Denim Pumps (+ Design Changes to the J. Crew Majesty Peacoat)

I had denim-covered pumps on my wishlist for months before a good sale at Saks ended my search. My requirements were not particularly stringent: pointed toe, medium wash, heels that are at least three inches in height, and less than $300. Kate Spade’s Larisa Pumps emerged as an early favorite, I thought the shape was flattering, the trompe l’oeil denim print nuanced, and the covered heel polished. Before I made my decision, I also ordered the Kate Spade Licorice Pump in Denim Blue (still available in most sizes at 60% off on Amazon) to compare.

I own the Licorice Pump in metallic bronze and it is a shoe that I wear often, despite the fact that its comfort level decreases precipitously over time. Comfort issues aside, I found the wash of the denim blue a shade darker than ideal (for me).

And, compared to the Larisa’s pointed toe, I thought the pointedness of the Licorice, in combination with the darker denim fabric, gave it a slightly more dated look.

Sizing for the Larisa and the Licorice was similar; those who are between sizes should size down. Both styles are better suited for those with medium or medium-to-narrow width feet.

Despite being rather satisfied with my purchase, my eyes can’t help but wander. For those with a more generous budget, the Christian Louboutin So Kate Pointy Toe Pump is available in a denim fabric. I also really like the brighter “denim” of the Diane von Furstenberg Bethany Pump which has more yellow in the color than other denim fabrics. More fun is the Manolo Blahnik Polka-Dot Denim d’Orsay pump, which balances perfectly the flirtiness of the polka dot print with the more mature d’Orsay silhouette.

And I thought I’d take a minute to address the design changes that have been made to the J. Crew Majesty Peacoat. To start, I own this versatile peacoat in three colors (reviewed here) and wore the navy one every day for two months last winter until I broke down and sent it to the dry cleaners (I swear I make more palatable personal hygiene choices normally) so I am a fan. At first sight, I thought the new design was refreshing. I love pockets and generally can’t get enough of them but the placement of the side welt pockets was suspicious. I personally would not find it natural or desirable to put my hands in (what are essentially) boob pockets. I can’t imagine that the boob pockets will be content to lie flat on even the most flat-chested person. And the new flap pockets are cute but make the design slightly more juvenile looking.

I was also sad to see the buttons on the back belt go; they added visual interest and are one of those details that separated a mid-tier retailer like J. Crew from more budget-friendly places like Old Navy. I even preferred the original piping to the larger ones which, I suppose, are inoffensive.

Unsurprisingly, J. Crew’s repeat customers are displeased; reviews for the new design range from disappointment to anger. The coat is already discounted on the J. Crew website, with the pacific blue on final sale, which seems extremely early for a bestseller like this. I may order this coat when prices fall further (I am curious about the dusty ginger–a warm pink) and will share a more thorough review then.