Spotted Slim Pants + J.Crew Red Edie Bag (now on sale)

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J.Crew Edie Purse in 7 colors (use SHOPNOW for extra 30% off, good til 8/7), eBay rope pearls
Ann Taylor sandals (use FRIENDSFB for extra 30% off), H&M; spotted pants (sz 2, $12.95) & blouse

Thanks to JCA for sharing the unpublished code SHOPNOW, good for an extra 30% off sale items on J.Crew online. The discount makes this little bag $138.60, and still available in 7 rich colors. I got mine for $95 after calling several places using their in-store locator system – but I was told red was the only color at that price, and that I got one of the last ones left nation-wide at the clearance price (this was 2 weeks ago).

rededie

This bag is a lovely size for something with a smaller frame and can be worn three ways. You can carry it from the top handle as a handbag (above), sling it casually from your shoulders using the detachable long strap (below)…

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Or you can loop the handle over your arm satchel-style…

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It is no secret that J.Crew has been taking liberal inspiration from handbag designers (Tillary toteCeline luggage tote), and the Edie bag is no exception. For my little red bag cravings, I had been eying Coach’s vintage red court bags via e Bay and was struck by the unmistakable similarities. I’m not a fan of Coach’s overdone logo canvas, however some their older leather bag designs are timeless and functional. Despite loving the original Coach, I went for the Edie because I could get a new/clean bag for less (the pre-owned red court bags were going for $100-$150), and I was a bit skeeved out by stains I saw on the older suede interiors.
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These H&M; spotted pants are a recent purchase that I am very happy with. They jumped out at me on the website – and once I saw the $12.95 price tag, I marched straight to the store after work. I was worried that crazy animal pants would be unpopular with the boyfriend, but he gave a surprising thumbs up. I toned down the print with a solid top and neutral shoes, but added a small punch of color back with a classic red and gold bag.

 

Left: off the rack fit vs. hemmed + tapered   Right: unaltered and rolled up, styled with basic black

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The sz 2 in these pants fit me well throughout the waist and hips, but I must point out the extremely high-waist which I have been wearing folded down. Also, the length is meant for someone several inches taller than me and thus doesn’t taper down enough by my natural ankles. You can resolve this by rolling them up in cuffs, or by slimming down the pant leg and hemming as shown above.
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See this bag in oasis green and sagebrush on Elle (plus a wonderfully thorough review), and the pecan color on Kelly. Despite ordering my bag on final sale, sight unseen (FYI – it is not final sale online), I was confident that it would look proportionate on me having seen these two ladies tote it frequently and lovingly. Please note that both of them have mentioned that this leather is scratch-prone. I haven’t noticed this on my red one yet, but have adjusted my expectations accordingly and decided I wouldn’t mind some scratches to give it a more weathered, vintage look.

Readers – Have you fallen yet for the little red bag? Please share any other classic and affordable options!

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91 Comments

  1. theglitterlife wrote:

    LOVE THE LOOK!

    FOLLOW THE GLITTER LIFE: http://theglitterlife.wordpress.com/

    Posted 8.6.12 Reply
  2. Amy wrote:

    Does anyone know if the Edie is tall enough to hold an iPad… I'm seeing the JCrew measurements as 7"H and 10 1/4"W but it just looks bigger than that. Can anyone verify this? Thanks!!

    Posted 8.6.12 Reply
  3. The Petite Edition wrote:

    The design and fabric of those pants make them look hard to wear well and you did it beautifully. Great post!

    Posted 8.6.12 Reply
  4. Annapurna wrote:

    This outfit looks great and I love the red accessory with the black and white! I also appreciate your tips on dealing with pants meant for someone taller – especially the skinnies and the crops.

    I was at the H&M; on Newbury yesterday and saw so many beautiful things that screamed "Jean" – for example, an emerald green v-neck sheath with a pretty back-of-the-neck detail, a yellow lace peplum dress (that also came in an A-line style that I scooped up), a navy ponte slim midi skirt with black floral detail 9and a black back), plus a pretty mint crochet sweater with another interesting neck detail. Check it out!

    Posted 8.6.12 Reply
  5. ♥ Cassandra (Backtofive) wrote:

    Love the pants! The prints are amazing! GReat outfit! 😀

    backtofive.blogspot.com
    backtofive.blogspot.com
    backtofive's twitter

    xoxo backtofive

    Posted 8.6.12 Reply
  6. Annabelle wrote:

    I love the pants! Nice how the print is sort of halfway between an animal and a geometric; makes them fun and a little quirky.

    Posted 8.6.12 Reply
  7. sophié wrote:

    fab fab fab! such a successful look – love the pearls too . I would love a nice red bag now…but still reticent about buying YET another handbag…

    Posted 8.6.12 Reply
  8. KT wrote:

    Awesome looks Jean! This is one of my favorite. Love the edgy printed pants and the sweet elegance of your blouse and pearl necklace combined. You always look flawlessly classy and sweet. Oh I can't forget to mention how much I also love the contrast of that wall art against your outfit! xo

    KT
    http://www.KTRstyle.com

    Posted 8.6.12 Reply
  9. Jen wrote:

    I love this outfit Jean! You look beautiful. That Edie bag is a great size and I love the colour. I've been after a red bag for a while now, but I've been picky because I think it needs to be a classic style to make a statement. The Edie is perfect! Also, those H&M; pants look amazing on you. I tried them on after seeing them on your instagram and they just didn't look right on me. I can't wait to see how else you style them!

    Happy Monday Jean 🙂
    xo
    Jen

    Posted 8.6.12 Reply
  10. The Little Dust Princess wrote:

    LOVE this outfit, Jean! The neutral pieces were perfect for toning the pants down. I came across these pants today (also saw the dress version of this print) and didn't like the high waist on the mannequin. I didn't try it on since I didn't know if I'd be wearing it more than a few times, but I also didn't like the high waist. I never thought to roll it down… great idea!

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  11. Tam wrote:

    You look gorgeous in this outfit, Jean! I love the pop of red against the fun print of those pants. I've also definitely fallen for the little red bag and picked one up at a local boutique recently.

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  12. PetiteAsianGirl wrote:

    Hi Lisa – it's definitely not so bouncy shiny in real life! I think the glare from the natural light makes it look better than reality in these photos. I, too have frizzy hair but am not into using products…I have have been washing my hair at night then sleeping on it to "smooth" it out overnight.

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  13. PetiteAsianGirl wrote:

    I agree the leather type may not be for everyone, but I would not necessarily discredit the quality and value of an item based on the country of manufacture.

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  14. PetiteAsianGirl wrote:

    Amazing idea, RL! I'll be on the lookout for one / thinking of how to fabricate one.

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  15. WendysLookbook wrote:

    Absolutely LOVE this look on you Jean! From the pants to the bag and shoes. Words can not describe how much I love this post!

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  16. PetiteAsianGirl wrote:

    Yes, very much so despite the thinner heel. I walked almost a mile in them on Friday and the balls of my feet were only slightly sore. Keep in mind they are still 3.5" heels though : )

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  17. PetiteAsianGirl wrote:

    Hi Jules! I think wedges and cute sandals (not flip flops or slide-on shoes) are the way to go with casual wear. Not sure if you've seen this old post involving casual shorts, but I thought a low strappy wedge sandal and some feminine jewelry helped prevent a plain tee and shorts look from being too juvenile: https://www.extrapetite.com/2010/05/reader-request-how-to-look-older-in.html

    You also can't go wrong with summer dresses as long as the shape isn't too young (ie empire waists or too poofy). I would always add a waist belt to define the middle area and enhance the illusion of any curves.

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  18. Shannon wrote:

    Love your pants! I got a red Coach court bag in practically brand new condition at a Second Time Around store a few years ago for $45. It's great for adding a pop of color to a dark outfit, especially in the winter!

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  19. Angela Van wrote:

    I NEED those pants in my life. -_-"!

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  20. Lisa - respect the shoes wrote:

    How do you keep your hair so bouncy shiny like that? I have seriously the worst time with frizzy Asian hair and I have yet to find a product to change my life!

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  21. Pretty in Pink wrote:

    i had the edie in brown but i sold it because it was too small for me 🙁 looks great on you! here it is in brown with an outfit i wore last year:

    http://www.pipmegan.com/2011/06/happy-4th-of-july-weekend.html

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  22. R.L. wrote:

    The dalmatian-esque print goes so well with the red Edie! I just noticed the Edie strap is detachable, so it could be worn cross body if you made or found a nice chain strap.

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  23. Cassidy Short wrote:

    This outfit is basically perfect 🙂

    xoxo
    Cassidy

    http://norebeccaforayear.blogspot.com/

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  24. Kalei wrote:

    I went to J Crew to check out the Edie and while it looks cute, I didn't like the way the material felt. $139 + tax is still a lot to spend, especially for an item made in China. This is the primary reason I don't shop there much.

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  25. D.Sadie (D.G.S.Beauty) wrote:

    You are so gorgeous!

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  26. kp wrote:

    The pants look great. I wanted the dress in that print, but the XS was much to large. Even when I belted it, there was just too much excess fabric in the back.

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  27. Luna wrote:

    I'm really loving that red structure satchel – so ladylike and timeless. Lovely shots and beautifully styled.

    xx,

    Luna

    theredtrousers.com

    White gold peacock necklace giveaway:
    http://www.theredtrousers.com/2012/07/prints-genies-gladiators-and-giveaway.html

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  28. shengkx wrote:

    So beautifully styled and love the bronze cheeks! They make your cheeks look more prominent than usual, which is a plus!!!

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  29. Miriam wrote:

    so beautiful! i bought the edie purse in red the other day when i noticed the sale too! but major score for getting it cheaper!! <3

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  30. Anonymous wrote:

    Ooh, those sandals look so good on! I love Target shoes as much as the next frugal fashionista, but these are definitely an upgrade. Are they comfortable?
    ~Shirley

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  31. phiphis blog wrote:

    i love this on you – the edie is perfection and you look fantastic!! congratulations on the gorgeous red bag! xox P

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  32. Kelly Yeh wrote:

    Your blog is amazing! You make a great model, great pictures! Already a follower =)

    <3 Kelly
    SavvySelections.blogspot.com

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  33. Petite Therapy wrote:

    Great pair of pants! I don't know if I can handle such a high waist, but they look really fabulous on you!

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  34. Rachel Lynne wrote:

    So pretty! I love those pants, look absolutely gorgeous! :)Loving that red bag too!

    xoxo,
    Rachel

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  35. Jules wrote:

    Hey Jean! I love your style. After discovering your blog, I've gained a lot of inspiration on how to dress for the workplace or for going out to dinner, etc. What I want to know is how you dress on your days off like going grocery shopping or grabbing lunch? I want to look fashionable, but I don't know what to wear for these occasions, which is pretty much 80% of what I do daily. If I throw on heels, I would look too overdressed. I have been wearing summer dresses with wedges or sandals. However, I also own a lot of shorts, and I want to incorporate them so that I'd still look cute and put together (classic, grown-up). Whenever I wear shorts, I look really casual and a bit of a college student. Could you share some tips or do a post on what to wear on days off but not going anywhere fancy?

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  36. Styled Surprises wrote:

    You are experimenting more and more everyday and they are all turning out great…

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  37. KDot wrote:

    The purse looks great on you!
    I have the Edie bug for sure. On Friday I bought the Edie attache in red and then yesterday bought the regular Edie in grey. I haven't seen them in real life so hopefully I like them when they arrive!

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  38. Natasha Fatah wrote:

    Those are the best printed pants I've seen all season!

    ~Natasha Fatah Giveaway~
    ~Natasha Fatah Giveaway~

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  39. NaRae wrote:

    black print pats are too cute. I always enjoy reading your blog! Looking forward for the next post.

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  40. Skylar Magazine wrote:

    Those pants are amazing! And, I love the bag!

    Sarah
    http://skylarinc.blogspot.com/

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  41. chocolatefashioncoffee wrote:

    love the pants and the bag 🙂

    chocolatefashioncoffee.blogspot.com

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  42. Mady wrote:

    love the pants, and styling is perfect….

    xoxo
    Mady

    thegirlfromthemirror.blogspot.com

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  43. Eva Wu wrote:

    the pants are great! i have to buy me the same!

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  44. Carla wrote:

    Love your bag. Great outfit!

    http://victoriancameo.blogspot.it/

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  45. DSK Steph wrote:

    I really like your pants! Very 101 Dalmatians. 😀

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  46. Alice wrote:

    Cute outfit Jean!
    I love the way your new Edie bag adds the perfect pop of color to this simple outfit. I also love those pants…they're so fun and smile-inducing 🙂
    They're only $12.95?! Please excuse me while I run to the nearest H&M; heehee!

    Thanks for sharing the J. Crew code with us!
    Time to go fill a shopping cart with items and then close the browser. No shopping for me!

    Is it crazy that I was eyeing that exact same Coach bag on eBay?
    I've been looking for a cute leather satchel for a while so these past few weeks, I've been constantly trolling the internet for cute and affordable options. I was seriously considering getting a red bag but then I realized that it probably wasn't versatile enough for me.
    I'm glad that you ended up getting that Edie bag though…I think the brighter color is more fun and the size seems absolutely perfect for you!
    But still, I can't believe we were looking at the same bag. Great minds think alike 😉

    I think with a few scratches, your bag could definitely look awesome. The weathered leather look is really cool and I think it adds a little more substance to outfits.
    I can't wait to see what your new bag looks like after a little more wear and I also can't wait to see it with more outfits! 🙂

    Have a lovely weekend!

    ~Alice

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  47. Berty Morales wrote:

    You look stunning and I love those pants 😉 xoxo

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  48. faye lu wrote:

    love the crazy animal print .. fresh twist to the usual leopard or zebra =)

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  49. LoveStyleHappiness wrote:

    Those pants look great on you but I don't know if I'm ready for such a bold print myself. And hooray for the Edie bag being on sale!

    <3 Maggie
    http://lovestylehappiness.blogspot.com/

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply
  50. chloe wrote:

    Love the outfit, especially the Edie bag! My only concern is that it is scratch-prone… But I really love it in Pecan…

    Posted 8.5.12 Reply

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