penneys from heaven

I finally figured out why my favorite store is called JCPenney—it’s because that’s what costs to shop there.

The place has been undergoing a subtle transformation of late: I know most of you associate it with dowdy, style-free clothing…but I dare you to step inside and spend some serious time among the racks. Not the chicest digs, I know, but Penneys buyers have their finger on the pulse of the trends right now, and they’ve somehow been managing to bring in the hottest looks at a fraction of the price of more upscale retailers. (Though I’ll concede that there’s hardly a leather handbag to be found in the store…and I have yet to make peace with going faux. Buyers please take note.)

I can’t tell you how many dresses I’ve purchased at JCPenney in the last year or two (mostly stretch jersey, with which I have a love affair because it’s ALWAYS figure flattering). Even better: Their American Living line (think Polo-meets-Hilfiger-meets-Nautica) is designed by Ralph Lauren. I’ve known this for quite some time, and love the great fabrics and construction, the clean, All-American style, and the low price point.

To wit, I bought two dresses recently: one by Ralph at Dillards.com and one by American Living at JCPenney. I swear to you they are the EXACT SAME DRESS at two different price points.

And now for my favorite tee-shirt in the world: pj-soft, available in a rainbow of colors, and cheap, cheap, cheap! I just came home with a stack of 12….

And now if they would just get on that leather handbag thing….