Last week, I made a long-overdue trip to my nearest JCPenney store to check out the major changes the retail chain has been implementing since announcing their plans to become "America's Favorite Store" back in January. Despite the fact that JCPenney's shares fell to 3-year lows just days ago amid "worries about its future" and lagging sales (via), I still have faith that JCP can turn things around. The changes I'm seeing are definitely for the better - everyday low prices (why people want to play the never-ending sale game is beyond me), fresh new labels, and better store displays that make it easier to shop.
The most impressive display for me is the new JCP in-house brand, which reminds me of Joe Fresh (another label coming to the store soon) or J.Crew - colorful basics that provide the foundation of your wardrobe. I really liked their selection of sweaters, including cotton cablenecks and even some cozy cashmere. There were some great polka dot button downs, denim shirts and a jean jacket that could all find a place in anyone's closet.
Some departments in my store had clearly gotten a minor facelift but still looked depressing and uninviting, like a wall devoted to the Bisou Bisou, Allen B. and Nicole by Nicole Miller lines. Nicole Miller deserves her own store-within-a-store. And I still think JCP lags behind in the accessories department - the new Cosmopolitan collection is not good, people. It's just bad. The shoes and clutches look cheap, sorry. Target does such a better job at presenting fun, trendy accessories, and JCP should take note. The new Betseyville line by Betsey Johnson is tacky at best but might appeal to young shoppers.
I Heart Ronson is still an unappreciated budget-fashion gem - really great designs at amazing prices. But the collection was tucked away in a dismal corner, unbefitting of the clothes. I think my photos speak for themselves.
The MNG by Mango boutique is still one of my favorite spots and it's so refreshing to see the prices come down. Finally! The new Levi's and I Jeans by Buffao sections also shine, showcasing the latest denim trends - no mom jeans here.
Overall, I think my JCP store looks much better than it did just a few months ago, but clearly the store still has a long way to go. I just hope holiday sales are good enough to keep them going.
What do you think about the changes happening at JCPenney?
Photo credit: TheBudgetBabe.com
Some departments in my store had clearly gotten a minor facelift but still looked depressing and uninviting, like a wall devoted to the Bisou Bisou, Allen B. and Nicole by Nicole Miller lines. Nicole Miller deserves her own store-within-a-store. And I still think JCP lags behind in the accessories department - the new Cosmopolitan collection is not good, people. It's just bad. The shoes and clutches look cheap, sorry. Target does such a better job at presenting fun, trendy accessories, and JCP should take note. The new Betseyville line by Betsey Johnson is tacky at best but might appeal to young shoppers.
I Heart Ronson is still an unappreciated budget-fashion gem - really great designs at amazing prices. But the collection was tucked away in a dismal corner, unbefitting of the clothes. I think my photos speak for themselves.
The MNG by Mango boutique is still one of my favorite spots and it's so refreshing to see the prices come down. Finally! The new Levi's and I Jeans by Buffao sections also shine, showcasing the latest denim trends - no mom jeans here.
Overall, I think my JCP store looks much better than it did just a few months ago, but clearly the store still has a long way to go. I just hope holiday sales are good enough to keep them going.
What do you think about the changes happening at JCPenney?
Photo credit: TheBudgetBabe.com
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That said, I do like the new pricing. In late July I bought my 14-year old's entire school wardrobe (5 pr. jeans & seven tops) for $113. The polos, cotton shirts and tees I bought were trendy, good looking, well made and $5 each! And the Arizona Jeans for boys were $10 a pair. I couldn't have bought similar fare at Target for that price.
As for Betseyville? Yeah, I have to agree. And that pains me to say. I adore Betsey but this line is just..meh. I loved it when it first came out and still have a nice black/gray animal print tote that I adore. Unfortunately one of my cats took a liking to my bag and chewed on the straps.
I agree w/you about the Betseyville line, but I feel like they are marketing it to a younger group, so it makes sense that I would not like it. I like some of the Cosmopolitan shoes, but they are OVERPRICED and NOT comfortable.
However, they are carrying a new brand, Monet, and their shoes & handbags are beautiful. Like someone stated above, they are real leather and look expensive.