New Money

Will the Obama Girls' Fashions Boost J. Crew's Sales?

By Katy Marquardt

Posted: January 21, 2009

Today, J. Crew today is milking the exposure it received yesterday when the first daughters wore its coats (periwinkle! guava pink!) to the swearing-in ceremony. The company Web site's front page today features not clothes, but gigantic, front-and-center type that reads "CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FIRST FAMILY" and "*Yes, the wore crewcuts! Find out more..." J. Crew even rushed out a press release yesterday.

The company pulled a similar move--and a lucrative one--when Michelle Obama appeared on Jay Leno's show and said she purchased the yellow outfit she was wearing online at J. Crew. The next day, the site's online traffic as a whole surged 64 percent, according to New York magazine.

It's most definitely a short-term boost, but every little bit helps. Especially given the bleak outlook for retailers. J. Crew's shares, which have slid from $50 in May 2008 to $9 yesterday, look like they'll close at $10 today.

Start the discussion! Be the first to comment on this story.

Add Your Thoughts
About You

advertisement

New Money

Katy Marquardt, a senior editor at U.S.News & World Report, takes a contemporary look at happenings in the financial world and aims to help young investors get going with their portfolios--or just sound cool at cocktail parties. Have a question? E-mail Katy at newmoney@usnews.com

advertisement

Subscribe

U.S. News Digital Weekly

A weekly insider's guide to politics and policy — in a multimedia, digital format. 52 issues for $19.95!

U.S. News & World Report

6 months of U.S. News & World Report's print edition for only $15. Save up to 67% off the cover price!