The New York Times had a rather scathing review (Critical Shopper: Rhinestones Are a Tween's Best Friend by Cintra Wilson) of the new Juicy Couture store on Fifth Avenue today in the Thursday Style section. Their comments were funny and certainly no revelation to me. I have a love/hate relationship with the brand myself. I end up featuring a lot of their designs in this blog, but at the same time I wouldn't be caught dead in anything that actually said Juicy on it (UGGH, GOD AWFUL) or even their stupid, ubiquitous terry cloth lounge pants OR anything pink for that matter.
Here's a quote, "Like Tory Burch, whose influence is felt here nearly to the point of plagiarism, the Juicy Couture line seems to aspire to dress young ladies straight from the closet of Lady Bird Johnson." But goes on to differentiate the two (Tory and Juicy), "that Juicy is posing as disestablishment chic". Of course we all know the rock and roll / lady-like paradox of the Juicy style. Then there is a lot of that tween junk - the hoodies and stuff with tacky rhinestones on it. I thought this was a great article even though it basically made fun of the brand. But kudos to them, they created a hugely successful brand that does manage to appeal to spoiled kids and adults alike.
The things I like are usually pretty classic. I also like that their items tend to be very well sewn and they choose quality fabrics. I have a pair of black lightweight wool wide leg trousers that I absolutely love and no one would ever guess the brand (no sign of rhinestones). So after reading the article, I'm sure many would be turned off, but should know that classic good items do exist there.
The new store is at 650 Fifth Avenue, cross street 52nd.
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