J.Crew Extends Extra 30% Off Final Sale

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Audrey (in this post), who shared the following update from J.Crew this morning.

J.Crew is extending their offer to take 30% off all sale items (no min) with promo code SHOPNOW. This offer now expires Thursday, September 29, 2011.

To check out their Final Sale, click here to shop online. Honestly, I thought I would pick up a few pieces during this promotion but I didn't. I am holding out until prices are lower, or even better... some of the new Fall arrivals hit the sale section. (There are so many Fall pieces I am crushing on, so I rather purchase those.)

Will you be checking out the Sale section? Are there any items you are hoping to see or to get?

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J.Crew In the News: Marissa & UK

There is an article in the Fashion section of Telegraph that is worth checking out (click here to read in its entirety). Quick note, this article came out before the shocking news that Marissa Webb and J.Crew parted ways. (Refer to the "J.Crew Replaces Marissa Webb with Tom Mora" and "Marissa Webb Leaves J.Crew {say it ain't so!}" posts for more on that subject.)

The cutting-edge Crew coming our way
Meet Marissa Webb, head designer of American label J Crew, which launched online in the UK this week.
By Lisa Armstrong
September 16, 2011

Some of my more stressful moments at New York Fashion Week, ..involved thwarted sorties into J Crew for a spot of "retail research". In the old days, pre-tweeting and blogging, you could take your time, breathing in the woody ambience of Mrs O's favourite "keeping it real" label, relishing the knowledge that whatever you bought would be one of a kind back home.

Those days are gone. There is no time for "retail research", or not nearly enough. How considerate, then, of jcrew.com to start shipping to Britain this very week. Finally. Yet more competition to the British high street, which has been resting on its laurels for too long.

Inevitably, now that it's available here, there are rumblings that J Crew has gone off a bit. But you've always had to trawl through its rails. Sizes go up to an American 12, equivalent to a British 16+ since Crew cuts generously (if you're a UK 6 you can sometimes wear size zero. I wouldn't rule that out as an attraction for some customers). Prices are never rock-bottom, but fabrics are decent. It's aspirational on a mass scale, as only American brands seem to be. And although some of the preppiness is too conservative for British tastes, there are consistent gems. This season's patent Mona court shoe in saffron, for instance. I know this because when I meet Marissa Webb, the 38-year-old who heads J Crew's 50-strong design team, she's wearing them.

The softly spoken Webb turns out 12 collections a year for J Crew, plus jewellery, wedding dresses (its first bridal shop opened last year), walking the tight-rope between accessible and envelope-pushing. At one end, J Crew offers T-shirts for £30, at the other, £2,000 sequinned dresses. Isn't competing with the designer market a tough sell?

"Some women are intimidated by designer stores," says Webb. "They know we charge a fair price, and our personal shoppers are all trained to put outfits together." "Each time we ask the same thing. What do women love and how can we refresh it?"

Pencil skirts, minis, capri pants, pea coats and shirts are constantly reworked in sequins, tweed, leather or metallics, with new linings or buttons. "J Crew is about contrasts: boy/girl, slouchy/tailored, basic/luxe - it's the one item you throw on that will take your day outfit out to dinner."

Webb makes it sound simple, but it can't be that easy. She has been engaged for 18 months without finding time to get married (but she'll be wearing a self-designed JCrew wedding gown). She has found time to acquire 400 pairs of shoes - and closet space for all of them.

When we catch up, she'd just shown, although not a full catwalk production, for the first time during New York Fashion Week - to universally rhapsodic reviews. The vibrant colours helped - and some Céline-esque oversized silk-scarf print shirts. "Colour really sells in this current financial climate, especially red." In a low-key week for celebrity sightings (even Peaches Geldof has been thin on the ground), Beyoncé turned up. That's unheard of for a static presentation. How long before J Crew does maternity wear?

Marissa looks so a-ma-zing in the Lexington Blazer. (The new season of Rachel Zoe on Bravo has started and so I will be writing "a-ma-zing" even more now.) She will be missed. Also, I didn't know she is getting married soon. I am definitely curious if she will be wearing J.Crew still.

I love that the article mentions their vibrant colors that sell well like red. I can't get enough of it. Like the Schoolboy Blazer in Wool Flannel (Item 48682; $188.00) in Decadent Red. I can't even find it in a local J.Crew store and it is still hot where I live.

What are your thoughts on the article? Do you think the take on J.Crew is accurate?

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"Looking to VENT" with J.Crew

This is the weekly "Looking to VENT with J.Crew" post, a place to share our not-so-stellar experiences with J.Crew.

If you have recently experienced a frustrating situation with J.Crew, maybe you might be willing to share that information with us in this post.

Please feel free to share your story on almost any topic— including poor experiences with purchases & orders, promotions/ offers, in-store visits, transactions with store associates, etc.

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Weekly Share: Other JCrew-like Retailers

This is the weekly "Other JCrew-like Retailers" post (similar to the "Off On A Tangent" posts), where we can share our finds from other retailers that have offerings similar to J.Crew (like LE Canvas, Gap, BR, Talbots, Ann Taylor, and the like.)

If you have recently encountered items that are similar to J.Crew, maybe you might be willing to share that information with us in this post.

Please feel free to share your story on almost any topic— including experiences with certain merchandise pieces, promotions/ offers, in-store visits, transactions with store associates, etc.

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J.Crew's Jenna Hangs Out with the Knowles

As mentioned in the "J.Crew Works Fashion Week {part 2}" post, Beyoncé and her sister Solange made a visit to J.Crew's presentation during New York Fashion Week.

"Thanks!" to Irina, who shared a photo from that event. Solange is wearing the Prabal Gurung at J.Crew Exploding Bow Blouse (Item 49310; $225.00). Beyoncé is wearing a gold sequinned dress from J.Crew... could it be an upcoming Collection piece???

Do you like the J.Crew pieces worn by Beyonce and Solange? Do you like Jenna's outfit?

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J.Crew Email: Fall's must-have boots

"Thanks!" to Irina, who shared the following email from J.Crew today.

The email features both the Booker Boots (item 49121; $298.00) and the Booker Tall Midheel Boots (item 48300; $348.00).

"Thanks!" to Amy (in this post) who shared her review:

I can't comment on the flat Bookers, but I had the tall mid-heel Bookers in black in my possession for several weeks before I finally returned them. I really loved these boots, and I am a bit of a skeptic when it comes to JC shoes and bags. The leather was very nice and the boots were absolutely perfect in every way, except the shaft was way too high on me (it hit in the middle of my knee cap; I'm just under 5'4"). It was not the look I was going for, so I reluctantly returned them. I didn't try the flat Bookers instead because 1) I really wanted a heeled boot and 2) I didn't think the 1" difference in the shaft would translate to any real difference on my leg. Anyway, gorgeous boot. I wish they had worked out for me!

All three shades (masala chai, black and chocolate) look fantastic for Fall! From the sound of it, it seems like it is best to see these in-person (to make sure they look right).

What are your thoughts on the Booker Boots? Have you seen or tried these boots? If so, please share! :)

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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! :)

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Extra 30% Off J.Crew's Final Sale

"Thanks!" to many of you, including love2shop4bags (in this post), gigiofca (in this post), as well as Irina, who shared the following update from J.Crew this morning.

J.Crew is offering customers 30% off all sale items (no min) with promo code SHOPNOW. This offer expires Wednesday, September 28, 2011. The fine print includes:

*No exchanges, no returns on items marked as final sale. Offer valid at jcrew.com only. Offer is not valid at J.Crew retail stores or J.Crew Factory stores. Offer does not apply to previous purchases or the purchase of gift cards. Additional 30% off discount applies to J.Crew sale and Factory online sale items only. Offer valid through Wednesday, September 28, 2011, 11:59pm ET. Savings are applied at checkout with code SHOPNOW. Offer not valid on phone orders. Limit one promotional code per order. Details of offer are subject to change.

I will definitely be checking out their Final Sale (click here to shop online). It is too bad that this offer does not apply to J.Crew's brick & mortar stores.

And there is free shipping (automatically applied) on orders of $175. Otherwise, the flat rate shipping will be applied to your order.

Will you be checking out the Sale section? Are there any items you are hoping to see or to get?

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The Great (Weekly) Exchange {looking to sell}

This post (of weekly posts) is for individual members who want to swap/sell/share among yourselves. This post is where you can mention your items and outside listing/ auction site (like eBay and eCrater & the corresponding user ID).

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Please note: this posting is not for resellers. If you are a reseller, your comment gets automatically deleted & you will get publicly called out on it. :( So instead of this, simply do not post in the Weekly Exchanges. Thanks in advance for your cooperation! :)

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Please note that any transactions are independent of this blog. (Especially since you will be using an outside listing/ auction site like eBay or eCrater.) I have no dealings or interactions with any of the potential communication, listings, or transactions. :) Moreover, please limit comments about items to swap/sell/share to the "Great (Weekly) Exchange" posts. (Refer to "A Quick Note to J.Crew Aficionadas" post.)

Do you have any items you would like to swap/sell/share among yourselves through your outside listing/auction site?

Sidenote: What's up with JCAs writing "sub" or "subscribing" as their comment? It just means they are subscribing to all the comments (which are then automatically sent to their email) in that particular thread. This way they can stay aware of all the comments posted. :)

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The Great (Weekly) Exchange {looking to find}

This post (of weekly posts) is for individual members who are looking for and interested in buying certain items. Please feel free to share a J.Crew store location and/or your outside listing/ auction site if it matches the requests made in this post.

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Please note: this posting is not for resellers. If you are a reseller, your comment gets automatically deleted & you will get publicly called out on it. :( So instead of this, simply do not post in the Weekly Exchanges. Thanks in advance for your cooperation! :)

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Also note that any transactions are independent of this blog. (Especially since you will be using an outside listing/ auction site like eBay or eCrater.) I have no dealings or interactions with any of the potential communication, listings, or transactions. :) Moreover, please limit comments about items to swap/sell/share/finding to the "Great (Weekly) Exchange" posts. (Refer to "A Quick Note to J.Crew Aficionadas" post.)

Is there an item (or items) that you are looking for and interested in purchasing?

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Sought & Found: Did you visit J.Crew this {past} Weekend?

This is the weekly "sale watch" post, to help each other find sale items at our various local J.Crew stores. ;)

If you are stopped by a J.Crew store this past weekend to see what's available (if anything!) in the SUMMER sale, or to see some new FALL arrivals {sigh!} in person, maybe you might be willing to share that with us in this post. In particular, if you could share with us a few of the noteworthy items that are available, at what prices, and potential sizes the store is carrying (as well as the store location)- that would be fantastic!

Also, please let us know if your local store was/ is carrying an additional percent off sale. Thanks in advance!!! :)

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J.Crew Factory Email: Shirt alert: 40% OFF shirts & FREE SHIPPING

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Irina, who shared the following news from J.Crew this morning.

J.Crew Factory (click here to shop online) is open for the weekend with new FALL arrivals.

But wait there's more! They are offering up to 40% off on select factory shirts. (Prices will be automatically marked down, no code required.) They also brought back the offer for free shipping on all Factory items!

As JCAs know... if you live near a Factory Store, check them out first. The B&M Factory Stores tend to have better promotions and sale prices.

What are your thoughts on J.Crew's Factory Fall offerings? Will you check them out?

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Seek & Find: Will you visit J.Crew this Weekend?

This is the weekly "sale watch" post, to help each other find sale items at our various local J.Crew stores. ;)

If you are stopping by a J.Crew store this weekend to see what's available (if anything!) in the SUMMER sale, or to see some new FALL arrivals {sigh!} in person, maybe you might be willing to share that with us in this post. In particular, if you could share with us a few of the noteworthy items that are available, at what prices, and potential sizes the store is carrying (as well as the store location)- that would be fantastic!

Also, please let us know if your local store is carrying an additional percent off sale. Thanks in advance!!! :)

P.S. I noticed that many of you have already been reporting sale items (and in which stores) in other posts which by the way "thank you!" :) I really appreciate how helpful we are for each other!

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New Shoe from J.Crew {love wedges!}

"Thanks!"' to WellFedFred (of the great "the whining diner" blog) who shared the following "Daily Shoe" from the Times (click here for original):

The Daily Shoe | JCrew
By Jane Herman
September 14, 2011, 4:33 pm

We’ve seen a lot of wedges at the shows, and those at J.Crew were a welcome addition to the list. Wood and a woven leather with a flattering ankle strap and pleasing price — this one will pair as easily with blue jeans as with printed pants.

These shoes are a part of the Spring 2012 Collection. Customers won't be able to find them online yet. (I am also not sure if they are available for pre-order.)

I love wedges and the design on this particular pair is gorgeous! My only concern is how narrow the wedge might run. The model has a narrow foot and yet it looks like the shoe is too narrow for her. I am hoping this is not the case when they hit store shelves.

What are your thoughts on the upcoming shoe from J.Crew? Do you like the style?

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J.Crew Email: Our sale just got better: new styles added

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Irina, who let us know about J.Crew's latest email.

J.Crew is announcing that even more new styles have been added to their Final Sale (click here to shop online)! This offer also extends to brick & mortar stores.

As many of you have noticed, a lot of new arrivals have already been marked down. It is surprising how fast they got included in the Sale section!

Will you be checking out the Final Sale? Any new styles interest you? If so, please share! :)

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JCA "Help Style Me!" Weekly Post

This is the weekly "Help Style Me!" post, where we can share items we are having trouble putting outfits together with. Elaine (in this post) says it best, "You know, that thing you bought because you love it and you keep pulling it out and then putting it away without wearing it?"

Please share your J.Crew item (either that you own or are thinking about getting) that you would love help creating an outfit with.

Also, please help out by offering your styling advice. Feel free to include links to your blog (where you incorporated that piece) or to Polyvore (where you showcased an outfit with that piece). Thanks in advance! :)

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"Looking to LOVE" with J.Crew

This is the weekly "Looking to LOVE with J.Crew" post, a place to share our favorite experiences with J.Crew.

If you have recently experienced a positive situation with J.Crew, maybe you might be willing to share that information with us in this post.

Please feel free to share your story on almost any topic— including stellar experiences with purchases & orders, promotions/ offers, in-store visits, transactions with store associates, etc.

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Crewcuts Sweepstakes: Enter to Win $1000!

J.Crew is teaming up with LilSugar and ShopStyle to offer a new Back-to-School Sweepstakes. The grand prize is a $1,000 gift card for J.Crew. There are some first-prizes too, consisting of a $100 J.Crew gift cards. This sweepstakes ends 9/27/11. Click here to enter. Good luck! :)

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J.Crew Email: Last chance: up to 30% OFF & FREE SHIPPING on select women's sweaters

"Thanks!" to Irina, who shared the latest email from J.Crew today.

J.Crew is reminding us about their offer for 30% off select Sweaters for Women (click here to shop online). This offer expires today!

From the comments in the "Up to 30% Off Select Women's Sweaters", it sounded like a lot of the more popular sweaters were either pulled or completely sold out for this promotion. I have a sneaky feeling they will be available and in-stock tomorrow morning. Isn't that how it always goes? ;)

Will you be taking advantage of this promotion? Are there any Sweaters you are interested in getting? If so, please share!

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The Secret is Out {pricey J.Crew finds on eBay}

This post is inspired by two comments from fellow JCAs that are spot on (in my humble opinion):

Silver_lining (in this post) said...

...JC would be smart to take a look at eBay - their old pieces are getting snatched up left and right. I used to be able to get great deals on there, but as more and more people flock to get the "vintage" (read: QUALITY) JC items, the prices have been going higher. It's saying something when shoppers would rather have years-old (and used!) items than your new offerings. ...

D*ska (in this post) responded...

silver_lining, You're so right about buying 'vintage' JC items on eBay. They used to be such good deals. Now not so much. Everybody now knows the secret. ...

So very true! Don't get me wrong, I love me some eBay shopping. It was a great place to find pieces that I missed out on at a great price. I remember a few years back getting a NWT Lexington Blazer (the white one with yellow trim) for like $40.

There are still some deals that JCAs find on eBay. However, I noticed a trend in the past year or so with eBay listings for J.Crew merchandise... the prices for final bids are going up and up. The secret is totally out!

There seems to be a flock of JCAs on eBay to find those quality pieces of J.Crew long ago. (Refer to the "Dear J.Crew, Bring Back the Bella {bank it!}" post as an example.) In addition, I noticed there are lots of Sellers on eBay who are listing J.Crew merchandise with higher starting prices.

I totally get it: Demand is up and the market is reacting.

Guilty as charged when it comes to my demand increasing over the years. I really miss the quality and style of certain pieces no longer offered, so I scour eBay in the hopes of locating one. (Refer to the "J.Crew Jackets & Blazers... Still The Same?" post.) This now means that I am more likely to either pay top dollar for the item or pass up on the item all over again. It just is what it is.

What are your thoughts on J.Crew prices at eBay? Have you noticed the trend of increasing final bids? Are there still deals to be had at eBay? Please share your thoughts on this topic!

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"Looking to VENT" with J.Crew

This is the weekly "Looking to VENT with J.Crew" post, a place to share our not-so-stellar experiences with J.Crew.

If you have recently experienced a frustrating situation with J.Crew, maybe you might be willing to share that information with us in this post.

Please feel free to share your story on almost any topic— including poor experiences with purchases & orders, promotions/ offers, in-store visits, transactions with store associates, etc.

Read More

Weekly Share: Other JCrew-like Retailers

This is the weekly "Other JCrew-like Retailers" post (similar to the "Off On A Tangent" posts), where we can share our finds from other retailers that have offerings similar to J.Crew (like LE Canvas, Gap, BR, Talbots, Ann Taylor, and the like.)

If you have recently encountered items that are similar to J.Crew, maybe you might be willing to share that information with us in this post.

Please feel free to share your story on almost any topic— including experiences with certain merchandise pieces, promotions/ offers, in-store visits, transactions with store associates, etc.

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J.Crew Email: Breaking news: We've arrived in Trumbull

J.Crew has opened a new store in Trumbull, CT! To celebrate, they are offering "an exclusive gift with your purchase of $150 or more".

To shop and check out the new digs, visit:

J.Crew Trumbull Mall
5605 Main Street
Trumbull, CT 06611
(203) 371-9969

Congrats Connecticut shoppers!

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J.Crew Email: Trend spotting: polka dots

"Thanks!" to IRL & Irina, who shared the following email from J.Crew today.

The email features the Natasha Top in Polka Dot (Item 54034; $98.00) which is described as:

Our designers have done it again. Endlessly feminine in a popover silhouette—we trimmed the collar and sleeves in tissue-like ruffles and finished them off with a modern raw edge. In crinkled silk chiffon and snappy polka dots, it's our go-to blouse for instant frills. Button closure. Fully lined. Import. Dry clean.

The polka dots on the Natasha do look super cute! And the ruffles around the trim are delicate. Incidentally, this top reminds me a lot of the Dotsalota Chiffon Cami (Item 24733; $138.00), with easier-to-wear-ruffles along the trim.

Lastly, IRL mentioned about the email: "Now the panelboard background is really reminding me of 2006(?) JCrew pictures!". So true! I found an image for J.Crew's Crest Intarsia Cardigan (from back in the day) that has a very similar background. Maybe J.Crew really is borrowing from their own closets! ;)

What are your thoughts on the Natasha top? Have you seen or tried this top on? If so, please share! :)

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Madewell Email: Shop it first: Alexa Chung for Madewell tee (+ free shipping)

"Thanks!" to IRL who shared the following email from Madewell today.

The email announces that Alexa Chung's newest Collection will arrive September 22, 2011. The email also showcases the very first piece: the Alexa Chung for Madewell I'm Serious Tee (Item 53014; $50.00). They carefully describe it as:

We couldn't wait to see what our favorite style icon turned fashion designer would pull out of her hat for her latest Madewell collection. Once again, she's created an inspired lineup of covetable-cool pieces, like this destined-to-be-a-favorite tee, silk-screened with a drawing plucked straight from the pages of Alexa's sketchbook.

I know the item is called "I'm Serious", but are they kidding me? FIFTY DOLLARS!?! Fifty dollars for an ill-drawn cotton jersey tee?! Are the proceeds going to some charity that I don't know about? I rather buy a Hanes Tee and take a Sharpie Permanent Marker to it. It will cost $45 less, achieve the same look, and I have an extra 2 tees in case something goes wrong. Seriously though, this tee will probably be sold out after one day or something.

What are your thoughts on the "I'm Serious" tee? Am I being overly critical? Are you a fan of the Alexa Chung for Madewell line?

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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! :)

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J.Crew Replaces Marissa Webb with Tom Mora

In the "Marissa Webb Leaves J.Crew {say it ain't so!}" post, we wondered who would replace Marissa Webb over at J.Crew.

"Thanks!" to MissJ & Linda (in this post), as well as Connor (in this post), who not only answered that question but also shared the following links & news:

J.Crew's Wedding Designer, Tom Mora will also be
the new Vice President of Women’s Design.

From WWD (click here to read in its entirety):

J.CREW PROMOTES MORA: J.Crew has promoted Tom Mora to vice president of women’s design, succeeding Marissa Webb, who will be leaving “to pursue other opportunities,” the company said Friday. Mora will also continue to oversee wedding and special occasion design; he has been the vice president over those categories since 2009. Previously, he was head of wovens and accessories, and has been working at J.Crew for 10 years.

From NBC New York's the Thread (click here to read in its entirety):

Shortly after the brand's well-received, first-ever Fashion Week presentation, J.Crew's womenswear designer has stepped down "to pursue other opportunities." According to WWD, Tom Mora will step up to the task of overseeing women's design in addition to his current duties tackling the wedding and "special occasion" categories for J.Crew.

In recent seasons, Webb had become the increasingly visible face of J.Crew's womenswear division -- has has Frank Muytjens for menswear -- as J.Crew's creative director, Jenna Lyons, had highlighted her talents and positioned her in more of a public role, particularly around J.Crew's seasonal presentations.

The brand's most recent presentation -- its first as part of the official New York Fashion Week lineup -- was a huge success, drawing an impressive crowd of both retail heavyweights and international fashion insiders. The fashion at the presentation may have been somewhat overshadowed, however, by the paparazzi maelstrom that resulted once Beyonce arrived to tour the collection with Jenna Lyons.

Well, it's interesting that J.Crew replaced Marissa with an insider. I wish Tom Mora all the best on his new role. And of course, I am wondering what Marissa Webb will do next!?

Are you surprised to hear that Tom Mora will replace Marissa Webb at J.Crew? Are you looking forward to seeing his work for the Women's line?

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Check Out J.Crew's October Catalog {thanks lifeasacat!}

In one of J.Crew's most foolish moves, they removed the link to view catalogs online. With each new arrival update on J.Crew's website, I refresh the screen in the hopes that the link to their catalog section returns. And each time, I am disappointed.

Thankfully we have Life As A Cat, of the "J.Crew Archives" blog, who scanned the entire October 2011 catalog in her "J. Crew October 2011 Catalog" post. {yey!}

Have you checked out the latest catalog? Did you pick a copy up at your local J.Crew or received one in the mail? Do you like the styles shown in the pages?

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Fellow JCAs are Hitting the Bookshelves

Some of our fellow JCAs have published books and they even mention our favorite retailer, J.Crew, inside the pages!

First up is Lisa of the fabulous "Confessions of a Call Center Gal" blog, who has a book out appropriately titled: "Confessions of a Call Center Gal: a novel" (available as paperback or for your Kindle). The summary:

A fun chick lit that may appeal to fans of Sophie Kinsella. Bridget Jones's Diary meets The Office. Madison Lee is a fresh college grad, ready to take on the world of print media. But she has zero luck landing a job. Unemployment is at ten percent and on the rise. Desperate and left with no other options, she accepts a position as a service rep at a call center in Pocatello, Idaho. At the Lightning Speed call center in Spudsville, Maddy plunges into the wild and dysfunctional world of customer service where Sales is prided over Service and an eight hour shift is equivalent to eight hours of callers bashing her over the phone. Oh sure, the calls are bad. But Maddy manages to find humor on the phone and off the phone. And with all the salacious drama behind the calls, there is never a dull moment at the Lightning Speed call center.

Lately . . . Maddy has been pining for her smolderingly gorgeous co-worker Mika Harket. Now things are heating up on the phone--and elsewhere. Don't hang up on this novel. Working at a call center has never been this garish . . . or this delightful.

J.Crew is mentioned in the book with a special mention to this very blog on page 165. Thanks Lisa!!! :)

Next up is Isabelle from the lovely "Pink Lemonade" blog, who has written a bestseller in Canada and Germany called "J'adore New York" (available in paperback). She shares that "...J.Crew is mentioned several times in the story. The main character is a Parisian lawyer who moves to NYC and she discovers a whole new world, that includes among other things, J.Crew catalogues and online shopping." The blurb for the book is:

Offered the chance to transfer to her law firm’s New York City office, stylish Parisian lawyer Catherine Lambert jumps at the opportunity—a fashion devotee with her finger on the pulse of style, she sets her sights on conquering Manhattan’s high-flying worlds of glamour, law, and love tout de suite. But soon, the non-stop New York minute filled with monster bosses, lecherous clients, and vindictive secretaries begins to take its toll. That is, until one handsome and powerful client begins to change her world for the better…only to throw it all into jeopardy with one surprising request. Perfect for fans of Bridget Jones’s Diary, The Devil Wears Prada, and Sex in the City, Isabelle Lafleche’s breakout novel J’adore New York is a rollercoaster of struggle and romance from the city where dreams come true.

Fun! What better way than to enjoy upcoming Fall then sitting near a fireplace, watching the leaves fall, drinking some hot chocolate, and reading a good book! :)

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Up to 30% Off Select Women's Sweaters

"Thanks!" to many of you, including Closet Crisis (in this post), as well as Irina, who let us know the latest promotion. Also, "thanks!" to Bourbon & Pearls (in this post) who let us know the following: "Hurrah, the promos have finally crossed over to the UK section."

J.Crew is offering 30% off select Sweaters for Women (click here to shop online). This offer expires September 21, 2011.

The fine print includes:

*Prices as marked. Offer valid on select women's sweaters only and can't be redeemed for cash or applied to previous purchases. Offer valid at jcrew.com only. Offer isn't valid in J.Crew retail or Factory stores or on J.Crew Factory online items. Offer valid through 9/21/11, 11:59pm ET on Internet orders shipped via ground shipping (3 to 6 business days). Free shipping applies only to online orders of women's sweaters. Free ground shipping on women's sweaters is applied automatically at checkout. Not valid on phone orders.

In certain parts of the country, the weather now has a certain chill. It is the perfect time to pick up a sweater to keep you warm.

Will you be taking advantage of this promotion? Are there any Sweaters you are interested in getting? If so, please share!

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The Great (Weekly) Exchange {looking to sell}

This post (of weekly posts) is for individual members who want to swap/sell/share among yourselves. This post is where you can mention your items and outside listing/ auction site (like eBay and eCrater & the corresponding user ID).

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Please note: this posting is not for resellers. If you are a reseller, your comment gets automatically deleted & you will get publicly called out on it. :( So instead of this, simply do not post in the Weekly Exchanges. Thanks in advance for your cooperation! :)

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Please note that any transactions are independent of this blog. (Especially since you will be using an outside listing/ auction site like eBay or eCrater.) I have no dealings or interactions with any of the potential communication, listings, or transactions. :) Moreover, please limit comments about items to swap/sell/share to the "Great (Weekly) Exchange" posts. (Refer to "A Quick Note to J.Crew Aficionadas" post.)

Do you have any items you would like to swap/sell/share among yourselves through your outside listing/auction site?

Sidenote: What's up with JCAs writing "sub" or "subscribing" as their comment? It just means they are subscribing to all the comments (which are then automatically sent to their email) in that particular thread. This way they can stay aware of all the comments posted. :)

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The Great (Weekly) Exchange {looking to find}

This post (of weekly posts) is for individual members who are looking for and interested in buying certain items. Please feel free to share a J.Crew store location and/or your outside listing/ auction site if it matches the requests made in this post.

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Please note: this posting is not for resellers. If you are a reseller, your comment gets automatically deleted & you will get publicly called out on it. :( So instead of this, simply do not post in the Weekly Exchanges. Thanks in advance for your cooperation! :)

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Also note that any transactions are independent of this blog. (Especially since you will be using an outside listing/ auction site like eBay or eCrater.) I have no dealings or interactions with any of the potential communication, listings, or transactions. :) Moreover, please limit comments about items to swap/sell/share/finding to the "Great (Weekly) Exchange" posts. (Refer to "A Quick Note to J.Crew Aficionadas" post.)

Is there an item (or items) that you are looking for and interested in purchasing?

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Sought & Found: Did you visit J.Crew this {past} Weekend?

This is the weekly "sale watch" post, to help each other find sale items at our various local J.Crew stores. ;)

If you are stopped by a J.Crew store this past weekend to see what's available (if anything!) in the SUMMER sale, or to see some new FALL arrivals {sigh!} in person, maybe you might be willing to share that with us in this post. In particular, if you could share with us a few of the noteworthy items that are available, at what prices, and potential sizes the store is carrying (as well as the store location)- that would be fantastic!

Also, please let us know if your local store was/ is carrying an additional percent off sale. Thanks in advance!!! :)

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Marissa Webb Leaves J.Crew {say it ain't so!}

"Thanks!" to both inthe know (in this post), and mathteacher (in this post), who shared the following news with us.

Marissa Web has resigned from her position
as J.Crew's Head of Women's Design.

This is surprising news. Especially since she was such an important part of J.Crew's presentation at Fashion Week just this Tuesday! (Refer to the "Video of J.Crew at New York Fashion Week" and "J.Crew Works Fashion Week {part 2}" posts.)

She will be terribly missed. :( Even though she has been with J.Crew for a relatively short time (well compared to Frank Muytjens and Jenna Lyons), she has done an amazing job. Since she took over the direction of the Women's Collection, there has been a noticeable change (for the better). The crazy, over the top, layering was traded in for a more sophisticated look. We saw fewer ruffles and sequins and the return of a rich color palette. Dare I say it, I will... she brought back "classics with an updated twist". (Sorry ladies, I had to use the phrase at least once!)

I personally wish Marissa Webb all the best in her next endeavor. I know she will succeed at whatever new role she decides to pursue.

Lastly, I want to add my two cents to ask the following of J.Crew: Since Marissa will be leaving such an important role vacant, please consider having Frank Muytjens take over. I know he has a lot on his plate as J.Crew's Men's Wear Designer. However, I am fully confident in his ability to take on both positions. :)

Are you surprised to hear that Marissa Webb stepped down from her role at J.Crew? Do you think you will notice a change now that she has left the company?

*Video from Lucky Magazine's "Style Sound Bite: Marissa Webb of J.Crew" post

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Jenna Lyons Wants to Help You Pack

"Thanks!" to mommydearest who let us know about an entry in the latest print edition of the Wall Street Journal that features J.Crew's Jenna Lyons. Mommydearest was also nice to scan the image for us to view. :)

A Foolproof Packing Plan—Jenna Lyons, creative director for J.Crew

"My packing trick is to simply pick a color story and stay within it. All camel and grey with one shot of red, all navy and white with a splash of green, khaki and black with white accents. It makes my life easy and I don't have to plan outfits!"

I personally like to travel with a lot of neutrals. This way everything goes with everything else. Boring, yeah. But it works for me. For color (and to keep me warm), I add a red or orange scarf.

Do you agree with Jenna's advice for packing right? What piece of advice would you share?

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Seek & Find: Will you visit J.Crew this Weekend?

This is the weekly "sale watch" post, to help each other find sale items at our various local J.Crew stores. ;)



If you are stopping by a J.Crew store this weekend to see what's available (if anything!) in the SUMMER sale, or to see some new FALL arrivals {sigh!} in person, maybe you might be willing to share that with us in this post. In particular, if you could share with us a few of the noteworthy items that are available, at what prices, and potential sizes the store is carrying (as well as the store location)- that would be fantastic!



Also, please let us know if your local store is carrying an additional percent off sale. Thanks in advance!!! :)



P.S. I noticed that many of you have already been reporting sale items (and in which stores) in other posts which by the way "thank you!" :) I really appreciate how helpful we are for each other!

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Speaking Up and Over-Shopping

In yesterday's "Make Sure You are Protected with Online Tranasctions {thanks Roxy!}" post, I talked about the importance of making sure JCAs are protected during any online transaction. Today's post is going to go one step further...

There is a developing story that has rocked our cousin-Anthro-blogosphere. (I won't go into all the details, just check out Roxy's post as a starting point to get filled in. Jezebel even has a post about it. The whole story is neatly laid out in the Stuff Jewish Girls Like's "Anthrofans: Where do we go from here?" post. And the Mascarade talks about how it has happened before here.) I created yesterday's post as a reminder that JCAs should always take it upon themselves to pursue the necessary precautions during any independent transaction. I have gotten a few emails of concern during this time and decided that there are two more important topics to cover: (1) speaking up and (2) over-shopping.

Point One: Speak up! From what I gather, there are a number of customers who paid upfront for services & merchandise never rendered or received by Kim Baker of the popular Anthroholic blog. Apparently, this went on for a long time (more than a year) before being discovered. Each one thought they were the only ones stuck in a bad situation. Many expressed not wanting to speak out against the well-regarded Blogger, while others just gave up on pursuing a claim. Many bloggers are honest and try their best to foster a sense of community and trust– it's really wonderful. So to see that taken advantage of is disheartening. But the main point is you should always feel comfortable taking measures to protect yourself and speaking out if something is not right.

Moreover, your issue may not be isolated. By publicly sharing the experience, you may find others going through the same thing. At the very least, it could help others to avoid a similar misfortune. If you find yourself in this situation, take the appropriate steps to ensure you are protected and get your money back.

Bottom-Line: If a transaction has gone wrong, please take the proper steps to protect yourself! That includes speaking up by sharing with others, opening a dispute/claim, and even contacting third parties like the local authorities. Also post a comment on the Great Weekly Exchange to let others know about it too.

Point Two: Over-shopping. There is a lot of speculation that the Blogger in question may have a shopping addiction (to clarify, no one knows if this is true or not), which led into a general discussion around over-shopping. In the "Shopping over at Gigi's" post, I featured links to GigiOfCa's "Let's Talk - overshopping" and "Let's Talk - shopping bans" posts. (She did a great job and they are must reads.) It is another serious topic that I don't discuss but honestly should. It's easy to over-shop. Shopping can be a great way to relieve stress or have fun. (How many times do we incorporate shopping and lunch with friends? I know I do.) Which is why some call it "retail therapy". But it can have a negative impact if it's not checked. For an example, I often find myself under a "fashion-blog-influence". I will see another blogger wearing a piece of clothing or owning an accessory that I instantly fall in love with and believe I must own myself. But the real questions I should be asking myself is, "do I need it?" and "is there something else that money would be better spent?"

The truth is talking about money is difficult. (It was hard for me just to find the words to write this post, and I am not even disclosing any personal financial information!) It's also hard to open up and say I make this much and should really only spend that much. Especially since we fear the personal criticism and judgement that may arise. But having the conversation, even if it is with ourselves (or with our partners) is important. Being honest about what the budget is and sticking to it can save a lot of grief down the road.

Bottom-Line: I want to borrow a great quote from GigiOfCa's over-shopping post: "I think it's presumptuous to tell someone what s/he should be doing with his or her money." This post is not meant to tell readers how to spend their money. Moreover, none of us truly know anyone else's financial situation. This is just a little reminder that we should always be aware of our finances.

Okay, I think I have said all I wanted to say for now. Thanks for reading! :)

Related Note #1: Please check out Roxy's new "Thoughts on finances and how I keep my spending in check" post.

Related Note #2: If you are a victim of Anthroholic's shopping services, please file a complaint. The following is taken directly from Roxy's "The weekend in-store community post" post:

If you have been affected by the Anthroholic Personal Shopping services issue (meaning if you either waited several months before getting your item/refund, did not get a full refund because Anthroholic kept the finder fees, or are still waiting for items/refund) you should contact the Illinois Attorney General – Consumer Protection Division and FILE a complaint. Doing so will allow the IL AG to aggressively pursue legal action against her, the outcome of which could include not just restitution to her victims but her permanent ban from online solicitations and profitability. The link to the IL AG’s downloadable complaint form is: http://illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/consumers/filecomplaint.html.

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