J.Crew's Celebrating in Honolulu, Hawaii w/ $25 Off

A big "thank you!" goes to Erin who shared with us another great promotion from J.Crew. The J.Crew at the at the Ala Moana Shopping Center (in Honolulu, Hawaii) is celebrating its first anniversary and offering $25 off purchases of $150+ through the mail. This offer is good from 3/6/09 through 3/20/09.

This promotion is being snail-mailed to customers in the area (as oppose to being e-mailed). "Thanks!" again to Erin who was kind enough to share with us the scanned image of this promotion!

So if you live near Honolulu, Hawaii, chances are you will be receiving your promotion in the mail in the next couple of days, so keep "an eye out" for it. :)

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

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

Yes it is that wonderful time!

A big "thanks!" to Lee (in this post) who let us know that J.Crew is offering free shipping on orders of $150+ with promo code S95F7. This offer expires 3/5/09. :)

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A Sign Of The Times: J.Crew Cuts Back

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Matt, Jordan, & Trish, as well as Anon at 1:40 PM & Heather (in this post), who let us know about J.Crew's current situation:

J.Crew trims staff, suspends 401(k)
By Associated Press
February 27, 2009
(Click here for article link)

Preppy retailer J.Crew Group Inc. says it will cut 95 jobs and suspend its 401(k) retirement plan through the rest of the year to help cut costs in a slumping economy. J.Crew says the cost-cutting program will help bring about $40 million in savings each year.

The job cuts, which include positions that are not filled currently, are mostly in New York offices and in field and distribution centers. The cuts represent about 10% of staffing in these departments. J.Crew also eliminated 2009 merit-based wage increases for its entire staff.

J.Crew will take a charge of about $1.5 million, before taxes, in the first quarter to reflect anticipated severance payments and costs for those affected.

J.Crew's press release (click here) quotes J.Crew's CEO and Chairman Mickey Drexler as saying:
"As we are all aware, we are operating in a very tough economic environment. This has required us to make some difficult decisions, which we do not take lightly, but feel are necessary to ensure we remain competitively positioned over the long term. However, we believe our financial flexibility, our team, and our focus on quality products and the customer will enable us to navigate these turbulent times."

Despite the additional press from First Lady Michelle Obama (refer to here) and Good Morning America's host Robin Roberts (refer to here) wearing J.Crew, they (like most retailers,) are facing some difficult times. Hopefully things will turn around (for both J.Crew, and the economy). :)

What are your thoughts on the news (surprised or not surprised)? Do you think the retailer should take any other steps to help curve the impact of the slumping economy?

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J.Crew Email: In stores only. Up to 30% off. Spring Break Event.

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Elizabeth, Lesley & Marietta, as well as HeidiG, Beth, & Anon at 8:20 AM (in this post),who let us know about J.Crew's recent promotion.

They are offering up to 30% off "tees, shorts, and flip-flops" for women, men, and kids. The only catch: this promotion is in-store only. ;) It is also unclear how long this promotion will run.

Will you take advantage of this offer? If so, please share! :)

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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 take advantage of what's left (if anything) in the winter sale or to see some new Spring/ Resort arrivals 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!

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J.Crew Updates Its Website With New Arrivals {yey!}

"Thanks!" to many of you, including kiykat, kathleen02, I dream of J Crew, Julie, Anon at 3:12 AM & Silver_Lining (in this post), who let us know that J.Crew updated its website (click here) today.

There are new arrivals for men (click here), women (click here), & the J.Crew Collection (click here). Even the "As Seen In" page (click here) got updated! (That particular page got ignored for a long time, so I am thrilled to see it updated.) With so many updates, I don't know where to go first! :)

In addition to having new arrivals for men and women, J.Crew also provided the latest catalog, entitled "America" online (click here to view). I am all for new arrivals and I can't wait to look through the new catalog!!!

What items are you most excited about and why? Which items are you surprised to see? Which items did you hope would be included?

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Dear J.Crew, Please Bring Back...

A big "thanks!" to Summer here I come! (in this post) who offered a great post topic: "to discuss past seasonal items that we hope they'll bring back". I think we all have a list of items we would love to see J.Crew bring back. :) Maybe someone at J.Crew will see our "wish lists" and offer them again! ;)

Memories of season's past... There are so many fantastic pieces that I would love for J.Crew to bring back. In fact, most of the items shown in the image above make my list. First, I love to get the Bella Coat back. I have it in black (and should have also gotten it in white). ;)

Second, I still want the Stadium-Cloth Toggle Coat from last year. I ordered the black version and was wait listed for 5 months before they out right canceled it on me. (I was beyond upset as I could have purchased the other colors that were available at the time. Oh well!) :(

I also love, love, love the library print dress. I know that this print was not universally loved- it was more of a "love or hate" kind of print among the Aficionadas. ;) I also adore the green studio ball skirt shown in the Paris image. There is just something lovely in that particular shape & length, that I haven't seen in the recent versions.

What are your top picks for items you would like for J.Crew to bring back? What are some of the reasons behind those selections? And for fun, what item(s) would you not like to see return? :)

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Product Review: Primrose Garden Bracelet

Primrose Garden Bracelet
Click here for product page
Item 10925
Regular: $78.00
Now: $39.99

This bracelet is described as "a dramatic, double-layered bracelet that looks as if it bloomed in an enchanted garden". After seeing this bracelet at the store, I think it looks absolutely lovely. :)

"Thanks!" to Dina who shared with us her great review (plus several real-life images) of this bracelet.

I've attached three pictures of the bracelet. Online this bracelet looks really white so I was somewhat surprised when it was much more cream IRL But I like it better I think. I took a picture of the bracelet against a white piece of paper so you can see that it's really not that bright white as it looks online (probably because jcrew put it against a black background.

On my wrist it doesn't look as cream. It's a big bracelet I think, the flowers are almost an inch in diameter. Not counting the closure, the bracelet is about 6 inches long.

It's very pretty I would have to warn that you'd have to be very careful with it as the flowers seem to catch on things (like my sleeve as I carefully attempted to take my jacket off).

It's also a little bit heavy but if it's the only thing on your wrist I don't think it's too bad.

Overall, I love this bracelet. It's my first bracelet besides a bunch of regular enamel bangles so I can't compare to any of the other jewelry, but I think the color will go with any outfit for spring or summer.

"Thanks!" again to Dina for their great review!

What are your thoughts on the Primrose Garden Bracelet? Are you considering or already have purchased this bracelet? Have you seen this jewelry piece in person? If so, please share with us your reviews too! :)

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J.Crew's Parachute Cardigan in People Magazine

A big "thanks!" to Marietta & GiGiofCa who not only let us know about one of J.Crew's new arrivals being featured in People magazine's latest issue, but also scanned the image for us to view! (Click on the image itself or here to see it larger.)

The cardigan is described as "Parachute Cardigan" in cotton linen and retails for $135. I was unable to find the cardigan on their website.

The magazine states that the cardigan "Adds shine to any look" and it definitely does at that! W-o-w, it is shiny for sure! I have a sneaky suspicion that this is one of those items that look great in the J.Crew catalog, but not so great in person. ;)

What are your thoughts on the new Parachute Cardigan (e.g. do you like/ dislike the material or how shiny the fabric is)? Do you think J.Crew should introduce more shiny tops this Spring? :)

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Product Review: Havona Tank

Havona Tank
Click here for product page
Item 12966
Regular: $128.00

I think this tank is such a gorgeous & fun piece to wear. :)

"Thanks!" to leogrl6787 who shared with us her great review (plus several real-life images) of this top.

When I saw this tank initially, I thought wow, I've got a new love. I had never pre-ordered anything, and I kind of balked at the price. But then I figured, what the hey, it looks awesome, I love color, and well color loves me.

As I patiently stalked my UPS tracking number at work today, I knew I was coming home to sweet little gift. I've ordered collection items before, and had mixed experiences with packaging on their arrival. Honestly, to my disappointment this arrived in one of the brown envelope type packages, and inside was suffocating in plastic with one lone piece of tissue between the folded layers. Not the best presentation there Mickey, oh well, at least pre-ordering got me free shipping, and on my green friendly note, much less wasted packaging. My biggest grumble about packaging is the plastic--it's not good for my pretty clothes and it gives a lingering plastic smell.

So, back to the shirt. Obvs, purchased full price, size 0. Now of late, I've noticed a lack of consistency in the sizing as well. I'm super little, kind of like a 12 year old boy going through puberty, honestly. (Please don't burn me at the stake, I'm 5'8'' and about 100lbs, a tall size 0 I know.) So, I was slightly nervous about this sizing and fit dilemma, sometimes billowing tops look chic, other times they look like I'm in maternity wear (nothing wrong with maternity wear, just not my personal look being that I just finished college).

To my liking the neck actually opens with three snaps hidden under that illustrious flower, that has plagued many other JCAs on other items. Yes, it was floppy as I rescued it from the plastic, but I had my bff, spray starch in hard. And let me tell you, it only took a few minor spritzes to come to life, in my opinion--and no weird staining on the fabric, major plus in my book.

So, as I hurriedly hopped out of the top half of my work attire, I realized the Havona is a kind of thin material, they do reference it as an "extra-light whisper organza" aka nothing a nude cami and bra can't handle. On it went, and twirling I went in front of the mirror. Seriously, love at first try.

I think it has a perfect length to be worn tucked in or out, possibly even belted. I love that it's not too flowly. Obvs, I'm still in some sweet work pants in the photos, but I can't wait for spring, some fab white pants, or even a nice pencil skirt. I think it would rock with skinnies or trouser style bottoms, and a fab pair of sky high heels.

End all, be all, totally a keeper. I hope my photos do the top justice, I'm not too good at the whole self portrait biz, but I gave it a shot to share my love with ya'll.

Also, Cass (in this post) shared with us a review of this tank too:

...just wanted to put in my review of the Havona tank for anyone considering it. I was hoping this would be my "special" piece for the spring. It looks beautiful on the model but unfortunately there are some execution issues.

The colors are a true aqua and the background color is very close to the golden cypress color that was available in some winter sweaters.

The silk is see-through with no lining. You will have to wear another cami underneath if you don't want your bra to show through. Most importantly, the flower on the neckline has a flatness problem. The petals look flat layered on top of one another so it just looks like a random flap of fabric hanging off the neck. It would require significant fluffling/pinning to get it to look like it does in the lookbook.

Fit wise, it is flowy over the body, kind of like the elizabeth halter, but slightly more fitted. No side zip. I wear a L in the Elizabeth and the 14 in the Havona fit well.

Unfortunately due to the see-through fabric and flat flower issue it is going back.

"Thanks!" again to leogrl6787 & Cass for their great reviews!

What are your thoughts on the Havona Tank? Are you considering or already have purchased this top? Have you seen this top in person? If so, please share with us your reviews too! :)

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Madewell Email: The bag you'll covet.

Madewell sent another email, this time featuring their Soft Satchel ($198). The bag does look super cute. I am also a big fan of the handle/ messenger strap combination- I like options!. I am just curious about its size in real life (is it a medium or large size bag?)

They are also reminding us that (1) we can check out their Spring looks (click here); and (2) Madewell is offering 15% off all purchases with the printable coupon found here on their Facebook page. This offer expires 2/28/08.

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J.Crew Offers An Additional 20% Off Online

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Kittykat, Suilove, & Jackie, as well as Catie (in this post) & Anon at 2:02 AM (in this post), who let us know about J.Crew's latest promotion. J.Crew is offering an additional 20% off sale items with promo code EXTRA20. {fantastic!} This offer expires 2/26/09.

I wonder why all these recent promotions (which I am happy to see) last for such a short time (e.g. 2 days). I remember them lasting a bit longer. ;) Hopefully the sale section will be updated with new merchandise too! :)

Do you think you will take advantage of this offer? If not, are you waiting for a better offer? If you do take advantage of this offer, please share with us what you purchase (we love to know!) :)

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J.Crew's First Look... As Seen In Vogue

As mentioned awhile back (refer to here), First Lady Michelle Obama (& our lovely J.Crew) is featured in Vogue's latest issue.

J.Crew updated its home page with a link (click here) to the {great} news that many of their items featured in Vogue will be available for purchase in their Fall 2009 collection and can be preordered (800-261-7422):

Cashmere Shrunken Cardigan (Item 18248; $178)
Rumpled Satin Cami (Item 18891; $78)
Blushed Tweed Pencil Skirt (Item 17446; $178)

What are your thoughts on the pieces? Do you have a favorite? Which is your least favorite? Do you plan on pre-ordering any of the items shown in the magazine? :)

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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 numerous requests on styling J.Crew's "new arrivals" in the "Dear FFM: Help Put Together A J.Crew Outfit For Me" post!

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

The Whisper Lame' Zoey Tank in Nectar
Spring Grey
The Watercolor Crawford Cami
The Watercolor Crawford Cami in Spring
Dazzling Dots
Golden Cypress and Warm Blush
The Grenada Palm Cami *At the Office*
The Grenada Palm Cami *On Vacation*
The Organza Pencil Skirt in Sweet Orange
Fresh Mint and Light Grey
Celery and Light Grey
The Paradise Jacquard Pant

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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Madewell Email: Introducing Madewell for shopbop: Our First Denim Collaboration Ever.

A big "thanks!" to Rhea, Ashley, Kelley, Susan, as well as Anon at 9:57 AM, jcbellemarie, & Heather (in this post), and Melissa (in this post), who let us know that Madewell is now available online (click here) through ShopBop.

Apparently, this is a limited time collaboration between Madewell & Shopbop. Click here to shop the collection, and click here to view the lookbook.

What are your thoughts on the Madewell limited edition items featured at Shopbop? Are there any items you are interested in? Are there any items you question being in the collection (hello Boilersuit Romper!) ;)

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J.Crew's Red Carpet Alert {part 3}

A big "thanks!" to so many of you who let us know that Good Morning America host, Robin Roberts, ended up wearing J.Crew. As mentioned in earlier posts (refer to here and here), Robin had to select one of three dresses to wear down the Red Carpet to co-host The Official Oscars Red Carpet Pre-Show on ABC.

According to J.Crew's press release (click here or here):

Suze Yalof Schwartz, Executive Fashion Editor-at-Large of Glamour magazine, introduced Roberts to J.Crew's Creative Director, Jenna Lyons. Yalof Schwartz and Roberts met with Jenna and the J.Crew design team at their New York Headquarters to view J.Crew's designs for the perfect Red Carpet look. The taped visit aired on Good Morning America on Wednesday, February 18th. Roberts encouraged America to weigh in to help her choose her Oscar gown. Ultimately, J.Crew was the favorite over two other high profile designers. As of today, over ten thousand GMA viewers had written in sharing their opinions.

Part of J.Crew's Weddings & Parties Collection, Roberts chose the "Gracie" gown in Fresh Tangerine. This special color is part of the fall 2009 Collection and made exclusively for Robin and this Red Carpet occasion. She looked beyond the Red Carpet regulars and chose J.Crew - an unexpected designer for the Oscars, re-confirming that high fashion does not have to cost a fortune. The "Gracie" gown is about sophistication and glamour, carried through in a sleek shoulder-baring gown. The J.Crew designers used dreamy triple-ply silk tricotine and designed a dramatic halter silhouette, offset by a deep-V down the back and a straight skirt that elegantly floats to the floor. Cut slightly longer in back, there are beautiful designer details throughout. Robin also wears J.Crew shoes and accessories including the Organdy Fleur Peep Toe Heels and the Satin Minaudiere Clutch.

Very exciting news for J.Crew! Also, I think Robin looks great in the J.Crew dress. (Although my pick for her was the "Reem Acra's Cobalt Blue Goddess Dress".) :)

What are your thoughts on the dress? Do you think it was the right choice for Robin Roberts to wear for the evening? Did you think she wore the right amount of accessories?

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J.Crew Email: Sun, sand and free shipping (on our women's swim collection)

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Marietta, as well as lleila (in this post), who let us know about J.Crew's recent promotion.

J.Crew is currently offering free shipping on all swimwear for women. {yey!} No code is needed as it will be automatically applied at checkout. {Like the good old days!} ;) This offer expires 2/24/09.

Are you going to take advantage of this offer? Have you already, if so please share! :)

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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?

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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?

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J.Crew's Happily Ever Honeymoon {free ship code}

J.Crew is offering free shipping on orders of $175+ with promo code BRIDE. This offer expires 2/28/09.

Don't forget to enter J.Crew's Happily Ever Honeymoon sweepstakes. It ends 3/15/09. Click here to enter daily and good luck!

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J.Crew Email: Up to 30% off select pants (find the perfect pair)

"Thanks!" to many of you, including tld51371 & 30% off pants (in this post), as well as Rhea and Marietta, who let us know about J.Crew's most recent promotion.

Right now, J.Crew is offering up to 30% off select pants for men (click here), women (click here), and kids (click here for boys & here for girls). It is unclear how long the offer will last.

I believe the image above showcases the Café Capri (Item 10492; was $79.50, select colors $39.99) in Seaside Green. I love capris, and the pair on the model looks amazing on her. Unfortunately I do not think this particular pair would work for me and my pear figure. :(

Will you be taking advantage of this offer? Have you already purchased pants using the additional savings? If so, please share! :) What are your thoughts on the Capris in the image (do you like or dislike; does it work for your figure)?

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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 take advantage of what's left (if anything) in the winter sale or to see some new Spring/ Resort arrivals 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!

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J.Crew's Red Carpet Alert {part 2}

As mentioned in an earlier post (click here), Robin Roberts from ABC's Good Morning America is asking viewers to help her select one (of three) dresses to wear to the Academy Awards. "Thanks!" to FabulousFloridaMommy (in this post) who shared with us an article (click here) about Robin Roberts & her dress options for the big event. In particular, we learn more about the "Glowing Warmth in J.Crew's Coral Halter Gown of Silk Tricotine".

J.Crew creative director Jenna Lyons is a fan of unexpected color combinations that offer designer style and design at friendly price points.

If Robin chooses the J.Crew gown, she will be the first to wear J.Crew on the red carpet, even though the company has a huge following, especially with first lady Michelle Obama, who wears the brand frequently.

Jenna's advice to Robin as she prepares for the red carpet: "People try to do everything -- the big hair, the big jewelry, the big necklace -- there's so much, and I feel like, to me, what always looks more beautiful is picking one -- so, pick a really vibrant color and let everything else be really simple. Or a big statement necklace and a simple dress. When people try to do everything, they wind up not looking as elegant."

I loved the dress in the sketches (click here). However, now that I see the dress on Robin Roberts, I am not so sure. Robin definitely rocks J.Crew's Coral Halter Gown Dress. But I like "Reem Acra's Cobalt Blue Goddess Dress" more on Robin. I think that the Goddess Dress is more flattering to her figure. :)

I also agree with Jenna Lyons' advice when it comes to choosing (1) simple accessories to go with a vibrant color dress or (2) a simple dress with a statement accessory. This way the overall outfit doesn't appear to be "too overwhelming".

Now that you have seen all three dresses, which one do you prefer on Robin Roberts? What were some of the reasons behind your selection? What are your thoughts on Jenna Lyons' advice (agree or disagree)?

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J.Crew Swimwear {what's your review?}

It's almost that time again, when we start thinking about swimwear. It would be great to share with each other your reviews (e.g. what you thought of the fabric, sizing related concerns, etc.) on the various swim items (click here). It would help us all decide whether or not we should purchase them. :)

Also, J.Crew updated their fit guides, including the "swim" collection (click here).
What J.Crew swimwear items did you get or try on? Let us know what you thought of those items (e.g. did you have to size up or size down, did you find the cut flattering for your frame, etc.)? Do you even recommend J.Crew swimwear, and why? :)

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Product Review: Merino Miriam Cardigan

Merino Miriam Cardigan
Click here for product page
Item 11584
Regular: $128.00

A big "thanks!" to Heather:D (in this post) who shared with us her review of this cardigan.

MEETING MIRIAM

I was happily playing with the sweaters at my local B&M when I ran across the Miriam sweater, item #11584. I found it a great reminder of why I love JCREW sweaters.

It was only available in the pewter, but I find that an esp flattering grey, so no complaints there. I would think that this colour would compliment a lot of JCAs complexions. It is almost identical to the Jackie pewter which IMHO works with a lot of my work wear. Most esp 120s suiting, Kelly blouses & perfect fit tees.

The body of the sweater is a fine gauge merino that hugs one's form. I have a couple of sweaters in this fabric & have found it to be forgiving & (more importantly) pill resistant. It is refined, soft & not at all itchy.

The trim is about 2 shades darker in a sturdy chiffon ribbon. These alternating acanthus leaves are well sewn & finished. I don't think fraying will be a problem - unlike the pinwheel cardigan. The trim runs all along the front & collar of the sweater. It makes for a nice accent without adding too much bulk. Although, I'm not quite sure why it went along the back of the collar. I did feel a bit like I was wearing a refined feather boa. However, it looks more Marilyn than Mae West.

The only trouble that I can see with this sweater is the fit. It is a bit on the small side & you may choose to size up. I tried on a small (my usual size) & a could see slivers of my tee between the clasps. If you zoom in on the close up photo you can see the same is true on the model. -- Although props to jcrew for using same fabric hook & eye closures.-- Oddly enough, it fits perfectly in the sleeves & shoulders. It's almost as if they intended you to wear the sweater open.

Other than the closure issue, I was really impressed by the Miriam. It has a sleek, retro style that I like. The trim is unusual without being over the top or too trendy. In many ways it reminds me of this great beaded merino cardigan I scored a few years ago. It's a great piece, unique & classic. I've worn it (sparingly) for years & recev'd several compliments.

I think that this sweater would be a good investment piece. Although I may wait around a bit & see if it gets included in the next sweater promo. The only thing better than a great jcrew sweater is a great jcrew sweater on sale :}

Hope my observations are useful. Happy shopping!

"Thanks!" again to Heather:D for her great review! Moreover, click here to read Gigiofca's review of this cardigan (as well as to see some real life images). :)

What are your thoughts on the Merino Miriam Cardigan? Are you considering or already have purchased this cardigan? Have you seen this top in person? If so, please share with us your reviews too! :)

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J.Crew Email: Final sale + free shipping (2 days only)

"Thanks!" to Marietta, J, & Dina for letting us know about J.Crew's latest promotion.

J.Crew is offering free shipping on orders of: $100+ with promo code SHOPNOW and $150+ with promo code HURRY. This offer expires 2/19/09.

Happy Shopping Everyone! :)

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J.Crew's Red Carpet Alert

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Not all anons are bad & Anon at 12:56 AM (in this post), who let us know about this latest J.Crew news (click here), which reveals: "Good Morning America picked three designers- including us- to style Robin Roberts, one of our favorite morning-show hosts, for the red carpet this weekend."

The dress is described as: "This gown is understated elegance with specially designed details, made in luxurious silk tricotine (one of our favorite fabrics for its fantastic drape and beautiful movement). Our designers created a dramatic halter, offset by a deep-V down the back and a straight skirt that skims the body and falls to the floor." The design selected is not yet available, but can be pre-ordered (call 800.261.7422). The page also includes a link (click here) to their current (for sale) dresses.
I watch Good Morning America every morning so I am very familiar with Robin Roberts. I think both the shade of orange/red and the cut of the dress will look stunning on her! :)

What are your thoughts on this dress? Do you like or dislike the design?

P.S. On the main page (click here), its states "CBS' Good Morning America" but it is suppose to be ABC. ;)

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Spotted: J.Crew At T.J. Maxx {part 3}

As mentioned in previous posts (click here and here), J.Crew items have been spotted at various T.J. Maxx's around the country. The items ranged from shoes to special occasion dresses (even wedding dresses!), with prices ranging from $14.99-19.99 each!

Since the other two posts are no longer on the "main page" I thought it was time to create another one. Therefore, this post is essentially a "Part 3" to the other posts- where we can continue the discussion.

So... if your local T.J. Maxx is carrying some deep discounted J.Crew items from the current season, perhaps you would be willing to share with us in this post? :)

P.S. I noticed that many of you have already been reporting whether or not your local T.J. Maxx stores have J.Crew items, which by the way "thank you!" :) I really appreciate how helpful we are for each other!

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Product Review: Hexagon Jacquard Mini

Hexagon Jacquard Mini
Click here for product page
Item 11803
Regular: $158.00

A big "thanks!" to Chiffoncupcake (in this post) who shared with us her great review of this skirt.

I received a few emails asking about the hexagon jacquard mini (item 11803). Thought I may give a mini review here.

It is an adorable skirt with unique prints, the perfect length ann slight A-line shape. The fabric is soft and thin to medium weight. I am usually a size 2 in pants but sized up on this one so it does not get too short at the back. The waist is not terribly loose so it is great. It hits about 4.5" above my knees.

However, the fabric is a little shiny for me - it is quite shiny even under dim lights. The black part on the skirt is made of shiny materials (probably the acetate?) and the greyish fabric is metallic. I initially thought only the center and back front part are shiny as shown on the website but it was in fact the lighting effect.

I ended up returning it as I figured I would not have much use of a short and shiny mini perhaps except for Saturday nights out.

If you are not afraid of a little shines, go for it! :)

"Thanks!" again to Chiffoncupcake for her great review!

What are your thoughts on the Hexagon Jacquard Mini? Are you considering or already have purchased this skirt? Have you seen this skirt in person? If so, please share with us your reviews too! :)

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J.Crew Sample Sale {part 2 & 3}

A big "thanks!" to mom-nyc & Anon at 5:53 PM (in this post) who let us know that J.Crew will be having another two sample sales in NYC. The second will take place during March 17-19th and the third will take place during the week of April 13th. (Click here for more info at ClothingLine.)

After attending the first sample sale (refer to here and here), I personally have no desire to attend the other two sample sales. I much rather scour my local T.J. Maxx's which are offering current items at better prices than the first sample sale. ;) However, I hope Aficionadas and Aficionados that attend the events will get some fabulous finds at amazing prices! :)

Will you be attending either of the upcoming sample sales? If you are, please let us know! :)

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J.Crew's Jenna Lyons In Real Simple Mag

A big "thanks!" to Sharon who not only let us know that J.Crew's Jenna Lyons, as well as some items of J.Crew, are featured in this month's Real Simple, but also scanned the images for us. {How nice of her!!!}

In the first image, Jenna Lyons is quoted as saying: "Blonds in hot pink can look saccharine," says Jenna Lyons, creative director of J.Crew. "Wear the color away from the face."

The second image showcases J.Crew's Ringspun Cotton Rosette Tee (Item 13126; $48.00), Patent-leather jeans belt (Item 13767; $35.00), and glass bead necklace. Also, under "Worth the investment?" Jenna Lyons is quoted as saying: ...when it comes to clothing, Lyons says, "the color demands that the fabric be of better quality."

What are your thoughts on Jenna Lyons quotes (disagree or agree)? Also what are your thoughts on the second image- do you care for the J.Crew items featured? :)

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Product Review: Retro-Chambray Wendy Skirt

Retro-Chambray Wendy Skirt
Click here for product page
Item 12971
Regular: $78.00
Now: $59.50

"Thanks!" to Tigs who shared with us her great review (plus several real-life images) of this skirt.

I purchased the Wendy Retro-Chambray Skirt, item 12971, regular size 4, at full price a few weeks ago. It was $78.00 and is currently on promotion for $59.50.

I loved this skirt when I purchased it but have not worn it yet. I've read a few negative comments about it, and after reading Gigi's review today (click here) decided to try it on again to see what I was missing. Well, I agree it does nothing for my figure either.

I'm 5'7", 133 lbs, most of which I'm carrying on my hips and waist. I wear a size 6 in JCrew pants (cords, chino's, cargos, etc.) and skirts. I sized down one time to a size 4 in this skirt.

The Wendy has a "kilt-like" vibe to it in my opinion. I took some quick shots of it (excuse me, I didn't have time/am too lazy to create an outfit). A long fitted top out over the skirt helps the look but due to the buttons on the front waist band, you can't really get away with this look. Ideally I'm guessing it should be worn with a top tucked in and a long cardigan over it, as JCrew is showing in their pictures.

If I wanted to put some work into removing the buttons I could but there are other skirts that would require less work, and I just don't love the style of the skirt enough to put work into it. Hope this helps someone else make a decision. I'm sure it would look smashing on A Bigger Closet who is model thin!

"Thanks!" again to Tigs for her great review!

What are your thoughts on the Retro-Chambray Wendy Skirt? Are you considering or already have purchased this skirt? Have you seen this skirt in person? If so, please share with us your reviews too! :)

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Madewell Opening Tomorrow on Newbury (+15% off)

A big "thanks!" to Margot who shared with us this latest news & offer from Madewell. "Congrats!" to the shoppers in the Boston, MA area, as Madewell is opening a new store there tomorrow! :)

The address for the new location is:

329 Newbury Street
Boston, MA

Madewell is offering 15% off your purchases when you visit the new Madewell store. This offer expires 3/2/09. To redeem this offer, 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 scan the bar code).

Happy shopping! :)

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J.Crew Email: Pearls of wisdom...

J.Crew sent an email this morning showcasing their pearl necklaces. They are also reminding us of that final sale of theirs. ;)

I think J.Crew jewelry is one of their most controversial product lines (well for J.Crew that is), in that Aficionadas either really love it (because of the unique designs, color, and size) or they really hate it (because of the quality, the design, or the size). ;)

What are your thoughts on the pearls showcased in this email image? Would you purchase them? :)

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