Factory Finds

Whenever I get an email from the J. Crew Factory the word always evokes the thought of Andy Warhol's notorious "Factory" which was a cool hangout spot for Andy and friends. Really the two have nothing in common, but that's just one of the many random things that pops into my mind. Like Warhol's reproduction of images from pop culture, the J. Crew factory reproduces items from the "regular" store's previous season, but sells these items for a cheaper price, often altering the materials or construction a tad.

Lately I am finding myself more and more excited to shop at the J. Crew Factory as opposed to "regular" J. Crew. The prices are cheaper, the quality isn't that much different, and if I missed out on something from a past season at J. Crew it gives me a second chance. Who doesn't love a second chance?

The J. Crew Factory sequin polka dot top is an example of something that was improved by the Factory. Last year when this shirt came out at J. Crew I had all sorts of problems getting it on because it was very stiff and constricting. The Factory version seems much more "user" friendly. The sleeves are shorter and there is more give to the fabric. I took my usual size xs which I debated because I want to layer this over a button down for fall. Luckily there's plenty of room left for layers. I also bought the top in the black with white dots because I couldn't decide on which one to get. I intended to return one, but I was so smitten with the top I kept both. I am glad I did because these sold out like hotcakes, sequin hotcakes!

Also from the J. Crew Factory is this onyx inspired bracelet. This ended up being about $15 and resembles a similar style from J. Crew, but again at a fraction of the price. I added some spikes which generated endless comments and jabs from my husband, one of which involved a comparison between the bracelet and a medieval weapon.

Shirt: J. Crew Factory

Skirt: J. Crew no. 2 in double serge cotton

Shoes: Kate Spade (similar here)

Bracelets: J. Crew Factory Square Stone Bracelet (here) and Forever 21 (here)