wedding Cake #910

2 tier Egyptian theme wedding cake with the top tier based on a stepped pyramid and the bottom tier based on a tomb entrance.

(source)

Should I Join? {Disqus Commenting System}

Following the trend... of the Disqus bandwagon. :) After the success over at some of my favorite blogs, including GingerSnap's Daily Fashion Post, the (chloe) conspiracy & now My Superfluities..., I am starting to no longer resist. (Incidentally, I also want to give a big "shout-out" to GingerSnap who answered quite a few of my questions about the new commenting system last year.)

Unfortunately, I am still unsure if this is the right move for the JCA blog and I need your help! I made a pro-con list (a la Rory Gilmore from the Gilmore Girls) to help me figure it out...

Pros:

• Users can log-in through other accounts
  (like Twitter, Facebook, etc.)
  
• Users monitor all their comments in one profile screen
• Users can reply to comments through their email
  (do not have to go back to the blog to reply to a comment)
• Threaded comments
  

Cons:

• One more thing to sign-in {ugh!}
• Can't switch back to old Blogger commenting system with comments (comments stay stuck with Disqus; the comments are the best part of this blog!)
• Not sure if Disqus comments can be searched by Google
  

What are your thoughts on this? I like to make the blog easier for our community to use. So I would love to hear your feedback on this. Please, chime in! :)

Quick Poll: Should I switch the commenting system to Disqus?

UPDATE: Thanks everyone for voting & chiming in. I really appreciate all the great feedback. Based on it, I have decided to leave the current commenting system (via Blogger) as-is. :) Nothing will change. {yey!} [As an aside, I would turn off the poll but there is no way to do it without losing the results, which I would like to keep. So it stays too! ;) ]

BrideTide Newsletter Sign Up

The community at BrideTide is growing in size and involvement so today we're happy to announce a way in which readers can become a little more involved in the blog by subscribing to a special free members newsletter.

This monthly newsletter will include:
- a short summary of the hottest wedding posts of the month
- current bridal statistics for the wedding industry
- advance notifcation of BrideTide contests and giveaways

Subscribe to our newsletter

Simply click on the link above and type in your email address to be added. Your privacy will be valued and your email address will not be used for any other purpose than to send this newsletter. You may unsubscribe at any time.

Thanks and welcome aboard!

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

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

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

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

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

Surprise! J.Crew Sends their Love {& handkerchief}

A big "thanks!" to PrettyBoy, who shared the following delightful surprise (& an image for us to view!)

J.Crew has delivered a present a bit early this year to some very lucky J.Crew Aficionados. In the mailbox, they found a gift of a handkerchief with the following note:

Just For You

We couldn't resist asking Mister Freedom—L.A.'s curator of cool— to custom design this handkerchief (it's a personal favorite of our men's designers) exclusively for you, one of our favorite customers. It's our way of saying thanks. Don't forget—we're always here for anything you may need.

All the best,
Mickey

What an absolutely fantastic surprise for customers. I adore the pattern on the handkerchief too! J.Crew has been known to shower certain customers with gifts in the past (from day planners, to earrings, to tie clips, to necklaces, to scarves, and the like). It is a wonderful gift and more importantly, a lovely gesture for those who receive it.

So check your mailbox in the next few days to see if you got something extra special from J.Crew. And if you do receive this, please share! :)

J.Crew News: J.Crew + Fenton-Fallen

Over at J.Crew's Facebook page (click here), they shared with us an article from the latest issue of Harper’s Bazaar magazine. According to J.Crew:

Our latest jewelry collaboration with Fenton/Fallon made Harper’s Bazaar’s top 10 “hottest, newest, latest” obsessions.

The article itself shares the following:

Cool Crew: J.Crew and Fenton-Fallon collaborate on a punk-meets-polished jewelry line
By Anne Monoky
April 2010

Like a page out of a romance novel, the proverbial love affair between J.Crew creative director Jenna Lyons and Fenton-Fallon designer Dana Lorenz ignited when the two were seated next to each other at a dinner party. "We couldn't stop talking," Lyons explains. Well, one thing led to another, and a jewelry collaboration was conceived. And the rest, as they say, is fashion history.

The seven-piece limited-edition collection of chunky statement necklaces and bracelets, called Fenton-Fallon for J.Crew, debuts this April. The reworked industrial metal pieces, which range in price from $95 to $295, lend a hip tough-chic appeal to the brand best known for its pitch-perfect staples. Lorenz elaborates on the project: "I didn't water my design down at all. I included all my iconic Fenton-Fallon things, like the pyramid studs, spikes, and jumbled chains." Providing that at the end of the day, opposites really do attract.

The collaboration between Fenton-Fallen & J.Crew (click here to shop the collection online) has been going on for awhile. (Refer to the December 29th "Sneak Peek: J.Crew's Crystal Box Necklaces" post.) Although, more pieces became available yesterday with the new arrivals. Apparently everyone loves this latest partnership. Take for example, a post over at NBC New York's The Thread ("We're Loving: Fenton/Fallon for J. Crew"), where the author is smitten with this new line.

Frankly, me don't likey ...at all! Am I alone in feeling that the pieces are über-expensive for metal (not even a bit of real gold or silver in there)? As for the style, they are definitely "of-the-moment" costume jewelry. I am all for costume jewelry, and I very much like the "tough but chic" look, but not the tangled metal mess I see. Do not even get me started at the prices for this line.

I am thinking that this new line isn't so much about mainstream profits, as it is to create buzz with the insiders of the fashion industry. Similar to the production of the sequin dress discussed in another article (refer to Tuesday's "J.Crew’s Jenna Lyons Talks" post). But maybe, I am in the minority on this.

What are your thoughts for the Fenton-Fallon for J.Crew line? Do you like the pieces in the collection? Do you think the prices are a good value for customers?

Quick Poll: Do you like the Fenton/Fallon™ for J.Crew collection?

J.Crew Email: We're celebrating at Cherry Hill + 20% off

A big "thanks!" to Megan & Judy who let us know about another wonderful offer from J.Crew. The J.Crew in Cherry Hill, New Jersey is having its first anniversary. To celebrate, J.Crew is offering local customers 20% off any purchase of $150+. This offer runs from 3/26/10 through 4/9/10.

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

The location for the store is:

Cherry Hill Mall
2000 Route 38
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
(856) 910-9901

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

J.Crew Updates Website with New Arrivals!

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Heidi, Christy, & maureen1125 (in this post), as well as Marietta, who let us know that J.Crew had an update to its website today (click here to view online).

There are some new arrivals for men (click here) & women (click here). {wahoo!} Although the J.Crew Collection (click here) looks to be the same with its new arrivals from last time.

J.Crew has also provided the latest catalog online (click here to view). Since I am so ready for Spring, I find the catalog to be delightful! All the bright colors & lovely flowers {randomly tucked in belts and bags} are gorgeous. Also available is is the Men's only catalog for April 2010. :) As for their new arrivals...

Hearts-a-flutter! I know the Dotsalota Chiffon Cami (Item 24733; $138.00) looks kind of clownish, but I love it! I am a sucker for polka a dots and ruffles. And how cute is the item name!?! I am also loving the Watercolor Pastiche Perfect Shirt (Item 25238; $78.00). Not only is the watercolor pattern perfect for Spring, but the cotton-silk fabric will work well for those warm Spring days. Lastly, the Waterfloral Pastiche Delphinia Gown (Item 25144; $650.00) might be the loveliest item of all. So pretty! If it weren't for the price, this little number would be going home with me. :)

Hearts-a-breaking. The Denim Utility Shirt (Item 24431; $88.00) looks tired. Frankly, it looks more Madewell than J.Crew. Stick to what works well, like the polish looking Chambray Cotton Contrast-Stitch Perfect Shirt (Item 15463; $78.00). What's up with the Magpie Medallion Vest (Item 25163; $750.00). It might be the way it's styled, but it looks blah. And that price tag? Let's just hope they only made 2 of these. ;)

Say what now? Um, is the Luxe Terry Un-Sweatpant (Item 26049; $59.50) for realz? (An image of it is shown above.) Is this an item that one would honestly wear outside the home? I just think sweatpant-skinny pants (with an ankle zipper!) screams disaster. Did you also catch the Gallery Overalls (Item 23572; $168.00)? (Image shown to the right.) J.Crew states this is "a great alternative to jeans" and it couldn't be farther from the truth. I just don't think the slightly oversized, faded, paint splattered, cropped leg (yes, its cropped!) overalls are anywhere near "great". And the price tag... at $168 I would expect it to look a lot better than something I would find in the trash. (There I said it! I think this piece is rubbish.)

Final Sale. As many of you have pointed out, the Final Sale section (click here to shop online) had quite an update today. It might be a good time to check it out, in search of any coveted items that you missed the first time around. :)

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

Product Review: Turkish Delight Pencil Skirt

Turkish Delight Pencil Skirt
Click here for product page
Item 22966
Regular $158.00

J.Crew describes this ready-for-Spring-skirt as the following:

Our perfect pencil silhouette—leg lengthening and fit to flatter—in a fetching metallic jacquard that reminds us of one of our favorite confections (it comes from Ratti, one of Italy's finest couture mills, famous for its printed fabrics). Prepare for compliments. Cotton/poly/polyamide. Sits at waist.

A big "thanks!" to Hexicon (in this post) who shared the following review:

I just received my Turkish Delight pencil skirt. This one is a keeper, even at the steep full price of $158 (at least I received free shipping!). I've been skunked lately on a few high-demand items that sold out, so I sucked up the Crewlade and paid FP.

The color combination is a knockout. I plan to wear this with similar colors for a tone-on-tone look rather than going for any contrast. IRL the pink is just a little bit softer than JC's tulip color from last year, and the other color is a peachy tone between melon and guava. It is definitely more of a peach or cantaloupe than an orange. IMO a true orange, such as the Joely shoes, clashes badly. A lighter tangerine might work.

It looked *amazing* with my melon Victoria. (Heathen that I am, our annual visit to DH's church at Easter is mostly an excuse for me to dress up and have brunch afterward, so that will be my holiday outfit.) It also worked with my soft blossom silk streamers cami, guava mohair cardi, perfect tees in tulip, salmon, and melon, dusty rose spectator peep toes, shell Cate slingbacks, etc.

Re fit: this sits higher on the waist than many skirts have lately. As with all JC items, if you are an hourglass like me you will find the waist to be very large. I took my "usual" JC 2 but probably could have gone down to a 0. I'd say the fit is comparable to last year's watercolor pencil skirt. (I'll keep the 2 since I'll have to have the waist altered anyway.) Wearing the skirt closer to the natural waist, the hem hit me just where I like it, right at the bend in the knee. (I'm 5'4".) So if you're taller, then depending on how this fits your waist/hips this skirt could hit you higher than you might think.

My office is conservative business attire part of the time and casual the year. Between the pastels and the metallic, I would probably not wear this to the office during our more formal season, but if your office is more flexible then because of the otherwise conservative cut I'd think you'd be OK.

"Thanks!" again to Hexicon for her great review of this skirt!

For some reviews & real life images of this skirt, you have to check out the "J Crew Turkish Delight Pencil Skirt - Thanks Priya Cherry!" post over at the Life is Short...Buy the Shoes blog.

What are your thoughts on theTurkish Delight Pencil Skirt ? Have you seen or own this skirt? If so, what is your review of the fabric & print? Would you recommend it to another fellow JCA?

J.Crew Spotted in Self Magazine

A big "thanks!" to LT (of the lovely One cat away from crazy... blog), who not only let us know about several J.Crew items being spotted in the April 2010 issue of People Style Watch, but also scanned the images for us to view! (Click on the images below to see it larger.)
The necklace featured (on the cover & first image) is the Crystal Devoté Necklace (Item 23752; was $150.00, now $100.00). This necklace has been discussed on the blog before (refer to the February 22nd "J.Crew Email: The statement piece of the season (plus, FREE SHIPPING)" post). To view real life images and a review of this piece, refer to the "Devoted to the Crystal Devoté Necklace..." post over at the My Superfluities... blog.

The third image features the Appliqué Flower Art Tee (Item 25138; was $78.00, now $68.00). To view a real life image of this top, check out the "J.Crew New Arrivals: IRL Pics *Part Three*" post from the Fabulous Floria Mommy blog.

The last image is the Chiffon Forget-Me-Not Cardigan (Item 23819; $128.00). As mentioned in yesterday's post (refer here), for some real life images & reviews, check out the"J Crew - chiffon forget-me-not sweater" post over at Gigi's Gone Shopping, as well as the "New Arrival Reviews - JCrew chiffon forget me not and adriana" post over at Sum Sunshine.

I love all these J.Crew sightings! I am thinking that either J.Crew's marketing team is working overtime with all these magazine publications -or- the retail world is loving J.Crew as much as we do. In either case, I look forward to seeing more & more J.Crew at the magazine stands. :)

What are your thoughts on the items featured in the magazine? Have you tried on or purchase any of the items listed here? If so, please share! :)

J.Crew At-the-Mountain Storefront {aspen edition}

J.Crew shared an image through its Facebook page (click here) of the J.Crew At-the-Mountain storefront. They also share the following:

On Thursday, March 18th J.Crew at-the-mountain hosted a party to celebrate Aspen Fashion Week. Haute Toddies were served and guests enjoyed shopping and getting to chat one-on-one with J.Crew Creative Director Jenna Lyons.

Although it is only one image, the storefront sure does look pretty! After a quick search, I found an interior shot of the store over at the New York Times Style Magazine Blog (click here to read the article in its entirety).

The article also shares the following tidbit:

The other big news is the arrival of J. Crew, where in addition to picking up the brand’s Americana-inspired basics, clientele can browse through a curated library sprinkled with objects from Kelly Wearstler and pieces from local ski brands. “If Paris is bright beauty, then Aspen is quiet beauty,” says Jenna Lyons, the brand’s creative director, who outfitted the shop with velvet curtains and dressing-room doors lined with silk satin.

The store kind of reminds me of the Collection Store (for women) and the Liquor Store (for men) in NYC, since the decor is unique to its location & it will be carrying one-of-a-kind pieces. Loves it! :)

The location for this store is:

205 Mill Street
Aspen, Colorado 81611
(970) 544-1631

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

Yes, it is that wonderful time!

A ginormous "thanks!" goes t0 Mae, who is super nice to share with us that J.Crew is offering free shipping on orders of $150+ with promo code MXB89K. This offer expires Monday, 3/29/10.

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

Side Note: "Thanks!" to Lesley who let us know that her local B&M store had the latest catalog available to customers. So this probably confirms that new arrivals will arrive online this week. {wahoo!} :)

J.Crew Email: ENDS TODAY. Free shipping on women's swim.

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta, who shared the following email J.Crew sent this morning.

J.Crew is reminding us that they are offering free shipping on select styles of Women's Swimwear (click here to shop online). This offer expires today, 3/24/10 and is available online only.

Did you take (or will you take) advantage of this promotion? Are there any swimwear items from the new arrivals that you are interested in?

J.Crew Spotted in People's Style Watch {it's everywhere, yo!}

People's Style Watch (click here) is crushing on J.Crew big time. Honestly, who can blame them? Certainly not this J.Crew Aficionada!

A big "thanks!" to Desert Flower, who not only let us know about several J.Crew items being spotted in the April 2010 issue of People Style Watch, but also scanned the images for us to view! (Click on the images below to see it larger.)
The item featured in the first image is the Chiffon Forget-Me-Not Cardigan (Item 23819; $128.00). For some real life images & reviews, check out:

• "J Crew - chiffon forget-me-not sweater" post
  over at Gigi's Gone Shopping
  
• "New Arrival Reviews - JCrew chiffon forget me not and adriana" post over at Sum Sunshine

The second & third image includes yet-to-be released items (as I cannot seem to find them online). There is the Silk Cargo Dress ($118.00), as well as a pair of Luxe Tweed Ballet Flats ($168.00). Maybe we will see these little numbers online on Thursday. (Fingers crossed that the website will update with new arrivals on that day!)

The fourth image features the Mélange Ribbon Necklace (Item 23676; was $118.00, now $39.99). This necklace is one h-o-t mess.

But wait there's more! A big "thanks!" also goes to LiziCrew2, who shared with us several J.Crew items spotted in the March 2010 issue of People Style Watch and scanned the images for us to view! (Click on the images below to see it larger.)
The first image shows off another yet-to-be released item— the Cambridge Tote which will retail for $258.00. The second image features the Icon Trench (Item 11210; $298.00). This classic little staple has been reviewed by several JCAs, including:

• "It Truly is an Icon...the Icon Trench (Khaki)." post
  over at My Superfluities...
• "Polyvore To Real Life: Coral Reef 4/14/2009" & "Polyvore To Real Life: 3/19/2009 (arrival)" over at About All and Nothing at All
  

What are your thoughts on the items featured in the magazine? Have you tried on or purchase any of the items listed here? If so, please share! :)