Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Dear FFM: Help Put Together A J.Crew Outfit For Me

FabulousFloridaMommy (FFM) regularly guest blogs on outfits she creates with items that you, the members, request. :)
FFM has done it yet again! A big "thank you!" to FFM, who has created a fabulous outfit for numerous requests on styling J.Crew's "new arrivals" in the "Dear FFM: Help Put Together A J.Crew Outfit For Me" post!

To view the wonderful sets, click on the links below. (The name of the link relates to the request for an outfit.)

Are there any items from J.Crew (that you either own or are thinking about getting) that you would like FFM to create outfit ideas. Feel free to include additional info like: the climate/season you want to wear the item/outfit, as well as age bracket/lifestyle. :) After a few days, FFM will select a few items (from the feedback) to create a couple of Polyvore outfits with those items (which will then be posted for all).

What J.Crew pieces do you often wonder how to use in an outfit? What J.Crew items would you like to see an outfit created for (please include item name or item number)? Do you have any J.Crew items in your closet that you are unsure how to style with? Please, let us know! :)

122 comments:

  1. I love the ideas for the burgandy ecole jacket. I just got mine in the mail yesterday, cant wait to try it out
    thankss FFM!

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  2. Congratulations on the Burgandy Ecole jacket, Gwen! It's really beautiful...enjoy wearing it. :)

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  3. FFM,

    Could you help me with ideas for the plum peacoat? I'm really not sure what colors to wear with it besides neutrals. Can you wear pink, purple and red with it?

    Thanks!

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  4. FFM,

    Thanks always for the great ideas!! :) I posted under another posting, but I'm not sure whether you got a chance to see it. I couldn't find any sets on polyvore with waffle henley in majestic blue and merino turtleneck in melon. Would you mind creating sets with them?

    Thanks a lot in advance :)

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  5. FFM: thanks so much for pulling together ideas for the silk taffeta doll dress - I hadn't even thought to pair gold with the blue but it looks fabulous! Thank you thank you! :)

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  6. Cardholders ONLY--early notice--shop in advance online

    EXTRA 20% off final sale

    Starts tomorrow for non cardholders

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  7. OT, but EXTRA20 code just worked for me. :)

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  8. hi FFM!
    any ideas for the double serge pencil skirt in brilliant blue? other than black/cream?
    looking for other color options! thanks

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  9. Code is nice but basically the same as free shipping. Wish it was an extra 30%--then we'd talk. No prices have gone down either...

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  10. FFM-GREAT IDEAS! Love the site with all the outfit ideas. Great choices. Can you put some ideas together that would work best for brunettes :) BTW: I have 4 boys, too :) but I kept going and now have 2 girls as well :) I know...I just couldn't let the girl thing go. LOL.

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  11. Laurenypotpie: how about a paler blue, almond/tawney browns, chocolate brown, grey, red (though some people don't look good in red because it washes them out), hunter green? Those are all good options!

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  12. FFM,
    Love your looks and your blog! Could you give me some casual/dressy looks with the navy Victoria cami? I need some help. I don't want to look like Iam trying too hard. Just want to look chic. Thanks!

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  13. Anon at 8:23...THANK YOU...I was waiting for 20-30 percent off to feel better about buying more and it worked...75 dollars saved.

    Finally got the haley cardigan, harlow blouse, and the caroline flats for what I would call reasonable prices (plus a few other things). I think this will be it...

    Of course they could give 40 or 50 percent and I would probably bite again...

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  14. thank you anon for the suggestions! any opinions on the spearmint with the brilliant blue skirt? tawny sounds really pretty.

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  15. laureneypotpie: I consider spearmint in the paler blue/green family thus I think it would also look good with the brilliant blue color. Out of interest what clothing articles do you have in spearmint? A chunkier or longer sleeve sweater in that color might be over powering with the brillaint blue... but a tank with another color cardigan could be nice or a shell with a shirt under it could also be pretty. Just remember you can do anything, but moderation is usually the key.

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  16. i just used extra 20 code randomly and it worked! I saved shipping fees basically on my black argyle cardi + shawl collared herringbone cardi


    =)

    I hope they don't take away my discount when they see I wasn't really supposed to get it

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  17. Golly Christina:

    I hope they don't take it away. Agh! Now I am all freaked out...

    :) They would call at least to ask if it is okay to increase the amount!

    I use my check card so it comes right out of my bank account!

    Fingers crossed...

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  18. I used the code but with my JCrew credit card. My PS said it was for use with JCrew Credit Cards or other type of card but only if your were a card holder in general.

    Sounds like it should be OK for others that used the code with no JCrew card but "ethically" or technically not....but of course those things flew out the window in 1900

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  19. has anyone tried on the yoga hoodie? is it TTS?

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  20. new promo just kicked in;
    Extra20- 20% off sale. Will go public tomorrow fro non-card holders, valid now for cardholders.

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  21. Extra 20 worked for me too {hooray!} Just got the Lulu Peep Toe Heels and the Jamie Bag in Burnt Sienna. I know, I know, I did already buy the Lulu's once and returned them....but these are cheaper...and I'll have the bag to go with them.

    Kinda makes me wonder if I should return the Jamie in Dark Cloud (still haven't taken it out of the bag...) It's a hard distinction to make, but I like the color of my Small Oslo in Ash better than the Dark Cloud leather.

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  22. FFM, I love the burgundy with bronzed ochre and the camel with brilliant blue. I'm not very adventurous with color so I always look to your sets to help me out. You have such a wonderful eye for color and a great sense of style.

    Thanks FFM!

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  23. FFM - I had been on the fence about purchasing the Ecole in burgandy, but after seeing the two outfits that you just created, I went ahead and ordered it.... thank you! Your outfits are great, and really inspire me when I am pytting an outfit together for myself. :-)

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  24. i just used the code too! it looks like they re-stocked a lot of the sale items. finally got my sequin henley and another tartine! :-)

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  25. laurneypotpie

    FFM used a camel turtleneck with the brilliant blue Candace sweater jacket. I tried the Victoria camel-stripe blouse with the bright blue pencil skirt and it looks lovely. It also works with my camel Maggie. Never would have tried this myself, I'm so conservative with color. I don't have any camel sweaters so I can't try that but maybe I'll have to buy one on FS

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  26. Hi laurenypotpie! Congratulations on the Brilliant Blue Pencil Skirt...such a fabulous piece! As for colors to wear with it: as anon@11:09 said, I have previously paired blues with camel, which should also work with the double serge pencil skirt. I would also suggest that you try Navy and Light Gray for a more conservative/muted look. If you are in a colorful mood, then try it with Bright Fuchsia, Resort Purple, or Tangerine. :) Have a fabulous day!

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  27. FFM: What do you think of the Shimmer Peacock Jacket (Item 10035) and Decade dot jacket (item 10295)? Would love to hear your opinion! TIA.

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  28. FFM:

    What great ideas you have! Here are some items I have a hard time coming up with creative looks with:

    Cambridge cable crewneck sweater in Plum
    Victoria ruffle shirt in camel
    Vintage bootcut cord in faded cement
    Favoriite fit every-day chino in Khaki

    Thanks for your help!!!

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  29. OT (sorry!) - does anyone own the boyfriend cashmere cardigan? I always buy S in regular cardigans, but I usually where XS is JCrew cashmere. Want to take advantage of the extra 20%, and just wondering how the fit is (considering it is final sale).

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  30. Hi anon@11:42! I haven't seen either jacket IRL (my B&M gets mainly the basics) so my thoughts and opinion in this case are based on the website photos. If I were contemplating purchasing one of the jackets, I would personally choose the Shimmer Peacock Jacket. I prefer the fit, fabric, and design of it over the Decade Dot Jacket. I styled a couple of sets with the Peacock Jacket awhile ago: Click Here and Here . GiGi had a review of the Decade Dot Jacket on her blog awhile ago, as well: J.Crew Decade-Dot Jacket . I think another JCA had commented that the Shimmer Peacock Jacket was too dressy to wear to the office, so that is also something to consider. I would personally wear it with jeans to dress it down, like I showed in my sets, and would choose it over the Decade Dot if I were purchasing one for myself. :)

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  31. I snagged the chiffon rose merino cardigan in 3 colors: snow, black and plum right as the site updated earlier today and used the 20% off code...as well as a tissue turtleneck.

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  32. I apologize, totally OT

    Club Monaco is now offering 20% off for college students, free one-on-one with their stylists, free pant hemming and hosting of private shopping events/parties with refreshments supplied.

    It looks like the offers to entice clients to shop are going to improve this year, if this is any indication. I personally like CM for a number of items and they always have a lot of small sizes available.

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  33. OT, but has there been a review of the Lucinda coat? If so, would love to have the link. Am interested in buying the navy.

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  34. Hi westside mom! I found this review by *la petite crew* written at the beginning of December:

    "I finally gave in and ordered the Lucinda coat in navy in 0P. It fits verrrry tight on top in the chest area, then loosens up below. It's also very fitted in the shoulders. I wore a thin top underneath and had virtually no more room in the chest and shoulders. For reference, I'm about 5'2" with at least a 34B bust. The sleeves, on the other hand, are wide open at the bottom - the wind can blow right up your arms. I'm definitely wearing mid-cuff gloves with this coat.

    All in all, the stadium cloth material (at least in the Lucinda) is pretty sturdy and hefty. More than I expected, anyway, having tried on many coats in the store lately. It's still not as plush or warm as last year's Dani wool/cashmere coat (probably my warmest yet), but I think it will keep me sufficiently warm through the winter. It's a lot more fitted on top than last year's Dani wool/cashmere coat too.

    I'm going to keep it. Having now received this, I feel a lot better about taking a chance on the Bridget."

    HTH!

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  35. Thanks for letting us know about the new code...I believe they usually take new markdowns on Weds. morning...so we should prob wait until tomorrow morning to order for new markdowns plus the 20% off, unless there is something that is very low in quantity.

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  36. Anon @ 12:18, what a fabulous tip! THANKS.

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  37. ^ It is a good deal for college students. The email I received said "20% off to college students with a valid ID." It doesn't specify full price or sale so I assume it is everything.

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  38. FFM: Thanks so much for your review and other info. I am looking at the Lucinda or the Marie. I am similar to your measurements, but I size up to wear layers since I live in NYC.

    Btw, have you done any sets on the boucle tweed short scarf coat? Received mine recently and wanted some creative ways to wear it.

    Love your sets!

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  39. Anon 11:42
    I own the peacock jacket and I love it. Yes, it's a bit on the dressier side, but like FFM suggested, I wear mine with jeans.
    I really could not see wearing it to the office. Its cut is similar to/or perhaps exactly like, the Maggie. I have not seen the decade dot in person, so I can't compare both IRL. I've noticed that the peacock is reduced again. I think it's definitely worth the price.

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  40. Westside Mom: The review of the Lucinda Coat was by La Petite Crew, and not me...sorry if my post came across like I wrote the review. ;) There was also a review of the Marie Coat done that same day by And4MyNextTrick: Click Here . I hope these two reviews will help with your decision. :)

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  41. ladolcevita: The weather has gotten cooler here in Florida than the forecast had predicted at the beginning of the week. When are you arriving? You'll be able to wear a mid-weight jacket, so it's something to consider tossing in your suitcase. :)

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  42. For educators and students the free shipping deal is better the past $100 one and current $150 one if you are ordering that much b/c you can combine the discount.

    However, with the 20% off you cannot combine the discount--plus, you have to pay shipping.

    I made out way better in the past few weeks than this promo. Not a good one at all in my opinion.

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  43. westsidemom - the Marie has a very generous fit. Size down if you want it tailored. Order your usual size you want to wear heavy sweaters or suit jackets underneath, or if you are quite large in the bust or shoulders.

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  44. Anon @ 1:18 PM - I asked customer service to apply 15% student discount and CS rep said that I can only get either %15 OR free shipping. He said I cannot combine this promo with the discount. Is it right? Thanks

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  45. Hi, FFM! Ok I just bought the Black and white Cherie and I did a polyvore set with jeans can you think of another "mommy casual" way to wear it?

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  46. Fabulous outfits FFM!

    I have the decade dot jacket. It's a little shorter than I would like -- not quite cropped, but not as long as some of my other jackets. But I do love the colors -- white, bronzed ochre, brilliant blue, and little gold threads. I held it up to my ivory and bronzed ochre double-serge skirts, and it's a perfect match, so it will look great with either of them. I also plan to wear it with jeans.

    I don't have the peacock jacket, but I do have the peacock skirt. I think the pattern is really pretty IRL.

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  47. Wow - these outfit ideas are amazing. Thanks FFM for the inspiration.

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  48. Does anyone here own a pair of the Benny pants? I was wondering about the fit and how the cashmere holds up.

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  49. Oooh, do the Lulu metallic leather ballet flats in platinum gold. These are on their way to my house as we speak!

    Is anyone else getting things snatched out of their carts online??? Grrrrrr.

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  50. FFM, Why all the turtlenecks? Every single time 90% of the sets have turtlenecks. I don't get it.

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  51. Hi anon @2:58: Actually on the current sets, the majority actually do not have a turtleneck in them, so the 90% you mention is incorrect. As we transition into Spring the turtlenecks will no longer be appropriate, and won't be used at all. As for why I use them...I have said many times before that I am a BIG fan of turtlenecks, love the way they look, and that is why they are used in so many of my sets. :) Have a fantastic afternoon!

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  52. yea anon @2:58, I've noticed that too. It's getting a little tired....

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  53. Vic,

    That is not my understanding at all. Free shipping and educator's discount can be combined according to my online PS.

    I would try again.

    This has been a majoring issue with me and my PS has helped clarify JCrew's policy.

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  54. I love turtlenecks too and I live in Canada so will be wearing them for some months to come, unfortunately.

    If you don't like the turtles, substitute with something else like a crew or v-neck. Personally, I take mostly color cues from the sets as I do not own many of the items used, but I have different items that work in the combination.

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  55. If you used a free shipping code, you could still apply your educator/student discount. I'm one of the JC CS folks lurking here...love your blog, Alexis. And thank you, FFM, for enabling so many JC purchases :)

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  56. I have a decade dot jacket, and I really like it. Kitchy7's description is pretty accurate. Its a great match with the ochre and ivory pencil skirts. Looks great with putty and deep aqau colors.

    Short jacket cut is not a problem for me because I am short; taller JCA might find the jacket too cropped. Also sleeves are not very long.

    The web pics don't do it justice--you cannot really see the gold thread. I think its a very classy and fun bit of "sparkle".

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  57. I too am a BIG fan of turtlenecks and truly feel FABULOUS when I wear them, especially with my beloved candy tees that I got for a super sale!

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  58. I live in Canada so unfortunately candy tees are not suitable for my climate but I really do think they are so FAB!!!

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  59. I used to be a big fan of turtlenecks for many years....16 years or so. I had too many to count. I gave them up two years ago....things change and styles change and I started to feel frumpy in them.

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  60. turtlenecks=frumpy

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  61. how did this become a topic about turtlenecks. but really, I think they are so great. I even owned one that was sleeveless, but still had a turtleneck. like a turtleneck shell, remember those???? but my boyfriend said it was really ugly and he made me give it away. I still regret it!

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  62. Anony@3:36

    I have several of those same style: mock turtlenecks--sleeveless. I still have about 10 in various colors. I don't wear them but I still have them.....you never know!

    Why do you still wish you had yours? just wondering....

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  63. yea, let's get back to the topic at hand and all of FFM's ideas!!!!!! i love it, i am SO ENABLED today!!!!!!!

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  64. FFM-What is your ruling on those mock turtlenecks, to have or not to have?????

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  65. A slim-fitting turtleneck with a pencil skirt and heels (and esp. the way jcrew has shown it w/ layered beads etc) is elegant and sexy. No frumps!

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  66. I love turtlenecks too. I have a question though. Do you wear your hair up or down with a turtleneck? I feel like up right to show it off?

    I know this probably sounds stupid, but I honestly wonder sometimes!

    TIA!

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  67. Oh, I am by no means ffm, but surely wear your hair up to show off that neck!

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  68. seriously ladies, when did this become a discussion about t-necks? I want more FFM!!! Now, would you wear leggings in the spring?

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  69. UMMM...FMM styles with turtlenecks....let's discuss turtlenecks...it has to do with FFM's styles. If you don't want to read about turtlenecks, then please skip over those posts and let us be. THANK YOU!

    Please, let's continue our turtleneck discussion. I am having fun!

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  70. I think turtlenecks make you look older unless it is 20 degrees out and you are wearing one out of necessity. Cowlnecks are a more stylish take on the look IMHO; otherwise, v-necks look best underneath jackets so you don't get a huge swatch of fabric up to your neck taking away from the jacket.

    A word of caution on the Marie coat--you can't tell from the pic on the website, but the shoulders are not straight like on most coats--they slope downwards. I think that's what they meant by cocoon shape but didn't understand until I saw it in person. I personally was not a fan of the style and returned the one I got.

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  71. anony at 4:04-ITA with your styling advice! you don't see many fashionistas donning those tight necks now do you?

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  72. Thanks 4:06.

    I still like a lot of FFM's ideas, I just personally would switch the t-neck w/ something else if I were wearing the outfit myself. But I'm sure people all take what they like and leave what they don't, and I thank FFM for spending the time to do what she does.

    --4:04

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  73. Totally disagree that t-necks are lame. Look at how so many of the fall/winter jcrew models were styled online and in the catalogue. I love cowlnecks too, but occasionally you can't beat the professional chicness of a slim fitting turtleneck with sexy boots or heels. Especially for the office.

    I think t-necks look nice with hair up or loose. A low pony would nice...

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  74. Yes, well maybe we could talk about all the style FFM has and how she uses items she's never even seen... Question: If you haven't seen how an item fits in real life how can you know what to style it with? Esp. with the Crew where we all know items are often totally different than they appear online.

    Sorry FFM, you will have to forgive me but I can't, in good faith, take my style cues from anyone who puts a t-neck under a tee, are we still in high school??? (apologies to the readers who are in high school... you have every right to layer in this manner).

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  75. Today I wore a slim-fitting cowl-neck under my j crew chiffon cardi, with a wide belt. It was a fresh alternative to a t-neck...but I still love a good t-neck.

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  76. I personally LOVE FFM's stylings and appreciate all the time she puts into delivering lovely sets. However, I too am a bit concerned that she has not seen a lot of the items she styles for us. maybe it's divine intervention. :)

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  77. For better or worse, I find turtlenecks are my go-to look in the winter. I live in an area that gets cold. However, I got one of the cashmere turlenecks for this year, and the neck is GIGANTIC. I am petite, but geesh, I don't think my neck is that much shorter!

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  78. FFM, I love what you did the pink peep-toes and the isabella heels...

    I'm digging the dream necklace...

    t-necks only look dowdy when they don't fit tightly enough.

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  79. I appreciate FFM's outfits, as well as the comments she makes on this site. I think she is especially helpful on coming up with good color combinations.

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  80. But the worst is when the turtleneck is so tight you can't get it one without getting make up on it, or effing up your hair.

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  81. Well, FFM is doing this as a FREE service for us, so I don't think we could expect that she has seen every item in person, nor should we expect her to make the effort to. I'm sure she has many other things to do with her time.

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  82. I have to agree with anon at 4:23 pm. I looked at a couple of these outfit sets a while ago and saw turtlenecks with a short sleeve tee over them and was instantly transported back to junior high in the 70's. Just not a good look for an adult woman in my opinion. Same with all those babydoll tops from the summer.

    I also agree that something that looks good on paper may not work in real life. A lot of the J. Crew sweater jackets are fairly fitted while the cashmere t-necks ran big this year. The colors may go well in a picture, but putting a cashmere turtleneck under some of those jackets could end up looking kind of bulky and unflattering. And it detracts from some of the pretty necklines on the jackets.

    I live in a cold climate and generally like turtlenecks (HATE cowlnecks with a passion). I usually wear slim turtleneck sweaters on their own or under a tailored jacket and cotton turtlenecks under 1/4 zip ski sweater styles.

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  83. I do agree it's hard to translate things that were never seen or tried in real life...but, hey, I haven't worn a turtleneck since high school either :)

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  84. Ick I think really tight t-necks are the worst. So suffocating and restrictive, and make you look like a mean old librarian.

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  85. Who cares if FFM hasn't seen the clothes in real life. I think she is just trying to give ideas, and hand out little glimmers of inspiration.

    ha ha ha, my word verification was 'hashish'

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  86. Wow, really?!

    Maybe some anons could keep in mind that FFM is a mom of four (who, I'd have to imagine is pretty busy) who does the sets for us AS A FAVOR.

    How about "Thanks"?

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  87. Anon 4:44

    She is doing them as marketing for her business. She wants to establish a name for herself and charge for this service.

    People are just giving feedback about what works for them or not. I would think that would be very valuable input.

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  88. I don't think FFM is telling us exactly what pieces you absolutely must wear together. Rather, I think she inspires us with color palettes and silhouettes, in addition to giving us ideas of what specific items could look good together. How you end up styling an outfit in real life will always come down to your personal style, where you'll be wearing it, and the items you actually have in your closet...or end up buying because of this blog. :) So in the end, it doesn't really matter that she has or hasn't seen, or owns or doesn't own, the items she uses. Her outfits are inspirations for us to take and make our own.

    So if you happen to hate turtlenecks, try a boatneck! Or cowl neck! Or go shirtless! Or if you hate a particular item she uses, substitute another one! Of if you think one of her outfits is missing something, add your favorite scarf! Or necklace! Or pet ferret!

    Alexis has always left the offer open for others to "help put together a J. Crew outfit" for us. If you don't like FFM's outfits, try your hand at it! Polyvore is fun (and seriously addictive -- don't say I didn't warn you). And for us JCA readers, it would be much more interesting (and useful) to see your outfits than your complaints. :)

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  89. I agree with Smarty 100%!

    FFM - thank you! I totally appreciate the outfits you graciously put together for us, and your insightful comments! :-)

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  90. I have to agree with Smarty. FFM is doing all of this as a favor to us. I've actually never posted a request, but I LOVE looking at the outfits she puts together. I think complaining about her style is kind of silly- don't like it, don't look/use her outfits. Easy as that!

    Again, thank you FFM for taking the time out of your BUSY life to style some outfits for us.

    Victoria

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  91. anon @ 4:49: She has a business? You mean she makes money off of this stuff?? Well, I guess people will pay for anything these days... though I do think people should be a little more frugal since we are in a recession and J.Crew offers this service for FREE.

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  92. OT- sorry has anyone been to a store today? I was curious if it was actually 20% off sale like the e-mail said?

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  93. wow, where did all this discussion about turtlenecks come from? and where is it all heading?

    guys, ffm only gives ideas on how to put some sets together. and she is doing it on her free time as a courtesy.

    if you dont need any help, move on and leave your nasty comments elsewhere.

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  94. Eewww - cowl necks. These look totally frumpy IMO, especially if you have any bust at all. Who needs more bustline bulk? :P

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  95. Love turtlenecks. Love FFM.

    Seriously, some of you have anger issues and too much time on your hands. Don't like what is on this blog? Go somewhere else.

    JCA's, do any of you know how the decade dot jacket fits?

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  96. I love a body-skimming turtleneck with layers of pearl necklaces. I'm very fair so the sweater accentuates the pearls better than if they were next to my skin.

    As for those who think turtles make you look frumpy or librarian-ish, just about anything can fit that category if you don't wear what suits your figure and fits properly. And BTW, I have heard more than a few guys make comments about the "sexy librarian" look. Mystery to me, but whatever.

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  97. One Is Never Enough, see FFM's post at 12:06. There is a link to a review and IRL photos of the Decade Dot jacket.

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  98. Anon 4:54

    Click on an outfit and look to the right:

    "I am available for personal styling consultation, and can be contacted via email for a price list."

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  99. Anon @ 5:40, it is true that FFM is available for personal consultation but she does provide it by request on this blog and her own blog for free. I would expect personal consultation to be more involved than providing polyvore sets of items you may or may not own.

    I don't think it's much different from the weekly exchange where people can sell/trade unwanted items and we are often directed to ebay auctions for specific J.Crew items.

    No one is trying to pull a fast one here. Alexis regularly collects requests from JCAs and FFM provides the sets. This round of sets has been provided and we can use the ideas or not, no cost involved.

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  100. Those of you who criticize FFM should really be ashamed of yourselves!! I've requested sets from time to time from her, and she always obliges. It seems like she enjoys sharing her impeccable sense of style with us. She never charges me or even remotely, implicitly solicits for her "business".

    And so what if one of us like her sets enough to hire her as a style consultant after reading that "ad" in her blog? And pay her real money? What is wrong with that? Are you jealous you can't put together an outfit and get paid for it?

    Yes, there's a recession, but does that mean we all dress in sack cloth and ashes? Funny that you KNOW we're in a recession and still visits a J.Crew blog about fashion! Go work in a soup kitchen than prowl this blog! Shame on you!

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  101. anon 5:49 Nice that you defended FFM, but your attack was just as rude as his/hers.

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  102. I don't get you people. From time to time, some of you come here, enjoy the coupons, sizing/styling info and sell your stuff through the weekly exchange - and yet have the audacity to criticize Alexis and now, FFM. Everybody has an ulterior motive, huh? So what are you really here for? Ask yourself!

    Can't we all just enjoy this blog and now act like 5-year-old brats?

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  103. I just reread this thread and I don't understand why people are getting so defensive. The comments don't come across to me as "complaining", much less "nasty". The discussion focuses on the clothing combinations but certainly doesn't rise to the level of the forbidden "personal attack". I think it is an interesting discussion of what looks good when, with varied points of view expressed. As someone said, take what works for you and ignore the rest.

    I find reading the varied opinions much more interesting and thought provoking than just reading a series of fawning posts.

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  104. Anon@5.55: If it stings, it must have hit a sore spot. Good for you.

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  105. I have mentioned this before and I will say it again: THANK YOU FFM! I really appreciate all her effort and time with the blog-not only with her "Dear FFM" posts, but with all her comments. She is wonderful! :)

    P.S. I know I am late in the discussion, but I like turtlenecks! :) I think that it all depends on the turtleneck, and who is wearing it, that makes it look either stylish or frumpy. ;)

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  106. The person who pointed out that FFM charges for styling services (who knows if anyone has actually paid for any such services) is merely stating a fact easily found by clicking on FFM's blog or one of the polyvore sets. No expose of secrets there!

    Giving away a free sample to promote a paid service is a pretty basic marketing technique. I can't see how mentioning this fact has been twisted into "criticism of pulling a fast one". Are some of you perhaps making an issue where there really isn't one?

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  107. anon 5:57 - It wasn't the content of the message it was the way you jumped on the anon for his/her difference of opinion, which came off sounding a little rude.

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  108. FFM,

    I wanted to submit a request for Sparkle Argyle Cardigan in navy but I am not sure if I ever did.

    I don't know if you made any sets for this cardigan so if you did, please let me know. If not, would you mind giving some suggestions? (I haven't worn it once)

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  109. FFM, first off, THANK YOU! I've sent several friends to your site for inspiration and refer to it often myself!

    I'm wondering if you have any ideas for the hot pink silk dupioni skirt for a girls night out/ birthday celebration. Its going to be festive but still casual. I'm in warm climate, so probably no jacket required, and I love anything shiny or with sparkle! Thanks!

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  110. I'm confused.

    Does someone actually have a problem with FFM having a small business? I don't get it-whats wrong with that? I understand there are individuals that post here once in awhile that have, to put it nicely, some 'stability issues'. I guess I've answered my own question.

    And it's OK that you don't look good in turtlenecks. I don't think it's fair to pin your insecurities about how you look in a garment on FFM. For those of us that look good in turtlenecks, I'm glad she does them.

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  111. FFM,

    Keep doing what you do. I love your work. I will be asking you in the future for a set with something I just purchased today but I don't want to jinx it and have it cancelled on me.

    Kitchy,

    Pet Ferret. LOL. I don't own one of those, but I do have a cat I could put around my neck:)

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  112. Anon 8:10 pm,

    You are correct. There is nothing posted here criticizing anyone for having a small business.

    There is, however, quite a bit of hysterical overreaction to this non-existent criticism from those who may have, as you put it, 'stability issues' and need see personal drama everywhere.

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  113. If you had a pretty faced woman, with a nice figure in a tissue turtleneck with a short-sleeved tshirt over top, hair in a pony-tail or flip/clip/tease wearing a fitted pair of matchsticks you'd change your mind about the turtleneck/tshirt look. It's casual/cool & you definitely have to already have some natural 'oompf' going on to look good in some styles.

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  114. FFM, I have a question if you don't mind. I love the look of flats with a skirt (and I just bought metallic lulus) but I am always very conspicuous about my tights/nylons. What do you recommend? Should they be darker or lighter than the shoe or skirt? Should you try to match either?

    Any advice? This is something I don't have to worry as much about when I wear knee-high boots.

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  115. FFM--LOVE your sets!! I get so much inspiration from them, especially in terms of color combos. I like how you sometimes say 'you could use your own cardigan' or 'you could substitute'...it really helps!!! And I usually have several of what you recommend, so that makes it even better. Finally, the best idea I get from your sets is what constitutes a 'basic'...what can be reused over and over in a multitude of ways and with different colors. Thanks!!!

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  116. To all those who are against turtlenecks.... :)

    This section is called "help me put together an outfit" and FFM usually gives suggestions and inspires us with color combinations.

    I think it's a bit judgmental to say that only high school kids would wear a turtleneck underneath a blouse or a tee. Look at JCrew holiday catalog, p 63-someone got paid to put a catalog outfit for JCrew and they chose a turtleneck underneath a blouse...

    Besides, fashion is not straight forward and that's the beauty of it. What works for some, doesn't work for others. I love the fact that we all have different tastes.

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  117. Hi FFM! Thanks for all the great sets you do for us! Please keep it up!(hoping for some ideas for the CF Astrid! :)

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  118. I would love it if FFM could put together a winter/early-spring outfit based on the patent Lulu heels in sienna. The color is more mustardy than it looks in the catalog, and I'm not sure they'll work for spring since mustard was hot in fall. HELP A SISTAH? ;)

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  119. FFM-

    Any chance you could put together an outfit for the golden roses pencil skirt? Also, do you think it could be worn into the spring? You're the best!!

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  120. I would love if FFM could put together a Spring/Summer outfit with the cotton-linen ottoman Aubrey jacket. The neckline/cut of the jacket is so unique that I'm having a tough time pairing it with anything else.

    Also would love to see some casual Spring/Summer looks around the lattice cami.

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  121. Can anyone give mr an idea on how to wear the Astrid boucle jacket in Golden Avocado? I bought it FS because I adore the color. But now I have a bit of buyer's remorse because I can't picture what to put it with. Help? :)

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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! :)