Even before previewing the J.Crew Fall 2016 presentation at Spring Studios, I knew that my day was off to a great start. As I walked out of the elevator, I nearly stumbled right into Anna Wintour in her signature shades and a leopard coat. Greeted by Jenna Lyons and Somsack Sikhounmuong, J.Crew’s new head of women’s design (and a fellow Canadian!), Anna walked through the room spending some time to explore the collection. After a few minutes of star-struck stupor, I finally looked up at the row of beautiful models, and promptly fell in love with the entire collection – menswear and womenswear combined.

There was just so much to love – plush faux fur coats in cotton candy pink and dove grey, Anna-worthy leopard print pieces, coolest strappy shoes, colourful culottes, pajamas styled as daywear, a mirepoix of prints, bold toppers, and so much more. Unsurprisingly, it was all impeccably-styled, with chic neck scarves, artful layering, and braided ponytails. I spent a crazy amount of time looking at each outfit, but when I inevitably came back to take another look at my favourites, I would notice more cool details that I had somehow missed earlier. On top of it, thanks to one of the coldest winter days in New York, I really wanted to borrow a few of the cozy cable-knit sweaters and a fluffy coat or two and wear it all right then and there.

Needless to say, I adored J.Crew Fall 2016 collection and will certainly be on the lookout for my favourite pieces next fall. What do you think of this collection? Share in the comments!

“The advantage of having been with J.Crew for more than 15 years is knowing what feels right/what doesn’t, what is natural to J.Crew versus what feels unnatural…striking the right balance between what is new and what is timeless. Designing the collection almost feels instinctual.” — Somsack Sikhounmuong, women’s design team

“This season we focused on the inherent DNA of J.Crew with an emphasis on reinvigorating time honored classics with a modern, whimsical twist. Unexpected colors in traditional men’s tailoring – the playful mash-up of vibrant prints – the embracing of pleated pants and wide wale cord. Those are some of my most favorite moments in the collection. In addition, this season will be Somsack’s first in his new position as head of women’s design. Having Somsack back on the team has been like rereading your favorite book and discovering all over again the reasons you loved it the first time. He brings a fresh and spirited take to the women’s collection with a deep understanding of its core tenants. Most importantly – the magic is in the mix.” — Jenna Lyons, creative director and president

More after the jump!
[Read more…]