Tuesday, August 30, 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! :)

122 comments:

  1. I just received my MUSTSHOP shipment, and I definitely learned why some of those items have been sitting in FS for so long.

    Mirabel short: The print is so pretty, but I hate the awkward rose pink/dandelion color combination. Also, the length is unflattering and makes your thighs look extremely unattractive (even at a size 0) unless you have supermodel-thin legs.

    Jeweled flower sash: It looks very pretty online, but in person it looks like a mess of grosgrain with petals in it. The petals completely cover up the jeweled parts, which sort of defeats the purpose of them. I had to cut off literally ten of the petals to achieve the same look as the online picture.

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  2. I tried on and purchased the Vintage Cotton V Neck tshirt during my last visit to a B&M. I would say it ran true to size for the size chart. I purchased a Small, for the best fit. I usually take a 6 in tops numerically. I found the medium to be too loose in the neck, back, and chest (I am a 34D). I would say follow their size chart for your best fit.

    After I purchased this shirt I am having some buyers remorse. I do like it, but I do not think it was worth the $30 price tag. I found it comparable to a Victorias Secret PINK V neck, which is half the price. It is too sheer for the price, though perfect everywhere else. I wish retailers would stop with the sheer white. If its not for the gym when Im wearing a flesh colored sports bra, I dont want it to be sheer and show my everyday bras.

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  3. I have bought numberous wool scarves from J.Crew over the years. The quality of the watercolor floral scarf in purple/olive is paper thin gauze like material with lots of slub lines in it. So unimpressed. Going right back. I looked at my other scarves and they have a nice tight weave and are well made. Quality is really going down hill fast. Definitely not worth full price!

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  4. (original)Genny: I also ordered that watercolor floral scarf in purple/olive (the print is so beautiful!) and couldn't believe how thin the wool weave was and I just don't see it lasting more than one season. It seriously is gauze material (copy writer from space left this statement out on the description) and does not compare to even last year's thin wool print scarfs. It's definitely a return for me.
    I own several scarfs from 2009 and they are much thicker fabric and I've worn them so much for the past two seasons without much wear. {sigh} But JC prints are so beautiful!

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  5. Some reviews from my recent order and store visit:
    - Blythe Shirtdress: tried this in dk navy and it's on my wishlist. I like the longer length which hit right at my knee (I'm 5'5"). I'm in between 4/6 these days d/t few pounds of weight gain and I felt much comfortable in the size 6 in my waist area. The 4 fit but I was worried about the lowest button maybe coming undone. ;-)
    The only thing about the silk fabric is that it's rather clingy to the skin. Is there a way to get rid of the clingy or static of the fabric?

    - Maisie dress in abstract floral: tried the size 4 and felt it ran TTS. However, the waist sat rather high and the shape of the dress is more baby-doll style. Beautiful, vibrant print and wish it came in a blouse.

    - Dream ribbed yoga cardigan: tried my regular t-shirt size in heather acorn. Color is pretty much the same as online. I think it's supposed to look relaxed and boyfriend fit. I didn't have time to try a size down but overall didn't feel like a FP purchase for me. It did feel soft but Dream fabric content doesn't warrant this to be $128.

    - Button box sweater: tried in same t-shirt size in saddle color. This top is cute with the buttons, but the fabric was too shedding and bulky overall so it's a pass for me. It left lint all over my dark denim. Also, acrylic content makes this a cheap fabric.

    - Teddie dress: I know this has been reviewed a lot and I also want to confirm that it was a total disaster on me. I pre-ordered a size up based on measurements and it fit ok. However, the length was too short and the color in decadent red was just too bright for me to keep it for many seasons. It sure does look great on Dina, but on me it fit really awkward especially the waist portion. The back zip is also an issue for me since I was hoping to keep this dress for many seasons. The construction of the dress was rather disappointing as it did not have a hook closure by the zipper and I had a hard time zipping it to the top.

    Valentina leather pumps: I think this runs 1/2 size small especially being it pointy and narrow on the toe box. I ordered it 1/2 size up and it fit comfortably. However, I was disappointed in the spicy gold color since I was hoping to get a pair of yellow/mustard shade heels. The yellow shade is on the cooler color shade and I was hoping for a warmer golden shade. On my medium skin, it did not look that great for me to pay FP, especially with manmade sole.

    Besides the bad ones, I'm happy to be keeping the No.2 wool pencil skirts. I can't wait until the weather drops!

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  6. Review of the Foundry Pant here and Gallerista skirt here. IRL pic of the Factory End-on-end Camp Shirt (Contrast-stitch perfect shirt look-a-like) here and a J.Crew New Arrival alert (on Net-a-Porter) here. :)

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  7. Can anybody comment on the Hutton Trousers in Italian Wool? Thanks!

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  8. Good morning everyone. I have some reviews mainly casual items, I hated paying fp but I am Canadian and I had to order before the big online changeover.

    Vintage cotton crewneck tee (36183)
    Neon azalea dye runs in the wash , when you first take it out of the package it looks like a highlighter marker, the brightness fades in the wash so make sure it washes separately from the rest of the wash, because the dye runs.

    Around-town sweatshirt (48081)
    Love this, good quality and I found the fit to be not as slim as it is shown in the picture online.

    Quilted sweatshirt (48083)
    I found this to be ½ size smaller than the Around Town sweatshirt. The quilting on the front is not as pronounced as the picture on-line. Good quality, it looks likes it is a wool sweater and not a sweatshirt.

    Vintage Matchstick Cord (50028)
    Same fit as last years, the quality however is not , the belt loops had 2 holes in them, and the area had black dye on them. It might have been a defect in just that pair

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  9. Origami Sheath dress in wool crepe: Absolutely stunning! It runs true to size and is beyond flattering. It seems to be very well made. I definitely plan on ordering another in a different color.

    I also bought my first stretch Perfect Shirt in white with the sale. It's quite nice and I'm tickled with the feminine fit.

    Blythe blouse in silk - I purchased this through the sale as well in moss. It too is very well made. I plan on wearing it this winter with cashmere sweaters.

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  10. OT - kate spade is having a sample sale online starting today. Prices up to 75% off.

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  11. A few reviews of some items that have been reviewed before, but I'll toss these in anyway:

    - Fatigue skirt (item 44895): Love this skirt!! Definitely need to size down on this one. Otherwise, the colour is great (a rich bronzed khaki colour) and the fabric is really substantial. This will be perfect for early fall and much better than the Cavalry skirt (see below).

    - Cavalry skirt: Tried it on in store and it was a disaster on me. The fabric is too stiff IMO, so it sticks out in an awkward way. It runs TTS and the waist band fits right at the natural waist. I tried sizing up to see what the skirt would look like if it sat a bit lower on the waist, but it didn't look very good - because of the stiff A-line shape, it stuck out and made my hips look massive. Nice idea but it was a pass for me.

    - No. 2 double serge skirt in Vibrant Flame: I actually ended up sizing down on this one to a size 4. The fit on this is fabulous. The Vibrant Flame colour is a brilliant reddish orange. Love it!!

    - Blythe Blouse in alabaster: I also ended up sizing down on this one too (my regular dress size 6 was huge on me). The fabric is a bit on the thin side, but it seems these days, if you want a thicker silk, you have to pay a bundle for it. Anyway, I love the camp shirt styling on this one, and will definitely get plenty of use out of it this fall.

    - Silk scarf in leopard print: I wonder if this is an in-store item only because the website only lists the silk/wool/cashmere blend one. The tag on this one reads 100% silk. Anyway, the print is quite dark so it's subtle. I tend to prefer silk scarves so when I saw this, I decided to go for it. It's very pretty. The silk is very fine weave, so it's quite delicate and thin.

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  12. I received the Liquid Silk skirt in dark navy last week and reviewed it last week's thread. Just wanted to reiterate for those who didn't see that, it's a great skirt. I'm not buying much this fall and this was a piece I think will work well for me for the fall and winter, and into spring and summer because of the weight. It's such a versatile shape. I will be wearing it to work, it could go to a party and I can throw on a tee shirt and wear it casually.

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  13. Silk Elodie Blouse review


    HERE


    Will try finish my reviews of Hacking Jacket and Schoolboy Blazer and Yoga Sweater later today.

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  14. It's not giving me the option to sub!

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  15. Three cheers for the fatigue skirt. Size 12 JC shorts are often too tight in the hips for me, but the 12 skirt fits perfectly. Nice fabric and flattering pencil fit.

    Field pant - ordered for my daughter - fits true to size, these are a summer-weight linen-cotton blend, cropped length ( she is 5'3").

    Featherweight cardigan - bought this in the bright pink - love the color and hope they bring it back again. Featherweight as advertised, good for warm weather, washed up nicely.

    I also recently bought a final sale wool cardigan/jacket that I can't find on the website anymore - sort of a bomber style, beige with a hint of glimmer. Seems to be nice quality and will be very warm neutral basic.

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  16. Another endorsement for the Fatigue Skirt! I've had mine since June and have worn it at least weekly all summer. I didn't size down (took my usual pencil skirt size) but it is stretchier material so if you're between sizes you could get go smaller. It's a fantastic skirt, and I agree it's a better style than the Cavalry Skirt, IMO.

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  17. Has anyone tried hand-washing the Blythe shirt or other crepe de chine items?

    I've had luck with handwashing some silk J Crew items but I've not tried hand-washing the crepe de chine pieces -- like the shirts Elodie, Blythe, Sophie, and Lucinda.

    The silk is so soft and has such a lovely drape. I'm afraid that after washing it might end up with water stains or feel "crunchy."

    Any tips?

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  18. The mens boiled lambswool cardigan #48812is great. Fits TTS, not sloppy or too snug. The boiled wool has a soft almost felt like feel to it and it feels well constructed. Colour is very much like the photo. My PS gave me a deal on it, the US price of $108 and free shipping so I jumped on it early.

    It has not been worn yet, way too hot here for that; maybe in a few weeks.

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  19. Here's my review of two new items, but bear in mind that I am petite (5'3"). Both are high-quality dresses and I would probably buy both if they came in petite! I ordered both in decadent red, which is a red with strong orange undertones that looks close to this summer's "modern red".

    Origami sheath dress in wool crepe (43712) -- I tried this last year in petite sizing and found it almost indecently short, even after sizing up to a 4p.

    I fell in love with the decadent red color this fall and although there is no petite offered this year, I tried one size down from my normal dress size (2p) in a regular 0. To my surprise, it fits well! In general, it is a high-waisted dress and not too long, making it good for petites. It hits right above the knee on me, so it is appropriate for work-related social events. The only thing that doesn't work for my petite frame is that there's too much length on top, but I think my tailor can easily fix this because there are seams that run down the shoulders.

    My only bone to pick is that the lining peeks out from the left shoulder. It seems the lining was attached to the outer fabric, then gathered and pleated, meaning there is an excess of lining for the width of the shoulder.

    Index dress in wool crepe (47911) -- I love this look, but the arms are too tight! My arms are not toned but not unusually fat, I don't think. The sleeves also look too long on my petite arms. So a no on this one for me, though I'd be willing to try a Petite version.

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  20. I love all things jcrew and just subscribed to this blog!

    I also want to share about my 3 recent purchases that I ordered and arrived at my doornstop yesterday! Love it Shem that happens! All were final sale items which made me nervous but all worked perfectly.

    -Belinda dress in cotton gauze. I ordered it in faded black. It was true to the size I normally wear and was a great length. I'm 5'3" and it hit right above the knee. The sweetheart neckline was great. It's a great weight dress for summer evenings. The faded black was definitely faded but made it more unique and cute than ugly.

    - wisper linen stripe shirt. Runs big. It's long on me ( almost covers my whole butt). Kinda boxy buy could be cute with a belt. Thin material that is pretty see-through.

    - Erica dress in cotton. I ordered in dried rose and it's a really pretty color. Fits great all over and TTS.

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  21. I recently purchased the Winnie dress (item 52137) at a B&M while traveling for work a few weeks ago.

    I am a pretty consistent size 12 in JCrew skirts/suiting and I had to size down to a 10 for this dress with the a-line style of the skirt. I am hourglass shaped and found the dress to be very flattering.

    Love the softer material, at first I thought it was a felted wool but it is an acrylic/nylon/rayon blend. The dress is so soft and comfortable and could be dressed down on the weekend with flats. We had a cooler day up in the NE last week and I wore it to work with a skinny belt and heels. Definitely pleased with a FP purchase.

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  22. I have the super 120s pencil skirt and nouvelle jacket in navy. It's a great suit (although it does wrinkle a bit more because it's 100% wool). But I like it and I also wear the pieces separately.

    I recently decided to order some navy pants to complete the collection -- I tried both the 1035s and the Durham pants. I was shocked and disappointed to find that for $130+, they are NOT lined. I own lots of BR pants and they are always lined. This helps them to hold their shape and makes them much more comfortable.

    I wonder if this is a new thing to cut costs...? (I have a pair of wool tweed Addison pants from the factory last year that ARE lined.) Whatever the case, I'm sending these back. Boo!

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  23. Re: silk leopard print scarf. There is indeed a silk leopard print scarf, and after a few false starts I found one! It's style no. 50277, it sometimes appears in the stores and sometimes pops up on the website. I think it will be a nice touch of not-too-much animal print for those who don't like to dress like an endangered species and/or don't like wool or wool substitutes around the neck. A keeper.

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  24. Just a quick comment on unlined pants. I actually like that some of J.Crew's wool pants are unlined, like the Super 120s. In the summer, I *hate* lined pants because the acetate makes me feel like I am wearing a plastic bag. What good is a suit out of breathable material then? I have had no issues with my Super 120's pants keeping their shape even though they aren't lined.

    About washing silk - I am not sure I would hand wash a shirt, but I have hand-washed several silk scarves (scarves that I wear "crinkled" as opposed to smooth silk twill) in cold water with Woolite. They've come out fine. I think they lose a very very slight bit of their smoothness from the washing but I haven't tried a low iron to restore that. I will continue hand washing silk scarves, except super gauzy ones, because the thought of dry cleaning chemicals on my neck makes me cringe. I would not hand wash a blouse because I would be afraid it would lose its shape AND be a nightmare to iron.

    HTH!

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  25. Erin,
    I have been complaining on here for a while about the lack of lining in pants. I did customer service chat last week and the CSR confirmed to me that NONE of the women's suit pants are lined anymore, with the exception of some white linen pants from this past summer.

    Milljcrew, as for the hutton pants people have commented that they run very long and are also *unlined* wool, which some people have found itchy.

    I think it's important that when we return these pants we tell the CSRs that we are returning them due to lack of lining. 2 years ago Ann Taylor tried taking the lining out of their pants but customers revolted and they put them back in. Now I only buy my work pants from AT or BR because JC can't put out a proper product.

    One last note, was in JC B&M last week, asked the SA if it was possible to have their tailor add lining to pants. I said I knew I would have to pay for it, but was wondering if it was something they could do. She said they couldn't have their tailor do it through the store, but I could call him separately, and it would probably cost $70-$100. Ridiculous. The pants need to be constructed with linings to begin with.

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  26. I too have emailed a complaint about the lack of lined pant options. The super 120s have always been unlined, I believe, but in the fall there have been other lined suiting fabrics to choose from. It's really irritating, as J.Crew pants fit me better than AT or BR options.

    On another topic, has anyone tried the silk layering cami? I'm wondering if it is cut modestly enough to make it work-appropriate.

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  27. Hi everyone,

    I've tried on a ton of new items, and here is my rundown.

    Hutton Tie trouser in wool crepe (49514) in the redwood color. I wanted to see these IRL after seeing them in all the Fall preview photos. The color was the same IRL and beautiful. I am usually a size 4 in bottoms, but a 6 sometimes. The 4 was backordered, so I ordered the 6. I thought they would be okay, because the waist was 28 inch on the 6 which is usual for some 4s. However, they were very loose in my waist. Also, they were very highwaisted. I know they were suppose to be, but they were so much so, that they could cover part of my chest. The rise was huge! I am a shortwaisted person but 5'6", so I think these would work best on a longwaisted person, or at least someone with a high rise. There is no way these will work for me, and they were very long even pulled up over my chest. I would say stick with your usual JC pant size if you try these. These are a definite no for me.

    Elodie blouse
    I tried this on in the small first, which is always my JC size. It was HUGE on me. My chest usual does not allow me to size down, but I reordered in an extra small. The extra small was a much better fit, and it did not pull on the chest on me. The length was still good, but I agree that the arms are still long. I tried it in the cobblestone, purple, and the green. I wasn't too wowed by the purple or cobblestone. The green was pretty, but what finally got me was the material. As a previous person commented, it is a sueded silk. I did not care for this at all. To me, I think the suede feel cheapened the blouse. I did not think it looked or felt luxe enough for the price, so it is definitely going back. I probably won't even consider it on sale.

    Silk Lucinda Blouse
    I tried in size 4 in vibrant flame, spicy gold, and roasted chestnut. I am always between a 4 and 6 in blouses depending on cut. The blouse seemed more loose on the model, so I went with the 4. This one was huge in this size as well. I almost never can size down to a 2, and I reorder the blouses in a 2, and it was a much better fit. I was swimming in the 4, and there was really no way that it would look flattering. However, even though the 2 fit better, I personally don't like the shirring/puffiness at the shoulders. It may be the way it was wrinkled from the box, but I feel that it was too puffy and added too much bulk to my top half, and I am more top heavy due to my chest. So, I think this may work better on someone with smaller shoulders. The vibrant flame and spicy gold were beautiful IRL. The vibrant flame is very similar to the Blyth poppy, but the flame has a more orange tint to it. The poppy in the Blythe had a cooler pink tint. The roasted chestnut had a different color IRL. It was very dark and deeper more like a chocolate brown. It was still nice, just not what I expected.

    Boy shirt in crepe de chine (47878)
    LOVED this! I tried all three colors in a size 4, and the sizing and colors were beautiful. Again, I fluctuate between a 4 and 6 in blouses depending on cut, and based on the "boy shirt" description I figured it would be more loose. The 4 was perfect - no pulling across my chest, perfect slightly longer length that looks good tucked in or left out, and perfect drape. I think this was the first blouse in a long time that fit me very well. I will be keeping at least one, if not all ;) The only thing that keeps on the fence is the price and dry clean only factor.

    Boy Shirt in Quincy Tartan (49044)
    I tried a size 4 (again the smaller of my 2 JC sizes), and it was a perfect fit. Loved the colors IRL, and the fabric was a medium weight. Not as thick as some perfect shirts, but not as thin as the leopard blouse. Definite keeper!

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  28. starfish,
    I can see how, if you are not sensitive to wool you might like the unlined pants in the summer. I find even the super 120s to be itchy so I can't wear them at all if they're not lined. On very hot days I just wear skirt suits instead of pant suits. However, I wish JC would put out at least *some* styles of lined pants so customers like you could have the unlined ones and customers like me could have the lined ones. Also, there's no excuse for putting out fall/winter wool pants like the huttons without lining.

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  29. Some more reviews -

    Eden cardigan
    I tried this on in size small, which is my usual JC sweater size. I thought it ran a bit too big. I know it should be slouchy, but it stuck out funny around the hip/stomach area, and made me look a bit larger there than I am. I feel like it should have draped or flowed better over those areas. I reordered in size extra small, and that fit better, but I'm concerned it may be too short in the sleeves and too tight around the shoulders. I will try it again and decide, but probably going back based on the price and that these cardigans did not seem too unique to me that I had to have. I compared the small eden to a size small in the featherweight czech glass cradigan from Fall 2008, and this one was at least 1-2 inches wider. Personally, even thought the featherweight was lighter and thinner merino, that made the fit better because it draped nicely.

    Finespun blouse tee (49760)
    I tried it on in a size small (again my usual size), and I thought it was too big. There would be no way to leave it untucked. It looked sloppy like an oversized T shirt. I haven't reordered in size extra small because I wasn't wowed by the shirt and thought it was too sheer. I'll wait and try it on sale, if that.

    Schoolboy blazer wool flannel (48682)
    I tried this in a 4 in heather caramel. The color was beautiful and true IRL. However, I didn't like the fit. It was a little too shrunken on my more top heavy half, even though it fit (I could close the buttons and sleeve length was okay). The flannel, like many others have said, was too thin and flimsy and I think that was part of the fit problem for me. This was a definite no.

    Hacking jacket (48263)
    I tried this in a 4 in the gray and grape. The grape was a very deep purple, but too dark for my liking. Not enough contrast against my black minnies. The gray was okay for me, but not worth full price or even my 20% CC discount. What finally got me with this one was the fit - the 4 fit well, but the cut did not work on my body. I usually like longer jackets (unlike the schoolboy), because they elongate my top half which is short wasited. But, I felt this one was too long on me, and looked a bit matronly on me. It may have been the colors - the blue or red may look a bit more hip or younger, but I'm holding off on this for now. I'm happy with my bellas ;)

    Doublecloth townhouse trench (49612)
    I ordered a size 6, which is my usual coat size. I size up from a 4 in coats to accomodate my chest and layers. This was big on me. I would need to try a 4. But, I wasn't crazy on the cut. The double breasted buttons were not flatter on my chest, and I thought the coat was a bit too short for my proportions. It seemed to hit at my mid to upper thigh. I would have liked it to hit at my lower thigh. I ordered it in the caramel color, and it was a lot darker IRL than pictured. I think the color is closer IRL to the caramel color in other items (e.g., cashemere caramel). I was hoping for more of a camel color and this was more of a pecan. For this price, it's definitely going back.

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  30. Some more items -

    Double cloth metro coat (49619)
    I tried a 4 and 6 in both golden mustard and vibrant flame. The 4 fit the best - the 6 was definitely too big. The colors were beautiful IRL and true to computer. Very well made coat, and substantial weight. However, I still did not like the fit on my chest. It seemed to add too much bulk or weight up top. Too bad :( I would only consider keeping it because of the colors, so maybe on sale if it makes it.

    Ruthie shirtdress (47711)
    I tried this on in a size 4 and 6 in all three colors. The navy was nothing unique, and I did not care for the green. I usually like an olive green, and this was a more saturated green. I thought the saturation and texture made the green look a bit off or cheap or something. The heather saddle was definitely the best color for me. However, the fit did not work for me. I think the 4 was most flattering from my waist down - fit perfectly to almost snug at the waist and the pleating was not too poofy, but I could not even button it across my chest. The 6 fit better in my bust, but even though I could button it, it would still pop open and pull. The waist was more comfortable, but the pleating at the hips made it look too poofy and added more weight there than I have. The bottom line for this one was that it was way too short, and I actually usually like shorter skirts. But, this was too short for work, and I may have gotten away with it for casual looks, but still not worth it. I'm 5'6", and I think this was one of the shortest JC dresses I've tried. Finally, I didn't care for the material. The flannel was too thin and felt a bit too cheap as well. It would definitely stick to tights or undergarments unless you have a slip. I think I would have liked it better if it were in the 120s or other woolen fabric. It also wrinkled excessively after just a 5 minute sit test. Definite no. I think this would work best for pear shapes and/or those with narrow shoulders.

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  31. I went to Paramus store last night to look at the upcoming October arrivals (they get stuff ahead of most stores).
    Let me just say my wallet is not too happy about them.

    I saw the Blackwater(?) hacking jacket and it is very pretty and well made if you like the colors.
    I personally don't care for the pattern, too 'tartan-ish' and too dark but I can see how this can be very appealing to some.

    They also have new hacking jacket that looks like Lexington/Professor, black with white (cream?) piping. Both look very well made, substantial wool and smooth hand but they are higher in price, I think they were $250.

    Another new item was Flare skirt in plaid, it has camel base and very wide plaid in brown/green/rust sort of traditiona wool blanket plaid. It looked very attractive on a hanger and other shoppers commented how they liked it.
    I tried it on and the fit is a little tricky, probably best if you are pear shaped. The wool is very thick and as result the flare is kind of fixed. I aways wear 4 in pencil skirts and I tried 4 and it was sung in the waist.
    but I think 6 would have been too wide in the hips. If you have small waist thias will not be a problem, overall I think go with your waist size. This is the kind of skirt where you need to tuck your top in. I aonly tried the plaid one but I magine fit is the same on solids.

    They also had new color of No 2 pencil skirt, similar to viridian green but more blue/teal (peacock?). I prefer the viridian green becasue the color is more heathered and it gives it more depth but if you like blues more than greens this may be great alternative.
    Btw, I was not sure about the green but I absolutely love it. I thought I have nothing to wear with it in my closet but once I brought it home I found surprising number ot tops that go perfect with it.

    I also tried on a new dress that may be my replacement for Teddie dress disaster. It is not exactly the same concept, since the dress is sleeveless and print not solid, but it satisfies my craving for red dress.
    It is a shift dress with pencil/tulip silhuette, falling to the knee (yay!), 100% wool (very soft), filly lined, exposed center back zipper and pockets (sewn shut). The print is red/orange abstract flowers on cream background, for me this much more flattering that solid red.
    It looks good with cardigans so it can be worn day to night. The fit is very flattering and it fits tts. I may try to get some pictures tonight.
    they aslo had a top and Jackie type cardigan in the same print.

    Also tried a new navy polka dot short sleeved top with exposed zipper and I thought it was nice basic top, a little retro and fits tts. I was able to size down and it looked good but it limited my arm/shoulder mobility.

    This store also had few capris left in bright dahlia and yacht blue, I think in 0 and 2.

    I shoudl be getting gallerista skirt, hacking jacket in blue and wool crepe pencil skirt in decadent red today so I will post reviews later.

    Also I have few sold out/waitlisted items to return if anybody is interested: dahlia capris size 2, flame skirt in 4, citron capris in 4, cavalry skirt in 6.

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  32. jcrewphd, I agree about the Dream-ribbed yoga sweater. It's pretty, but not worth full price. I reviewed that and a few other items a couple of weeks ago or so here.

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  33. I tried on the camp popover in my local b&m recently and I loved it. Fits tts and is very comfy. The "sunwashed apple" color reminds me of the strawberry Indian voile shirt from early this summer, which I didn't buy because I wished that it had roll-up, tabbed sleeves. As much as I love the camp popover, I'm going to wait until it goes on sale because at $72 it's a bit much for something I'm going to be wearing casually with jeans, imo.

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  34. I have a bunch of items I ordered sitting at home waiting for me so reviews of them to come. (On vacation right now.) Thankfully missed the hurricane that hit my area. Hope everyone made it through that ok...

    This is off topic (apologies) but does anyone know if jcrew does a birthday discount for card holders? September birthday baby and I want to try a few more things, but wondering if I should wait for a % off.

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  35. MissJR, no they do not. End of story. No, wait, my word verif is "aeging". Spelled like that.

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  36. I completely agree that some suiting or wool pants should be offered lined, and some unlined. I haven't bought any in awhile and I had no idea that lining was no longer an option.

    I like unlined pants in summer, and lined in winter. In the Midwest where I live, lined is too hot in summer and unlined is not warm enough in winter!

    Come on, J.Crew, step it up!

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  37. A few recent purchases:
    Edie Purse in Italian Calf Hair (44802): purchased this from the Rockefeller Center J.Crew in NYC. Well worth the splurge, especially with the recent cardholder promo! The leather is very soft and will smudge, but I'm thrilled with the bag overall. It's a good size -- right between small crossbody and hobo/shoulder bag -- and has sturdy twill lining inside. Lots of pockets for cell, pens, loose coinage, etc. Also big enough to hold my wallet, iPhone, sunglasses and makeup essentials. Very pleased.

    Mona leather pumps (54667): I purchased two colors, brick red and pale peacock. The red pumps have been great but my first time wearing the pale peacock the heel leather peeled away, exposing the rubber/steel underneath! I thought this was a one-time issue but when I exchanged the peacock pair the same thing happened to the second pair. J.Crew was great about letting me exchange them once again, but there seems to be a real quality issue there. Not sure why this has only happened to the peacock pair. Size-wise, I found I had to size up 1/2 a size to a 9.5 for the best fit.

    Has anyone tried the Summerby Sweater (50224)> Very interested but wondering about the fit.

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  38. Shoot, forgot two other pairs of shoes I got during MUSTSHOP:

    Wyatt buckle high-heel sandals (item 44811): Got these in tawny orange. Though the heel is high they're so comfortable! Very easy to walk in all day, even on Soho's cobblestone sidewalks. Lots of compliments on these too. Very trendy style I know that probably will go out of fashion soon, but worth it for $60 on sale. Ordered 1/2 a size up to a 9.5; should have stuck with my usual size 9.

    Wyatt buckle heels in leather and canvas (item 44806): Ordered these in black after the success with the high heels above. Love them!! Very chic in black and will work great now with skirts or straight-leg jeans, or later with tights and a skirt. Very stable and pretty comfortable with little break-in needed. I wish the straps over the foot had one more notch since I have very arches. This was easily with my handy leather punch. Fits TTS -- I wear a 9 and bought these in a 9.

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  39. I tried on the Factory wool herringbone professor blazer (item 29786) and was very disappointed - I can't imagine anyone paying full price for this. It was very scratchy, despite it being lined - I think it was mostly the collar. The brown looked cheap IRL. The black was all right - I'd think about it again if it was on sale for $40 or so.

    Also bought the Maddie pant in Italian cotton (item 44073) which was a huge fail, and I somehow convinced CS to let me return them. I'm a pretty standard 6, and they were falling off of me and completely oversized. Not at all what model looked like online. I let CS know about the terrible fit and they gave me a "one time courtesy" to return them.

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  40. Tried on the Bennett chino in my normal size 00 (which is usually still to big at JCrew), but these fit great in waist and hips (so excited to finally be able to wear a pair of J Crew chinos!). I didn't buy them because they were too long (I'm 5' 4" and cannot usually wear petite because I have long legs). I think I will end up ordering these in petite though since they were such a good fit.
    Slim fit and slim ankle, very sleek and will be great for fall when I put away my crop and ankle length pants.

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  41. Winnie dress: Usually wear a 10, but it was too big. Reordered an 8and it is perfect. Hits above the knee on me (5'11), so I will probably have the hem taken out (plenty of fabric!).
    Mona patent pumps: Have always worn a 10 in JCrew shoes, but the 10 was too small in the toe. Ordered an 11 and there is more room in the toe, but is now a little loose in the heel. Tortoiseshell is lovely. Warm bisque pair came with a big scratch on the heel, so they are going back. Hope they carry 11s in the store...

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  42. ajc I'm so glad you mentioned the Flare/Flair (sp?) skirt because the new Toronto store doesn't have it yet and I want to try it on. I also bought the No. 2 pencil skirt in flame and I bought a size 4 which is still a bit tight through the hips/thighs but the 6 was too big and wool does give/stretch a bit over time. It seems very well made as I've had a similar skirt from Banana for 10+ years now.
    I will probably pick up the yellow one when it goes on sale.

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  43. i am a bit larger and wondering how the liquid silk skirt would look on me. it looks kind of bulky and poofy. any reviews?

    i like the colour of the sweater that it is shown with, anyone one know what it is?

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  44. I made a few purchases at my local B&M last week -

    Origami mini in toile jacquard: LOVE this piece! The online pictures do not do it justice. I go between a 0 and 00 in J.Crew skirts, and went for a 0 in this style. It is a little short (I'm 5'2 and can just barely wear it to work without tights), but the print and fabric will be great for fall winter with tights.

    Blythe blouse in silk (extravagant green): as others have said, it's a beautiful and versatile shirt. I love this color. I went for my usual size 0 and it fits TTS.

    No. 2 pencil skirt in double-serge wool (viridian green): also a really great piece with a lovely color. TTS, I went with a 0 because of the pencil shape.

    I also ordered the Minnie pant in vibrant flame, which I'm hoping to receive in October (or sooner!). I ordered a 0, even though I own other stretch Minnies in 2.

    Happy shopping!

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  45. Oh and I also purchased the Maisie dress. I know not everyone is crazy about the empire waist, but I love the print and fabric and have received a lot of compliments on it. I ordered a 00 and it fits great.

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  46. Leopard print pencil skirt fits like a dream-perfect fit and length for me-LOVE.

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  47. Review of the Hacking jacket in vibrant flame here.

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  48. ^susan, does the maisie dress hit your knees? (how tall are you?) i am wondering as I am 5'4.

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  49. OT but my Madewell catalog arrived yesterday. You need a large mailbox since it has dimensions the size of a small newspaper :) It is 32 pages, kind of like a larger version of that thing they had in the stores (foldout page). Nothing like JC catalog in terms of number of pages/items. But it is fun to look through, has some things like a page with different people (diff ages up to 35 which is nice) saying which shirt they like etc). Says Fall 2011, so looks like it won't be a monthly thing. Oh and I also noticed they have some items in XXS now, didn't see that before. Plus the catalog says 'sign up to receive our emails and get 10% off + free shipping on your next madewell.com order'. So I am thinking if you haven't already signed up, or have another email, this should give a code :)

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  50. Can anyone comment on the Velvet Schoolboys this year vs. last year? Any differences in quality and/or fit? I'm wondering before I "bite" because I've been burned by differences in several "new" versions of last year's styles.

    I have last year's in Dark Plum and I am trying to "re-purpose" it. Any thoughts on new arrivals that might make it feel more 2011?

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  51. The Flair Skirt is a bust for me. I received it last week in a 2 in Cool Pine, but didn't like that it sat so high at my natural waist so I re-ordered in a 4. The 4 arrived yesterday and while I like that it sits a little lower, I found the fit very unflattering. Those pleats in such a heavy fabric add a lot of bulk and the skirt flairs out too much. I carry my weight in my hip and thighs, so I was hoping this cut would work for me. I looked a mile wide from the side. Alas... back it goes. I will say that the Cool Pine wool is beautiful.

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  52. Cubiccino, too bad the Flair skirt did not work out for you either.
    But as I read your post I am thinking that 'cool pine' may be the new color of No 2 pencil That I mentioned.
    It would make sense since it is the same type of fabric.

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  53. I stopped by the new store in Phoenix at the Biltmore last week since I had a 20% off coupon for it. Beautiful store if you live in the area!! It's like a boutique.

    Cafe capri in houndstooth - LOVE these pants! The houndstooth pattern is lovely with hints of yellow and blue in it. The fit is TTS and these are lined. The cuff is cute and they seem very well made. I know these will be pants I will have for a long time. Great purchase with the 20% off, even if I can't wear them till November. :)

    I have some other orders ariving this week, so will post those then.

    Happy Tuesday!

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  54. Rosie - Thanks for the review.
    I was just wondering how the Origami sheath would fit me. I'm 5'3" too. It's a lovely dress

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  55. Ruffles -- I returned my Velvet Schoolboy in Poppy. The velvet was very soft, however, very plush.

    I found the fit so odd: the sleeves were too roomy, like there was just too much material, and I felt the chest area was ill-fitting all around, not too small, but still pulling awkwardly. It is boxy, and did nothing for my figure. And the colour was sadly too pink -- not the orange I hoped for.

    HTH

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  56. ajc -- I would so love a pencil skirt in Cool Pine! Fingers crossed!

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  57. ajc - Thanks for the preview, I'm so excited for more new arrivals! I have been sad about missing out on the Lexington/Professor Blazers for ages, so I will probably snap up the look-alike as soon as it comes out.

    Is the new No. 2 pencil skirt colour similar to last year's Nightfall Blue?

    The French Made - I didn't find the Liquid Silk Skirt to be bulky. I found it to be quite flattering, especially if you have a proportionally small-ish waist. I would purchase based on your waist size as you definitely want it to sit on the smallest part of you. The length was right to my kneecap, and I am 5'9 and a bit high-waisted, so it is definitely long. I thought the fit was similar to the Jardin Skirt, if you've tried that, but with slightly less pouf and a bit more flow, if that makes sense. HTH!

    I agree with everyone else that you can definitely size down in the Winnie Dress - I am always a 0 in dresses and needed the 00 in this one to get the fit I wanted.

    I personally didn't find the Lucinda Blouse to be that huge...I am a 0 or 2 in blouses that button up and went with the 0 here. I thought it looked nice, however I didn't have a 00 to compare.

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  58. ITA about the suit pants. But I would like to point out that Factory currently has some very nice suit pants that are lined. The most expensive ones I saw were $98. They reminded me of the suit pants J.Crew put out several years ago.. nice details and seemed to be nice quality. Honestly, I was shocked because I have pretty low expectations for Factory merch.

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  59. Unlined pants look lousy after a few hours. The lining really helps them retain a sleek line. Guess all JC really cares about is putting them on a manequin or a tiny model where they can attain a good fit by pinning the back and never have to worry about creases because no one's sitting down. Too bad for us real, live customers. Off to Banana for pants, then.

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  60. Reviews of the vintage tweed jacket, technicolor tweed jacket, no. 2 pencils, Schoolboy (striped and non), hacking, Mona, and plaid hat on my blog here

    Frugalprepster- I wonder if there were multiple runs of the factory herringbone professor blazer - I got it a long time ago and the wool is decent, not nearly as itchy and rough as the current Hacking blazers. Mine is marked Fall 2010.

    ANC: thanks for the preview, I'm also curious about the new blue no. 2pencil!

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  61. Slightly OT -- With all the discussion about JC using acrylic in sweaters this season, I was very interested to see so many designer pieces containing (or made entirely from) acrylic, nylon, etc...in the recent issue of In Style. Literally every other item in a 'group shot' was a wool or cotton blend with acrylic, and selling for way more than JC pieces. Seems to be a 'trend' across the board!

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  62. French Made, I received the Liquid Silk skirt and reviewed it in last week's thread as well as briefly in this thread. It is not at all bulky. It sits at the waist and flares out, but there are no gathers so it's quite sleek. I really love it. The only thing it lacks to be perfect is pockets, but I'm a nut for pockets in a skirt or dress.

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  64. Caitlin, unfortunately I've not seen Nightfall Blue irl but yes, it is in this color family.

    As far as Lexington look alike, it was marked as Hacking Jacket on the tag, so I would assume the fit is the same. I did not have time to try it on but it seemed smooth and soft to touch.

    I did not like the Professor because I thought the wool looked cheap. This new jacket seems better quality, even if the price is higher. After all, I think the Lexington was $225 and this was four years ago.

    Do you guys think Bella is next?

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  65. I haven't see anything regarding the Stretch Vintage Bootcut Cords, but I placed an order for several colors after trying on a pair at my local B&M (they never have full color runs in stock, unfortunately). I purchased one (Stable brown) that day and ordered three more (shadow, gatsby green, and autumn bluegrass) that were just delivered. I had to size up one in this year's crop of cords; honestly, I probably could've sized up two - they are THAT much smaller (and it's the same style as last year). I have a pair from last year and the year before that are the same waist/hip, and this year's (when held up to the others) are significantly smaller. The waist is smaller and something about the rise is different though I'm not sure exactly what it is. If you're ordering these - size UP. The colors are great, as always, but that's never the problem with J Crew. :/ The store manager, when I complained about the crazy sizing, said their sizing was all over the place this season. Great.

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  66. @starfish28 -- thanks for your two cents on cold-water hand-washing the crepe de chine. If I take the plunge (no pun intended) and try it, I'll report back.

    I'm eager to read if anyone else has had success or failures in experimenting with alternatives to dry cleaning....

    @maryeb -- you're welcome! I'm used to non-petite items being so ill-fitting, especially for very tailored styles. The origami dress was such a pleasant surprise!

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  67. Clicquot, thank you for the Velver Schoolboy review ... I was thinking about the Poppy colorway!

    I will add it to my try-before-buy list.

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  68. Wow, so many great reviews I can't keep up.

    re: sizing this year in bottoms....oh no! this has been such a problem this year. I need to order 2 sizes in everything from now on :/

    I just got my Mirabel skirt and.....kind of disappointed. The material is very thin making the waist band seem insignificant, like it could roll and crease if you bent over. It also seems pretty crease prone. Just flimsy looking over all. My only other pencil skirt is last year's "embroidered ikat" which is a lovely medium weight cotton that is sturdy and keeps the line of a pencil skirt.

    Anyone else have thoughts on the Mirabel Pencil Skirt? Just not sure if I am going to keep it.

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  69. Rosie, I wash all my J. Crew silk tops and have been doing it for several years. I've either hand washed or put through the gentle cycle, then I press with a cool iron and hang. I've had no problems whatsoever.

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  70. I handwash all my silk j.crew tops, in woolwash cool then lay flat to dry. I've always been careful but not had a problem yet.

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  71. Heather: I thought it was just me!!I also received the bootcut cords in autumn bluegrass and stable...the colors are great but the fit was exactly as you said...tight in the waist and the crotch/rise fit is just bad on me...I got the same size as last winter and they're definately different. If I reorder I will need at least one, maybe two sizes larger.

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  72. pathos, I have the mirabel pencil skirt and I really like it. I wore it last week and received many compliments. It is definitely not as sturdy as previous years floral pencil skirts, but I haven't had too much problem with wrinkling and I'm up and down quite often at school.

    I have only tried on this year's toothpick cords and I took the same size as last year. And, my ps is always saying to try on multiple pairs of the same sizes to find the best fit! :)

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  73. Just received the Vintage Tweed Jacket and sadly, I must agree with the other reviewers. The color is great (burnt caramel) and I ordered it in my usual size petite 8. The fit was oddly matronly, and didn't do a thing for me. A definite pass.

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  74. Questions about the Toothpick cords.

    Are they faded or worn on the front of the thigh? It looks that way online in the brown and blue colors, but I didn't see this mentioned in the description.

    And, do you buy the same size in the toothpick as the matchstick or do you size up?
    Thanks

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  75. @desert flower and @ bindi -- thank you, thank you! It's my first experience with crepe de chine, so I was hesitant, but I'll give it a try! While we're on the subject... To my horror, I accidentally tossed my the Calista cami (which has micro-pleats, like the Elizabeth cami did) into the wash, even though it was in my dry-clean pile. It turned out a bit wrinkled but OK. The pleats are now fluffier, but they stayed pleated when I reinforced the pleats by running them between my fingers.

    @pathos -- thanks for your thoughts on the Mirabel. I loved the look of it, but you've just saved me from a final sale fiasco!

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  76. maryeb, the navy have some fading on the front. I haven't checked any of the other colors. I haven't tried matchsticks on in forever b/c I don't like them on me, but I wear a 4 in city fit pants, a 29 in toothpick denim, and a 28 in toothpick cords.

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  77. Thanks, Math Teacher. That's helpful.

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  78. Coastline-stripe tee runs large. I am almost always an XS or 0 in J.Crew tops, but I needed this in XXS.

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  79. Re: washing silk
    I wash most of my silks too, either by hand or inside a zippered pillowcase on delicate in the washer. I have found that some silk comes out a little crunchy after washing and that a trip to the cleaners gets it back to soft and drapey. It's high maintenance to do to every piece, but for those few special ones, worth it to me.

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  81. Cowlneck Poncho (item 48877) - I had high hopes for this but unfortunately it will go back. Fabric was beautiful light-colored herringbone, but thick! Fully-lined, nicely constructed. Felt like a pull-over coat and visually added about 20 pounds. I ordered a Medium (am usually a 10) but just felt it was overwhelming - just too much fabric, too much thickness - don't think sizing down would help. May be super-chic on a very thin and tall person (I'm 5'5").

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  82. @ajc: I was wondering if your gallerista skirt is a size 6? If you're returning it I'd like to buy from you. Thanks!

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  83. Hacking jacket in blue.
    I agree with other reviewers, fits closer to the body than a schoolboy and scratchy. I like the fit and color. Sale watch for me.

    Decadent red pencil skirt in wool crepe.
    I tried it as year round alternative to No2. in flame. It is cheaper but it looks and feels cheaper too. Fit is great, I think a little closer to the body than No2. Color is very pretty, a bit more red than flame but still with range undertones, has a hint of pink in it. Pass. Nice skirt but I prefer No 2 in flame.

    Gallerista skirt.
    I love it. The print is very pretty and the fit is nice, full but not poofy. Cotton fabric keels great, lined with acetate. Falls almost to the knees on me, I am 5'6". I ordered size up from my pencil size and it was a good call, go with your waist size.
    Great thing about this skirt is that it can be dressed up and down easily. it is seasonless. I had no problem 'winterizing' it. In fact, my favorite pairings were with boots and cashmere v neck pullovers in black or blue. But it looks just as well with a t-shirt.
    I am not sure if it worth the price (even with 20% I got), but it is a great skirt. Undecided. becauae of price.

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  84. I highly recommend The Laundress products for laundry products. I hand wash most of my cashmere, wool and silk items. I haven't washed crepe de chine silk but I'll have to soon since I've got two blouses already. After they dry I steam or iron on silk setting.

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  85. jcrewphd, yes it is size 6. I am still thinking, it will probably take me several days to decide. Send me an email (I don't see yours on your blogger profile) so I have it in case you are not checking this blog.

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  86. It's jcrewphd at gmail dot com.

    Thanks, ajc!

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  87. thanks math teacher- I am still on the fence with the Mirabel. It is so, so pretty. My hope is that it keeps its shape with wear. Might wear it around the house to see... :>

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  88. @jcrewphd -- great, I'll try the Laundress next time.

    I washed my Sophie last night with cold water and conditioning shampoo (which is what I usually do for my sweaters too). I let it drip-dry overnight on a hanger and it looks good! The crepe de chine dries well without getting "crunchy", since it already has a matte finish to it. Would a bit better if I ran a cool iron over it, but it's not bad and I am lazy.... :)

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  89. I received my MUSTSHOP order with two factory items, the portfolio dress in lightweight wool and the plaid tweed pencil skirt.
    The portfolio dress is very nice. At first I was a bit disappointed in the fabric because from the web picture I was expecting a bit of shine (I ordered the hthr carbon color) but it is the classic carbon of men's suits. The fabric, even if very lightweight, feels nice on the skin (not rough) and the fit is good in my regular size. The only thing is that the portfolio is not a real portfolio (what in the picture looks like an overlapping panel is a pleat in the fabric of the skirt and it sewn at the bottom along one inch). This makes the pleat to open and pouf in the front when you walk, but it isn't a major drawnback for me. It is nothing extraordinary but a good purchase if you need a simple dress that looks polished.

    The tweed plaid skirt is the skirt version of the retail Dauphine jacket. Someone said that the colors are not the same. They are actually but the fabric is very different and the threads used in the Dauphine are of a bigger yarn with the darker threads being especially bigger, which gives the impression of the skirt being more white. The tweed is almost a summer tweed, definitively not the thick tweed of the vintage or other retail pencil skirt. Bottom line: you can't makea skirt suit out of the two. However it is a very nice skit per se. I sized up from my regular pencil skirt size as I usually do with tweed but I think that my regular size in this case would have been better.
    All in all it is a good alternative to the more expensive retail pencil skirt.
    I wll try to put up pics if anyone is interested.

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  90. Reviews on the Leslie lace shell, anyone? It seemed to magically appear in the sale section today for $29.99. Then I realized it came in tall... which pretty much sealed the deal for me. Hope it's nice IRL! I ordered the casablanca blue, and re-ordered an icon trench with my fingers crossed that the sleeves won't be 3/4 length on me this time around!

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  91. Pathos and Math Teacher,
    Mirabel Skirt: Did you order your size? Is it TTS? I heard it runs small and you may need to size up. Any thoughts on sizing? TIA!

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  92. cuckoo, I would size up in the Mirabel skirt. It runs smaller than the other skirts.

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  93. @JCREWJD, I have the Leslie lace shell in black. Very nice, and unusually high quality vs. recent JC items. It's definitely worth $29.99. It runs very large, size down 1-2 sizes unless you're large busted. I'm a C cup and sized down 2 sizes, might have been able to go down 1 but it wasn't in stock in that size.

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  94. I reviewed and have IRL photos of the Blythe shirtdress in poppy, the maisie dress in green, and the liquid silk skirt in three sizes and both colors here:

    http://alldressedupnoplace2go.blogspot.com/2011/08/jcrew-reviews-blythe-shirtdress-maisie.html

    Lots of other J.Crew reviews on there too if you do a bit of digging. Happy shopping, ladies!

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  95. cuckoo, I did not size up in the mirabel. Don't you hate conflicting reviews? :)

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  96. Few more items from today's delivery:

    Flair skirt in cool pine: I ordered a size up from my pencil skirt size and it fits perfectly to slightly big. But I wouldn't get my regular size since I don't want the pleats to bulge out since I carry most of my weight there. I'm still on the fence about it since I paid FP. It's not a total love for me d/t the pleats that seem to add more volume to my mid-section. The color is pretty much the same to a bit darker than what it appears on my screen.

    - Cafe capri in houndstooth wool: I fell in love with it after seeing it online and on other JCAs. However, the fabric is too thick for my liking and my warmer weather here. Also, it adds visual weight on my lower hip, thighs and behind from thicker fabric and horizontal plaid pattern. I would also have a hard time coordinating tops since the pattern has a lilac color along with the yellows and brown tones.

    - Vintage tweed jacket in mustard color: Plastic buttons looked so cheap and when I buttoned the lowest button, the jacket didn't lay flat but flared open. Fit rather boxy and the fabric is too thick for our warmer weather. Also, along the sleeves it was itchy even though it is lined. I also had bits of tweed coming off from the edge of the "fringe."

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  97. Can anyone tell me how the Cece ballet flats fit? I've had to size up in the past, but are these more TTS?

    TIA :)

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  98. mommydearest,I sized up 1/2 size for the cece ballet flats, which is consistent with their other flats

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  99. Some new reviews.

    -Telegraph jacket: I wear M-L in J.Crew tops, and either 10 or 12 in jackets. I chose 12 in this jacket and it fit fine, but I am tall and the silhouette is just too short for me. The heather elm is a nice warm mossy medium brown.

    -Telegraph skirt: I wear a size 10 bottom. This skirt was too small. I had to hike it up above my belly button to get it zipped, and then the darts hit in the wrong places. I was surprised this was too small since I have the paisley pencil skirt in size 10 and it fits just fine. This is going back, and I won't be reordering the suit because the jacket is too short.

    -Origami crepe dress in decadent red. Online chat told me that decadent red was a true red, and I really wanted this dress because of that. Unfortunately, decadent red is NOT a true red. It is more a tomato red, or orange-red - but not as bright as the "modern red" color in all the spring-summer merch. This is going to be exchanged for the dress in charcoal grey. The dress fit TTS, maybe a tiny bit short on me (but like I said, I'm tall), but not so short I can't wear it in a professional setting. I like the stretch lining and the fabric is light without seeming chintzy. I love the origami detail and love the uniqueness of this dress. I also love that J.Crew makes something like this that is wool and not poly (unlike the popular Black Halo Jackie O dress, which is a poly/rayon blend and is $345 - total ripoff!).

    -Silk peplum blouse in poppy. The poppy came across to me as a bright, true red in this garment. Almost too bright, actually. I ordered a tall 12 (the larger of my two blouse sizes) and it fit pretty much perfectly, but could even have been a bit longer. In the past, I've found tall J.Crew tops to be sometimes too long, but not this one. If you have a long torso, I recommend the tall size. I am returning it because the color is just too bright for what I want to wear this for (work).

    -Daylong shirt. Fit is TTS. I ordered my usual knit top size (large). The knit feels so soft and dreamy. I only hope this washes well. I got the vintage champagne, which is a warm ivory. It is not too sheer as long as I wear a nude bra. The v-neck is not too low and doesn't show cleavage.

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  100. september new sale items online now :)

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  101. I received the Schoolboy in Houndstooth - the material feels thin and the fit is boxy. I know its selling out online but its not worth it to me.

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  102. I received the Double Envelope Coat in Heather Caramel today. Gorgeous coat, classic color, timeless silhouette. I'm in love.

    It runs rather large (I would say at least 2 sizes worth, but I ordered my normal size because I wanted a baggier fit.

    I'm so pleased with the quality and absolutely everything. And I can not wait until it gets chilly enough to wear!

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  104. The French Made -

    The Maisie dress hits just above my knees, and I'm 5'2".

    I also purchased the liquid silk skirt, but in bright dahlia. I LOVE this skirt. I agree with Caitlin that it's extremely flattering for anyone who, like me, has a proportionally small waist. Being on the shorter size, I ordered down to a 00 for a higher fit at the very smallest part of my body. It drapes and moves beautifully and the color totally pops. I think it will be a great nearly season-less piece ,and I'm considering picking it up in navy as well.

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  105. Could anyone comment on the fit of Clipper cardigan? I think I may have to size down since it comes in XXS size. TIA!

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  106. Valentina pumps: do they fit TTS or should I size 1/2 up?

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  107. @Root9: I had to order 1/2 up for the Valentina in leather. However, I returned both of them d/t color difference and lack of quality considering close to $200 even with promo.

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  108. Sweet Victory - review of lace-over tank

    HERE


    Also reviews of Hacking, Schoolboy and Yoga Sweater there

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