Summer At J. Crew: Pretty, Pastel, Pricey

Memorial day means summer has unofficially begun, and the folks at J.Crew are pushing soft, light, pretty pastels — and some of it’s almost affordable!

Some people look awesome in slouchy stuff; I am not one of them. That said, digging the tones here. The shirt is $35; the pants are $50.

Gah! I am usually drawn to brights, but how can you not fall for all these soft, sweet, sorbet colors? My fave thing here is the “corsage” tee, $30.

Well these sandals may “start” at $49.50, but four flats on this page are $88. True story: I bought the silver sandals at the top of the page, but they were 25% off in the store and I had some kind of 15% off coupon thingy and ended up paying under $50. Which is closer to what they ought to cost, in my opinion.

Ah, if only summer actually looked like this: Breezy, gorgeous, sunny, shady and delicate. Instead it’s more sticky, sweaty, gross and uncomfortable. Nice dress, though. $78.

I have mentioned this before, but I love cardigans. Love. Them. and when I see fruity, citrusy, fresh shades like this, I get excited. Then I see the price: $158. Boo. I know, it’s cashmere. Still. Boo.

Clearly she does not have allergies. The dress is what mag editors call “girly” or “feminine.” So super pretty; $138.

Again with the slouchy, “boyfriend” pants. Can people with large thighs get away with this? I think not. I would end up looking like I work for UPS.

Ruffle V-neck in bias-cut cotton? Yes. Please. $33.

Gorgeous! If you don’t have a giant rack, that is. It comes in white, in case you’re headed to St. Tropez.

So. The rosettes on this gown remind me a little of that Project Runway contestant whose trademark was applying tiny fabric blooms to everything. Here? It’s either gloriously wacky or wackily glorious, I can’t decide. Obviously a lot of work went into it, and it’s silk, and it’s imported. Still: The price is $3,000.

More pretty, pretty colors; Unfortunately, that dress on the right isn’t even available. Boo.

If we’ve learned anything today, it’s that pink, ruffles and frills are “key” for summer. If you work at J. Crew.

Earlier: February At J. Crew: What You & Michelle Obama Can Wear This Spring
The Politics Of Style: An Obama-Inspired Shopping Spree At J. Crew
J. Jill Vs. J. Crew: It’s A Fashion Showcase Showdown
September Is Here! J. Crew Celebrates With Cardigans And Kids