Wednesday, September 17, 2008

J.Crew Stores: Grand Opening List!

"Thanks!" to TJ at J.Crew who shared with us the following list (shown below) of the new J.Crew store locations. TJ aslo adds that the "expected opening dates for these stores range from October to December. Of course, the exact dates are subject to change and have not been officially set for most of these stores".
  • Little Rock, AR {first store in Arkansas!}
  • Emeryville, CA (Opening: 3.17.2009)
  • Fresno, CA (Opening: 10.28.2008)
  • Los Gatos, CA (Opening: 4.14.2009)
  • Malibu, CA (Opening: 3.19.2009)
  • Aspen, CO
  • Canton, CT (Opening: 9.30.2008)
  • New Canaan, CT {crewcuts only} (Opening: 3.31.2009)
  • Stamford, CT (Opening 11.25.2008)
  • Greenwich, CT {Madewell store} (Opening: 03.03.2009)
  • Miami, FL (Opening 12.09.2008)
  • Orlando, FL (factory store) (Opening 11.6.2008)
  • Atlanta, GA
  • Marietta, GA (Opening: 10.14.2008)
  • Lake Forest, IL (Opening 11.18.2008 )
  • Leawood, KS (Opening 5.19.2009)
  • Hingham, MA {crewcuts only}
  • St Louis, MO (Opening 10.28.2008)
  • St Louis, MO- another one, yey! (Opening 3.03.2009)
  • Roseville, MN (Opening: 9.30.2008)
  • Freehold, NJ (Opening 10.28.2008)
  • Cherry Hill, NJ (Opening 3.31.2009)
  • Madison ave, NYC {Collection Store} (Opening: 10.10.2008)
  • Broadway, NYC {Men's Only} (Opening 4.21.2009)
  • Wilmington, NC (Opening: 9.23.2008)
  • Woodburn, OR (Opening 2.24.2009)
  • Gaffney, SC (Opening: 3.03.2009)
  • San Antonio, TX (Opening: 10.24.2008)
  • Fredericksburg, VA
  • Seattle, WA (Opening: 5.12.2009)
Also, "thanks!" to J.H. & Heidi (in this post) who let us know that Roseville, MN will have a J.Crew store (and is expected to open 9/30/08).

"Thanks!" to Luigi (in this post) who let us know about the factory store opening in Orlando, Florida. :)

Are you excited about the new stores opening up? (I know I am- since there will be two more stores in CT!!!) Are any of these stores near you? Or are you planning to make a special trip to any of these stores? :)

193 comments:

  1. . . . Like I said they are expanding like Starbucks, but only within the US. If only they adjusted some of their resources elsewhere . . . say Europe.

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  2. None of the stores are near me, but I am interested in seeing the Malibu store in the future. Interesting.

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  3. Miami...really? I was hoping for a new store in the Orlando area, or at least a Crewcuts nearby...bummer. :(

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  4. I am kind of surprised they are putting one in Fredericksburg, but I guess the town is growing... NOVA is inching further south. The Fburg area is still kinda, umm, rural, even with UMW there. I wonder if it will be like the one in cville (a smallish mall store, with friendly enough staff) or if it will be more upscale and have a larger selection (like the snobby store in Short Pump). I don't live in VA anymore, but I am curious.

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  5. Aw man...nowhere near me :) But it's probably a good thing...I wouldn't want everyone wearing the same thing as me. Plus my spending habits would go through the roof!

    And...and success story!!! My "big" order from the Private Sale came yesterday! I was stalking the shipment all day on UPS.com. It wasn't there when I got home from school, and then I had to go to class. With the rain, I was a little nervous (especially since last time it was raining and I wasn't home, my ups man gave my package to my neighbors--and I don't even know them!!!!!!!!!) Anyway, it was there when I got home from class and everything showed up: even the jeans that were "low in stock" when I ordered. Everything fits perfectly and I am a happy girl :)

    Question: what's the situation on jcrew jeans stretching? I've had pairs (not jcrew's) that stretch so bad i have to throw them out. Just wondering what I have to expect. This is my first jcrew pair :)

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  6. Alexis, I am also stoked about the ct store! MMiller actually told me about the canton store this weekend. That is just trouble for my weekends up there! CT does have A LOT of Jcrews now. I thought fairfield county had a lot and now they are adding one more. LOL

    They have now delayed the new madison ave. store for months. The NYC economy is very shaky right now, everyone (with good reason) is terrified! I can't see them opening a luxury store this month.

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  7. I really don't want to complain, but two more in essentially metro Atlanta? I think within a 45 minute driving radius I can get to six J. Crews (and one outlet store). I think there is at least another outlet somewhere in Georgia as well.

    Oh well, more stores for me to diversify my spending within a singular company!

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  8. Anyone know the address of the store on Madison NYC?

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  9. Anon: It will be on the Northeast corner of 79th and Madison. Right where the old Searle store used to be

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  10. They forgot COLUMBIA, SC... everyone at the University of South Carolina are like walking JCrew/ Ralph Lauren models. ahhhhhhh... I'm very mad about that. They are missing out on a great opportunity if they dont eventually move here... the football games, horse races, etc. all those preppy dressed college students are going to other stores and skipping the Crew just because they are not in the city anywhere.

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  11. Thee's no such thing as a NY economy - the economy is bad all over the country. And since Lehman brothers only fell in the past few days, I doubt that's what made J.Crew delay the opening.

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  12. Yay! I'm excited about the Wilmington, NC location - it's about .8 miles from my house. Trouble for the wallet, but it's the closest one within an hour and a half radius.

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  13. This is OT, but I wanted to let you know that I placed an order on Friday with the additional 20% and it is scheduled to arrive today. It seems like the ordering process is improving, because this is how quickly I used to receive my orders. Also, one of the items was final sale. Just thought I'd share a positive experience.

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  14. Anon @ 8:55: You are right...Cola, SC would be a great place for them to have a store, especially with the rejuvenation of downtown, 5 points and the Vista. I am from Cola originally and would love to be able to go to a jcrew when visiting my family!

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  15. Anon: Actually there is such a thing as an individual city or state's economy. Why do you think cities and states make their own budgets and why do you think each state's senate has their own economic council? Yes the federal economy is bad, but the city of NYC took a hit. Think how many people just in NYC who are rich lost their jobs just this past week!

    No, the economy has not delayed the store up until this point but I can't see them opening it anytime soon. No one has been shopping lately. One Jcrew here said that most days the store is nearly empty. I was there on a weekend and I have to say there were maybe 10 shoppers and the store is huge!

    NYC is strongly based in the financial industry. Everyone who works on wall street is scared. Law firms are folding because they cater to the financial district and the people who work there. Cadwalder (one of the biggest law firms in the world) asked 115 lawyers to leave last month. Its not an easy time to live in NYC.

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  16. appgal: I know! I went to school there.. and I lived in a converted cotton mill, Granby Mills.. well it houses a little more higher-end clientele and I can't tell you how many times I walked by the concierge guy and there were JCrew boxes from online orders from UPS or FedEX or whatever they use.

    I think it would do great in the Vista among bars, coffee shops, non-chain restaurants, antique shopping, it would be a great spot. Or in the northeast at Village at Sandhill which is an upscale outdoor "lifestyle" mall .

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  17. Blumre, the economy is a disaster all over the country. All over the country, people are losing their jobs. The auto companies, tech companies, are laying off in droves. In Florida, Colorado, California, Michigan (name any state, for that matter) people can't afford to pay their mortgage and homes are being foreclosed on. No one is shopping anywhere in the country. To localize it like NYC is worse off than others is what I object to. There isn't anyone in the U.S. that's thriving right now, except Wal-Mart.

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  18. Anon: I never said or implied in anyway that no one else was hurting! Everyone is hurting. All I was saying was this month it is particularly bad in NY. NY was one on the last places to be his with this crisis, we really hadn't felt it very much until this month. That's all I was saying

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  19. Sam--There are four J. Crew stores in metro Atlanta (five if you count Buford) and three outlets in Georgia (Commerce, Dawsonville, and Locust Grove). I hope that the large expansion doesn't hurt the company like Starbucks, to use a previous commenter's example. I wish Atlanta could lend a store or two to my home state of West Virginia, which has none!

    I wonder where the new Atlanta store is going? Atlantic Station? Or maybe a standalone store in Midtown?

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  20. Blumre, that's how it read, that NYC was worse off. Glad to hear that wasn't what you meant. Too bad we have to agree that the whole country is a mess :(

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  21. JCrew is not expanding like Starbucks.. more like Apple Computer. JCrew is very selective about locating a store. They have strict guidelines related to population data, economic data, etc. And they stick by it... they open stores more like Apple Computer does.. a similar idea.. make the stores more available to anyone but, you might have to drive an hour to get there. JCrew is also selective to the types of stores around a b&m store. I think this is a good plan, they have to expand and rarely do open new stores. But I don't think JCrew would do that well in Europe they would need to have a more eurotrash layer all your clothes look to do so.

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  22. So people in Europe, which, again, is not one country, but an entire continent, only dress in Eurotrash-layer clothing, whatever that means? What an ignorant comment to make.

    I also doubt J.Crew gets to decide what stores are around them. They have to apply to be in a place, not vice versa - see a recent post about opening somewhere in California, I think maybe it was Laguna Beach.

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  23. BTW, guess what I got yesterday from J.Crew in the mail: The September catalogue! That's only what, about a month late? And no coupon for a discount, like others have said they got in their mailed issue.

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  24. Anon, I agree with you and totally understand what you mean.. i think it just came out wrong.

    la belle:

    Yes JCrew does have the ability the chose their stores.. they simply will not open in a store in that location. duh. Many stores do this.. a Louis Vuitton will open near similar stores not a K-Mart.. this is called target marketing, catch the same clientele.

    Second, I lived in Paris for many years. A JCrew would not survive. The type of clothes JCrew makes appeal to people who like to layer. It gives a eurotrash look, that is a way of dressing term not a derogatory term. Some people say. I have a eurotrash look.. so don't take that out of context. Has anyone else heard of eurotrash? Its just a layered look of thin layers... oxford shirts, sweater, jackets, scarf, hat, in warm colors. H&M is sometimes considered a eurotrash store due to the way you can layer the clothes cheaply.

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  25. Alise,
    Of course, ALL stores decide where to open a location, but they don't dictate who opens next to them. A city, or a mall, does that.

    If you don't think euro-trash has negative connotations, I don't where to begin. And I grew up in a country in northern Europe, and visit several European countries regularly.

    J.Crew makes clothes for people who like to layer? That's a new one.

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  26. la belle,

    I think jcrew has always been about layering. They just do more high end pieces now that seem to be meant to stand alone, but the sweaters, shirts, etc. still scream layering to me-- which is good because I am a bit of a layering whore. ;P I almost never wear a sweater without a shirt underneath, tights with shorts (and under pants in the winter), etc.

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  27. la belle:

    Eurotrash is just like saying.. I dress emo or preppy in the US. I have heard people say eurotrash even in the US. Eurotrash is like a heavily layers looks.. very individualistic. And I feel that JCrew clothes are reminiscent of that type of style when heavily layered.. thats all I am saying.

    Yes people that shop JCrew layer. Look at the Gaps European collection and compare it the US Collection. The European collection is slick, modern, and minimal.. not preppy, vintage, and classic. I think JCrew would have to appeal to a different "taste" in Paris and anywhere I have traveled in Europe.

    And yes, they do have choices about who located near them.. thats business. A smart wall will not but a dollar store next to a JCrew.. thats all I mean by that. Mall management understand marking and increasing the longevity of the tenants is an important factor.

    And I feel that offended you, in which I did not mean to. But I just thought it was a good point and that JCrew the way it is now would not survive in most places I have lived or visited in Europe.

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  28. Layering may not be jcrew's complete FOCUS, but they do tend to emphasize it with certain pieces. They'd have to with all the tissue thin, see-through tops they offer. I love these pieces, but I wouldn't be able to wear them without layering (which works well for me since I'm always cold :)

    appgal: my jeans tend to stretch a bit, but not too much. It also depends on what style of jeans you got. Anyone else agree?

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  29. Putting a store anywhere is Europe is not just a location decision. It requires an entire management structure and business unit to manage. Each country is regulated differently and has different labor requirements. J Crew locating a store in any foreign country would be a huge undertaking. It also might require design changes to their clothing.

    It is interesting that NYC is finally starting to feel the economic crises. It has been so horrible for so long in the Midwest. I knew the NE felt removed from the rest of the country, but it is always unclear how much until you see comments like Blumre's. There really is such a huge divide between middle America and the coasts.

    On the store expansion topic. J Crew is very careful about their store expansions as almost every analyst will tell you. Also, when signing a mall lease you do have some control over which stores are near you. Malls are very careful about store mix and store location. Usually the most expensive boutiques are located near the most upscale department stores and the Old Navy's and H&Ms are located by the Sears and Penny's. Take a look next time you are in a mall.

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  30. NYC is worse off. We make the most money...financial is a big part of this country. It's more expensive to live here than other parts of the country. NYC is better, we have the better jobs and make so much more!

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  31. Didn't Alexis post an article last week where it says Mickey Drexler does not want to expand stores into Europe?

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  32. Wow, it looks like a real east-coast bias! But as appgal said, I wouldn't want everyone to know exactly where I got my clothes.

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  33. FFM: If you are willing to chance the FS, I saw the black and white striped babydoll top on there this morning.

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  34. I'm going to be working at one of those CT stores!

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  35. Layering clothes, as Alise describes, may be a hallmark of the boho trend (think Mary-Kate Olsen) and maybe be something done by those who consider themselves "Eurotrash" - but layering clothes is quintessential preppy style! Polo shirt under an oxford shirt under a fair isle sweater under a barbour coat - hasn't anyone read the Handbook?gmbxy

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  36. While they are undoubtedly prevalent, I wouldn't say layering is exclusively a feature of preppy or eurotrash/boho styles, because I think it's simply functional if you live somewhere that gets colder or where the temps can alter throughout the day during certain seasons (45 degree mornings, 75 degree afternoons, etc. in MA, anyone?)

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  37. Heather - you're absolutely right about that. Preppy style originated in the northeast, where chilly mornings and warm afternoons are a regular occurence. That's precisely why layering is a part of that particular style.

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  38. It's about time Stamford is getting a JCrew! I was in there yesterday and I didn't see it. Either I missed it 'cause I wasn't looking or it's not there yet. Going to a mall without a JC is no fun!

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  39. surfside--

    I recently moved back north from almost 3 years in central VA, and the first cooler days these past weeks, I've been wipping out the sweaters and blazers (only to be sweating later in the afternoon). Layering, preppy or otherwise, really is a way of life, lol. :P

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  40. Interesting to hear how people interpret the meaning of "eurotrash". To me it was always bleached blond hair, tight BeBe top, tight jeans, and puma shoes - all on the woman way too old for the look. J.Crew to me offeres classics with the twist. Layering J.Crew clothes has never occured to me as "eurotrash", which by the way is negative. I would be horrified if I was told I look like "eurotrash".

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  41. I'm excited for everyone getting these stores! If the one in fredericksburg, VA opens before november, I'll have to check it out!

    but what I really want more????? The new october clothes!!!! I'm so tired of the september merch and need some new stuff to look at in order to continue my procrastinating ways...;)

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  42. sky,

    yeah... I thought eurotrash meant tight shirts, track jackets, leather pants or tight jeans, and ridiculously expensive/limited edition sneakers on dudes. I'm not sure what it's supposed to look like for women, I tend to cut european women more style slack. ;)

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  43. this is OT but I just placed an order and they said the student discount has gone back to 10% has anyone else heard this? sorry if this has already been talked about im behind on my blog reading

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  44. annette: I alone could keep at least one store going strong in West Virginia! LOL.

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  45. Most of the european woman dress great. You don't have to be from Europe to look like "eurotrash" but to me bohemian, preppy, or layered are not the hallmarks of the "style"

    Correct me if I am wrong but to me J.Crew has very little to do with "eurotrash style".

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  46. I can't wait for J.Crew to open in Canton, CT. The shopping center website had this to say:


    J.CREW COMING THIS SEPTEMBER!



    The Shoppes at Farmington Valley is pleased to announce that J. Crew is scheduled to open at the end of September.

    Since its first catalog was launched in 1983, J. Crew has become an iconic American brand known worldwide for its sophisticated, fun clothing and accessories. J. Crew operates 199 retail and 61 outlet stores across the country, including its recently opened store at Derby Street Shoppes, a W/S Development property located in Hingham, MA.

    Opened in 2004, The Shoppes at Farmington Valley has become the preeminent shopping experience in the region, offering a unique blend of specialty stores, restaurants and nationally known retailers.

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  47. I was surprised to not see the Roseville, MN store on the list. It is supposed to open September 30, 2008. I used to not live very far from Rosedale Center where the J. Crew store is opening. I am very jealous that the Twin Cities will have five J. Crews. There is only one in Iowa, but we probably only need one.

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  48. jcrewjunkie--My mom could give you some help with a WV J. Crew as well! As it is, she frequently drives up to Pittsburgh for shopping.

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  49. Exciting news!! I wanted to share this great offer that I just found posted on google--

    Extra 25% Off Sale. In Stores Only. Hurry! Ends this Sunday.

    Enjoy everyone!

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  51. To alise: I completely disagree. You can't just say J. Crew will fail in Europe as whole. You just can't. Should you be speaking for the entire population of Europe? I don't think so. Every individual has their tastes, that's why there are different preferences for every different person. How would you explain a store like Hot Topic surviving in the US? How would you explain the success of Banana Republic overseas? When there's a bounty of consumers, they'll be able find a consumer base.

    You also mentioned that J.Crew is about layering . . . I'm sorry, but I didn't know people in Europe will be forced to layer when they purchase J.Crew merchandise.

    I'm sorry if I sound harsh, but I'm a very open minded person & I just don't like it when people are set on failure on something that hasn't even been tried yet.

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  52. annette: Although it isn't THAT far, I too have to go to Pittsburgh to shop at J Crew. Boooo :(

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  53. FFM: Did you ever do a Polyvore of you Neon Pink Lana? I just got one on FS and wondered if you had. :)

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  54. Just to clarify: I'm the one who in a previous thread questioned whether J.Crew would do well in Europe. And I layer, too - honestly, who doesn't, especially in spring and fall?

    On a J.Crew clothing topic: Does anyone on here own the candy tweed dress from spring, and if so, can I get some opinions? I never saw one in person, but there are a few on ebay now. I just can't figure out if it would work for me. For one thing, I'm certain it would required LAYERING, haha, a t-shirt or something underneath. I'd love some feedback on what people think of this dress.
    Thanks in advance :-)

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  56. Kater, yes, I just got back to my computer... sounds interesting, I will have to check that out.

    Do you own the dress? I just can't decide if it would be a good fit. I usually like fitted dresses better than hanging ones, which this seems like it is. I also wonder if the bow in the back is irritating? And how do people wear it - by itself? Only under the matching jacket, which I don't have? So many questions... :-)

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  57. la belle: I don't own it, but am sad I don't. I really liked it when it came out, but didn't snap it up when I should have.

    I do, however, have the black felted wool version of it with the bow on the back that came out at holiday last year. It is a little hanging, but I like that look. Not the greatest in terms of side-profile (i.e., a little maternity) but love the front and back. I wore mine with a white turtleneck, black riding boots, and tights (thus my idea for the candy version), and loved that outfit! I felt little girly and sophiticated all at the same time...:)

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  58. Has ANYONE tried on the Soho dress?

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  59. jcrewjunkie: I did indeed make a set for the Neon Pink Lana Top awhile ago: Click Here. I have the blouse myself and think it is very pretty. :) Congratulations on getting it!

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  60. Kater, your outfit with the black felted dress sounds fabulous :-) I remember that from the catalogue (I loved last year's Sept-Dec issues so much, I practically have them memorized, haha). That probably would be more useful for me than the candy. I just was intrigued by the candy dress, but never saw it in a store, and it was gone from the website by the time I looked. I'm always wary of ordering when I haven't tried something with J.crew, because their sizing is all over the place for me.

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  61. Just a little tip: I went to my local B&M this morning (cambridge MA) and they're having a secret sale on solid-color cashmere sweaters (women only). $99, yay!

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  62. Am I alone in questioning the point of secret sales? Most stores advertise theirs because they WANT CUSTOMERS TO KNOW AND COME INTO THE STORE. What am I missing about J.Crew's method? If it hadn't been for the dear poster letting us know, I wouldn't have known... it just seems a dumb way to run things.

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  63. kater: What is J Crew Chatter? If I am being too nosey just tell me. :)

    FFM: I love your Polyvore of the Neon Pink Lana. I am running upstairs right now because I have the Argyle Crewneck Cardigan...yippeeeee!! THANKS!!

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  64. Not to be a downer, but why does Atlanta need 4 different stores. It seems like Chattanooga will never get one :(

    Oh well, maybe the next time...

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  65. There are a couple of new skirts on-line this pm. Sketchbook bella, and a sharkskin skirt. The bella looks nice.

    Please open some stores in Canada.

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  66. La belle-I have been thinking about the logic behind secret sales too. My guess is Jcrew wants it's regular customer to feel special and privileged, so we stick around as prices rise. This goes along with their Favorite customer coupon. They do not advertise these sales to the general public because they do not want new customers coming to their brand expecting discounts. They want them to come in prepared to pay full price. That's my theory anyway.

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  67. OT -- From reading this blog, I noticed that in the past, some of you all knew exactly when more items would be added to the sale part of the Web site. As I remember, it was early in the AM. Has anyone noticed a new time when items are added? Or is it all over the map? Forgive me if this question has been answered elsewhere.

    Additionally, I love the look of layering -- but only can do so much as I am 5 feet tall and have broad shoulders. I'm not heavy, but someone recently asked if I was a former swimmer (!) because of my shoulders. Anyway, too much layering and then I look like a linebacker. Not cute.

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  68. Shannon, interesting theory. I guess I just prefer the old-fashioned method of letting people know :-)

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  69. This is off topic but I just got an e-mail from JCrew (I placed an order 2 days ago) and they told me that one of my items was out of stock, however when I ordered it, it did not say that. The other thing is one of the items is on sale and its now showing it is not on sale. What the heck is going on with their website????

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  70. ahh...frustrated jcrew shopper: welcome to our world :) you must be new to the blog. The website fiasco has been going on for quite some time now. What you've experienced is pretty tame...you should look at some of the older posts :)

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  71. Speaking of Grand Openings, did anyone read the review of the new NYC men's store in the NY Times? It will be in tomorrow's print edition, but is online today.

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  72. Does anyone shop at the Jacksonville, Fl St. Johns Town Center b&m location? What are you experiences with the customer service?

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  73. C'est moi. Its interesting. Its more an article on the clothes than the store itself. I didn't see the article to be anything new that hasn't already been discussed here. I would imagine JCrew wanted the good PR so they approached the times and asked them to do the article.

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  74. blumre: How do you think that they (J. Crew's powers that be) felt about the article? I mean, when I read the last line I certainly didn't see it as a "positive"...what is your opinion? :)

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  75. jcrewjunkie: I read the NYTimes fashion articles a lot. They wrote one recently that was obviously scathing and then one about michael kors that obviously very positive. A lot of their articles have a sarcastic tone. I viewed this one as funny actually, it would probably peak someone's interest in the store, if not the brand. I can see how the last line could be negative. Then again the sweater they described to be pretty ghastly. I thought it was humorous. Having seen the store, its really not that much to write home about, which is probably why the author didnt write that much about it

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  76. Just a quick off-topic question (I've scoured the internet and this blog to find an answer, but no luck as of yet): Do the driving mocs fit true to size? I am looking at the Kingston and York on Ebay, and have read to order up if you are a half size. I am normally a 9, 9.5 max (but never an 8.5) and don't know if I should get a 9 or a 10! They look like they should stretch a bit. Ebay auctions end in a few hours, thank you so much in advance!

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  77. Re secret sales, when they're not even marked in the store, how is the customer supposed to know? Is it just supposed to be a pleasant surprise after she gets to the register?

    i was recently in a store, and though I had several SA asked me if I needed help, even when I was browsing the sweaters no one mentioned "Gee, guess what, those are on secret sale." I asked, and she said yes, so I bought one, but if I hadn't known in advance about the sale from the blog I wouldn't even have considered buying another sweater.

    And of course, the loser here is the web customer. Sure, maybe catalog will honor the secret sale price if you call in, but if you can't get to the store in the first place how would you even know? This is why I'm severely restricting my web purchases.

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  78. Anon: I am normally an 8.5 in heels and flats that I wear without socks (I never wear stockings unless I REALLY have to). In some shoes I am a 9 but mostly I am an 8.5. I bought the Yorks in a 9 last year. They run a little snug but they also stretch. I hope that helps.From what you said I would almost go with the 10 and then you could put an insert in them if you needed too.

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  79. Anon at 2:26, I think the driving mocs run large. I am generally a TTS 7, sometimes 6.5 in sandals, so I always get a 7 in the mocs, but they seem large and I have to put an insert in them.

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  80. blumre and hexicon- thank you so much! i am still torn and will probably make a bad last minute decision, but it's still great to hear opinions! i am so amazed at how helpful and friendly this blog is, it's my new obsession!

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  81. Anon: Anytime. Happy to help. BTW I also have the campell mocs in a 9. They are selling different mocs now but I have found that their shoes, unlike their clothes, generally run the same way. You might try ordering a full price pair now (or if you live near a store try them on) and return them just to get the sizing.

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  82. Hey I also have the same question as AppGal. Do the jeans stretch or pretty much stay true to form for a long time? I've contemplated getting some but have held off for this reason.

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  83. Hexicon,
    Wow, that's ridiculous that they only told you because you asked. That seems to utterly defeat the purpose. Who knows what else is on sale? I'm not going to ask that about every item I look at, yet if I knew already the item was on sale, maybe I'd be more likely to buy it.

    J.Crew has the dumbest sale ideas - starting with the final sale - of any store I frequent.

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  84. Anon: The jeans give a little stretch over a full day of wear. But I wear mine two or three days before I wash them--- no I am not a dirty person and if I sweat I totally wash them before wearing again. But I find they kind of mold comfortably to my body after a day. Its nice. They are a great denim purchase!

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  85. Hexicon-I had the same exp. They only told me about the cash sale when I asked directly. I guess the staff did not deem me worthy of the secret intitally. I also noticed during that visit, they had no signs out for the extra 30% off sale. I guess they were not concerned with moving merch.

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  86. Anon: Thanks for asking again :)

    Blumre (or anyone): Do you find this to be true with all styles of jeans, or just a particular kind? I just got my first pair of bootcuts, and they're a little tight in the thighs because of my athletic build.I'm probably paranoid because I don't want to look like I belong in the "size up club," but have you found that they relax a little in the thigh area?

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  87. Since I was up in the big city for a presentation, I was dressed professionally and all in J.Crew (Abby jacket over sleeveless Jane and patent peep toes, plus pearls and briefcase, and fwah, what everyone now refers to as my "Sarah Palin" updo) so you'd think I'd look like the kind of customer who'd spend some $$ . . . of course maybe the figure the more dressed up customer doesn't need the incentive of a sale?

    I do not understand this marketing psychology at all.

    I should add that the SAs were very nice about my return of a duplicate catalog tee--they called catalog which insisted that I take a credit for the T even though I hadn't been charged, due to the 4-week delay in shipping it.

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  88. AppGal: you are talking to competitive skier and horseback rider about thighs... i actually have trouble buying pants because my thighs are a full size bigger than my waist. Peekaboo and Bode have the same problem. I find JCrew's jeans to actually be O.K. in that department. For me the hipsters fit better than the boot cut. I frequently size up in jeans and then have them taken in at the waist, it ensures that they fit me.

    Really though, love your thighs! They hold you up and give you strength. Also having strong quads actually helps your metabolism because they are the largest muscles in the body! I truly believe strong legs are any woman's best asset!

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  89. Hexicon,
    I don't know how a J.Crew customer can win: If she is dressed profesionally, she is presumed to make enough to not need the incentive of a sale; if she's casual, she's presumed not worthy, it sounds like :-)

    Like I said, I prefer to know about sales, not have to guess.

    Since I think it got lost way back some 40 posts ago, I'll just send out another feeler for opinions on the candy tweed dress - if you are an owner, do you like it, is it versatile ... any opinion welcome. TIA.

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  90. I agree, the more you shop there, the better deals you look for, the more they make it hard to find. Kind of backwards. I guess it's an "image thing" so I have heard. By the way, anyone been by a B and M to see if new sale items are added this week? Seems the web has NO good deals and SO unpredictable.

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  91. Blumre: I think we've had another "conversation" about our athletic builds and clothing. I honestly do love my thighs; I just get overly cautious to make sure pants aren't too tight on me. I've played competitive vb for years and appreciate what my muscles can do for me :) When I tried on my jeans last night, my first thought was "too tight" but my hubby thought they looked great. At second look, I realized that they really accentuate the curve quite nicely :)

    Thanks for the tip on sizing up and taking the waist in...I've actually never even thought about that, but it makes a lot of sense.

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  92. Has anyone tried on the SOho dress?

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  93. I am very excited to go to the new stamford store! can't wait!

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  94. Secret sales exist in the retail world to salvage a sale that might not take place otherwise. A lot of retailers do it. It's essentially a formalized form of bargaining. They want you to walk in and buy something at full price. Once your level of full price resistance is fully assessed, the salespeople are trained to mete out sale information to you in based on signals you are sending about what you will or won't spend. It can all be very subtle.

    This last weekend I walked into Cole Haan. I had been coveting a pair of Carma open toe pumps in black patent, but could not not find them in my size at Zappo's or anywhere else where they were discounted. Cole Haan was not running a sale, and as these shoes are considered a basic, I felt I would just have to wait. I asked the salesman about sales, and he said they were not running a sale. I said OK, thanks...etc. Within 30 seconds he said there was a secret sale of 20% off anything!

    Needless to say I got my pumps.

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  95. Blumre...I love your comment about loving your thighs. I am a runner and I also have to size up and have the waist taken in. But if having muscular thighs give me a better metabolism...I'll be happy with them!

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  96. JCrew would not make it in the UK or France its an entirely different atheistic. JCrew would have to do much like the Gap did and actually have an entire different collection to meet the needs of the consumer. As far as eurotrash goes that is the name the longest running tv show in the UK, and I dont think JCrew fits that style. But, I could see where thats going since eurotrash is an 80s classic layering look but with really tight clothes.

    I just left my JCrew and there was an extra 25% off the sale rack! whoooo whoooooo

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  97. CT must have the most J. Crews per square mile! Not sure if that is a good/bad thing.

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  98. Anon@ 3:35-cute malaprop. ;-)

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  99. Sure, I understand that it's bargaining--but I'm in a mall, not a fleamarket or a souk!

    I guess bargaining is becoming more of a part of life even at upscale retailers, but I think it cheapens the experience. OK, actually, it *does* literally cheapen the experience :-) but it takes the shine off the trip. If a mid- to up-market store makes me dicker for a bargain, they need to consider its effect on my visit and impression of the retailer.

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  100. Just got back from the Michigan Avenue store -- had to return all of the duplicate orders I was sent last week. It's an additional 25% off sale items. I got the dream argyle crewneck sweater for 44.99 and the ringspun beaded floral t-shirt for 22.49.

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  101. hexicon-that's cool. You are the 'full price buyer'. You will walk in and buy, as you are willing to pay more for what you see as a more upscale experience. The secret sale doesn't exist for your niche, and retailers love you, as you contribute more to the bottom line in exchange for feeling more upscale about the experience.

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  102. Actually, I think Hexicon, didn't you say you only bought the extra sweater because of the sale?

    Who doesn't appreciate a good deal? We all do. But again, I'm not going to ask about every item. It's the sales staff's job to keep me informed - and their loss if I'm not.

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  103. Anoy@3:35. I disagree about JCrew making it in the UK. I wrote about it at a bit more length in another post but my wardrobe is 95% JCrew and I get stopped constantly in lines, on the street, at my daughter's school and people want to know how they can buy what I am wearing!

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  104. Ahh Yes Appgal we have had this conversation before. The adjustment makes jeans shopping or any clothing shopping easier. Fit the biggest part of you and have the rest taken it. Its not the cheapest way but its the way to do it so your clothes always fit you correctly.

    Sooner_girl: I actually didnt know about it either until I read it in Shape Magazine a couple of months ago and then my doctor confirmed it. So keep running and doing those squats.

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  105. I also think J.Crew would do fine in London - it is such a cosmopolitan city.

    Talking about preppy. Is it just me or J.Crew has been less preppy in recent months? Argyle is still present and I occasionally see some rugby stripes and crests but everything feels dressier.

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  106. I just want to say that even though I earn a good living doing what I do, I wouldn't want J.Crew to feel like since I am capable of paying that I wouldn't mind paying a higher price for an item.

    At the end of the day, I'm not an Elitist. I don't need to walk into a high end place, and out with 3 big bags of full priced clothing. That's just not me. I have the self control to do it, thank God.

    If there happens to be a secret sale, so be it. I guess that's like stumbling on something that is on sale, but hasn't been marked yet. I like to look for bargains, as I'm sure everyone on this blog does as well.

    But I LOVE JCrew, and that won't stop me from shipping there. I think they're great at accomodating me with my purchases and have always had the right attitudes from the beginning!

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  107. blumre: JC's hipslung jeans are the only ones that fit me, but they are no longer making them! Now I can't figure out which of their current styles, if any, would be most similar in fit. It seems like every style I try on is too big in the waist. You menioned having a tailor take the waist in. I've always been hesitant to have that done, since I don't want any visible "darts" on my waist in the back. How do they do it? Does it look good? Can you tell they've been altered?

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  108. Forgive me but this topic was on the store locations and has gotten a bit--okay A LOT off topic..to say the least:) That's okay I just wanted to know where in St Louis is there going to be another J Crew?? How does one find this out--I know they are opening a Crewcuts in the same Mall as the current J Crew. Anyone know where this info comes from?? I am wondering if theinfo is regarding that Crewcuts and not another adult store.
    Thanks

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  109. I'm not Blumre but I have had many, many pairs of pants taken in at the waist. You shouldn't be able to tell they were taken in if you have a good tailor. There are no visible darts. My lady even leaves the extra fabric on the inside in case you have to have them let back out:-)

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  110. I am Anony@4:14...I forgot to add that I live in the UK!!!!!

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  111. The St. Louis store is in the Galleria and is suppose to open later this month/October. It looks like it will be smaller than the Frontenac store. Its right in between Build-A-Bear and Ann Taylor. Hope this helps!

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  112. I fly back and forth between the UK and US for a project w/ work I am working on. I agree with anon.. I dont see JCrew there at all. If you live in the UK how do you get packages to you? Must be awful expensive.

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  113. (I'm at home sick so I have a lot of time on my hands today)

    Anon and Whoa,
    To clarify my remarks about secret sale--La Belle Helene is right: I only bought the sweater because it was on "secret sale." (In fact, I called the store back and bought another color the next day.) So in that regard, I am not the full price shopper who will pay extra for a full price experience.

    The SAs saw me browsing the sweaters and saw me walk away. If the purpose of the secret sale is to entice the customer who doesn't want to pay full price, shouldn't they have been sounding me out to see what my intentions were? While in theory I can see how this strategy might extract the optimum price from the customer, I don't see how it works in practice.

    A while ago someone posted a link to an essay by Prof. Ramasatry of my alma mater about why dynamic pricing isn't against the law, but if customers are being offered deals--or not--based on SA's subjective assessments of what they're willing to pay, I think there's a risk of discrimination in fact if not in the legal sense.

    The other risk for the retailer is alienating the customer who finds out that others are getting better deals. I know that the student/teacher discounts are popular here, but IMHO if J.Crew can offer select groups a permanent 15%, its already charging me too much. Then, when I found out that as a web customer I was charged $188 for a dress that was $37.99 in stores, and that this is J.Crew's deliberate business strategy, I was volcanically P.O.'ed.

    I love J.Crew's merchandise and won't shop anywhere else. (In fact, I just responded to a long e-mail survey from Nordstrom, and gave them a lot of information about why I no longer shop there.) But, things like the web/store discrepancies and the secret sales have changed the way I do business with J.Crew. I have to approach them with a hefty dose of caveat emptor, as if they are a fleamarket merchant rather than a trusted retailer.

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  114. Slightlyoldersally,
    I think the matchsticks are pretty similar to the hipslung jeans. I usually have to have pants taken in at the waist, but on matchsticks the waist is so low that it's not a problem for me. But, the matchsticks are skimpy in the thighs.

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  115. SlightlyolderSally: That is sad about the hipslungs :( I wasn't aware of that.

    A good tailor can do it so are left the with the original seams. There maybe an extra seam at the waist band if they had to take out a lot of material there, but I always wear a belt anyway so that doesn't show. Its not cheap because they have to redo a bunch of seams but it is totally worth it!

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  116. Hexicon brings up a very good point: J.Crew runs a huge risk of alienation if the SAs discriminate in whom they inform of the secret sale. They could get themselves in a very ugly discrimination suit if they make certain choices in whom to tell. Bottom line: It's a stupid policy on every level. Fine if they don't want to advertise it like other stores advertise their sales, but it should be standard policy to tell EVERY customer the minute he or she sets foot inside the store.


    Hexicon, sorry to hear you are sick and best wishes for a quick recovery. If you have time, though, I'm curious about your dislike for Nordstrom's. It's probably my favorite store to shop at - I find Nordstroms have salespeople who are helpful but never, ever pushy, a faultless return policy, and a great selection in every price range. Plus either free shipping or a flat rate of $6 if I buy off the website.

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  117. There's also a J Crew opening at Rosedale Mall in Roseville, Minnesota sometime this month... a SA at the Mall of America store told me Sept 23rd, we'll see! I'm headed over there tomorrow so I'll check it out.

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  118. LBH could you e-mail me, hexicon at yahoo?

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  119. OT - I noticed that some of the argyle sweaters have been marked down. Does anyone know if the cashmere argyle vest has been marked down again from $99? I would love this best, but for a better price. My b&m didn't get these in and it's gone online, so the only way for me to keep track of it's markdowns is here. Thanks for your help! :)

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  120. I wish that Charleston, SC, was getting another store. Our only b&m is downtown, which is not an easy trip, plus one must find and pay for parking. I am thankful we do at least have one, though.

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  121. I guess it's important not to take what a company does personally, otherwise we would all not shop there. If they offered 15% off to everyone, it would technically be the same pricing to everyone. But that's like saying, if I walk into a restaurant that has a senior's citz discount, that's discrimination. For the SA that didn't outwardly inform you that the sweaters were discounted wasn't the SA's fault. Secret sales seem more in line with you purchasing it and being pleasantly surprised that it's marked down. Want to be more in the loop about secret sales? Go make friends with an SA- they're paid to help you, and I don't think it's out of line if they tell you when something cool is going on...

    Jcrew is a company that knows 18-24 year olds are their target "new blood" market, so they have to draw that crowd in. So, it sucks for me and you that aren't getting the discounts. It's part of a massive marketing strategy, but I wouldn't call it discrimination at all.

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  122. Hexicon- Sorry, I didn't read your "full price shopper who will pay extra for a full price experience" comment clearly. I didn't want that to be any part of the focal point of my above novel. I'm just like you, I like a good deal and expect good service as well.

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  123. whoa, whoa, whoa,
    There is a tremendous difference between randomly telling customers of a secret sale and any business that offers discounts to senior citizens. That's an easily revealed group, and emcompasses men and women of any race and religion.

    My point is, if a minority J.Crew shopper found out a white customer got a "secret sale" discount on a sweater that waasn't offered to the minority, well, I think that's how lawyers make money.

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  124. My experience is that secret sale items are automatically discounted when scanned in. How is that discrimination? If I bought it at 10 am, and you bought it at 2 pm on the same day, we would get the same price. Am I missing something here?

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  125. LBH- "Fine if they don't want to advertise it like other stores advertise their sales, but it should be standard policy to tell EVERY customer the minute he or she sets foot inside the store."

    If I walked into the store, bought a sweater that was ($50) secret sale, $100 full priced, and was charged $100, you're right, I would be upset. But this is assuming that prior to ringing me up, the SA is charging me full price, then yes, they are wrong. But that doesn't appear to be the case here.

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  126. slightlyoldersally: They aren't making hipslungs anymore!! If I would have known that I would have scooped up a few pair that were 69.99 with 25% off on sale at my store today!!! EEEE! They are my favorite fit too!

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  127. math teacher: the vest is $49.99 in the Michigan Ave Chicago store. hope this helps. shipping will cancel out a chunk of the discount but it's still a great price.

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  128. whoa, whoa, whoa,
    Sorry, I should have been more specific and said if the customer doesn't buy a sweater because she isn't told about the special sale, then finds out another person was told... I just don't think it's a good policy.

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  129. LBH- gotcha. But, with all things, if I like something enough, I take it upon myself to ask what the price is! :)

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  130. whoa, good policy on your part. I don't, not if there's a price tag on it. And that's where I think an SA should tell me right away if the items are on special or secret sale. Not first try to make a judgment about what I'll spend - that's notoriously a tricky thing for anyone to do, anyways.

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  131. My SA is pretty awesome, she really helps you out with styling your wardrobe, making sure I don't have too much of one color, etc. When I see certain pieces I like, I tell her, I can't buy that now, but please tell me when it goes on sale and hold one in this size and color for me. It's a no-fail approach, and it saves me time and money! She writes all of this down and remembers it too. Love her :)

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  132. Julie K, I have all kinds of ways that I get my packages:) Where there is a will there is a way. Sorry, but I know it would sell here in the UK...if I get something and it doesn't fit...well, let's just say American clothes are greatly wanted...I walk everywhere and I see all kinds of people in my line of work so my outfits gets lots of exposure and comments...it would sell...people act so disappointed when I tell them JCrew but if you have family/friends in America it can be done I tell them and I know several people who order JCrew that way here.

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  133. P.S. Oh, and don't get me started about the Crewcuts. All my daughters friend here in the UK love the critter wellies...

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  134. Student discounts are very common here in the UK many stores offer 15% or 20% with a student i.d. (New Look, Dorothy Perkins, Peacocks to name just a few.)

    So JCrew isn't doing anything much different than what is already going on over here....

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  135. My sister ships me every month when I am overseas in Australia, so shipping overseas is not a problem. I would buy through ebay if I couldn't get something shipped to me. Pretty exciting when I get a box stuffed with all sorts of new items and she adds a catalogue for flavor. I love to wear stuff others aren't wearing here!

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  136. Does anyone know if the stores are running an extra % off sale items?

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  137. anyone have a sale section report from today?

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  138. Sorry for the off-topic post, but it looks like the prices of some items in the final sale have dropped. I've been eying the "whisper lame tank" (96621), which was at $49 just yesterday, and dropped to $29 this morning. I also picked up "Florentine-Print Silk Sundress" (95247) for $29, as well as the whisper lame shirt: 95056 (also $29--that seems to be the magic number).

    (as an aside to the aside: How I'm going to wear a disco-glittery dress shirt? FFM?)

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  139. Student discounts are smart business. Inconsistent pricing policies aren't.

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  140. anon @ 6:23: thanks! That's a huge markdown. Since it seems to be selling well online, I'm surprised they'd mark it down so low in stores. But, better for me!

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  141. auryane: I'll be making a Polyvore set for the Whisper Lame' Tank tonight. :) Cute top, btw!

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  142. I am stunned that they are putting a store in Fresno. They need to put a second one in the San Diego area (they closed Horton Plaza a year or two ago).

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  143. they definitely did lower the final sale prices. i had been eyeing the domino jacquard pencil skirt and that went down from $39.99 overnight to $19.99!! also the noelle blouse- can't remember what it was before but it's now $19.99. I know many of us are tired of the final sale, but I say keep lowering the prices and the final sale will really be done with! Also, they seem to be filling the sale orders more efficiently and quickly, with less cancellations.

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  144. Does the secret sale include cardis as well?

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  145. Ok, an order that was placed last Friday TODAY finally says "shipped"... but it says "partially shipped" and there aren't any tracking numbers available. Has anyone else encountered these problems??

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  146. Yes, I got 25% off my mens sale purchases today!

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  147. Stamford is getting a jcrew! I can't wait. Anyone know if it'll be in the mall or somewhere else? (Imagine if the old Tower Records became a HUGE store)

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  148. anon - so, just to be sure, there was an extra 25% off sale prices in stores? Thanks for your help!

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  149. I was in the store in NYC today and they had added additional items to the sale and it was now 25% off. They also would not let me combine my student discount.

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  150. rachel - super, thanks for sharing the info on the extra savings :-)

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  151. And, I just want to be sure that the cashmere argyle vest that's been marked down to 49 is the one with the tie - comes in silver, wheat, and gold? If so, I will be calling tomorrow to find this! :D

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  152. The cashmere argyle vest was marked down i cant remember if it was to 49.99 or 59.99 though.

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  153. rachel: thanks so much! I hope I can find it tomorrow in my size! Oh, I'm so excited, I have wanted this vest since I first saw it online! :) :) :)

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  154. math teacher: what size did you decide on? I really recommend the
    small for you!

    if my morning goes as planned, I'm hoping to head to my b&m store to
    make a return. if I see the vest in the color (the wheat right?) and
    you let me know the size, I will be happy to put it on hold for
    you...:)

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  155. la belle helene- I bought the candy tweed dress at full price-yes I am CRAZY-I had them do a store search for me- and I found that it was WAY TOO SHORT! Not at all like the picture, where it fell at her knee or slightly below it- it was above my knee and I am only 5'4". I wouldnt get it unless you can size up for length and get it taken in under the armpits if it's too big there. Just my .02. BGD

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  156. Is anyone else watching Project Runway? I must say, I used to like Kenley, but her arrogance is wearing thin. And she is a one-trick pony as far as only being able to do a 40s-or-50s look.

    I think Joe seems like the nicest person on the show, and then Leanne and Korto.

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  157. kater: oh, thank you! Based on your advice, I would like a small and I would prefer the wheat. If they only have the silver, I would take that as my second choice. If they do have one and you put it on hold, you can put it in my name. I hate to post my last name (due to my ex) and all of my email addresses use my last name. (I know, long story.)

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  158. Oh bgd, thank you, that was exactly the kind of feedback I was looking for! That sounds like a lot of alterations, and I'm so not into that, really.

    Since I'd be dealing with Ebay now, and thus not be able to return, I think I'll just have to let the urge pass :-)

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  159. lbh: completely agree with you about Kenley - I am tired of hearing her talk!

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  160. math teacher: if you want to email me your name, we can do it that way.

    my email is katherinerieder AT hotmail DOT com

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  161. math teacher,
    I know - just, be happy you feel you have a grasp on how you want to design, and stop being so catty.

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  162. Ok, that settles it, I'm rooting agaisnt Kenley. Her unprofessional and plain mean giggle when Joe was being criticized showed what a bitch she is.

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  163. lbh: Once again, I agree with you. I expect the young one to giggle, but not someone who's suppose to be professional. She started annoying me a while ago.

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  164. New merchandise roll-out is taking place for stores on Monday and Tuesday evening of next week.

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  165. math teacher,
    At this point, I'm hoping the winner will be jerrell or korto.

    I'm guessing Leanne will be safe among the bottom three. I didn't think Joe's suit looked badly made, but it wasn't a great choice.

    Suede's outfit was baffling. But I'm sure it's tough, too, when they're getting feedback from their subjects. And I thought Suede's girl looked like she really liked the outfit.

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  166. lbh: Suede's outfit was strange. I thought the dress was good, but the jacket was bizarre. And, if she's taking pics, how is she doing it with those sleeves? Couldn't they get in the way? My sister's a photographer, and I know she always wears pants - it's just easier when you might have to lay down, climb, what not. I like Korto and Leeanne to win, but I'm not sure what happened to Leeann today. I have liked Jerrell's last couple of outfits.

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  167. I'm off to bed - gotta get up early for school!

    Kater - thanks again!

    lbh: So, it's goodbye to Joe. He seemed like such a nice guy...oh, well.

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  168. math teacher,
    Oh well, auf wiedersehen to Joe. Can't say I'm totally surprised. I am surprised Suede is still around, it seems he's been in the bottom three most challenges.

    Did you see the previews for next week - it looks like Kenley is going to get called out for her attitude. Score one for karma :-)

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  169. Lbh: I have the candy dress and love it. It runs pretty true to size and I didn't get the maternity dress vibe.

    I had the bow removed and a snap added so that I have the option of wearing it without the bow.

    For day I generally wear it with a cardigan (without the bow) and for night, add the bow and forget the cardigan.

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  170. Lame! No locations near me, and I am already 3 hours from a J.Crew

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  171. Finally! A store in Malibu! That will become my new closest J.Crew! I'm really excited. I hope they give some perks when they first open up.

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  172. They had quite a few cashmere argyle vests today at Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg, IL. They were priced at $59.99 plus extra 25% off. They also had one camel cha cha dot skirt in size 8 - I think these are quite dificult to get these days...

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  173. OT sorry, but super excited about new items coming soon!

    I got a sneak peek tonight at the new catalog in my local store (they were not supposed to put it out until tomorrow:)
    Looks like a few really cute pieces are coming next week & more in my colors- pinks, purples- The Boucle Tweed Penny jacket looks amazing & the Merino Rose Cardigan in Plum- looks so cute!! And last but not least 2 super cute coats- the Serge (cute but only comes in Bright Yellow?) and Classic Peacoat in Plum or bright blue.

    The Sales Associate did mention that the jewelry is not selling well at all and J Crew recently held a conf. call to discuss with stores why... Could it be that only about 15% of the jewelry is cute! It is either awesome and I buy it at Full Price( the Double strand flower necklace in Guava) or super weird and overpriced.
    Twiga

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  174. People have been talking about having waists taken in .. but what if your waist is a size bigger than your thighs? Is it easy to have the legs of pants taken in? Whenever I buy pants that fit my waist, it makes me look way short and stumpy, because the legs are so freaking loose fitting. I hate heels and prefer flats, which only exacerbates the problem! I don't mind paying for tailoring but I'd really really prefer to not have to punish my feet because of my waist.

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  175. twiga, interesting about the jewelry, i agree! i have a couple of outstanding pieces from previous seasons but noticed since the sea foam treasures necklace this summer, everything is pretty much a pass but last fall everything was great. thanks for the scoop!

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  176. Melanie: yes that is an incredibly easy adjustment! Almost any tailor can do that. The waist is a very hard adjustment, especially on jeans which is why we were discussing it. Obviously fit the biggest part of you, then tailor the rest to your body.

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  177. Hey Mickey & Tracy -

    How about a retail store in lovely Portland, Maine? Apple, Coach, Banana Republic etc. all seem to see the potential of substantial foot traffic / revenues. I'll even put myself in the mix to run the store......

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  178. AppGal - I agree w/Joy. My J Crew jeans stretch out a little bit, but not too much. I can wear them a couple of times and the fit is the same both times. Then I wash and dry them without a problem. Regular heat setting. I dry them inside out, though. Don't be afraid to size up. I'm so glad I did because I don't think the 28s would have stretched enough. I get compliments all the time on my 29. And these are jeans with no logo and no embellishments on them at all. I think they are the boot cut.

    Yay on your private sale order. :-)

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  179. I was the person who posted the tip about the secret sale. Just to clarify, the SA didn't say anything until he saw me feeling and holding up the sweaters. I think that they watch to see if you're considering it or if you are holding/looking at similar items, and then they tell you. It worked on me! Also, another SA told me about the sale too.

    About the driving mocs: I normally wear a 7 in almost all shoes, occasionally a 7.5. I ordered the 7s an they are quite roomy, especially in length. Definitely don't order up.

    About jeans- the problem I've had with them is shrinking in length!!! I got a pair of bootcuts last summer that shrank 2.5" in the inseam. For a girl with long legs, this is unacceptable. They fit me really well otherwise, so I still wear them with flats. I guess next time I'll just have to order tall and have them hemmed.

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  180. Hi ladies! I was keeping my fingers crossed for a new store in San Diego - we only have one in the whole city! Leann is definitely growing on my nerves - she is way too confident and quite obnoxious to the other people on the show. And in the preview where she says, 'What does Tim Gunn know anyway?' - oy!

    My colleague just bought the new t-shirt cardigan I've seen mentioned here a few times in the store that I believe are in the October catalogue and she loves it, alhtough I've yet to see it. Anyone else see it yet?

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  181. megan, do you mean kenley, the one who's in love with the 50s? She's the one who laughed on the runway at Joe and has been very catty to the other designers. Leann is the one with glasses, much quieter. At this point, I think I'll root for her or Korto to win.

    In the previews for next week's show, it looked like Kenley is going to get called on the carpet by quite a few people.

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  182. math teacher: I emailed you, but just in case you check here first, pentagon city had the argyle vest in the small in wheat, and it is on hold for you under your name. I told them you would be calling in for them to ship to you!

    It was 59.99 with 25% off...

    yeah!

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  183. Yes, sorry, I meant Kenley! I love Leann - even if her outfit last night wasn't the best, I thought she was robbed the week before with her Scorpio dress:)

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  184. Megan, yes, last week, with the signs, I thought Joe's Aries dress and Leann's scorpio were the avant garde standouts. I liked jerrell's, but it didn't seem that avant garde to me.

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  185. So excited about the Little Rock store!!!

    We've been waiting for this for a long time! :)

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  186. There's also the J. Crew Factory store opening up at the Premium Outlets in Orlando, FL on 11/6/08.

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  187. Thanks Luigi! I have gone ahead and updated the post with that information. :)

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  188. interestingly, no one has posted a remark that their stock has fallen down to 8.00 a share.

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