I’ve Got the J. Crew Bug

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Angie is co-founder of YLF and its resident fashion stylist.

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Outfits Ensembles Trends Advice

I’ve Got the J. Crew Bug

— by Angie

on November 9, 2011

I have a motto of never leaving a retail stone unturned. Each retail season, I revisit a retailer no matter what my reservations were in the past, because things do change. New fashion buyers, merchandise management and senior management can radically affect a product assortment at store level. The point is that every retailer deserves a new chance to shine at the start of each new season.

Just over two years ago, I wrote about J. Crew, sharing my thoughts on how their merchandise had gone downhill. What used to be a fairly better-end brand, became completely mainstream and their quality was inconsistent at best. Their beautiful colours and innovative catalogue was inspiring, but their goods often led to disappointment in the fitting room. I also found the prices of their embellished tee’s, a favourite for my Mom on the Go clients, relatively expensive.

I’m happy to report that I’m impressed with J. Crew this season. I’m visiting their stores more regularly. My clients who shop there are happy with what they see and fit on. J. Crew have stepped up their quality and the vibrancy of their happy colours is unique in the marketplace. They’re showing a great mix of modern, strong and simple basic items in good fabrications and interesting colours. Their coats and jackets are especially fab and not over the top expensive for that level of workmanship.

On the other hand, I do find their almost-$200 silk blouses expensive, especially when you can purchase a beautifully lined wool coat for about $300. And as much as I like their knitwear, it’s still a gamble as to how well it will handle a few laundry cycles.

If you had given up on J. Crew, give them another chance. Particularly if you’re enjoying saturated colours and clean lines this season. You don’t need to have a preppy style to wear J. Crew clothing. Make the items your own by wearing them in ways that reflect your style. I’ve bought two woven items at J. Crew this season and I absolutely adore them. I have definitely got the J. Crew bug at the moment.

Let’s have another discussion about J. Crew. Have you noticed a quality improvement this year? Do you frequent their stores and purchase their merchandise? Do you enjoy their catalogues? Do you find their prices reasonable, or expensive? Bring it on. I want to hear all your thoughts.

Designers & Brands

71 comments · Add a comment

sarah

Veteran

I’ve been coming back to JCrew, as well – for example, after searching and searching for white bootcuts this summer, I found a pair that I love at JCrew, along with a striped flyaway knit cardi that was a summer staple. This fall I’ve bought a couple of button-downs (including my wear-almost-every-day purple gingham and a lovely blue one) and a cable-knit pullover. I just ordered a pair of their high waisted skinny jeans – I’m crossing my fingers that they fit well! (The corduroy equivalent that I was able to try on in the store were perfect). I bought two necklaces from JCrew over the past couple of months as well.

I do find that their clothing is on the expensive side, but they give a 15% education discount to teachers and students which helps. And I’ve found several items in their back “sale” room that have been heavily discounted, so I always check there when I’m in the store.

I LOVE their jackets, but have yet to invest in one.

November 9, 2011 at 4:04 am

JennyAnne

(website)

Veteran

I have loved J Crew for at least a decade, forremost for the style and fit on me. I found out the hard way that their factory/outlet stores are tricky, though – you can get really good J Crew things or sometimes a cheaper-made version, so you really have to look.

November 9, 2011 at 4:05 am

rute

Veteran

We don’t have J.Crew here so I can’t say nothing about the quality, but those jackets are lovely!

November 9, 2011 at 4:17 am

Patti @ NotDeadYet Style

(website)

I drool over their catalogs, but find their pieces overpriced for the quality. I’ll buy on a deep discount, though, and they do have lovely colors.

November 9, 2011 at 4:21 am

Jonesy

Veteran

Sarah, I didn’t realize that the discount applied for profs–I thought it was only for elementary/secondary school teachers!

I have always shopped at J. Crew. I love their colors and their kooky mix of retro/vintage with preppy, plus I can find tall sizes in pants and coats/jackets which is key for me. My main winter coat was purchased there maybe 4 years ago and is still going strong. I have a pair of leather boots that are roughly 8 years old and still look very fresh. I never buy t-shirts there–the quality is not worth the price. But I do buy sweaters, woven/silk tops, pants, coats, jackets, accessories, and my style is certainly not preppy :).

November 9, 2011 at 4:53 am

Laura

(website)

Veteran

How interesting! I have a hard time discerning quality (until I get the item home, wash it, and watch it disintegrate) so my confidence level in JCrew is much higher just hearing Angie’s professional take on it. I haven’t bought anything there in years. For a while, their color palette and my color palette did not see eye to eye

After reading “Parisian Chic” by our friend Ines de la Fressange, the thought occurred that the U.S. retailer with the most Parisian chic items is JCrew. Shrunken velvet blazers (like the one you show, bottom right), ballet flats, jeweled sandals, cashmere v-neck sweaters, silk blouses, rope bracelets – it’s all very Parisian chic.

How do people find their fit? I’ve always found it all over the place. What body type does JCrew fit best?

November 9, 2011 at 5:10 am

Jonesy

Veteran

Laura, I’ve found their sizing to be all over the map: sometimes things are big, sometimes TTS, sometimes small. Overall, they seem to be cut for a rectangle, IMHO, especially in the bust department.

November 9, 2011 at 5:32 am

Janet

(website)

Veteran

My issues with JCrew in the recent past have been 1) items not cut to accommodate hourglassy shapes, and 2) colors that don’t appeal to me — pastels, tans, etc.

I’d be happy to give them a try again. I am in the market for a simple denim/chambray shirt, so maybe that’s a good possibility. I have noticed more vibrant colors in their storefronts lately, which does appeal to me!

November 9, 2011 at 5:52 am

k-t

I’ve been lukewarm on J.Crew for quite a few years now, but keep hoping that they will rise up again. This season they *finally* have some decent colors again, after many years of washed out hints of color.

I lusted after the pencil skirt in purple, but it sold out almost immediately. Fortunately, as Halogen pencil skirts at Nordstrom were just as good of a fit, also in beautiful colors, and close to half the price. When Nordstrom has the better deal, the store is too expensive, IMO.

Their shoes are beautiful, but hideously expensive and too high of a heel for me (I top out at 2.75″).

As someone who shops mostly online, I find the inconsistency in the sizing to be a major stumbling block. Once upon a time I was reliably a 6 in the Favorite Cut and a 4 in the City cut. Now, there’s no knowing what size I should get. Which means the clearance sales are off limits to me.

As to what body shape they suit, Jonesy is probably right in that (in general) they work well for rectangles. Which is why I (busty, no waist, narrow hips) can wear their pants and not their dresses, and tops are hit or miss.

Boden has pretty much replaced J.Crew for me when I’m looking for color and spunk for either my work or casual wardrobe.

November 9, 2011 at 5:54 am

Nakidra

Veteran

I could not agree more! I am a long time J.Crew fan from years back and noticed the quality declining over the years. I was especially disappointed with the knit wear which would become holey and worn after one or two wears. The last few items that I’ve purchased this season have been so much better and I’ve enjoyed their styling so much more. I also have fell back in love with their suits – I own probably 4 or 5 different J Crew suits, some of them are horrible and some of them are great. The ones that I purchased recently are so much better than the ones I got last season.
I will say that most of the stuff eventually goes on sale so it’s worth the wait if you’ve been lusting after something and it is too expensive.
I also have to say that I’m loving their Crewcut stuff for my crew recently. The kids items can be expensive too, but they always go on sale. I’ve been able to score some pretty good things for my kids recently at a deep discount. Love it!!
Thanks for this post Angie! I’ve got to go visit my J. Crew today!

November 9, 2011 at 6:02 am

Diana

Veteran

I do not own a single item from J Crew and honestly never feel inspired or compelled to even step inside the store. Most of their clothes are also not made for my body type. I’ll stop in one of these days and check out the new merchandise though.

While it is true that store like J Crew that are very much not my style will surely have nice individual pieces that I can fit into my wardrobe and personal style, I don’t really feel inspired most of the time to go look for them (unless it’s something very specific that I see someone on YLF wearing or something) because the store itself is not inspiring to me, if that makes sense. I don’t enjoy casually browsing and shopping there. I’d much rather go into a store that’s my style (say, Anthro or H&M) or to one that has no style (TJ Maxx) or multiple styles (department stores) because I find those more inspiring.

November 9, 2011 at 6:39 am

Claire Kayser

(website)

I LOVE J Crew!!! There’s a store just 4 blocks from my home – lucky me! I’m an artist, so I live mostly in basic-type clothes that J Crew’s basic pieces fit the bill nicely. Really, for dressing up more than my painting clothes and to go out, I love J Crew, too! Great coats and colors! I just added the majestic purple one (really looks like royal blue) pictured in this post. Love it! Their suits have been fabulous, t’s, chinos and their Italian-made shoes can’t be beat for fit, form and overall look. Try them again if you haven’t in a while or ever!

November 9, 2011 at 6:41 am

mrseccentric

(website)

Veteran

i’ve always been a fan of J.Crew’s – windows. i love the shapes, silhouettes, colors and color combos, and the fun details.

But as Jonesy says, they cut for rectangles. As an hourglass with linebacker shoulders, i’ve never found a J.Crew item that fits. So now i just don’t bother.

They do seem to be pretty expensive, and the ones near me never have decent sales. I am happy to hear that their quality is on the up for their fans, but i’ll stick to window shopping. steph

November 9, 2011 at 6:43 am

sarah

Veteran

*chuckling at Jonesy* – you of all people need to know about that 15% discount applying to profs!

I, too, have found their sizing to be all over the place, but generally running large.

November 9, 2011 at 6:46 am

(website)

Veteran

Ditto what Diana said! I may indeed find some pieces that are my style but the overall vibe isn’t me, so I’m not drawn to go find out. The pricing puts me off, as well, especially when it’s not droolworthy to start with! I would find myself debating those prices at BCBG before J Crew!

November 9, 2011 at 6:47 am

Sarah

(website)

Veteran

You’ve inspired me to give J Crew a seco…thi…no, fourth chance. The up and down has turned me off, and I almost never shop there.
Which is so odd because two years ago it was my Mothership.
I’m looking for sweaters so perhaps I’ll give them a shot.

November 9, 2011 at 6:49 am

Alicat

I had written off J Crew after some tee shirts fell apart in the wash, but now I’m willing to give them another look. Thanks, Angie.

November 9, 2011 at 6:53 am

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Great J. Crew perceptions, ladies!

Nakidra, we were on the same wavelength this week about J. Crew.

Laura, nice comparison with Parisian Chic.

Alicat, they had a really bad run with their embellished tissue weight tees for several seasons. They shrunk and stretched out after one wash and cost $49! I do like their basic tee this season though. It’s much more substantial and fits quite well.

Jonsey, I agree with your assessment about J.Crew sizing being all over the place. Lately though, I have found that their knitwear, jackets and coats run true to size. Also, you are the perfect example of someone who is NOT preppy and wears their stuff with panache

As for their cut, I also think that it’s inconsistently suited to many body types. Just last week I had a few very curvy hourglass clients in J. Crew and the stuff fit like a dream (jackets, coats and blouses). I have few curves, and the cut works for me too.

November 9, 2011 at 7:27 am

Isabel

Veteran

Admittedly, I started looking at JCrew after Michelle Obama put them back in the spotlight. I don’t buy much there, I find them pricey and feel that I can get what I need at the Loft. I do have a couple of sweaters from them that I love and have held up well. The one thing I love of theirs is the jewelry !! It is fabulous and usually made of oxidized brass. I have quite a few pieces.

November 9, 2011 at 7:27 am

chewyspaghetti

Veteran

I always like the look of J Crew stuff, but I never live close enough to a store to really experience it. I think the one in Pasadena might be the closest one to me. I do have a factory store an hour away now.

November 9, 2011 at 7:31 am

rae

(website)

Veteran

Sigh… I just wish they weren’t so spendy… :T Even the outlet prices were a little high the last time I went. The sales were pretty good when I visited Dad in the midwest, though. Maybe the pricing is worse where I am.

November 9, 2011 at 7:34 am

Amanda

I love what J. Crew does with color, but I have a very had time getting good fits–I agree that they cut for rectangular types, and I’m very hour-glassy with a large bust. The shirts (especially anything v-neck) that look modest and elegant on the small busted models look vampy on me. And though I love the look of their pencil skirts, they don’t’ work for my tiny waist/big hips combo.

It’s annoying because I love their colors.

I also wish they offered more sweaters and knits in petites, because I’m also on the petite side and just about every tee I’ve picked up J. Crew has had to be shortened.

November 9, 2011 at 7:34 am

Queen Mum

Veteran

I always hear you saying, as I pass by a store to snub it, to give every retailer a new chance each season. Advice to live by

November 9, 2011 at 7:44 am

Sammi

I shop at J. Crew frequently since their fits work really well for my body type. I agree their sizing can be inconsistent. However, I frequently get sized out of items in other stores (but can’t shop petites), so I actually find the variety helpful.

The quality has been all over the map in the last several years. I have 6 year old items that look brand new and things from last season that look worn out. I feel similarly about their pricing. Since it’s so easy for me to find good fits I’ve continued shopping there, but have learned to check items really carefully for poor craftsmanship.

I have been really happy with the things I’ve found there this season. Especially button-ups, lined jackets and vests, and merino wool sweaters. I’ve purchased several things which I thought were exceptionally well made.

November 9, 2011 at 7:47 am

Sammi

I just went back and read the comments about body type. Interesting! I am an hourglass, not a rectangle, but very straight. I agree that not everything in J. Crew is cut for a straight figure, but I think their cuts are kinder to this body type than many retailers.

November 9, 2011 at 7:52 am

bj1111

Veteran

i adore jcrew colors and the style. overall though, i don’t think they deliver the value that i’m seeking for my spending dollar. for example, i love that hacking jacket with the piping, but not at the original price point. by the time the sales hit, i’m out of luck with sizing.

November 9, 2011 at 8:04 am

Marvel Girl

Active Member

I just made my first purchase with J Crew a few days ago so we’ll see how it goes. I love how they’re doing basics in super bright colors. I purchased that velvet blazer in the lower right in a deep blue but they also have it in a bright orange that just makes me salivate. They are pretty expensive to me though. I would not have made a purchase without the 25% code. Besides the blazer, I bought a button down gingham shirt and I think it came out to be $50 with the blazer being $130. That’s makes sense to me.

November 9, 2011 at 8:07 am

lynne

Veteran

How timely, Angie! I’ve just caught that same virus. I’ve been away from Jcrew for a couple of years, but am planning a trip later today. I ordered a pair of the Waverly chinos and like them so much that I have to see some more colors – and they’re on sale!

November 9, 2011 at 8:12 am

Christie

I’ve always admired their woolen coats you pictured.

November 9, 2011 at 8:25 am

classically casual

This topic has brought me out of lurkdom. Since discovering YLF earlier this fall, I’ve revamped my wardrobe. Inspired by Angie’s posts and all of you, I’ve bought new clothes, bags, boots & booties. And they’re all great. And I’ve shopped in stores I haven’t shopped before.

Which brings me to this topic. Unfortunately, J Crew is one of the stores where I’m invisible. SA’s won’t make eye contact or greet me. When I go in I’m well dressed, well groomed and attempt to look approachable. But evidently they’re not interested in the mid-sixties demographic. I’m amused by it, and I’m now keeping a running list in my mind of where my invisible cloak is working and where it’s not. Believe me, this is not an issue in Nordstrom!

November 9, 2011 at 8:25 am

Vicki

(website)

Veteran

J. Crew has been turning my head more recently and I seem inclined to enter their store these days. I agree, that fashion buyers and the direction of a company can change, so it doesn’t hurt to take a second look.

I love the olive moss school boy blazer in velvet and it reminds me of one I adored in the ’70s that was a wardrobe staple for me back in the day in Cleveland. It’s funny, I remember wearing it with huge wide-legged burnt orange hip-hugger jeans and a cute print shirt.

Yes, I agree with the sizing issues. I had a particularly tough time getting the right size gingham shirt, so ordering online, while I like that, makes me feel a bit uneasy, wondering what the fit will be like. Fortunately, the store will take online returns.

November 9, 2011 at 8:33 am

LibraCyn

Active Member

I am sorry to report that I had been buying their chinos and other dress pants for years and lately I have noticed a downward shift in quality. (I have the “straighter” body type.) The fabric they now use is thinner, and I have noticed a pair of chinos I bought in June is already beginning to fray at the hem. (I think I’ve worn them about 6-7 times–) This is also the case with two other pairs purchased about a year ago. I almost complained and sent them back–they are too expensive to be wearing out this quickly. Their everyday chinos used to be a very nice fit and thicker, higher quality fabric about 4-5 years ago. Also, the closures on the pants are not as intricate (used to be they had both an inside button and hooks but now it’s just hooks and no button.) Their prices are high, needless to say, and if the quality is not up to par, then who wants to spend that much for pants that wear out after a year?

Now I am going to Gap–their pants are actually wearing very well compared to the more expensive ones at J. Crew.

Am just not very excited about the whole J. Crew thing anymore. They used to be my go-to online store. . . But sadly no more.

November 9, 2011 at 8:36 am

catgirl

Veteran

I love the idea of j. crew. Back in the 80s it was the brand I couldn’t afford and totally coveted. And I still buy from them now and then. However, I find the pricing to be a little random and outrageous for the quality, and the sizing is very inconsistent. Also, they are often short on stock and I consider it false advertising. That said, I will continue to consider them because of your motto!

November 9, 2011 at 8:48 am

Erin

I’ve had such a hard time with fit of J. Crew pieces that I usually find myself going to Banana or other places for similar pieces (there is not a J. Crew pant made that will fit me, I do not know why). But I love that mustard vintage tweed jacket you show above. At $198 it’s super pricey for me, but if it’s good quality I can deal. But, do you guys think a short hourglass/pear can wear that jacket? Generally I go for things that have a big more waist cinching to them but for whatever reason I’m really drawn to that jacket. Thoughts?

November 9, 2011 at 8:59 am

Jjsloane

Veteran

I get inspired by their catalogues, have older pieces from them that I love, but only purchase on deep discount (sale items plus extra 40% off). I almost bought a few things this week and remembered I am trying to SYC so I refrained. All the colorful pants and skirts I saw were sold out in the color/sizes I wanted and I’m still trying to figure out how to not freeze my ankles in wool ankle pants in winter.

Crewcuts has some nice things, but also a bit pricey for kids growing out of them in less than a year.

November 9, 2011 at 9:05 am

Janette@the2seasons.com

(website)

I have noticed that you have gotten “very commercial” recently and can’t help but wonder if you wrote this post because you and J Crew have struck a deal, so to speak.

November 9, 2011 at 9:11 am

nancylee

Veteran

I had given up on JCrew recently, mostly because of their inconsistent sizing. The cut of their blazers, skirts, and shirts seemed to vary widely. I often found myself between sizes, or unhappy with the cut of the items I tried on. The catalogs were/are always appealing, though, so I fell into a pattern (like a lot of us!) of getting excited only to be disappointed when I actually tried things on.

This year, however, I’ve actually made some JCrew purchases. Their “Perfect Shirt” collection seems to be a flattering (and accurately sized) offering, and the colors for fall are great…super vibrant and lovely. I also had good luck with a denim shirt.

I agree with you, Angie. They do seem to be improving their collections. I still haven’t ventured out of simple JCrew button shirts and the occasional accessory, but maybe I will now.

November 9, 2011 at 9:20 am

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Janette, no, we don’t have a “deal” with J.Crew. If we did, it would say so in the post. We are very careful about disclosing this sort of thing.

In this case, we are not even a J.Crew affiliate partner. But if we were, I would have written the same article and disclosed our relationship.

Fashion itself is very commercial. One of the things I offer here is my opinion on retailers and their merchandise. I have done so since starting the blog in early 2006.

Of course, the advice is only useful to readers who trust YLF as a source.

November 9, 2011 at 9:34 am

Sona

Veteran

I think Laura nailed it on the head- very parisian chic currently. I am loving their blazer collection currently. pricing does seem to vary though.

Angie: every post of yours is so transparent in any kind of affiliation and this is really appreciated. YLF is a forum I trust for honest, upfront, fashion advice with an amazing community feel. Thank you Angie and the YLF crew!!

November 9, 2011 at 9:43 am

mamark

Active Member

I find J Crew cuts for a more straight up-and-down figure than mine. In the past I have liked their wool coats and I still have one that I wear pretty regularly. Bless them for carrying Tall sizes! But little other than the coats and some sweaters fit me.

Angie, I enjoy your reviews of specific retailers and I would love to see more!

November 9, 2011 at 9:44 am

Auburn

Veteran

Last year I found myself drawn to J. Crew after a many year hiatus and have made several large (volume) purchases from the website. However, I’m still decidedly mixed on them, as a retailer.

PROs:
-Punchy, fun colors
-Fab catalog that usually makes me want almost everything in it
-Good work basics (especially pencil skirts)
-Reasonable (to me) price point for work attire

CONs:
-VERY inconsistent fit: I might be a 2 in a blouse and a 6 in a jacket or, worse, two different sizes in the EXACT same item
-Seriously weird catalog availability issues: the bricks and mortar stores have a fraction of what is online but the website inventory operates like something out of the Bermuda Triangle. A catalog will come out and I’ll go to purchase an item THAT day and it’s backordered for months. Sometimes a store can find it for you but I find the whole process annoying. There are scores of blog posts out there about this.
-Inconsistent quality: as a recent example, I just ordered a cream cable neck turtleneck sweater that was so cozy and soft. However I paired it with a pencil skirt and went off to work and within an hour my skirt, office chair and everything I touched was COVERED in cream hair. That one is going back for sure!
-Schizophrenic mix of price points: Angie has posted on this too, I think, but I can’t help but think they need to work on a more consistent point of view rather than tossing in $1000+ items as a way to make them seem like a more “luxe” brand
-Their shoes NEVER work for me. Ever.

I do have many J. Crew items I love but when I order from the website, I do so knowing that between 50-90% of the order will have to go back for fit/quality issues. Not a great success rating. Also, I always try to wait for deals when I order–at least 20% off my order plus free shipping.

November 9, 2011 at 9:55 am

Sylvie

Veteran

The factory quality *is* very hit or miss.

Cardigans from outlet store – crappy quality, fell apart
Black wool coat from outlet store – beautifully cut, fits perfectly, wore it all last winter

In the normal store, their sizing is all over the place. I’ve always found their tops about 6 inches too long in the torso and they don’t carry the petites in store. Their pricing is so high, it’s not practical to place a multiple size online order, just for the privilege of trying things on and then returning them.

November 9, 2011 at 9:55 am

alice

(website)

Two weeks ago I would have had nothing to say about JCrew because I’ve never been able to find my size in stores. This is a problem I have with many stores, but the other day I decided to order their double cloth metro coat (with 25% off and free shipping) and it fits fantastically! The quality is excellent and I love love the high collar and narrow sleeves. A fitted sleeve is really important to me for jackets and blazers and can be rather difficult for me to find. JCrew is now very much on my radar.

November 9, 2011 at 10:03 am

nancylee

Veteran

Auburn, your analysis of JCrew’s website inventory as operating “like something out of the Bermuda Triangle” is spot on. I’ve had the same frustrating backorder issues with their “new” items.

Thanks for making me laugh!

November 9, 2011 at 10:31 am

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Sammi, I’m glad that you chimed in about your thoughts on J. Crew because they have for many years been your number one choice of retailer. It seems that inconsistent sizing and quality is a concern for most of us. And it’s a legitimate one! I bought a turtle neck there two days ago and wore it yesterday. So far, no pilling. We’ll see what happens after a few trips to the cleaners.

Thanks, Sona and Mamark.

Classically Casual, thanks for de-lurking. I’m sorry to hear that J. Crew stores make you feel invisible. That makes me mad.

Alice! I just bought the double cloth metro coat too and love it. It’s so very lady-like, beautifully made, and fits like a dream. It’s one of my favourite purchases this year because the colour (fame) makes me so happy.

A fantastic analysis, Auburn. Your “cons” list brings up excellent points. You’re right. I posted about J.Crew’s weird online pricing strategy earlier this year – selling items that cost $80 next to items that cost thousands of dollars. Still don’t know what that is all about.

November 9, 2011 at 10:57 am

Debora

Veteran

I haven’t shopped much in JCrew; I think the last time I was in there was to buy a belt for DS last Christmas. Thanks to this post, I’ll be sure to give it another look. Thanks, Angie!

November 9, 2011 at 11:01 am

Kathleen

I agree with several others’ comments about the catalog. I pour over each one and as one who sews some of her clothes, take inspiration from the colors and styling. The stores are generally disappointing in comparison unless I hit the sales at the right time, like the day after Christmas! I never find pants that fit. I think, even though I am slim and fit, they are cut for a more youthful figure :/ Annother consistent fit problem is in the shoulders. I wear a small or a 4, but always get a pull across the shoulders in my size with most wovens and some knits. If I size up, the garment swims in the bodice. My daughter fits the brand well, she isn’t as tall, or broad shouldered, and of course, is much younger If we shop at Crew seriously, it’s always the sales.

November 9, 2011 at 11:03 am

Nakidra

Veteran

Classically casual, the J Crew I shop in caters mostly to the mid-sixties woman and her daughter at the same time. I’m sorry for your experience because the store really has something for everyone. Just thought I’d chime because because I know exactly how it feels to be “unwanted” in a store! :0

November 9, 2011 at 11:12 am

rachylou

Veteran

I love looking at the J. Crew catalog and site. I’ve yet to buy anything from them in a long while.

November 9, 2011 at 11:12 am

Palmfronds

wow, so true.I am all over J Crew this season–infact those burnt orange wool trousers I wore on MOnday were from J Crew
Their dress cuts and sizing do not fit hourglass figures very well in my opinion. Their pants(in favorite fit esp) and jackets are a dream, and this season is fab. Pricing can be harsh and alot of my JCrew stuff comes via Ebay.
ONline I am stalking several of their bright colored wool items this winter, like their pencil skirts and trousers Not many other places offer wool/cashmere is such wonderful array of colors as JCrew. For me, now discovering how much bright colors work with my personal style, it is worth the buy(or stalking until sale time

November 9, 2011 at 11:21 am

Scarlet

Veteran

I am not drawn to very classic cuts and therefore don’t shop much at J.Crew for myself except for accessories–scarves, hosiery, hair bobs. I do look there for my DH and my sis though. I find the quality and sizing very inconsistent. I find it frustrating that it is very hard to judge what size is me because for any particular item, it could be a different number. I do enjoy their colors and prints. Strangely enough the catalog doesn’t excite me. I am very drawn to their shoes, but the price combined with the fear of bad quality keeps me from buying.

November 9, 2011 at 12:12 pm

Kate

Veteran

I’m in my mid-50s and have had the same experience as Classically Casual. If J. Crew was a store I shopped in, that would bother me, but I don’t, so I was amused more than anything.

I was at the mall last evening returning an item, and made a point of stopping in at J. Crew, because I had recently seen the new catalog and was very taken with some of the coats and trousers.

The store was a big disappointment–bad layout, bad lighting and scanty stock of the new items. There may well have been some gems there to be unearthed, but I had zero incentive to dig. I find that if a store doesn’t encourage lingering, the chance that I will browse and try on clothes is virtually nil (this doesn’t apply to discount retailers where the thrill of the hunt is part of the experience).

I can say that J. Crew’s Perfect Fit shirt line is very nice, having bought one at the retailer’s outlet store back in the summer.

November 9, 2011 at 12:37 pm

san

Veteran

I’ve never been a J Crew shopper but I do admire their wool coats.

November 9, 2011 at 12:49 pm

Jenava

(website)

Veteran

I have a pair of denim, a pair of trousers (cropped bright ochid pink), a v-neck cashmere sweater, and a plaid buttondown shirt from J. Crew. All of the items I own have held up well and fit me well (hour glass to pear-shape). This has changed from years ago when their pants were consistently too skinny in the leg and skimpy in the booty for me. I find the button-down (perfect fit, I think?) to be relaxed through the body and so I do not have gaping issues.

I do enjoy their catalogs, and I do find sometimes I can’t stomach their full-prices…I will pop for an item if it’s unique enough in the mkt place and if it seems to be well made (i.e. my pink pants).

November 9, 2011 at 1:00 pm

Rita

I gave up on J Crew a few years ago for the exact reasons you wrote about. The fit and the quality just were not there – plus it was all too expensive. I ended up giving away one of their classic cardigans because after one wash, it looked like a sack. I have had much better luck at Ann Taylor Loft, which happens to be right next door to J Crew here in Austin.

November 9, 2011 at 1:09 pm

SkiDiva

Active Member

Before this season I’ve only had one or two items from J. Crew, but their vibrant flame color really lured me in this fall. I couldn’t resist the pencil skirt and hacking jacket in that color when they had the 25% off sale at the end of October, and the vibrant flame lady day coat is on its way to me as we speak! It’s probably a good thing that I haven’t found the Minnie pant very flattering, or I might also own a pair of orange pants!

Another item I really like is the perfect fit mixed-tape cardigan. It comes in a nice range of colors, fits well, and isn’t partially see-through like many thinner cardigans I’ve seen lately.

I do find that their prices are often higher than I’ve been willing to pay, and the colors that I like best often seem to sell out before they can be marked down, which is part of the reason I haven’t bought much from them in the past.

November 9, 2011 at 1:15 pm

Lisa

Veteran

I gave up on JCrew for a while. Too many embellishments on their tops for my taste. In the past 6 months or so, I’ve started purchasing their items again. I really like their selection of colors right now and the quality of their cashmere and their blazers. And I’ve always liked their solid color layering T’s.

November 9, 2011 at 1:29 pm

Tiffany

I LOVE J Crew – if only they shipped to Australia. Occasionally I find something via Net-a-Porter and I’ve loved everything I’ve.

November 9, 2011 at 2:42 pm

taylor

Veteran

I have always loved Jcrew, In fact for many years I thought Ann
Taylor copied some of their stuff…I have always found the quality very good on the items I have purchased and some things were very well priced when on sale:)

November 9, 2011 at 3:11 pm

Melody

Active Member

I love jcrew … I’m still wearing their suits I’ve had for 4/5+ years. All of them were purchased on sale … the cuts are classic and the quality has held up wonderfully. I’ve not noticed much variation in size, but I tend to find a pants cut I prefer and stick with it. I almost always shop on-line, and almost always shop just the sale items. That being said, I rarely come out with much when I visit the store.

Also, I think their swimsuit options are great. I think they are as good as sites that specialize just in swimwear.

November 9, 2011 at 4:39 pm

Laurinda

Nothing in my size (18) so I avoid them.

November 9, 2011 at 6:32 pm

Joy

Veteran

I first tried shopping at JCrew a couple of years ago to try the Matchstix clam diggers i read about on YLF. I did buy a pair which are summer workhorses but the SAs clearly didn’t want a woman in her mid 60’s shopping there. Like Classically Casual, I’m invisible there. The closest shop in the mall has closed so it now takes more effort to get to a JCrew.
That said, I do love the blue coat and would love it in bright red.

November 9, 2011 at 7:40 pm

Kristine

Veteran

I’m new to JCrew this year. The style really suits my taste and life, business-like but with a modern edge. I’ve been suit shopping and have tried on a few from JCrew. I loved one but discovered that the jacket and skirt were slightly different colors. Very dissapointing for a suit around $500. But then I tried a suit from their factory line and I liked it even more (and the dyes matched!). I’ve tried a few sweaters also but found them thin and shapeless for the price.

November 9, 2011 at 7:49 pm

Lynn

Funny that you mention the silk blouses being expensive. They’re really not that bad when you consider that tie-neck silk blouses of similar quality on Piperlime or at Bloomingdales (DVF is an example) are over $250 so I was happy to see that (with a coupon code) you could get a similar blouse at JCrew for almost $100 less. I’m just happy that they have silk blouses since many of the stores that I used to depend on for natural fibers (Banana Republic and Ann Taylor) are showing blouses in polyester this year, which I won’t wear.

November 9, 2011 at 10:30 pm

Elbe

Active Member

We have a tiny JCrew store near my house, but it has a limited selection. I have looked on-line but the sizing is extremely inconsistent. They (and every other online retailer) should list the actual garment measurements in each size so that you know what you are getting. Another problem with their on-line merchandise is that some items have lots of pictures and other items have only one. It is difficult to buy something based only on one picture.

I agree that they are overpriced. I used to go to the outlet store back in the 80’s/early 90’s. Back then, they were actual items from their store. Now it is a bunch of stuff and a not much lower price point to make people think they are getting the same goods – they aren’t. I have the same issue with Ann Taylor’s and Coach’s factory outlet stores.

November 10, 2011 at 9:54 am

kacythestylist

Member

I particularly love J. Crew’s merchandise and colorways this season as well! I have been shopping there frequently with clients, as well as shopping there myself—and their outerwear is particularly lovely, with the versatility and quality of their standby Italian double cloth. Also, the No. 2 pencil skirt is worth the investment!

That said, I agree that pricing is inconsistent. While I happy to pay around $300 for a tailored winter coat, their silks and holiday fabrics tend to be on the very pricey side when up against comparable retailers. I also think that their footwear and accessories are exceedingly pricey, as their Italian leather—though nice—seems to only last a season or two before getting scuffed and/or scrunched.

November 10, 2011 at 10:04 am

Marley

Veteran

Just getting caught up on some “old” blog posts and found this one an interesting read. I have never been a J.Crew fan for several reasons – everything was always too big for me, the quality of the clothing was not worth the price – IMO – and the classic, casual style didn’t fit with my style. I would everyonce in awhile purchase something from J. Crew – but I always felt like a fraud in it – and found myself usually giving the pieces away after just a few wears. I also felt like the catalogues portrayed a life-style that just didn’t seem “real” to me – and so I haven’t been in a J. Crew in years. However, after reading your recommendation Angie, if I weren’t SYCing – I would definitely check them out again!

November 16, 2011 at 9:29 pm

rakushka

Active Member

Interesting conversation – I just now had the time to get through all the comments. I myself am obsessed with JCrew. I have started shopping with them back in 1999 when I needed clothes for my first job out of college, and JCrew, while quite pricey for me back then, was the only place that had decent, good quality, classic clothes. BTW, those clothes that I bought back then I still own, and majority are in a very decent condition. It was the only place that was selling pants that were long enough! Now, I would agree with complains about quality, inconsistent sizing and weird pricing, but overall, I just LOVE JCrew’s style and I do think that, while inconsistent, their quality is better than that of their competitors. I think Banana Republic sucks, and their quality is simply atrocious, and prices outrageous. So, compared to Banana, JCrew is great. I also started to buy Crewcuts from them for my kids – yes, pricey, but I never pay full price, and style is great.

November 17, 2011 at 7:38 pm

Robin B.

Active Member

I have been shopping J. Crew for a few years now on a consistent basis. Some of their items are a bit pricey, but there are deals to be had. I usually shop the sale section of their website, especially when an additional 20% or so is offered on sale items. I also frequent a warehouse sale in Arden, NC where you can get fantastic deals but you have to really look the items over for blemishes. My favorite item right now is the wear to work dresses. I’m petite and I have found these dresses fit me well. I do think that quality can sometimes be inconsistent, but overall I love J. Crew styling. I also really like their jeans, many of which are made in the USA.

November 27, 2011 at 6:52 am

Mamavalveeta03

Veteran

I realize this is an older post, but I’m a HUGE J Crew fan! I buy a lot of their items now, but I know what you were talking about several yrs. ago. I find that the fit it pretty great for me, with the exception of their jeans, which I think run small. Although, that being said, I CAN wear their trouser jeans quite well. I find some items to be reasonably priced, but of course, I’m the “Sale Queen”, so I rarely pay full-price for anything unless I’m in love with it. I’m frustrated with shopping in their boutiques, however, because I think they want skinny women to shop in their stores and the rest of us fatties to order online. I never find a size 14 and rarely and XL in-store! BOO!!! (as for laundering, I find I get pills under my armpits whether it’s J Crew, INHABIT, or Target! I think I’m just a heavy sweater…pun intended!)

May 26, 2012 at 10:05 am

Madlovemom

Active Member

I like J Crew’s classic pieces like the Boyfriend blazer and classic Haberdashery button downs. But the models in the website depress me. They all look so gaunt and gloomy. I can’t tolerate browsing the website anymore. I’d rather just see the clothes. I feel these clothes aren’t for me because model after model is the same exact concave physique.

November 20, 2013 at 9:39 pm

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