Let me just say: ever since I started watching you, I am so good at saying no, I hardly buy anything anymore. And I’m realizing how much clothing companies try to trick us. Thank you so much for all of the knowledge you put out there! Also… $400 for those blazers is CRIMINAL
ME TOO! I didn't buy a sweater yesterday bc it was all synthetic fabric at a Cashmere price. I could tell it would pill and look worn really quickly. I never would have known to check before her!
Also the Clorheshorse podcast is so good talking about how they're forced to cut corners in buying and she talks all about fast fashion and bad fabrics.
Once upon a time J Crew was one of the classic “old money” brands. The clothes were high quality classic styles that lasted a long time. When J Crew tried to be trendy to get a younger clientele, they skimped on the quality but they’re pricing them at the same pricepoint that they used to charge for their quality items. For $400, you can either get a custom blazer made OR you can buy a higher-end classic-styles blazer that will last a long time.
@@nobodyqwertyu Brooks Brothers still has quality, classic blazers for $400-$500. As of this writing (4 January), they’re having a big sale where you can get one for 40-50% off.
@@nobodyqwertyuyes eBay j crew, brooks brothers etc the poor quality trend is very recent so most of it will be 10+ yrs old and excellent quality (which was a given back then)
I hope the PR for brands like J.Crew watch videos like this and take notes. You can’t call yourself a luxury brand and cut corners like this and expect people not to notice, eventually most buyers end up catching on.
@@DannyDevitowashere You haven’t really supported your premise here… Walmart, Gap, and TEMU *also* sell cashmere and they are definitely *not* luxury brands.
@@altitudeiseverything3163 yes. And they advertise good quality cashmere. Customers believe they’re buying higher quality fabrics than Walmart and Temu and brands like J. Crew know it
Been hearing repeatedly about today's polyester fabric being prone to wrinkles, so I'm sharing a bit of history. Polyester was semi-invented in the 1930's, though put on the back burner, because rayon was the new up & coming trend. Then in the 40's DuPont bought the rights to Polyester & in the late 40's came out with Dacron, which lead them into the creation of the polyester double knit fabric. It was a hit because it didn't need require a lining or interfacing for making garments. It was thick, stiff & hot, as in not breathable. And, yes, it did not wrinkle, in fact it didn't hold a crease, so those had to be sewn in, like for dress pants. It was so gross. It had zero drape factor & was terribly itchy on the skin & you'd be hot & wet wearing it. I grew up in the 70's & absolutely would not wear it. It was really disgusting stuff & most kids didn't like it, so polyester went on the "shelf of shame" for a couple decades. In the late 80's they started blending it into cotton & wool and it was much thinner, more sheer & drapey, hence it now wrinkles easily & sometimes near permanently under some conditions. And, now we can't get it out of our lives; we're breathing the shit 24/7/365! I personally still cringe when I see how much of it is everywhere. It's plastic and will take hundreds of years to decompose; who knows if it ever will, as it basically hasn't been around for even 75 years, though; it sure has wreaked havoc on our planet in a pretty short time. Very sad.😢
I really appreciate these reviews! The amount of money I've spent on poorly made items at Jcrew/Madewell could make me cry, but now I feel like I'm in a better position to make better shopping choices, thank you!
Not to invalidate y’all but I gotta really nice white button up with ruffle hem and pink mini sun dress from madewell from Poshmark and my local cosignment and I def see myself wearing those pieces for years like I think Jennifer says u can’t go bo by brand, you gotta go by product to product
@@DannyDevitowashere AGREE! I bought a "madewell" cotton knit sweater a couple years ago and it started pilling almost immediately. The fabric was clearly not cut along the grain and the seams didn't lie straight so I started called it my "ironically named Madewell sweater." Eventually I got fed up trying to keep it de-pilled and not looking a thousand years old so I chucked it in the cat's bed as an extra cozy layer. Admittedly the cat is pretty satisfied so I *guess* we got my money's worth in the end?
I used to be a craaazy jcrew fan 15-20 years ago and I still own and wear their cashmere and suits from that era. And it breaks my heart to see what is happening to the brand now. Haven’t shopped there for a while
I feel like the problem we all have right now is good quality is expensive, but what used to be expensive a few years ago is now regular pricing so we need to push our expected price point up… which sucks
Unfortunately, cheap composition & sloppily sewn crap is outrageously expensive, too. And, what's really sad is that all this synthetic blended garbage isn't recyclable, so it'll be on our planet for 100's of years after we die; a precious gift for our grandkids & their grandkids, too. They're left to clean up our mess. 😮
My jaw ACTUALLY dropped the first time you showed the in-store blue button-down with the "feathered" sleeves. Who thought that looked good in any way, in any universe?! And I'm NOT a fashion-conscious person (hence why I'm watching your videos to educate myself - lol).
I can’t believe they don’t even steam the garments in store! And those prices are absurd in re quality. I remembered that my mom shopping at J Crew when I was a kid. This was 25 years ago. Apparently she got some amazing pieces that lasted years. Obviously not the case anymore. It’s so sad/frustrating to see this happening at so many formerly reliable companies.
You've completely changed the way I shop! I was at the Gap yesterday and decided to check the materials and labels. I noped out of there because I am not buying plastic sweaters anymore 😊
It’s outrageous what the big companies are selling at this price point. Thank you for the humor and info. It’s offensive that they are selling what amounts to cheap plastic doll clothes, which will inevitably end up in a landfill when people don’t fall for it.
Excellent factual review! Teaching people how to evaluate quality is the only way we're going to make companies realize that we want better quality and slower turnaround.
You are the BEST reviewer EVER!!! Love how you show the online version, in store version, and your try on version. Your attention to detail is priceless and your honesty way above and beyond all. Thank you so much. Subscribed. Oh and also love how you give examples of how to go thrifting and make your own dupe even better.
Even though I almost exclusively thrift, this content is so helpful. As I’m looking at so many items at once, it helps to quickly recognize brands to spend a little longer looking at, and specifically what to look for. I’ve found a few quality J. Crew sweaters and vintage dresses at my thrift store, but I don’t think I’d buy anything new from there!
I don’t think J.Crew has been good since it was bought by private equity and moved all its production abroad (before they used to have factories and employed whole communities in the US). That’s when J.Crew Factory (cheap line) emerged and eventually the main line also deteriorated. I don’t remember when this change happened…I think sometime around 2012/2013. If you want J.Crew, go online and buy it pre-loved (if it’s over 10 years old-you can tell by the label and ask the seller). It will be exceptionally well made and good quality, have a nostalgic feel to it, and be pennies on the dollar.
This decrease in quality has happened with so many brands. The brands are sold, but the name remains and you think you're getting the same quality as the brand offered in the past, but boy, will you be disappointed. I've been shopping for clothing since the early 80's and it saddens me to see how much is being charged for poorly constructed garments made with a high percentage of synthetic fabrics. I have 100% wool blazers lined in 100% silk that I bought many many years ago and I'm so glad that I kept them.
What brands are the 100% wool blazers lined with silk? Any idea what year(s) they are from? I’d like to track them down if I can from consignment/thrift/online.
The feathered cuffs of that blue shirt have alopecia, goodness. Thank you for making this content. I am fed up with the trash these brands are making and it’s so validating to listen to your assessments of their quality. There is no reason to create such garbage. I hope your content changes the industry, you are a vision!
JCrew around 2010-2015 was just the best. And then the plastics came in and made us all sad. Especially since the prices seemed to triple as well. I will say one thing - I've always loved the thick JCrew piping! I think it looks sharp in contrasting colours. Great review - love love love your reviews.
Thank you so much for teaching me why to look for when I shop for clothes! I think of you every time I go shopping, I look at seams, bottoms, labels etc! Also, I remember back when all the clothes in the stores used to be neatly ironed and presented to the customers with care and pride!
Wowowow! That brushed cashmere is the WORSTTT! I had a similar experience of wanting to afford J.crew when I grew up, but then when I could afford it, the quality started disintegrating slowly. Now, I don't buy anything from there -- not even on sale. It's just not worth it! Thanks for this video and $50 uber ride. You're so helpful!! 🙌
Tag and the fibers on the tag, tells the age, compared to the tags of today. Along with feeling the clothing, and taking a closer look at that sewing (Anything 10 years old or older) Is definitely old J crew @@AbstractMindsThinkAlike
Their perfect fit T shirts from the late ‘90s were amazing! Heavy cotton that draped well and darts at the bust! And their pencil skirts fit perfectly, looked amazing, and lasted for years. We don’t appreciate what we have until it’s gone.
Their Perfect Fit T-shirts are still the best I’ve found anywhere. They’re still made from soft, heavy 100% cotton, fit beautifully (but no darts, thankfully), never lose their shape, and hold their color through years of frequent washing. I have at least a dozen that I wear year-round, for layering and on their own. Their pencil skirts, however, are now hit or miss.
Great review. J.Crew changed about 5 years ago and I'm now looking at brands that have better quality construction and fabric content. It's a shame because their style was so good. Thanks for your insight -- this is how to shop!
Goodness Jen! Their quality has gone downhill! I'm glad both of my J. Crew Pea Coats (in Black and Charcoal Grey), are still in great shape after 25 years, also "real buttons" were sewn properly. 💜
So glad people are talking about and exposing these brands and how bad their quality is now and has been for at least 5+ years. The decline of retailers is severe and the prices are ridiculous. I buy very few things at any store nowadays but thrifting is better most times. Fast fashion has ruined everything! I refuse to buy anything faux leather. I absolutely would NOT shop at J. Crew at this point. They’re ruined to me.
New follower here. You make me think twice before I shop now! It’s crazy to think how much clothing has gone down in quality while the prices continue go up. You’re one of my new favorite channels!
I was absolutely floored when you switched from the reference photo of the Pink Cardigan to the in-store cardigan. I gasped and even covered my mouth in shock LOL. WTF?!!!
I love showing these videos to my mom since she shops at some of the places you talk about for work clothes. I was wondering if you could do White House Black Market? She shops there all the time. And Marcella NYC!
Savage but accurate! I am on the same page. I cannot stand the stuff that brands put out these days. I would be really curious to see a video review on the rebooted Banana Republic though (not the Factory range but the main BR range). Or, Brooks Brothers or Ralph Lauren. I just really wonder if there is anything even worth buying new these days.
i'm trying to find the more indie brands that have more eco friendly/sustainable practices and/or higher quality in materials. however, their clothes typically have limited range of sizes, especially when it comes to petites or styles :(
As an old that regularly shopped at J.Crew from 2002-2017, it's a shadow of what it used to be. My suits and sweaters still look amazing from back then. Now, buying a cashmere sweater, it pills within 1-2 wears. The quality is awful. The only thing worth buying is their men's wool sweaters (if you don't mind a boxier fit) as they tend to not have synthetic fibers. They're more equivalent to the quality J.crew used to produce back in the day.
There *are* a few women’s items still worth buying at J. Crew, if one shops carefully. They have several styles of 100% cotton sweaters, mock neck, roll neck, cable knit, as well as basic turtlenecks and T-shirts. The ‘Perfect Fit’ T-shirts are thick, soft, hold their color and shape through years of washings, and yes, have the most “perfect fit” I’ve found anywhere (but *size up* one size unless you like them very fitted). The 100% cotton ‘vintage’ and ‘tissue’ T styles are not as good overall. The Emilie Lady Jacket (a thick cardigan, actually) is a substantial, dense 100% cotton that looks more expensive in person IMO. It does have the ubiquitous gold buttons, but I like the more subtle brushed finish and they look fine next to my 18K brushed gold jewelry. Also, the jeans (1% elastane) are just as good -maybe better- than the more expensive premium brands that I used to buy. The acrylic, polyester, and blends? *A hard NO,* not at J. Crew, nor anywhere else. I buy cashmere and merino wool elsewhere, where the quality is a bit better, but good cashmere has become difficult to find anywhere at an affordable price. Although I’ve been disappointed in the declining quality at J. Crew, too, these staples, and the fact that I can actually find clothes there to fit my very petite frame, keep me coming back . . . Always with great caution.
I love your commentary! You really know what to look for in a quality piece including stitching, fabrics, and other details. I’d love to hear your take on & Other Stories! ❤
I was also a student when J Crew left CA and was sad that I couldn't wear their clothes when I finally entered the professional world. Thanks for this in-depth review - it really alleviated my FOMO!
I'd love to see a video about places that ARE mostly worth it and good quality. It's so hard to know especially when overpriced items don't equal quality.
J Crew's ease of use for online returns is not very good either. I refuse to order anything from them online anymore. Since there isn't a physical location near me, I rarely shop there. Glad to see from this video that I'm not missing much
I'm so glad i found you. I'm being more intentional about the clothing I purchase. I want it to be good quality and long lasting. These tips woll help me so much!
i am so glad you're doing this. i also loved the "basic but quality" standards of old jcrew but ive noticed the cheap materials creeping in and even some "fast fashion" trends so i stopped going. but i feel that if they stood by their classic standards that they would do well
Tragic, all of this jcrew stuff. I stopped purchasing things from them a while ago. Boxy, bad materials, and cuts with high prices. Nope! ❤ your videos 😊
When you were like "they must have used a different shirt for the online pics" I was like that must be an exaggeration... And then you showed the top IRL and my jaw dropped. If I received that in the mail I'd be LIVID
I know that black tweed dress isn’t the best quality, but it looked so amazing I still ended up buying it. And yes, I looked for a similar dress, but I couldn’t find one this gorgeous!
I am loving your content! I’m about to binge watch all your videos! I would love to see the pieces you have in your wardrobe and the construction of them as well as good comparisons of better quality clothing as you’re showing these not so great quality pieces. Also, I would love to request you to do a review of Aritzia! I’ve recently started purchasing a “grown up” wardrobe starting with basics and I recently purchased the Aritzia Sculpt Knit Square Neck tank and I really love the quality and fit of it!
I just found your channel. And I love the material and quality reviews. This is how I shop. Not online. Touching things, turning labels, checking seams. Have never seen it on social media before. Probably because hard to get sponsoring this way :)
I'm so sick of trying to watch a clothing review where the youtuber gushes about how Stunning a dress is and its the limpest, saddest piece of polyester garbage you've ever seen in your life. Absolutely thrilled to find a channel that's as much of a hater as I am.
I used to order a range of items from Jcrew. After multiple disappointments and returns, I have learned to stick with the jeans. I live in the sticks, so I am forced to buy online and hope for the best. I remember feeling the mystique cteated by the OG Jcrew crash and burn after going to one of their stores in St. Louis 😢.
I don't mind paying a bit more for quality, but that is for quality plus amazing design, not for the same stuff every other fast-fashion store carries. The sparkly bag at 15:22 looks like Zara or even H&M.
I was huge into J Crew when I was in college, myself, but that was in the early 90's. Sort of rediscovered them in the last 2 years, though I admittedly shop for WAY more on J Crew Factory than the traditional line. And I wait until clearance prices are at least 70-75% off. And if I grow tired quickly, I swap my wardrobe on Poshmark.
You help me so much in identify quality and I'm so much more confident in identifying what will last and what will not. I have saved a ton of money and have some beautiful pieces.
Back in 98 my mom used to work for a company that made j crew sweaters and other cotton clothes and the quality was perfect. I’ve had a sweater since that time til now and still looks like new. Now you need to check all the tags before buying. That also happened to polo (that factory was in La Paz, Bolivia).
Love you’re videos, I’m learning so much from you! Could you please make a video summarizing some of you favorite places to shop at different price points?
Would love if you looked at some of the mens clothing too. Your reviews are very realistic for the average consumer and you provide great insight! I think in general the womens clothing can translate to the quality trend to the mens, but not always. Give the boys some love!
In the late 90s I used to buy a cashmere sweater from J Crew about once every 2 years (it was a treat and high quality and classic that there was no need to buy one often) and a couple of wool dress pants. Back then it was affordable and high quality in fabric & stitching. The store even felt luxurious and s.a.'s were attentive. Then it changed and the quality and experience went down for me. I haven't stepped into their store for 10 years.
Hi do you have any recommendations on a coat similar to the lady coat from J. Crew (single breasted fitted wool coat that buttons to the top) but better fabric?
Not so sure about BR. Bought a wool (albeit a blend, but this was from before I found your channel!) cardigan from Banana during their 40% sale and it's already pilling and looking old.
The problem is that it’s a blend. Most blends -wool, acrylic, cotton, polyester, cashmere- will pill much more quickly than a single fiber knit. Although, as the video showed, even 100% cashmere (or acrylic) can easily pill if 1. It’s a fuzzy texture, or 2. It’s made from cheap, short-fiber yarn. A sweater comb is an essential, but to avoid a maintenance nightmare stick to 100% natural fiber knits in the best quality you can afford. I truly hate buying near-future garbage, so I pass by the synthetics and blends, no matter how cute the style, or how tempting the price. Oh, and blends can’t be recycled *anywhere* with current technology, so those inferior pieces quickly end up clogging a landfill. The vast majority of donated clothing never makes it into the hands of someone needy, but gets shipped -by the ton- to landfills in some poor country abroad.
I miss J.Crew or at least when it was here in Toronto. I’d shop for the really good pieces and buy them only on sale. Got a pair of black suede pumps that people constantly ask if they’re Manolo for under $200. Got the blazer with the diamanté collar and a ton of other good things. Then I noticed the shoes no longer had leather soles & the quality started to slip…. Recently ordered a pair of their mesh ballet flats online and was disappointed to see the sole was man made too. After paying $200 CDN you’d think the soles would be better. Your video was very helpful bc now we can see the bait and switch from the way things are styled online to what they actually look like in person 😭
Really late to the party on this video, but as a sewist and knitter, I appreciate your commenatry so so much! I am teaching my kids to thrift and am always pointing out properly done binding, flat-felled seams, good vs poor quality fabrics, etc. In this video you mention that "you can get a custom blazer for this price". Can you please please please do a video about that? Ive made blazers and I dont know of any sources for GOOD custom blazers at a $400 price point (unless you're in Asia). Would love to hear about where these can be sourced in Canada!
I love your style and how educational your content is. I can't wear wool or cashmere, I get a rash. Any fabric suggestions for sweaters and blazers? I live in sweaters and live in a cold climate.
Gurl...your commentary on these clothes are hilarious...you have definitely influenced me to stop wasting money on junk and take my time and buy high quality items....ugh when I think of how much $ I wasted cheap clothes
Let me just say: ever since I started watching you, I am so good at saying no, I hardly buy anything anymore. And I’m realizing how much clothing companies try to trick us. Thank you so much for all of the knowledge you put out there! Also… $400 for those blazers is CRIMINAL
Not to mention $150 for a thin cotton shirt! Highway robbery!
ME TOO! I didn't buy a sweater yesterday bc it was all synthetic fabric at a Cashmere price. I could tell it would pill and look worn really quickly. I never would have known to check before her!
Also the Clorheshorse podcast is so good talking about how they're forced to cut corners in buying and she talks all about fast fashion and bad fabrics.
@@saraheeeeeee4552 I looked up the podcast and couldn’t find it. Is it behind a paywall?
Agree 100% I have been saying no to EVERYTHING lately. I refuse to buy plastic clothing anymore.
I find your commentary hilarious. You're fair in your reviews. You call out the crap but just as generous giving credit where it's due.
Baha thanks for that! I never described myself as funny but now I'm gonna start!
Her blatant honesty is refreshing and hilarious 🤭
You are so needed in this horrendous youtube shopping haul craze. Its like people know nothing of actual fabrics and construction.
They don’t care. They’ll return all those haul clothing after posting the video 😂
We don't.
Agreed! I’m a “buy once, cry once” type of gal. I’d rather spend a lot of money on a single quality piece that I’ll have for a lifetime.
Once upon a time J Crew was one of the classic “old money” brands. The clothes were high quality classic styles that lasted a long time. When J Crew tried to be trendy to get a younger clientele, they skimped on the quality but they’re pricing them at the same pricepoint that they used to charge for their quality items. For $400, you can either get a custom blazer made OR you can buy a higher-end classic-styles blazer that will last a long time.
Do you know of another brand where I can get a good quality blazer for $400?
@@nobodyqwertyu Brooks Brothers still has quality, classic blazers for $400-$500. As of this writing (4 January), they’re having a big sale where you can get one for 40-50% off.
@Jennifer_Lewis_Beach_Living thanks! I don't actually need one now but I'll keep this in mind.
@@nobodyqwertyuyes eBay j crew, brooks brothers etc the poor quality trend is very recent so most of it will be 10+ yrs old and excellent quality (which was a given back then)
yes! i still have a few staple slacks, shorts and collared shirts from early 00s that are still in great condition
I hope the PR for brands like J.Crew watch videos like this and take notes. You can’t call yourself a luxury brand and cut corners like this and expect people not to notice, eventually most buyers end up catching on.
J. Crew has never been a “luxury brand.” I don’t recall them ever marketing themselves as such, either.
@@altitudeiseverything3163 high quality luxury feeling pieces I mean
J. Crew sells cashmere and people call that a luxury fabric
@@DannyDevitowashere You haven’t really supported your premise here… Walmart, Gap, and TEMU *also* sell cashmere and they are definitely *not* luxury brands.
@@altitudeiseverything3163 yes. And they advertise good quality cashmere. Customers believe they’re buying higher quality fabrics than Walmart and Temu and brands like J. Crew know it
Been hearing repeatedly about today's polyester fabric being prone to wrinkles, so I'm sharing a bit of history. Polyester was semi-invented in the 1930's, though put on the back burner, because rayon was the new up & coming trend. Then in the 40's DuPont bought the rights to Polyester & in the late 40's came out with Dacron, which lead them into the creation of the polyester double knit fabric. It was a hit because it didn't need require a lining or interfacing for making garments. It was thick, stiff & hot, as in not breathable. And, yes, it did not wrinkle, in fact it didn't hold a crease, so those had to be sewn in, like for dress pants. It was so gross. It had zero drape factor & was terribly itchy on the skin & you'd be hot & wet wearing it. I grew up in the 70's & absolutely would not wear it. It was really disgusting stuff & most kids didn't like it, so polyester went on the "shelf of shame" for a couple decades. In the late 80's they started blending it into cotton & wool and it was much thinner, more sheer & drapey, hence it now wrinkles easily & sometimes near permanently under some conditions. And, now we can't get it out of our lives; we're breathing the shit 24/7/365! I personally still cringe when I see how much of it is everywhere. It's plastic and will take hundreds of years to decompose; who knows if it ever will, as it basically hasn't been around for even 75 years, though; it sure has wreaked havoc on our planet in a pretty short time. Very sad.😢
I really appreciate these reviews! The amount of money I've spent on poorly made items at Jcrew/Madewell could make me cry, but now I feel like I'm in a better position to make better shopping choices, thank you!
Madewell's Tshirts are garbage! Ugh- washed 1x and they have holes....smmfh
The only items really worth it at Madewell are jeans and leather stuff! Their jeans are my favorite, I love that they have very rigid styles.
@@ThePotLabPhD ironic how Madewell’s clothes are not made…well
Not to invalidate y’all but I gotta really nice white button up with ruffle hem and pink mini sun dress from madewell from Poshmark and my local cosignment and I def see myself wearing those pieces for years like I think Jennifer says u can’t go bo by brand, you gotta go by product to product
@@DannyDevitowashere AGREE! I bought a "madewell" cotton knit sweater a couple years ago and it started pilling almost immediately. The fabric was clearly not cut along the grain and the seams didn't lie straight so I started called it my "ironically named Madewell sweater." Eventually I got fed up trying to keep it de-pilled and not looking a thousand years old so I chucked it in the cat's bed as an extra cozy layer. Admittedly the cat is pretty satisfied so I *guess* we got my money's worth in the end?
You should have your own proprietary rating system! Before I buy anything I think, “What would Jennifer think about this?”
You’re a gem! Never change!
yes! like the Bobby Parrish of clothing
I used to be a craaazy jcrew fan 15-20 years ago and I still own and wear their cashmere and suits from that era. And it breaks my heart to see what is happening to the brand now. Haven’t shopped there for a while
Same here. I find this very sad😢
I feel like the problem we all have right now is good quality is expensive, but what used to be expensive a few years ago is now regular pricing so we need to push our expected price point up… which sucks
Unfortunately, cheap composition & sloppily sewn crap is outrageously expensive, too. And, what's really sad is that all this synthetic blended garbage isn't recyclable, so it'll be on our planet for 100's of years after we die; a precious gift for our grandkids & their grandkids, too. They're left to clean up our mess. 😮
My jaw ACTUALLY dropped the first time you showed the in-store blue button-down with the "feathered" sleeves. Who thought that looked good in any way, in any universe?! And I'm NOT a fashion-conscious person (hence why I'm watching your videos to educate myself - lol).
I can’t believe they don’t even steam the garments in store! And those prices are absurd in re quality. I remembered that my mom shopping at J Crew when I was a kid. This was 25 years ago. Apparently she got some amazing pieces that lasted years. Obviously not the case anymore. It’s so sad/frustrating to see this happening at so many formerly reliable companies.
You've completely changed the way I shop! I was at the Gap yesterday and decided to check the materials and labels. I noped out of there because I am not buying plastic sweaters anymore 😊
It’s outrageous what the big companies are selling at this price point. Thank you for the humor and info. It’s offensive that they are selling what amounts to cheap plastic doll clothes, which will inevitably end up in a landfill when people don’t fall for it.
Excellent factual review! Teaching people how to evaluate quality is the only way we're going to make companies realize that we want better quality and slower turnaround.
“What can you even fit in here, a quarter?” 😭😭🤣 10:24
You are the BEST reviewer EVER!!! Love how you show the online version, in store version, and your try on version. Your attention to detail is priceless and your honesty way above and beyond all. Thank you so much. Subscribed. Oh and also love how you give examples of how to go thrifting and make your own dupe even better.
I discovered your channel recently and you have changed how I shop! I now look more closely at how things are made.
Love to hear that! ☺️
Even though I almost exclusively thrift, this content is so helpful. As I’m looking at so many items at once, it helps to quickly recognize brands to spend a little longer looking at, and specifically what to look for. I’ve found a few quality J. Crew sweaters and vintage dresses at my thrift store, but I don’t think I’d buy anything new from there!
I agree! Everything she talks about can be applied to thrifting nice pieces too.
I don’t think J.Crew has been good since it was bought by private equity and moved all its production abroad (before they used to have factories and employed whole communities in the US). That’s when J.Crew Factory (cheap line) emerged and eventually the main line also deteriorated. I don’t remember when this change happened…I think sometime around 2012/2013. If you want J.Crew, go online and buy it pre-loved (if it’s over 10 years old-you can tell by the label and ask the seller). It will be exceptionally well made and good quality, have a nostalgic feel to it, and be pennies on the dollar.
Ding ding ding! I worked for the company for over a decade and if you're a consumer, it's shocking how spot on you are 😂
@@themiasmastream I used to be until the deterioration in quality 😕 Thank you for confirming what I believed to be true! ☺️
This decrease in quality has happened with so many brands. The brands are sold, but the name remains and you think you're getting the same quality as the brand offered in the past, but boy, will you be disappointed. I've been shopping for clothing since the early 80's and it saddens me to see how much is being charged for poorly constructed garments made with a high percentage of synthetic fabrics. I have 100% wool blazers lined in 100% silk that I bought many many years ago and I'm so glad that I kept them.
What brands are the 100% wool blazers lined with silk? Any idea what year(s) they are from? I’d like to track them down if I can from consignment/thrift/online.
@@wannabe41 yes! where do you find those 100% wool blazers with real silk lining? and HOW do you store them that they won't get eaten by moths/bugs?
The feathered cuffs of that blue shirt have alopecia, goodness.
Thank you for making this content. I am fed up with the trash these brands are making and it’s so validating to listen to your assessments of their quality. There is no reason to create such garbage. I hope your content changes the industry, you are a vision!
lol! Your comment gave me a good laugh! Thank you and I agree on how these brands are getting away with making such trashy clothes.
Thanks for people like you who teach us to be more discerning and know what to look for. I was a completely clueless shopaholic.
JCrew around 2010-2015 was just the best. And then the plastics came in and made us all sad. Especially since the prices seemed to triple as well. I will say one thing - I've always loved the thick JCrew piping! I think it looks sharp in contrasting colours. Great review - love love love your reviews.
Thanks for this! I wore J. Crew back in the 1980s and 1990s. Gorgeous stuff. It's so sad what's happened to it.
Old J. Crew was such high quality
Thank you so much for teaching me why to look for when I shop for clothes! I think of you every time I go shopping, I look at seams, bottoms, labels etc!
Also, I remember back when all the clothes in the stores used to be neatly ironed and presented to the customers with care and pride!
I love how critical you are…I thought I was alone in this world of questions and frustration.
You’re teaching us what to look for in any item we’re considering. Thank you!
Could you do Lilysilk please? Lots of youtubers are sponsored by them and I'd like to know if they're overpriced or not.
Second this! It's so hard to fins unsponsored reviews
Second this as well!
Yes please! ❤
Thank you for your content. I’ve been thrifting more as a result and you’ve helped me identify which pieces are actually worth buying.
Girl thank you, you are upping my fashion game so much
Wowowow! That brushed cashmere is the WORSTTT! I had a similar experience of wanting to afford J.crew when I grew up, but then when I could afford it, the quality started disintegrating slowly. Now, I don't buy anything from there -- not even on sale. It's just not worth it! Thanks for this video and $50 uber ride. You're so helpful!! 🙌
When I find "vintage" J. Crew at my local Goodwill, I often buy it. As you teach us, Jennifer, that's when they made quality garments.
How can you tell that it's vintage?
I do the same! Vintage J Crew, Banana Republic, and even GAP. The quality of a 20 year old item is so much better than their current racks.
Tag and the fibers on the tag, tells the age, compared to the tags of today. Along with feeling the clothing, and taking a closer look at that sewing (Anything 10 years old or older) Is definitely old J crew @@AbstractMindsThinkAlike
Their perfect fit T shirts from the late ‘90s were amazing! Heavy cotton that draped well and darts at the bust! And their pencil skirts fit perfectly, looked amazing, and lasted for years. We don’t appreciate what we have until it’s gone.
Their Perfect Fit T-shirts are still the best I’ve found anywhere. They’re still made from soft, heavy 100% cotton, fit beautifully (but no darts, thankfully), never lose their shape, and hold their color through years of frequent washing. I have at least a dozen that I wear year-round, for layering and on their own. Their pencil skirts, however, are now hit or miss.
Your videos have completely changed the way I shop. Thank you so much for being so helpful AND fun to watch 🩵
Great review. J.Crew changed about 5 years ago and I'm now looking at brands that have better quality construction and fabric content. It's a shame because their style was so good. Thanks for your insight -- this is how to shop!
Love how knowledgeable you are. My style is a lot different but I use your knowledge when I shop. Thank you so much for sharing what you know.
Goodness Jen! Their quality has gone downhill! I'm glad both of my J. Crew Pea Coats (in Black and Charcoal Grey), are still in great shape after 25 years, also "real buttons" were sewn properly. 💜
Thank you for educating us on what to look for in new clothes , I have completely changed my shopping based on your insights
So glad people are talking about and exposing these brands and how bad their quality is now and has been for at least 5+ years. The decline of retailers is severe and the prices are ridiculous. I buy very few things at any store nowadays but thrifting is better most times. Fast fashion has ruined everything! I refuse to buy anything faux leather. I absolutely would NOT shop at J. Crew at this point. They’re ruined to me.
New follower here. You make me think twice before I shop now! It’s crazy to think how much clothing has gone down in quality while the prices continue go up. You’re one of my new favorite channels!
I was absolutely floored when you switched from the reference photo of the Pink Cardigan to the in-store cardigan. I gasped and even covered my mouth in shock LOL. WTF?!!!
I like how fair you are, pointing out the good, the bad, and the ugly
They aren't giving the clerks the time to STEAM THE PACKING CREASES OUT OF THE FABRIC (the skirt at 7:30)! That just blows my mind.
That just poor management, I would be embarrassed if I worked there 🤦♀️
I love showing these videos to my mom since she shops at some of the places you talk about for work clothes. I was wondering if you could do White House Black Market? She shops there all the time. And Marcella NYC!
Savage but accurate! I am on the same page. I cannot stand the stuff that brands put out these days. I would be really curious to see a video review on the rebooted Banana Republic though (not the Factory range but the main BR range). Or, Brooks Brothers or Ralph Lauren. I just really wonder if there is anything even worth buying new these days.
i'm trying to find the more indie brands that have more eco friendly/sustainable practices and/or higher quality in materials. however, their clothes typically have limited range of sizes, especially when it comes to petites or styles :(
As an old that regularly shopped at J.Crew from 2002-2017, it's a shadow of what it used to be. My suits and sweaters still look amazing from back then. Now, buying a cashmere sweater, it pills within 1-2 wears. The quality is awful. The only thing worth buying is their men's wool sweaters (if you don't mind a boxier fit) as they tend to not have synthetic fibers. They're more equivalent to the quality J.crew used to produce back in the day.
There *are* a few women’s items still worth buying at J. Crew, if one shops carefully. They have several styles of 100% cotton sweaters, mock neck, roll neck, cable knit, as well as basic turtlenecks and T-shirts. The ‘Perfect Fit’ T-shirts are thick, soft, hold their color and shape through years of washings, and yes, have the most “perfect fit” I’ve found anywhere (but *size up* one size unless you like them very fitted). The 100% cotton ‘vintage’ and ‘tissue’ T styles are not as good overall. The Emilie Lady Jacket (a thick cardigan, actually) is a substantial, dense 100% cotton that looks more expensive in person IMO. It does have the ubiquitous gold buttons, but I like the more subtle brushed finish and they look fine next to my 18K brushed gold jewelry. Also, the jeans (1% elastane) are just as good -maybe better- than the more expensive premium brands that I used to buy. The acrylic, polyester, and blends? *A hard NO,* not at J. Crew, nor anywhere else. I buy cashmere and merino wool elsewhere, where the quality is a bit better, but good cashmere has become difficult to find anywhere at an affordable price.
Although I’ve been disappointed in the declining quality at J. Crew, too, these staples, and the fact that I can actually find clothes there to fit my very petite frame, keep me coming back . . . Always with great caution.
I love your commentary! You really know what to look for in a quality piece including stitching, fabrics, and other details. I’d love to hear your take on & Other Stories! ❤
Can you do a review like this with Quince clothes please? Would love to see if their quality is truly good 😊 Thank you~
The slow pan down to the irl feather cuffs 👌
😂
I was also a student when J Crew left CA and was sad that I couldn't wear their clothes when I finally entered the professional world. Thanks for this in-depth review - it really alleviated my FOMO!
It happened where I lived in AZ. They closed all clothing stores that didn’t make the 4 million a year max.
GIRL YOU TRIED ON THE EXACT THINGS I WAS GONNA GET THANK GOD I SAW THIS VID BEFORE ACTUALLY BUYING IT
I'd love to see a video about places that ARE mostly worth it and good quality. It's so hard to know especially when overpriced items don't equal quality.
J Crew's ease of use for online returns is not very good either. I refuse to order anything from them online anymore. Since there isn't a physical location near me, I rarely shop there. Glad to see from this video that I'm not missing much
agree about the returns. i hate how they don't do free exchanges and returns
I'm so glad i found you. I'm being more intentional about the clothing I purchase. I want it to be good quality and long lasting. These tips woll help me so much!
THE HORRID BUTTONS😭😭😭 I’m dead every time you cut to another item and THE BUTTONS ARE THERE AGAIN like a horror movie jump scare hahaha
i am so glad you're doing this. i also loved the "basic but quality" standards of old jcrew but ive noticed the cheap materials creeping in and even some "fast fashion" trends so i stopped going. but i feel that if they stood by their classic standards that they would do well
I still wear a suit jacket and scarf I got from j crew in the 90s, they made that stuff to last back then
Tragic, all of this jcrew stuff. I stopped purchasing things from them a while ago. Boxy, bad materials, and cuts with high prices. Nope! ❤ your videos 😊
This is so helpful. Even for a guy, I’m keeping an eye out for these short comings when I shop for myself.
When you were like "they must have used a different shirt for the online pics" I was like that must be an exaggeration... And then you showed the top IRL and my jaw dropped. If I received that in the mail I'd be LIVID
Awesome, I love hearing you talk about the quality of clothing. Would love to see more of these in the future 😊
I know that black tweed dress isn’t the best quality, but it looked so amazing I still ended up buying it. And yes, I looked for a similar dress, but I couldn’t find one this gorgeous!
Always appreciate your onsite brand review! Super helpful!
10:22 I laughed so hard😭😭😭😂😂😂 you’re right though! What are you gonna put in there!!?? lol
Tiny pocket, maybe emergency money 💵 or 💳 card 😅 but no hopes and dreams 😮
Your videos are such a god-send! Thank you so much for your informative insights and demystifying more intentional fashion. You’re the best!!
Omg when you showed the feathers in the store compared to the website, I screamed 😂😂
I am loving your content! I’m about to binge watch all your videos! I would love to see the pieces you have in your wardrobe and the construction of them as well as good comparisons of better quality clothing as you’re showing these not so great quality pieces. Also, I would love to request you to do a review of Aritzia! I’ve recently started purchasing a “grown up” wardrobe starting with basics and I recently purchased the Aritzia Sculpt Knit Square Neck tank and I really love the quality and fit of it!
I just found your channel. And I love the material and quality reviews. This is how I shop. Not online. Touching things, turning labels, checking seams. Have never seen it on social media before. Probably because hard to get sponsoring this way :)
I'm so sick of trying to watch a clothing review where the youtuber gushes about how Stunning a dress is and its the limpest, saddest piece of polyester garbage you've ever seen in your life. Absolutely thrilled to find a channel that's as much of a hater as I am.
I used to order a range of items from Jcrew. After multiple disappointments and returns, I have learned to stick with the jeans. I live in the sticks, so I am forced to buy online and hope for the best. I remember feeling the mystique cteated by the OG Jcrew crash and burn after going to one of their stores in St. Louis 😢.
THE FEATHER cuffs 😮😂 it looks like it’s been through a hurricane
I don't mind paying a bit more for quality, but that is for quality plus amazing design, not for the same stuff every other fast-fashion store carries. The sparkly bag at 15:22 looks like Zara or even H&M.
My skin is very sensitive and I always get itchy around the neck when I wear wool. Is there any type of wool that can be tolerated by sensitive skin?
I was huge into J Crew when I was in college, myself, but that was in the early 90's. Sort of rediscovered them in the last 2 years, though I admittedly shop for WAY more on J Crew Factory than the traditional line. And I wait until clearance prices are at least 70-75% off. And if I grow tired quickly, I swap my wardrobe on Poshmark.
You help me so much in identify quality and I'm so much more confident in identifying what will last and what will not. I have saved a ton of money and have some beautiful pieces.
love these reviews of yours, hope they continue to get high views cause i wanna see more!
Excellent video! I learned a lot about sewing,fabrics, and quality.
Back in 98 my mom used to work for a company that made j crew sweaters and other cotton clothes and the quality was perfect. I’ve had a sweater since that time til now and still looks like new.
Now you need to check all the tags before buying.
That also happened to polo (that factory was in La Paz, Bolivia).
Love you’re videos, I’m learning so much from you! Could you please make a video summarizing some of you favorite places to shop at different price points?
Thank you for inspiring me to make wiser decisions with my purchases!!
love picking up classic jcrew cashmere sweaters when i catch them on a mega-sale online but that's about it tbh
Would love if you looked at some of the mens clothing too. Your reviews are very realistic for the average consumer and you provide great insight! I think in general the womens clothing can translate to the quality trend to the mens, but not always. Give the boys some love!
In the late 90s I used to buy a cashmere sweater from J Crew about once every 2 years (it was a treat and high quality and classic that there was no need to buy one often) and a couple of wool dress pants. Back then it was affordable and high quality in fabric & stitching. The store even felt luxurious and s.a.'s were attentive. Then it changed and the quality and experience went down for me. I haven't stepped into their store for 10 years.
Hi do you have any recommendations on a coat similar to the lady coat from J. Crew (single breasted fitted wool coat that buttons to the top) but better fabric?
Not so sure about BR. Bought a wool (albeit a blend, but this was from before I found your channel!) cardigan from Banana during their 40% sale and it's already pilling and looking old.
Do you have a sweater comb? They aren't real combs, but they get the pills off sweaters.
The problem is that it’s a blend. Most blends -wool, acrylic, cotton, polyester, cashmere- will pill much more quickly than a single fiber knit. Although, as the video showed, even 100% cashmere (or acrylic) can easily pill if 1. It’s a fuzzy texture, or 2. It’s made from cheap, short-fiber yarn. A sweater comb is an essential, but to avoid a maintenance nightmare stick to 100% natural fiber knits in the best quality you can afford. I truly hate buying near-future garbage, so I pass by the synthetics and blends, no matter how cute the style, or how tempting the price.
Oh, and blends can’t be recycled *anywhere* with current technology, so those inferior pieces quickly end up clogging a landfill. The vast majority of donated clothing never makes it into the hands of someone needy, but gets shipped -by the ton- to landfills in some poor country abroad.
I bought the wool blazer from Banana Republic that you had recommended (on sale!) and I love it! So: Thank you!!
Very informative (and sarcastically funny 😆) video! I really learned a lot from you on what to look out for when shopping.
would love to see a video on your closet staples🙏🏻 ❤
I'm a fairly new subscriber and I have to say, I've been finding your videos to be very informative and helpful. Thank you for what you do! ❤
Great review for helping us examine clothes for quality👍👍
When you showed the blue shirt w feathered cuffs irl I actually laughed 💀
I miss J.Crew or at least when it was here in Toronto. I’d shop for the really good pieces and buy them only on sale. Got a pair of black suede pumps that people constantly ask if they’re Manolo for under $200. Got the blazer with the diamanté collar and a ton of other good things. Then I noticed the shoes no longer had leather soles & the quality started to slip…. Recently ordered a pair of their mesh ballet flats online and was disappointed to see the sole was man made too. After paying $200 CDN you’d think the soles would be better. Your video was very helpful bc now we can see the bait and switch from the way things are styled online to what they actually look like in person 😭
I have a shirt that I bought there in the 90s, but can’t imagine shopping there today. The shirt is unique and still in good condition.
Really late to the party on this video, but as a sewist and knitter, I appreciate your commenatry so so much! I am teaching my kids to thrift and am always pointing out properly done binding, flat-felled seams, good vs poor quality fabrics, etc. In this video you mention that "you can get a custom blazer for this price". Can you please please please do a video about that? Ive made blazers and I dont know of any sources for GOOD custom blazers at a $400 price point (unless you're in Asia). Would love to hear about where these can be sourced in Canada!
Where do you recommend shopping?❤❤
I love your style and how educational your content is. I can't wear wool or cashmere, I get a rash. Any fabric suggestions for sweaters and blazers? I live in sweaters and live in a cold climate.
Thank you for sharing all your reviews. I have stopped shopping because I hate buying fast fashion and everything is made of polyester.
"The atrocities don't stop there" I laughed out loud, I love these reviews!
Gurl...your commentary on these clothes are hilarious...you have definitely influenced me to stop wasting money on junk and take my time and buy high quality items....ugh when I think of how much $ I wasted cheap clothes