I think juniors gets a bad rep for three reasons - cut, color/pattern, and material. A lot of junior items are cheap for a reason. They are cut very rectangular with few seams, come in tarty colors and patterns, and are made of the cheapest possible polyester.
I think juniors is completely acceptable if the cut allows for curves and is tailored, the color and pattern have some sophistication, and the material is quality. For example, I purchased a couple cotton sundresses from Macy's and you'd never guess they were juniors. They look just like the patterns and colors you find in the "adult" section, but for 2/3 less.
All in all, I think juniors is like any department - you have to shop with a critical eye.
