Tag: Jcrew Factory

There’s Always Room for Shoes

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Ok, now that we’ve established that it’s the season for an easy slim leg pant, let’s talk shoes. I go two directions. If I’m feeling ambitious, it’s a pointed toe 3-4 inch heel. If I’m feeling tired, it’s a cute loafer. Shoes are not a category where I like to spend a lot of money so my general strategy is to buy a few basic options under $100, wear them into the ground, and then replace them after a couple years. I usually have nude pumps and flats, black pumps and flats, and a couple statement shoes or alternative neutrals for fun. Here are a few that I have and few that are on my list right now.

Super Simple Loafer from JCrew Factory

I have these in the grey above and they also come in black on nude. They are a great neutral both in color and design and will go with almost any pant color out there. They are typically priced around $50 depending on the current sale, so the price is right. A bonus is that they’re really light and easy to throw in your work bag when you have to commute in snow boots!

Super Sleek Nine West Loafer
Sometimes I find loafers to be too chunky or unflattering, but these are the perfect finishing touch to an outfit for work. They’re from Nine West and the Nine West website is constantly having sales, so you’re not going to spend close to the $79 that they are full price.

Fun and Easy Nine West Pumps

How fun are these? I think these would be perfect for a really neutral outfit that needed a statement. I love that they’re a 3 inch heel which is very do-able. Again they are always on some kind of sale at Nine West. These are in the shopping cart…

Fabulous Gold Boden Loafers

I’m a little upset that I don’t own these, but I actually have 2-3 pairs of gold flats that are a couple years old and in too good shape to buy another pair. For women from New Jersey like myself, we have the added fashion advantage that metallics and leopard print are considered neutrals in our closet. I would wear these with anything. I haven’t shopped too much a Boden, but I did just get a dress on super sale from there that I love.

Basic Pointed Toe Sam Edelman Pump
My go-tos for basic pointed toe pumps are Sam Edelman, Vince Camuto, and Nine West. They all usually have a style like the one above that is basic but sleek. I require a pointed toe, because I find a rounded toe unflattering on me, and like I said earlier, a 3-4 inch heel. Too high and I’m not comfortable, too low and I think it just looks awkward.

My other secret to success with work shoes is that I never commute in them. This cuts down on wear and tear (escalators can really scuff up a new pair of shoes), and it makes it easy for me to move quickly through the metro stations. I have my Toms most of the year and then Uggs or snow boots when it’s cold and snowy out. I have no shame when I can run up an escalator next to the women struggling in heels.

What shoes are you loving right now?

Where I Got That

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I’ve noticed that I tend to go to the same stores for the same items. Do you do that too? There are always exceptions, but often when I need a blouse I go here, when I want a new jacket I go there. You know what I mean?

Gap: I think I’m a little old for the Gap but I love it for tees, tanks, shorts, and sometimes jeans. Basically weekend wear. They usually have some cute but comfortable casual shirts, and they’re always on sale.

Ann Taylor: I buy a lot of blouses for work from Ann Taylor. I like them because they’re work appropriate but usually machine washable. It doesn’t hurt that they often have sales. I also buy an assortment of pencil skirts and the occasional sheath dress or dress pant.

Loft: I’ll buy inexpensive, washable sweaters and tops from Loft. Sometimes I’ll get a pair of pants, but their shorts don’t fit me. The sweaters aren’t the best quality but if I get them on sale I’m ok if they only last a season or two. They have solid good looking long cardigans this season! I also like their Lou and Grey line for comfy attire.

Banana Republic: Banana is my spot for dress pants. I also get a bunch of dresses and the occasional blazer or blouse there as well. It’s mainly work attire for me. I’m not really into their jeans, and their sweaters are often too pricey or too fussy.

JCrew: I have four pairs of the same jeans in different washes from JCrew. I also love a JCrew suit and the occasional work dress. I try to wait for the 30% off sales.

JCrew Factory: This is my go to for shorts and washable summer sweaters and cardigans. I’m buying less and less from Factory these days because I don’t think the quality is that great, but sometimes you don’t need the fanciest version.

Anthropologie: I’ll get the occasional statement piece from Anthro, but I often only get earrings and scarves there. I think it’s more my style to wear a really classic neutral outfit with interesting accessories.

Nordstrom: Coats are my favorite thing. I usually buy them from Nordstrom along with shoes and a special occasion dress from time to time.

Lands End: Lands End is great option for sweaters and sporty outerwear. As chic as the new athleisure brands are, Lands End athletic outerwear options are a lot more affordable and functional. An oldie, but a goodie.

So those are the heavy hitters, but you know I’m always keeping my eyes open on all the department stores, some newer places like South Moon Under, shoes spots like DSW and Nine West, and all of the athletic apparel spots!

What are your standby brands/ stores?

Labor Day Weekend Sales

SadieLeave a comment

Long time, no see! Time to do some serious back to school shopping!

  • Let’s start with foundation. Do yourself a favor and head to VS or Soma and grab 7 undies for $28 or $37 respectively. You know you need them! Both have various bra offers as well!
  • Loft is 30% off full price styles and an extra 50% sale (no code). I need this for Fall.
  • Ann Taylor is 50% off select full price styles and an extra 50% off sale (no code). Lots of good blouses on sale.
  • JCrew is 30% off everything with the code YESPLEASE. I want.
  • JCrew Factory is 50% off everything (prices as marked) and an extra 50% off clearance. These are definitely that elusive combination of classic, trendy, and comfy.
  • Gap is up to 50% everything plus an extra 20% off with the code GETMORE. I need all of the things, starting with this.
  • Banana Republic is 40% off everything (no code). Is it just me, or is lavender really in for work wear right now?
  • Boden is 20% off with the code 6J4P. I need this.
  • Anthropologie is extra an 30% off sale. This is super cute.
  • Stock up on hand soap and scented candles for yourself and your hostess gift stash at Bath & Body Works. Everything is 25% off with the code AIRISCRISP, plus a few more promotions.
  • And don’t forget Macy’s, Lord & Taylor, and Bloomingdales for a bunch of markdowns!

Happy Shopping!