Tuesday, February 15, 2011

J.Crew Reviews {straight from the JCAs!}

This is the weekly "J.Crew Reviews {straight from the JCAs}" post, to help each other share our reviews.

So if you have recently purchased, or stopped by a J.Crew store to try on an item (or two) from J.Crew, maybe you might be willing to share that information with us in this post.

Also, this request is not just limited to clothes. Please feel free to discuss bags, shoes, jewelry, accessories, etc.

In particular, if you could mention a few of the noteworthy details like fit, size, fabric, and the like— that would be fantastic! Thanks in advance! :)

74 comments:

  1. could somebody please review the crystal venus flytrap bracelet?
    is it worth full price?
    TIA

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  2. LOVE the Braidee sandals I just received. Pics on my blog.

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  3. Would someone be able to review the
    Washed-out ripstop field jacket 32603?
    Loving how it is styled with the Timber tweed pencil skirt.
    Thanks.

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  4. I put some reviews in this thread for the Herringbone Schoolboy Blazer in aged driftwood, Stripe-back Button Tee, and Lunette Mini among other things. I forgot to mention I got the 00 in the Lunette, so if you can size down, it might be good so your 'lantern' isn't quite as poufy/big as it gets.

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  5. Diggin' in the crates for this rave, but just rec'd the Library cardi from an eBay win yesterday ... now I understand all the love. It is heavenly!

    Also want to add I've already worn my Crewlet everyday cardi 3 times since I bought it a week ago. The light berry color just makes me so happy, wheeeeeeee! :)

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  6. Has anyone tried on the Saturday sweater (item #37605)? It's a merino/linen blend and I'm wondering if it's scratchy with the wool content. I can't stand the itch of wool (even if it's merino wool) but I'm looking for a slouchy sweatshirt-styled sweater. Thanks!

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  7. I forgot to add - the Costine sweater arrived last week and I am super happy with it. I ordered it in cerise, in two sizes, S and M. I decided to keep the M as I found the S fit a little too snug in the torso for me (I normally wear a size 6 in dress tops). The cerise colour is a really brilliant coral orange/red in person.

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  8. I received the pleated zip pencil skirt in super 120s late last week. It's amazing. I love it. The pleating detail and front zipper take a basic work pencil skirt and make it a little edgy. The super 120s is a great fabric. I'm in Arizona and it's light enough to be year round wearable for me. It was TTS. Highly recommend.

    Also picked up the pleated Elan trouser in super 120s and also love them. The pleats lay nicely and don't add bulk. I like the cropped length and the cuff.

    The super 120s is such a great fabric. I wish they'd stop making such short dresses in this fabric. They are no where near office appropriate for me, or I'd buy many of them. I picked up a super 120s Jayne dress on ebay which is from a past season and longer. I would love it if they'd do something like that length again, and maybe offer the dresses in petites for those who need less length.

    I'm waiting on the wide calf hair belt that I was finally able to snag on a sale update, and the crosstown tee. They just shipped.

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  9. I mentioned this in a different post, but the Factory end-on-end camp shirt is a great substitute for the contrast-stitch perfect shirt of last spring. I think that the fabric is identical. It comes in XS-L sizes as opposed to the contrast-stitch shirt's number sizing. I'm usually a 4 in JC perfect shirts and took a S in the Factory version.

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  10. Pin slim patent belt: I sized up and it was still WAY too short to be worn in belt loops of pants (ie not at the waist). I am a 6, I ordered a large, and it was not even close to fitting. Just FYI for everyone. Also, I think it is kinda cheap looking the way the backing shows on the folded over piece by the buckle, instead of being patent the entire front of the belt. I'm sure J.Crew thinks it's some edgy design element though.

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  11. Has anoyone had an experience using / having an online personal shopper through J.Crew? They have contacted me a few times to set up an appointment, but I'm just not sure how different an online PS will be from just using the contactus@jcrew.com email or just calling my PS at the store?! Any comments? Thanks!

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  12. Hi All,

    Sort of OT, but do any of you have the Madewell Bensimon elastic sneakers? I'm a half size and wondering if I should order up or down.

    Also, does anyone have the J CREW oxford ballet flats? I love the look, but wonder about the fit.

    Thanks!

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  13. @Lizzy T, you should size up in Bensimon sneakers. I usually wear US size 7.5. My Bensimon sneakers are European size 38.

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  14. I am currently wearing the Tall Ultra Knit Pant, item #33892 (regular length is item #33277). Picked these up at the clearance store for $15 on a whim. They are wonderful. I would not pay $45 but with some type of discount they are worth it. They are a size bigger than I normally wear but they still look more reasonable than the baggy XL men's sweatpants I usually have to wear to have the length be proper.

    They are very, very soft, pretty thick (thicker than yoga pants, thinner than typical sweatpants), and the length in the tall is more than ample for me at 5'10". I have worn them a few times and so far no pilling or any other issues.

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  15. I received the Campbell high-heel oxfords recently and I'm undecided whether or not to keep them. They are cute and have a sturdy lining, which should help the fabric uppers last but I am pretty sure this fabric oxford style will be offered by other lines this spring and I just don't know that the J.Crew version is worth the $265 + Canadian duty and taxes. I bought my usual size 8 and they are narrow across the toe, which is fine for me but my heel does slip a bit and there is nothing to prevent that. Better shoes I own have a soft suede heel cup that prevents slipping so I may scour around for a better-quality version over the next couple weeks. I'm off to Europe for business today so will take at least 1 day for shopping and see what shoes I can find at my favorite stores there.

    Just want to mention that I washed my Rainy Day Utility Jacket and dried it in the dryer on medium, then hung it to dry the last little bit. It turned out really good and I've been wearing this one a lot. It's now in the final sale section at $99.99 so with an additional % off I highly recommend it if you're looking for a utility rain jacket. It's not a trench or slicker but it keeps me warm and dry and is really comfortable.

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  16. I tried the Herringbone schoolboy blazer in aged driftwood too and I agree with woodly-park zoo re. the problem with the scratchy fabric in the sleeves. It is the threads that they used for the stitching as the fabric itself is very soft (and not metallic-y at all). It is a bummer because I loved it (color is a great neutral and looked good on me, especially with a tan). I wish they would make a recall and fix the problem, it would probably cost them less than let it go for $30 in the final sale section. Re. the fit, I am a 0 or a 2 depending on the style and the 2 fit perfectly without having too long sleeves. I took pics and will try to post soon

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  17. Lindsey B: I would highly suggest having one. My online PS has been able to track down sold out items quickly and without any hassle. She also is very happy to waive shipping on many occasions. I've really enjoyed having one simply because she knows my history. If I have an issue, it's easier going through her than getting a different person each time through contactus@jcrew.com.

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  18. @Louise, I do not find the Saturday sweater scratchy at all – I didn't even know it had merino in it until I had it up to the register – but it is big. I'm a pretty consistent medium in JC tops, but had to size down to a small. HTH!

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  19. OT, but I got an email titled "Meet Marissa". It's an email about a new jacket they're promoting. Anyhow, my email states that can enjoy free shipping through 2/28. You might want to check your account for FS!

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  20. jbird - my email had an actual code at the bottom of it that is one time use only. The email is a bit confusing since it states "log into your account and we'll do the rest" but I'm guessing you can only use the code when signed in to your own account.

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  21. I tried the cotton bell skirt in store. I thought it was really cute, and a nice length. Sometimes I'm a 4 in skirts, sometimes a 2 - took a 2 in this. The chambray skirt was way short - too short for me. Interesting that online descriptions say these are the same length. Could just be the elastic vs. the fitted waist band. I didn't hold them up next to each other, but the bell skirt looked much longer to me even on the hanger.

    Also tried the Amie short dress. Loved this. Really nice fabric and just-above-the-knee length (I'm 5'7"). Somehow I can't get strapless dresses to look right on me or I might've taken it right home with me! The agate color, as others have described, looks less vibrant IRL than online but is still really pretty, esp with my fair skin and blue eyes. :)

    So sad about that herringbone blazer. I really wanted to try it when I was in-store, but I was in too much of a hurry - they had them laid out on a table (jackets not hung up - seemed weird to me) so I didn't have time to dig for my size. But it looked lovely and felt soft to the touch. Sad that the sleeve stitching is so uncomfortable.

    Also OT - I got the same email jbird got, but mine has a one-time use code for free shipping that expires 2/28. Wondering if others got multi-use codes?

    Last OT - Hearing lots of reports about cost of clothing going up - I'm guessing our concerns re: quality and cost aren't going to be addressed anytime soon whether JC goes private or not. Makes me sad.

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  22. Got excited about the ice drop earrings (39581) because they were a little more delicate than recent offerings and looked like they wouldn't weigh my ears down. Ordered during the recent 30% and FS on jewelry. Wish I had looked at them more carefully before wearing! They are pretty and delicate - a little longer than the 1.25" length given on the website. BUT, the top section of crystals is those beautiful sparkly ones, and the bottom drop is plain glass. They don't match at all and it's really obvious in low light when the crystals really sparkle and the glass is just there. Boo

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  23. I also got the Meet Marisa email stating the free shipping until 2/28. No code needed in this case as it says offer will apply automatically. Nice!

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  24. IRL pics of Sequin bib cami #36375, Knotted twist bracelet #39538, Convertible jeweled gloves #34452 on my blog.

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  25. I got the same confusing email as IRL. "Log into your account and we'll do the rest" but there's a one-time use code.

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  26. hey girls! if anyone is looking for some irl pics of the bonfire caridgan and infinity cardigans, I posted them on my blog. LOVE both the sweaters. I know the bonfire cardi wasn't getting much love, but I found it fit tts (size xs for 5'6, 32'' bust, 23.5' waist). It's REALLY heavy so if you live in Canada, it's perfect for cold weather :)
    here's my link:
    http://rufflesandsequins.blogspot.com/2011/02/not-so-weekly-outfit-roundup.html


    Tasia
    http://rufflesandsequins.blogspot.com

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  27. I also got the free shipping email. Mine doesn't have a code, just says to enjoy free shipping on all orders through feb 28 by signing in to my account. Nice!

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  28. http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/index.jsp?productId=10793535

    Looks like Charlotte Russe was inspired by J Crews Neapolitan Print

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  29. Love the Nickleby Bib Top in the waterfront color. I sized down one size, per suggestions from JCAs - otherwise the armhole is gapingly huge. It's pretty and romantic-looking. Hopefully it will go down on-line, as I got this for the $39.99 promo price in store. It's a nice piece for spring/summer -- I picture it with cute khaki bermudas.

    Got a second pair of trouper pants - this time in the shadow color. Good, consistent sizing thankfully! Paid $59.99 +30% but they are cheaper now.

    OT: I finally got to a good tailor to work on the sleeves of my grey/white Lexington blazer ('07?). The seamstress is going to try to cut the sleeve and put in a diagonal seam, complimenting the seams on the body of the blazer. I hope it turns out well...I had to do something because this blazer has been sitting in my closet unworn for almost 2 years! I just couldn't part with the style and quality...and I needed to find someone who was skilled enough to keep the buttons and piping at the end of the sleeve :)

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  31. I would like to ask, has anyone tried the Riveter Pant, and how does it compare to say, the Trouper Pant?
    Any comments would be greatly appreciated! (sorry for the formality, I am new to this!)

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  32. I received the Lockwood bucket bag in the masala chai and was disappointed. The were a few double stitches and a thread sticking out right in the front below the clasp. I'm debating whether to exchange or just return. I like the size and style, but the leather is so "buttery soft," that I'm a little worried the bottom might droop when it is filled.

    The bag is less expensive than most other JCrew bags, but I'm thinking that the quality might not be so great.

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  33. I got the Meet Marissa email too, forwarded it to Alexis. Mine has FS without a code. Anyway, I love the blazer Melissa is wearing in that photo, does anyone know the style number? Assuming it is J.Crew.

    My connection flight is delayed and the first thing I do once I'm sitting in the airline lounge with a glass of wine is crack open the laptop and hit JCA. Love it Alexis! Will be reading all the posts this week while most everyone is sleeping the night away.

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  34. My free shipping email didn't have a code. I assume it's fs on all orders thru 2/28.

    Lindsey B. - I have an online p.s. and an in-store. The upside to the in-store p.s. is that she's seen me in person and has a good idea of my style. She's good about pulling things that I like, but also things I wouldn't normally try on. I end up liking a good number of them and it impresses me every time.

    My online p.s. hasn't met me and doesn't know what I look like. She has my stats, so she is able to recommend the best size. I can get stats thru the phone or email from any rep, but she has never, ever been wrong when helping me choose between sizes. The online p.s. is very helpful w/things that are catalog/.com only and is very competent as well. Unlike the regular cs, which is consistently good in my experience, but not as invested perhaps as the personal shoppers. My p.s. does not, however, kick me down with free shipping as people have mentioned in various threads. I've had her offer me a couple promos, but no free shipping just for the heck of it or because I asked. Also, if it's final sale, it's final sale. She doesn't bend the rules about allowing me to return it and warns about fs before I purchase. I've often purchased on sale or promo with her, so maybe I am not in the category of customers she wants to offer free shipping. to. I'm thinking maybe they are allowed a certain number of freebies at their discretion. Or maybe it matters how much they sell or how long they've been there. Who knows. At any rate, I do like having both online & in-store p.s.

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  35. Hi xoxo - I'm fairly certain that Marissa's blazer is not JC... I want to say it's Balenciaga, but am totally guessing. Enjoy your wine! :)

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  36. Hi silver_lining, thanks for the info, I'm going to try and find the blazer, I would love to add it to my closet. I have a resourceful friend who loves to track down elusive items so hopefully he can help! It's gorgeous, which is no surprise if it is Balenciaga.

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  37. Has anyone seen/purchased the Marguerite wedges? Thanks!

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  38. @Elaine: Glad you got your Library cardigan on eBay.

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  39. XOXO, I would love to know if you find out who makes that fabulous jacket. I have to say, I was completely confused by the email where Marissa extols the virtues of their motocross jacket, and she isn't wearing it!

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  40. On second thought - maybe it's Balmain?

    http://www.baimain2011.info/balmain-doublebreasted-military-jacket-p-14.html

    I've also seen this on Emmanuelle Alt - or maybe it's not the same? I'm so confused!

    http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_nbYdNetvTOg/S5UEQNQHS2I/AAAAAAAAP_U/mwCGH9AiqdE/s800/Emmanuelle_alt_Balmain-1.jpg

    http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8mvDkrFIy4U/TORLOJJkeRI/AAAAAAAABS8/CNNx_LcPgs8/s1600/emmanuelle.jpg

    Sorry for the hideous links.

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  41. I have just posted a review of the Honewy tweed jacket (#28904) that I brecently bought with the 40% off and is in the sale ection of the website (if not, it will pop back). It's an old item but I have never seen it reviewed so it might still interest someone.

    How come Marissa is not wearing JCrew (I can't chime in as I haven't received the email)? Isn't bad publicity for the brand?

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  42. I recently got the Stadium Cloth trench style coat from the Jcrew (regular) online store, and I can't properly convey how disappointed I am using actual words.

    When I tried it on in stores, it was thick, plushy, and crazy warm. Unfortunately, it wasn't in the color (or the price) I wanted. So obviously, I thought I would wait a few months and order it in the color I wanted online.

    When I received the item... I was so disappointed. The quality of the online item paled in comparison to the in-store item. The coat I received is made of inferior cloth, it's not plushy or made out of that ultra-thick wool. The sad thing is, this is not the first time I've been disappointed with an online order.

    I find it appalling that Jcrew would do this to their loyal customers (I've been shopping at J.Crew for years) and this is so close to being the last straw. I feel like we should all band together and hold some sort of boycott because I am so sick of paying such a high price (in this case, 219.99) for shoddy quality.

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  43. I LOVE LOVE LOVE the pink feather tippet. I read reviews that said the wool one was like wearing a bad wig, so I bought the more expensive one with the furry feathers. It is FAB-U-LOUS. Totally unique, adorable, girly. Not scratchy, just the right size. I am so happy with my final sale item!

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  44. I purchased the camp cardigan, on sale in store for $49.99. I got the darker brown color, took my jackie size. This is cotton, quite lightweight, not worth $88 to me but ok on sale.

    Also got the navy double breasted puffer jacket (the newer lightweight one). $99 in store, $89 online, but sold out in my size. I think this runs tts, not vanity sized. Lightweight, definitely a spring jacket for me.

    Scarves were $10 off, so I picked up the silk driving scarf in the graphic (not floral) print. I don't need it, but kept thinking it would be cute under the jacket with a navy striped tee.

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  45. Two reviews:

    Provence Dress
    Very flattering and true to size. I got the white in size 8. You can't tell from the picture online, but the dress has a raised pattern of alternating vertical strips of swiss dots and cross hatching I find it very precious.The strips of fabric that define the empire waist and ruffle is actually a yellow khaki! It looks completely white in the photo. Also, the dress is boned, which provides shape and structure. Unfortunately I'm returning this. For a casual dress I'd wear only once, $70 is too much. Were it around the $30 range I'd keep it.

    Ultra knit pant
    I got this in medium, dark cypress. I'm a true 8 and suggest sizing down. The pants would be perfect at the waist for a 10. They are so so comfy and I didn't want to take them off. The army green is an interesting twist on a typical sweat pants, giving them versatility. For someone my height, 5'6" but a short inseam, these pants do not work. They give a harem look and are too loose all around the leg.

    Again, swim tops are best for a/b cups, as my medium arrived and it was TINY! I'm a true 8 c/d. Not happening :)

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  46. I don't know if this has been discussed previously, but I have been having some confusion about the silk driving scarf. Here is what live chat told me, hope it helps anyone else with this question.

    Hello! How may I help you today?

    Wendy: I think the silk driving scarf is mis marked on line.

    Wendy: Modern Red has the picture with the floral version, and retro orance has the picture with the graphic design

    Kim: The names are actually correct, although I understand the confusion. We've had a lot of people asking.

    Wendy: So if I want the floral, I order modern red.

    Wendy: that is odd, but if we are sure there will be no mix up thatis what I will do.

    Kim: Yes, that's correct.

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  47. has anyone seen the new Spannaus hobo bag IRL? Looks so versatile for spring but depends on if the leather bits and findings are nice...

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  48. OT, but there's a collection lace cami, size 6, BIN $200 on ebay:

    http://cgi.ebay.com/J-CREW-LACE-TIERED-CAMISOLE-BRAND-NEW-/130487249587?pt=US_CSA_WC_Blazers_Tailored_Jackets&hash=item1e61a56ab3

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  49. gigi and appgal: Thanks!! I'll be responding to their email and I guess "seal" our relationship! :)

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  50. I got the oxford flats and found them to be tts as all my other oxford flats I love them.

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  51. @ ecampochiaro

    I tried on the riveter pant in store and just found it a little blah. I found the amount of stretch to be slightly different than the Trouper. The fit is similar but somehow not as flattering. Could also be the color I tried on which was the rose shadow. I did take the same size as I did in the trouper however.

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  52. wbrigitte,

    Yes, I noticed that yesterday with the silk scarves being incorrectly showen/marked online. Figured I would get the wrong scarf sent to me if I tried to order.

    JCrew lost my business for the day yesterday. Could not deal with it. I mean I want to be sure I get the right scarf and cannot mess with returns right now.

    Went to the Talbots website then and ordered a scarf that I know is correctly shown online.

    JCrew's website is such a disaster.

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  53. @Sam -
    Thanks! That's a bummer because I really want the rose color. Maybe I'll try it what with the free shipping and all.

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  54. Lindsey B -

    I have an online PS and I love her. We talk a lot on email. She always helps me find things and will sometimes waive shipping for me. She's also helped me return items that were FS. I'd recommend getting one!

    Good luck!

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  55. Does anyone have the sailor sweater? Yeah or nay? Thanks!

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  56. I got the black tall Weatherby boots in the mail the other day (along with the short cobblestone version!) and did a little review of 'em on my blog. :D

    http://juxta-posing.tumblr.com/post/3319446368 (scroll down to the end!

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  57. Visited B&M at lunch today. The retro shell (pink and navy) marked down to $49.99; stripe blossom cami reduced to $19.99. I tried the stripe blossom cami when it first came out and it did not work for me. Very oversized (and this was size 00) and quite sheer.

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  58. Received my Rainy Day Utility Jacket today in size 0, Forest, and I have to say I love it! I'd say it's true to size as I wear all sizes XS and 0 at Jcrew. I'm borderline petite/regular and I find the jacket has the perfect length. Also the Sherpa lining is heavenly! The hood is functional too (as opposed to some that are mostly decorative) so I can see myself wearing it a lot on days that drizzle. I highly recommend it at the sale price of $99!

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  59. Has any one seen IRL or tried on the Loxley buckle ballet flats? I am coveting them but do not have access to a B& M store.

    Thanks!

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  60. I've been interested in trying out the cece flats, matinee trench, and maritime dress. Does anyone have feedback on these? Are the new ballet flats living up to the hype that their improved?

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  61. Has anyone tried the Sutton boots? I've been eyeing them for a while however the leather looks worn in and I'm afraid they will bunch around the ankles. Any reviews?
    Thanks!

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  62. Has anyone tried teh sutton boot? I've been eyeing it but the leather looks very worn-in and i'm worried it will bunch around the ankles. Any reviews? Thanks!

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  63. Got the No. 2 Pencil skirt in the mail.. LOVE IT! Fits very TTS. I got the Petite 0, I have the double serge skirts from this winter in the Petite 00 which was ridiculous but they seem to be reigning in the vanity sizing. The citron color is beautiful, it is more of a lime green than the yellow it appears on my computer, but I knew that from seeing it in store.

    I hope they will come out with more colors.. if I didn't already have black, gray and natural pencil skirts I would buy them all up!

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  64. Question for those who have or have seen the ripple stripe mini. Does it fit tts or small (thinking of sizing up, it looks very short on the model)? I am interested on the orange. Is it really bright? Basically I am looking for something similar to the atomic mini, but to wear withought tights. TIA!

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  65. Just received the wide calf hair belt (sale item) and the crosstown tee today.

    The belt is amazing. Nicer than I thought it would be. I had a 20% off code, it was just over $50 and definitely worth it.

    I love the crosstown tee! It runs big though. I bought a small, my normal J. Crew tee size, and I think I could do an xxsmall. The drape is lovely, I like the twisted cuff on the sleeve and the v-neck is super flattering. The elastic waist hits me at a good point, not too high like some tops. Length is perfect. I'm exchanging for a smaller size. Highly recommend.

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  66. Washed Out Ripstop Jacket -- this is not the longer version with the drawstring waist that was sold last summer - it's a shorter boxier version. Shaped sort of like a jean jacket. It has nice details and is lined, though I could really do without the bulky hood that is rolled up in the collar. I've been throwing it on a lot - fun to wear.
    I bought the large - it's a little big but I think the medium might have been challenge for me to zip. Plenty of room in the upper arms, which is where I run into fit issues.

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Dear J.Crew Aficionadas & Aficionados: Please feel free (and encouraged) to share your thoughts and opinions. :) However, please note that this is still a personal blog. So comments that are considered inappropriate (e.g. obscene, racist, homophobic, personal attacks, rude, and just plain mean) will be removed.

And now back to J.Crew! :)