Saturday, October 18, 2008

Product Review: Victoria Ruffle Cami {loves it!}

Victoria Ruffle Cami
Click here for product page
Item 99742
Regular: $88.00

"Bravo!" to J.Crew. B-R-A-V-O! J.Crew knew how much some of us (e.g. Me) love ruffles and took it up a notch with the Victoria (click here). So beautiful in its design and so lovely in person. I could not agree more with the following description: "sophisticated double-ruffle micro-pleated collar that makes a chic and unforgettable statement."

Luckily for us, Hawaiilei shared with us a wonderful review of this gorgeous cami:

"First of all, the silk on this top is a little bit heavier and shinier (silkier?) than the fabric used on the Elizabeth and Lydia Halters. I think it makes the top a little bit dressier.

Secondly, the top is sized in 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, etc, so while others have complained that the Elizabeth and Lydia Halters ran big, I was fine purchasing a size 0. I know that another complaint with the previous halters is that they were too boxy, but I didn't really find that this was a problem.


Third, I bought the top in the fuschia color and it's a bright vibrant pink color that I think will be perfect for Fall/Winter. I wanted a pop in my wardrobe, because I've been wearing a lot of black lately.


The pleating and the ruffle collar are adorable. The collar is a little stiff right now, but I can tell it will soften over time. The SA suggested that I maybe press a book down on it, but I'll probably leave it alone.

I highly recommend this item. I purchased it at full price and don't regret it at all. I'm looking forward to the rest of the Fall collection coming into the stores as well.
"

Thanks again to Hawaiilei for her great review! To be honest, I can't wait to purchase this cami and the shirt version. I really love the "ruffle look", especially with the ruffles shining out from underneath a sweater this fall & winter.

What do you think of the Victoria Ruffle Cami (and Victoria Ruffle Shirts)? Do you like the design (e.g. the double ruffle collar)? Do you plan on purchasing this item and why? If you already own the Victoria, please let us know what you think. :)

119 comments:

  1. I am purchasing both the Black and Camel Stripe Victoria Ruffle Shirts...I can't wait to receive them! :)

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  2. FFM: Congrats!!! They are both such fabulous (and beautiful) shirts. I can't wait to see your polyvore sets with these new items too. :)

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  3. Oh gosh, this review makes me want to purchase this one NOW!! Thank you H :)

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  4. Well, I tried one on today and it was so statick-y that I hated it. ;) Otherwise, I do think it's pretty...I just have a difficult time figuring out what to do with the different layers, etc. I wish the Elizabeth halter came in this silk.

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  5. Imagine my thrill when I stumbled onto your blog (via Moodboard)! I am so excited to see a place for J. Crew loving people to dish. Can't wait to come back for more!

    Love the color for this cami...so flattering on many skin tones.

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  6. Hehe. I actually posted in a couple other posts that I have already bought the Victoria ruffle cami in dark grey (I think it's supposed to be the black color, but it looks a little bit lighter than a normal black). I wuv it! I need to play with the collar a bit in the back to get it to lay right. I'm kinda tempted to get the cami in a bright color, for a pop in my wardrobe, just like you, Alexis! I've been leaning toward A LOT of grey and black, specifically at JCrew, recently. And I love color. I, too, want to get the ruffle shirt in either/both black and black stripe. That pleating is simply fab-u-lous.

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  7. I bought it in the pink too and the long sleeve in white is also fabulous! It is going to be such a wonderful piece to layer under long sleeve cardi (as they show) or crewnecks and simple blazers too! The collar is to die for. The long sleeve has the beautiful ruffle/pleated cuffs that stick out of full length sweater cuffs-TDF!

    Cannot wait for a review on the Maggie--now that it is up. Also-sorry this may have been mentioned but the sparkle tweed Ecole is back (only sz 12 but maybe there were more this morning??) Anyway--it looks really short to me--I would love to hear whether it is or not--anyone have it??

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  8. I bought the Victoria cami in a dark steely-grey yesterday from the store. It doesn't appear as though they have this color online but I love it. I was hoping to love the ivory more in person because I'd love to get a version that was a bit more versatile under sweaters, etc, but didn't love the ivory. I have the Elizabeth in black but literally have worn it once because I just don't love how it fits on me, so I'm actually tempted to get the Victoria in black. Regarding the fit, it's much more slim than the Elizabeth and even the Lydia. The collar definitely is a bit stiff but I think that after a few wears and hanging in the closet, it should be a little softer. I'm actually going to Paris next month and can't wait to wear it while I'm there!

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  9. I just got back from my b&m store and was ready to start gushing about one of my purchase and there's a fab review for it already! I, too, purchased the Victoria Ruffle and to tell you how much I loved it, I RARELY pay full price at JCrew but I had to make an exception. I also bought the top in fuschia but the one in ivory also caught my eye-it's very classy! I'm a size six and the top does fit true to size.

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  10. I just got home from my b%m - I purchased the cami in black - and may do another color as well - the the shirt in white - hope I don't regret the white instead of getting one of the striped versions :() - but had a hard time making up my mind. But whatever color you choose would highly recommend both. They are lovely.

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  11. While I love the look of this, I did not love it on me. I think my hair is the wrong length for the collar, longer or shorter and it would work. So, I couldn't justify paying full price for an item I wasn't in love with. That said, I would purchase this with a good markdown (although I doubt it'll still be around). I did purchase the lea cardigan. It's not in the catalog, but it is online. It is a very flattering sweater. I don't like to pay full price, but I know I'll get lots of wear out of this and it was super flattering! I got the green color (can't remember the name) and would like more when it goes on sale. Btw, the buttons are very sparkly. :)

    Congrats to those of you who got the victoria, it's a beautiful shirt and cami.

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  12. math teacher, I agree. This cami is not for me. I love ruffles but this was just too much of a ruffle/ruffles for me!

    I guess for the price I would rather have a sweater...I got the merino rose one...

    Ann

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  13. Oh - and interestingly enough, my sa told me that our b&m was sending all of their cashmere out because in a meeting they were told that because of the economy only the top 30 stores in the country are going to be carrying the cashmere during the holidays. I was very disappointed to hear this.

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  14. Just gorgeous! I'm planning on heading up to J. Crew on Monday to see if I can see it in person. ♥

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  15. Thank you Alexis and Hawaiilei!

    I adore ruffles (especially structural, non-prissy ruffles like these!), and have been eying these since they came out.

    I'm curious if anyone can do a review on the shirt version? I noticed that the shirt is made of cotton, so I suspect that it might "sit" differently than the silk tank. I really love this unique take on a classic white shirt. I've always loved Anne Fontaine's elegant takes on the white shirt...and this j.crew version makes for an affordable alternative.

    Does anyone know if the fit is like for the victoria shirts? Does it contain any stretch?

    Thanks! Also, thanks for the recommendation for the Maggie jacket. I picked it up in bright yellow today. According to the CS, they only have a few of each color for the brighter colors (red and yellow, I'm assuming), especially in the petite size. (there's only 3 left in the petite 0, yellow, for example)

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  16. i went to the store today (tysons corner) and they had already sold out of a few sizes in the shirt, so i snatched up mine. i actually had to size up one size (if you are chesty i recommed that you do). but it was stunning on. i wasn't too sfraid of the silk sleeveless version selling out yet so i'm going ot hold off on that.
    also - a side note (someone had posted about this in the past few days) the marcella blouse in on sale at the tysons store for 29.99 + 30% off, so about $20!!!! picked up all colors in my size, and was able to call CS and get a few more!

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  17. math teached: I tried on the lea cardigan and thought it was a great fit - and so many pretty colors - thought it might even look good over the victoria cami - didn't get one because couldn't decide on color - but I agree it's a great, flattering cardigan.

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  18. auryanne,
    For the Maggie...There are 55 in the bright berry size 10 so depends on size and color not just bright colors...

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  19. ladolcevita: I bought the color that the sa brought me. I was afraid that if I looked at what other colors they had, I wouldn't know which one to get. :) While I didn't try on the cami, I did try the shirt on under the lea, and they fit together beautifully (it also looked good under the ecole).

    As for the fit of the shirt, I wore my normal size (8) and it fit great through the chest (and I'm a 36C). I don't remember it having any stretch, though, and it was quite long (but I'm 5'4"). HTH

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  20. I'd say the shirt also runs tts - I bought the 8 as well -

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  21. Kate!

    Thank you. I'm rather busty (34C), so now I'm worried that the 0P will be too small through the bust. However, looking at it closely on the model, it seems to have a very deep V-neck. I suspect that the neckline will simply be more "open" on me than on the model,so perhaps I can still make this work with a cami underneath.

    Math Teacher:

    Thank you! I'm glad to hear that it's long. I tuck in my dress skirts into my skirts/pants, and the extra length helps it to stay put.

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  22. Is the lea cardigan thin weight? Will it snag easily, I loved this when I saw it but I was unsure about it because it looked a little thin?

    ladolcevita: So is all the other cashmere going back to the warehouse? I noticed that the quanities are low in the new colors hmmm less sales perhaps?

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  23. I just received in the mail $25 off $150 for the new J.Crew opening in the freehold mall on October 28th!

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  24. casual crew: I really don't know what they're going to do with it - probably warehouse for on-line sales or lots of inventory in the lucky 30 stores that carry it. I would have thought my b&m was in the top 30, but I guess not.
    Does anyone know what is the largest store with the most merchandise? Or the top 10 for that matter???

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  25. The lea isn't as thin as the new cardigan with the buttons on the sleeves - it seems like it will hold it's shape a bit better.

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  26. Anyone have the style number for the apparently store only black skirt with bow in front? And know if it comes in other colors? Lastly is it a mini, pencil or something in between? Thanks so much!

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  27. Anon @ 5:27pm- The item # is 99060. It only comes in black and it is not a mini---hits at the knee (normal pencil skirt length) Hope this helps!

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  28. anon @ 5:27:

    Are you talking about the tuxedo mini skirt? (bow in front, and double row of self-clothe buttons?)

    I own it in both navy and black. It *is* a mini skirt, though a rather "longer" one. I'm 5'2, I tend to wear it on the hips, and it hits perhaps 2 inches above the knee--definitely shorter than my pencil skirts from j.crew. It's also a very slight a-line, rather than the straight cut of most pencil skirts.

    It's a lovely skirt in a fantastic fabric, if you have the chance to grab it.

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  29. thanks guys! well i don't know if its the tuxedo mini or not... is it? is tuxedo mini a style only from last year? i know it came in navy and black last year, but don't know if it is being offered in an updated version? i know this skirt is new this year.

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  30. OOT and visited the B&M in Georgetown today. I purchased the Victoria Ruffle Cami in the bright fuchsia, and also got the LS White and Black & White ruffle shirts.
    They are so "pretty" and appear to run TTS.
    Also, had a lot of great sale items.

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  31. Maybe they will do a big cashemere promo! There are a couple I want to order but not so much at full price.

    I hit my b&m today and I was very disappointed in the new offerings. I'm bummed out. A couple of qualifiers: 1. I live in the NE and much of the new stuff isn't all that practical for cold winters...too may short sleeves and too many thin sweaters imo. 2. I'm not a size o, I'm curvy with a long torso so the many of the jackets and cardi's aren't working for me (although things being too short for me isn't new to this collection). I'm not finding all the ruffles and pleats all that flattering either. The blouses are pretty in theory, but I feel like you have to be very thin with no bust to really pull them off. Colors aren't thrilling me either. I guess I have to hope for better options in the next roll-out.

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  32. anon @ 5:43:

    hmm...I did see the tuxedo mini on the website (sale section) earlier today. It was only available in black, in sizes 4 and 6 when I checked. THAT one was definitely the tuxedo mini--probably remnants from last year. If there's a new version, I haven't run across it yet. Let us know if you find the one you're looking for. I love tuxedo styling, so I'd like to see if they came up with a new version.

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  33. Mmmm..the one I'm referring to is in a tweed material--no buttons.

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  34. anon @ 5:43:

    Did it look like this?
    http://blogs.nypost.com/fashion/archives/2008/01/deal_of_the_day_211.html

    That's the one I was referring to.

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  35. Pretty sute she is referring to the one on the other J crew blog-J crew a holics
    It has bow at the top middle of waist and is pencil skirt.

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  36. Ugh! I can't decide, I posted about it yesterday that I ordered watercolor lydia-but I also like the Victoria cami in black/grey or golden olive :( I normally wear skinny jeans and I want something that I can wear underneath and alone in the summer as well. FYI-wear my black balenciaga bag a lot.

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  37. so pretty and love this bright color!

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  38. I bought this today, too! I purchased the ivory cami as it seems pretty versatile. I'm contemplating ordering the dotted one in petite. Anyone have any thoughts on if I should size up or down from the regular size (I bought a size 6). Thanks!

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  39. For those of you who have seen ruffle cami in grey, is it like hammered silk cami's slate color?
    I also like the white polka dotted ones that are online, so many to pick from!

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  40. One more q: the polka dotted one, is it supposed to be ivory? because it looks more silver-

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  41. I was able to go to my nearest b&m today (Asheville, NC) and found the selection there to be pretty lackluster. The sale section was picked over and it didn't appear to have too many new items out. I did see several of the new cardis though, and they're all so cute! And I was SO SURPRISED to see a rose tee just sitting nonchalantly on a table of other graphic tees. I mentioned this in another post, but I quickly picked it up--not so I could buy it, but so no one else would before I posted the news on here! (I momentarily thought of putting it behind the counter under the name "aficionada" hehe) Ashley was able to snag it :) Hooray! Even tho it wasn't my size, I tried it on anyway, and I can see why everyone loves it so. It's very swanky & lovable :)

    I ended up picking up a pair of bootcut cords and a t-neck tissue tee...nothing fancy, but I'm pleased!

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  42. I tried this on and liked it, but am worried the ruffles are too much. Maybe once the price goes down. Also, FFM or others, how do you layer the long sleeve version? I tried it on under several cardigans, and it was too wrinkly/snug. I always have a problem layering long sleeves with cardigans - it seems I would have to size up on the cardigan to make it work. How do you all make it work?

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  43. oh, and in going with the theme of this post, I did see the victoria cami and they are very nice. Didn't try one on since they're not my style, but the colors and materials are GORGEOUS!

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  44. Argyle: I haven't received my Victoria Ruffle Shirts yet, but I DID size up in the cardigan, so I'm hoping that will work. I'll let you know once they get here. :)

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  45. I think it's funny how JCrew names their pieces. The collar on the Victoria cami does look like something Queen Victoria would have worn in her day (with sleeves, of course), just not in hot pink! :)

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  46. I just got back from a business trip but I made time to stop by a J. Crew that was in the area to see the new Holiday items.

    I zeroed in on the long sleeve Victoria ruffle shirts immediately and then spent 30 minutes deliberating between the plain white and black & white striped. I finally went with the black & white but the white is still demanding to be bought;)

    I went to J.Crew Aficionada when I got home to see if anyone had left a review in the comment section and was happy to see a whole post on these shirts.

    The double ruffle collar is divine and I think the great detail makes the shirt worth the price.

    I loved the sleeveless version as well but the long sleeve ones were already blowing out of the stores so I wanted to make sure I didn't miss out.

    argyle-I know what you mean. I find a looser cardigan or sweater helps, but otherwise I just suck it up and let the cuteness override anything else;)

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  47. moodboard:

    I did the same as you - spent half a day debating between the black stripe and the white - kept trying on and re-trying - and finally decided on the white - I needed ffm in my dressing room to help me!!!

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  48. i am in love with this halter and have ordered in 2 sizes in the pink. i hope it is just as lovely when i get to see it

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  49. argyle:

    I tend to layer button-downs (and other "crisp" long-sleeves) with blazers, rather than cardigans.

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  50. Totally OT - but take a look at the 4th picture in the merino turtleneck sweater (zoomed in). I thought the shoes were cute, so I zoomed in on them, and it looks like they are just too small for her - yeeouch!

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  51. I saw this today in my B&M and love it. I wish J.Crew had made this (and many of the other great blouses!) in a 16.

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  52. Is the material thin enough that if I get ivory it'll be see through?

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  53. argyle: I tried on the ls victoria and the lea cardigan, both in my regular size, and I didn't have any problems. And, the lea is a thin knit - no lumps or bumps. It also looked really nice under the ecole.

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  54. Anyone have the super 120 Abby jacket? I ordered it online for $63 and couldn't pass it up. Any thoughts on that piece? Looks cute, not sure how to wear it. Any suggestions?

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  55. I just purchased the long sleeved Victoria in the black-ish gray stripe at my B&M. It's so cute on! I went with a 0, and still had some room. So for me, it was pretty TTS. I actually purchased the Cambridge Cable Cardigan in heather acorn to go over it (as is shown in the new catalog).

    I tried on the cami version. It was cute, but I decided to pass because I already have the Elizabeth. I actually had my tailor take in the Elizabeth so it wasn't so big.

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  56. ordered it online this morning in sleeveless black. can't wait! :) thanks everyone for sharing your in-person thoughts!

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  57. You guys are getting me so excited to go shopping!! I am planning to go to a B&M tomorrow so I will definitely try on this ruffle cami. I hope it fits me as the Lydia and the Elizabeth halters were too boxy on me.

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  58. has anyone noticed how horribly ugly the back of these pants are? when i was reading the description they had me hooked on buying it until i read the words "exposed back zip" ... and when i saw the picture i threw up in my mouth a little.

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  59. oops forgot the link

    http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Browse/WomenBrowse/Women_Shop_By_Category/knitstees/texturedknits/PRDOVR~97643/97643.jsp

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  60. agreed -- what on earth is up with the exposed zip????? couldn't they at least make it black?????

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  61. Thats funny but those pants actually sold out and they re ordered them and have been waitlisted until the end of nov since september

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  62. anon @ 8:53

    I have the abbey jacket from last year. I usually wear either a cami, short sleeve, or 3/4 sleeve top underneath, and either jeans-tucked-into-boots, or a fitted pencil skirt. I try to keep the bottom fairly slim/fitted, since the jacket has a bit of a swing to it. I also wear it with a belted slim dress (often a sweaterdress) and boots.

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  63. Anonymous @ 7:11p - The Victoria ruffled sleeveless blouse is in dark slate. It looks like an off black, imo.

    So it looks like there are 3 of these, right?

    The sleeveless Victoria (99742) - This is silk and very beautiful. The silk feels good and the ruffles are great.

    The long sleeved Victoria (99694) - This one is cotton. I didn't see this one in the stores I visited the past 2 days.

    The long sleeved striped Victoria (99693) - Also in cotton. I tried this one on today. Gorgeous! The collar on this one is more pronounced/Elizabethan than the sleeveless silk one. I have to say that the look depicted in the catalog w/the chinos and cardi works in real life. Very, very cool blouse. I kind of felt like it overwhelmed me on its own with the collar and stripes (I'm 5'2"). But I didn't tuck it in with a belt or anything. I tried it w/the cardi though and that toned it down.

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  64. Does anyone know whether the issy jacket is available in any colors other than black? And also, where might I be able to find them? TIA!

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  65. Its very classy ~ saw it in the store yesterday. It looks fab under a cardi. I just bought the ivory Lydia, and love it ~ just the right amount of ruffle for me.

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  66. I fear that by the end of the season, we will all be "ruffled" to death. And that's a bummer 'cause I love ruffles, but I'm seeing them EVERYWHERE!!! What's next? Ruffled pants, perhaps?

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  67. Gigi, regarding the mysterious black dress...I hope it looks better on you than it does on the hanger! I read your review and I was wondering if you'd belt it or not. It looks like it has no shape. BTW, you write great reviews!

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  68. I love both the blouse and the cami - reminiscent Victorian without the primness and without elements of the tuxedo style.

    It seems ruffles are very much in fashion this season. This rendition is very similar to J. Crew's were it not halter. I wonder where the inspiration comes from? I see some likeness from Givenchy's Victorian ruffle blouses, this one in particular. (Think open collar, less ornate, bigger ruffles.) And look how much we're saving! :) (I have seen this blouse IRL, and the picture does not do it justice. It is stunning.)

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  69. Has anyone teamed the blouse or cami with a structured jacket? Do they work together or are they better suited with button-down cardigans?

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  70. Anonymous @ 2:38 - I saw the Issy jacket only in black in b&m. That might have been nice in other colors. I admit I would not pay $148 for it. When I touched it I thought $50 tops, H&M. I usually don't see a correlation to H&M & J Crew, but I did in this case. I tried it on and I have to say the collar is beautiful. I didn't like that the jacket falls into an open stance. There is only one button at the collar and it's cut to remain open. So you'll be showing what you have on underneath. I didn't like that about it. Again -- beautiful neckline.

    Anon @ 9:38 - Thanks :-) I don't know if I'd belt it. I guess you can but the thought didn't occur to me when I tried it on. Good idea! A skinny belt along with a cardigan might work. I don't know about a wider belt as it might compete w/the ruffles.

    cleo26 - I'd say you can definitely wear the sleeveless silk Victoria under a blazer. I'm sure the cotton long slv striped one will *fit* underneath a blazer, but I found the ruffles to be more voluminous. A cardigan may soften the look more than a blazer. I know that ruffles are a soft look, but they can have a formal feel. I think a blazer might make it look even more formal. However that is a total guess on my part. I do feel that the ruffles frame the face/neck area more than flounce around it, like the Lydia.

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  71. covert 5 - I snagged an Italian boucle skirt in honey glaze, size 2 this morning when it reappeared on the FS page (after the 20% off promotion expired, of course, but I still got 10% off with the RCLK code). I'll let you know if it actually arrives and isn't cancelled, and then if you still want it I'll send it to you.

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  72. Thanks, GigiofCA. I was wanting to pair the blouse with a jacket, and it's nice that i will be able to. I originally returned the Lydia watercolor because i couldn't pair it well with a jacket, besides the fact that it was too voluminous.

    Also, thanks for the information on the Issy jacket. I was eyeing this one to coordinate with a skirt, and I didn't realize it rested open. Did you also find the jacket very lightweight, given your qualification of its pricing?

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  73. I love the Victoria Ruffle cami. I think it looks very european designer and will be a classic to wear forever. My only concern is this- the side profile. I am a size 4 but heavy up top. How does this shirt look from the side? I wonder if it adds too much bulk and make you look heavy in the front. I've tried the ruffle look before and had that problem. Just wondering what everyone else thought before I order.

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  74. I think this shirt is strictly for the IBTC (ittybittytittycommittee).Big boobs and ruffles do NOT go together, IMO. Conversely, as an A-cup girl myself, there are MANY styles of tops and dresses that I just cannot wear...

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  75. I thought that the Issy was the same weight as the other fall/winter merino sweater jackets JC has done (ie, the Alice and Sophie from last year). It's very cute, I like the cut, it's definitely more fitted than last year's versions (I could do a S or XS with those, but this one I definitely could not go smaller than S), but it has one of those stupid snap buttons that I do not care for! I picked it up with my student discount, but am not really sure if I will hang on to it. I'll have to try it out with some of my other things first.

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  76. Cleo26 - I just blogged about the Issy. Mostly reiterated what I've said. And yeah, it's just too lightweight for that price. For $100 more I got the lined Aubrey which I expect to get much more wear out of. My navy Jamie will do far better for me than the Issy.

    anon @ 12:58 - I'm a 34C and I don't have a flat stomach. I felt that the fit was flattering all the way around. NO maternity look or anything. They really nailed these shirts, imo.

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  77. gigiofca- Thank you for your input. I am a 32C and no flat stomach. I am going to order the shirt now knowing I won't get that maternity look. Any suggestion as far as size? I am thinking a 4? What size didi you get? Thanks again for your input!

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  78. OMG, EVERYTHING is soooo pretty!
    I LOVE the Victoria shirts (can't figure out which color I prefer), Lea sweater, cashmere Eva, cashmere peplum jacket, Paris striped scarf, quinn cami, smock-stitch tissue tank....They should always offer pastel colors in addition to their usual bright ones, they are gorgeous! (I love orange but I can't wear it all the time...)

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  79. I glanced through the messages and hope I'm not repeating a ? that has already been answered. How does the sleeveless Victorian work w/ bra straps? It looks a little cut in at the shoulders so wondering if straps show. I HATE strapless bras so if so this top would be out for me. Thanks.

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  80. Anonymous @ 1:58 - I am usually a 4, tried the 4 in the sleeveless silk and it fit great. In the cotton long sleeve version I tried a 6 and it was too big. They didn't have a 4 for me to try. Hope that helps. :-)

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  81. kitchy7-

    OH THANK YOU SO MUCH for thinking of me!! I posted when I bought it and also inquired on that post (cannot remember which one it was on now but it was prob ordered maybe this past Mon??) about whether you had gotten it for me as I hoped we hadn't both done so! I think you had been off the blog a few days--perhaps you were out of town. I got the 2 and 4!:)
    Also got the boucle tweed sz 2 but silver lining has me wondering if it will fit because she felt it ran smaller than others and was too tight.
    Anyway--I totally appreciate you getting it but I have 2 on the way (prob be here tomorrow in fact:):):)

    You made it sound like you would return or could sell or something--I certainly don't want you stuck with it--please let me know. You are so sweet to have done that;)

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  82. cleo26: I tried on the ls shirt with the ecole jacket and thought they worked beautifully together, although I did not button the jacket. In fact, I liked the shirt better under a jacket or cardigan than I did on its own (keep in mind, I tried on the white one).

    I am a 36C and I did not feel like the ruffles added to my chest. If anything, they distracted from it - the focus was on the ruffles instead of on my chest. IMO

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  83. anon @ 1:16

    I think it depends on the ruffles, actually. I'm fairly well-endowed, but subtle ruffles at the neckline tend to actually distract from the chest area, since they draw the focus slightly higher. And while I haven't tried on the victorias, I suspect that the vertical line will also draw the eye up. In general, V-cuts tend to have a minimizing effect on my cleavage.

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  84. I bought sz 2 in both cotton long sleeve and cami version. I seem to be a 2 in J Crew shirts (everywhere else I am sz 4). The fit of both is perfect-no pulling at bust/buttons I am 32D so I don't agree that you cannot be busty) on the long sleeve and they trimmed the fabric on the silk version so it is NOT voluminous-yea!!! I know we ALL are happy about that! I agree watercolor floral Lydia is voluminous-I put the flower belt from summer with it and it is TDF--not the chiffon ribbon belt but the true flower with jewels. I LOVE that Lydia floral patterm. Whomever was trying to decide between the two, I personally think that's a REALLY tough call!

    kate!
    Thanks for the info on the marcella! Where is Tyson's corner?

    chloe-how did you get that little heart on your post-SO CUTE!!

    bethl-
    I had to do something about a bra for the silky pleated tops that I live in as well as the cut in shoulders of the eliz, lydia and this one comes close as well. I got a racerback bra anf that seems to do the trick!

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  85. Has anyone seen the Marcella blouse for 29.99 at their store, as Kate mentioned earlier? My stores still have it at 49.99 and it's sold out at Tysons right now.

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  86. I tried on the black Victoria cami today at the Madison Ave (midtown, not collection) store. Loved it in black. Fit true to size (6 for me) in my opinion, and I wear a 34D and found it to be more subtle than either the Elizabeth or the Lydia. The store had it displayed under a cambridge cable crewneck and I think the effect was gorgeous. Way off topic anecdote: all of the ruffles and rosettes make me think of Angela from season 3 of Project Runway. When I saw the rosette tank for example I liked it but all I could hear was Jeffrey/Laura's voice repeating fluerchons over and over in my head.

    OT question: does anyone own the Lady Day coat? I snagged a catalog at the store and think the dark poppy color is stunning. Does it run TTS?

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  87. Issey is very cute but not worth the price IMO--and yes, it only comes in black.

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  88. I am thinking of the black Victoria cami with a pair of vintage trouser cords in seasalt. Has anyone seen that combo? Can't decide if the the pants are too casual.

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  89. Kitchy7

    I am assuming you have the Carmen patterned floral shoes that you posted on the other topic--do they run TTS and is that your J Crew size or typical sz?? J Crew shoes--when will we be able to order one size that always fits us??

    Website problem?? Cannot place carmen shoes in basket-won't let me choose size. My computer or everyones??

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  90. I am a big fan of the elizabeth halter and lydia blouse, so my guess is that I'll be buying this one as well! However, I wonder how versatile is this cami for everyday wear or work...Isn't it a bit over the top? I'll be stopping by a B&M to try it on next week!

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  91. hey covert5! I'm so glad you got the skirt! I just placed my order today, and it's Sunday, so I'm pretty sure I can call and cancel that item.

    I haven't received the Carmen peep-toes yet, but I should sometime this week. I'll let you know how they fit. Usually a 9 is just fine with me, but every now and then I'll get a J.Crew 9 that is way too tight. I'm hoping that isn't the case with this shoe!

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  92. I don't think I like the ruffles, but that might change if I try it on. :) It seems really dramatic, more than what I would wear on a daily basis.

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  93. The amount of ruffles on this cami really hides the chest area well. I didn't like the deep cut on the shoulder for the cami, as my bra straps peeked through.

    I do like how the ruffles stands out especially when you wear a cardigan or jacket with the blouse. But I did not get it because I know there is no way I want to hand wash the cami or blouse and try to iron a shirt with tons of tiny little pleats.

    I got the black ruffle dress instead. It doesn't fit too loose. You can either wear it with a belt, or without.

    Also tried on the kate dress. I didn't fit right on me. I don't notice a pouch, but it does nothing for my figure.

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  94. Oh, I am so in love with Victoria!!!

    Judging from the pictures on the website, I thought the ruffles might be a *bit* much, but I was completely wrong.

    I went to my local B&M today and just had to try on. The only ones left of the long-sleeved Victoria were on the mannequins, and they only had the sleeveless ones in boring colors. But I made do and tried on what they had.

    I am so impressed! The pleated ruffles are just perfect and don't look too much like the Seinfeld puffy white shirt, if you know what I mean. I loved how the cami was close-fitting, unlike the Lydia. It was also short enough where I think it would look good untucked with jeans.

    I decided to order via the red phone the fuschia cami, and both the white and the black-and-white striped long-sleeved shirts. I might need to order more of the camis as well.

    After all this time, my watercolor garen Lydia sits in my closet with the tags still on. I think this may go back and help fund the Victorias, which I truly adore.

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  96. San Francisco's downtown store doesn't carry camel stripe victoria ruffle shirt yet-I didn't order it, I hope to see it in person before I do.

    I was able to snatch a pair of silver mocs for $69.99 + additional 30% off and the Stretch vintage cord peplum jacket (ecru-so pretty in person!) for $59.99 +30% off.

    Still hoping to find camel stripe victoria-has anyone seen both black and camel striped ones in person? Which one is more neutral? :)

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  97. Maybe you've all noticed this already but did J Crew re-introduce the Elizabeth halter with, as the website says, a more tailored fit without the pockets? And it's on sale. Definitely a good buy. I have the old version in ivory and yellow and wear them all the time!

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  98. I just went to my B&M store today (Towson Mall in Baltimore, MD... any other aficionadas in this area?) and tried on the cami in ivory. I was afraid that the ruffles would be too much since I'm petite at 5'2". However, like most other people, I found it to be very flattering. I ended up getting the navy since the ivory seemed a little bit see-through... and I already have a good amount of other pink JCrew things!

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  99. What is the name of the grey color? I don't see it online but want to get one! Hopefully the store near me will have it.

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  100. roxy: Which color Vicotria and what color cable cardi? Sounds gorgeous!

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  101. @anonymous at 10:55, the black cardi is closer to a very dark grey. I think that is what the other commenters are referring to.

    @jcrewjunkie - it was the black cami with a dark grey cambridge cable crewneck. I did not see this darker grey on the website when I checked yesterday. It was like the charcoal color of the silvie dress.

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  102. Sorry, black cami, not cardi. Too early! :)

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  103. Roxy - I own the Lady Day coat in a 4P, it is definitely TTS. I am a 2P in clothing, I ordered up to a 4P to take into account layering and bulky sweaters. fits like a glove.

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  104. I actually exchanged my Rhubarb Lydia for the Bright Fuschia Victoria Ruffle Cami yesterday...it is absolutely GORGEOUS! My friend from Vegas who was with me works in true high end (designer) sales...she LOVED it as well, and commented that it looks very GUCCI. :)

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  105. FFM, what colour is the bright fuschia IRL? Is it a bright, would it look good with charcoal, black ro navy under a suit for a conservative office environment?

    Thanks!!!

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  106. a: The Bright Fuschia IS really intense...I would say it's comparable to the Bright Pink of the Lana Polka Dot top...that being said, it is indeed stunning. I tried it on with the Dark Slate Watson Pants and the combination was beautiful. I do think you can wear this to the office with a Charcoal or Navy Suit, but let the ruffles and bright color be the focal point of your outfit...keep accessories subtle and to a minimum. I also intend to wear my Victoria with my GAP Gray Plaid Perfect Trousers seen Here . The plaid has a subtle pink stripe in it which the cami helps *pull out*. I will wear them with my black Jackie Cardigan, and the combo would also work with a Black Suit Jacket. HTH!!!

    Btw...the Bright Fuschia looks really pretty with the Bright Blue Jackie Cardigan, too. :)

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  107. I now own the Victoria in the cami (dark slate) and long sleeve (black stripe) versions. I am a 34C and I got the cami in a 6, the long sleeve in an 8 (slightly broad in my shoulders). The long sleeve doesn't have any stretch.

    After reading everyone's comments, I couldn't stop thinking about the long sleeve that I tried on the same time as the cami but didn't buy. So glad I got both as it seems they are going to fly out of the store/website, esp. the long sleeve.

    I also picked up the Lea in the heather vicuna (light brown, size small), which I think is a great neutral to go with all my black things I've been stocking up on recently :-P. Has anyone else (beside those I've noticed here) bought the Lea? I had such a hard time picking a color. Was leaning toward the green, but I think I'm going to get the Victoria cami in the green, as well, so. Also not sure that I can wear with the Victoria long sleeve as I tried them together in the store and it felt a little too snug. I do agree that wearing either the cami or long sleeve (especially) with a cardi downplays the ruffles/pleats enough so they don't seem so dramatic. However, I like the drama of them and know I'll get comments when I wear :-). The pleats on the button placket lie flat enought that they don't accentuate a larger bust, which is always my fear.

    K, so those are my additional thoughts! You all are such enablers in my JCrew shopping ever since I discovered this blog, hehe :-P.

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  108. Oh wow, I didn't realize it was that intense! Thanks FFM for the review...I have the bright pink lana top and loved it for summer but wasn't sure of this one for winter...hmm...have ordered it in the black and the black/white dot for now...AND, the white long sleeve and the black/white long sleeve stripe...can't wait to get it!!!!

    What about the orange colour, have you seen this colour?

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  109. a: I did not see the Cerise (Orange)Victoria in the store, but I'm sure it is VERY intense, as well. The Orange Lydia is bright, so I would tend to think the Victoria Orange will be even brighter, if that's at all possible. I agree about the Fuschia being bright for Fall/Winter, and I am pleased to finally see more neutral and subtle colors with this catalog. I personally opted for the Fuschia because it truly is a beautiful color, and somehow seems more appropriate for Fall/Winter than the Lana Top. If it helps at all...pairing it with the Dark Slate or Charcoal helps to tone it down...that's how I intend to wear both the Victoria and the Lana.

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  110. marta: the victoria cami comes in green? Or are you talking about the golden olive that is online?

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  111. Golden Olive. Sometimes I can't remember the fancy name they give a color and generalize :-P.

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  112. Thank you Marietta! I think I am going to save my pennies for the Lady Day coat.

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  113. Marta, I LOVE the lea cardigan. I tried it on with the ls white victoria, and I thought they worked really well together. IMO I bought the green lea. I didn't go check what other colors they had in the store b/c I was afraid I would want more. And, I do! Once they go on sale, I WILL be buying more lea cardigans. :)

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  114. is the picture of the victoria ruffle shirt paired with the cambridge cardigan in the catalog in black or camel? i can't tell online and havent received a hard copy yet.

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  115. Hi! Love this website!
    I think you probably need to be lean and tall to be able to pull off this the victoria cami/shirt...I love it, but too bad it doesn't good on me since my neck is not slim enough...

    Rene

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