The Hunt: Best Of The New J. Crew

I've been a fan of J. Crew for aaaaaages so I was mildly freaked when Mickey Drexler retired from his duties. And  then I totally freaked when Jenna left as well. Omg couldn't even.  Like many long-term customers, I knew the company has lost a little of its mojo after the glory years of 2007-2010 when it could practically do no wrong. I felt like maybe Jenna had lost her way a smidge and tried to get a little too experimental with a brand whose trademark was classic with a twist. Even so, there were so many things that J. Crew does well and/or that no one else does  *at all* that I couldn't help holding out hope. That holding out became panic...until I saw some of the new Summer-Fall 2017 transition arrivals. There is so much goodness...yeet! For the first time in a long time, I'm feeling like they're back on track. There seems to be a movement back to natural fabrics, as well as to some of the really special materials that made their pieces both stand out and be worthwhile. For example, that gorgeous cotton/silk faille has made a re-appearance via the Ready To Party line, including in a waist-tie midi pencil skirt that comes in a succulent guava shade (and a fabulous marigold! :) ). There's a fantastic version of the Jackie that includes a tulle detail - it reminds me strongly of a ruffle-placketed sweater from around 2010 that I adored (and have two of ;)). The Italian Super 120s wool suiting line - always one of J. Crew's standouts - not only is offered in traditional neutrals, but now comes in a glorious light violet shade that is utterly crave-worthy. Several of the new blouses and tops have me drooling, including a sure-to-sell-out floral appliqué top - no, those flowers aren't printed on. They're 3-D fabric flowers scattered about on the piece - as if you're wearing a field of wildflowers. Completely amazing! They've updated the denim styles to include a high-waisted flare (yes!), in a lovely warm shade of ecru. I love the versatility of the color choice. White denim goes  away after Labor Day, but this shade is wearable year-round. Brava.  There are a number of fantastic dresses back in the line-up, but the one that really caught my eye is this brilliantly-designed ruffled clip-dot piece. The ruffles are placed to provide camouflage where needed, but the silhouette still creates shape. That's devastatingly tricky to pull off, but what results here is a nearly flawless frock that's super easy to wear - add shoes, bag and done. The black shoulder-tie details give it a very French chic vibe (though it's also offered in navy if you prefer a monochrome look). (And PS the  tulle ball skirt is back in a new ballet pink hue and powder blue shade!) I'm beyond thrilled to see one of my favorite companies getting back to the quality classics - with that crucial twist! - that they do oh so well. Yes. Yes. Yes! Whether you're a long-time fan or a fan-in-the-making, this is a great time to get up close and personal with the new J. Crew line-up, so toddle on over, Fancies! (Toddling via your fingers is 100% acceptable) :)
1. Hand-embellished Floral Top
2. Ready To Party Tie-Waist Skirt in Faille
3. Tiered Tie-Shoulder Dress in Clipdot
4. Cotton Jackie Sweater with Tulle
5. Tailored Italian Super 120's Suiting Blazer
6. High Rise Flare Jean in Ecru