Barring a total paradigm shift, a mash-up of men’s wear influence and traditional femininity is to be expected from J. Crew’s women’s collections. What’s more interesting and unpredictable is seeing which trends, whether emerging or widespread — get pulled from the ether and sent to J. Crew’s stylistic boot camp. For spring, it was the artisanal touch, the rough and nubby textiles of Peru and Mexico, and the slouchy androgyny of boyish basketball and boy shorts, a look that has been on the runways of Marc Jacobs, Public School and Baja East. All of the latter have skewed edgy, while Tom Mora’s interpretations for J. Crew were mixed with embroideries and bright colors for a happy, friendly vibe. Mora’s lineup was very of-the-moment and he gets credit for pushing his customer with a stronger street component and maxing out the men’s vibe.
Frank Muytjens, men’s head designer, took a bohemian sailing trip for spring. Inspired by Mediterranean fishing villages, the solid lineup featured striped sweaters, chambray pullovers and crushed bucket hats.
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The color palette was taken from the washed stucco walls and varying shades of ocean blue in the region, enhancing the dreamy, relaxed sensibility of the offering.