J.Crew Has Gone Back to Basics With a ‘More Affordable, Less Fashion’ Brand Relaunch
Though J.Crew was always one of the more casual fashion labels, known as the go-to label of yuppy white folk, its new CEO James Brett (formerly of West Elm) wants that to change. There’s a new J.Crew on the horizon, and it’s cheaper, less “preppy,” more size offerings and much more accessible than the J.Crew of yesterday. In the words of GQ, “more affordable, less fashion.”
Though J.Crew never stomped down the runway at New York Fashion Week, the label was known for dressing “real people” (mostly employees) in its latest collections and sending them to NYFW events. But Brett now says, “This brand should never show at New York Fashion Week. We’re not Gucci.”
In honor of these new developments at J.Crew, we’re taking the opportunity to spotlight five pieces from the new J.Crew line most indicative of Brett’s changes.
1. Mercantile Broken-In V-Neck Tee
“You have to have a competitive T-shirt,” Brett has said. “If you lose them on the basics, then they’re not shopping you that often.” With that in mind, he’s determined that J.Crew offers a $14.50 tee that allows guys to stock their closets with basics for cheap. Slightly more expensive, this V-neck tee is available in 14 color options. $19.
2. Mercantile Broken-In Pocket Polo Shirt
If you looking for the comfort of a tee but need to class it up a little bit, this J.Crew polo shirt is perfect, made from the same soft cotton as the label’s tees and available in six colors. $29.50.
3. 484 Slim-Fit Pant in Stretch Chino
An all-purpose pant, the 484 chino has a slim fit but with stretch fabric, making it more comfortable. These pants sit below the waist (as pants should), are extra-slim through the hip and thigh and are perfect for the guy running from the gym to work to happy hour cocktails. Available in 14 colors. $68.
4. Lightweight Denim Zip-Front Overshirt
Instead of a button-down, switch things up with this lightweight denim zip-front. Roomier in the body and sleeves, it’s halfway between a shirt and a jacket, perfect for warm weather but great for layering in colder temps, too. $75.
5. 770 Straight-fit Corduroy Pant
Soft and warm, corduroy has always been a classic fabric for fall, so the timing is right. This new super-soft 770 straight-fit pant sits below the waist and has a narrower leg than J.Crew’s classic fit. Available in eight colors. $79.50.
