J.Crew's style timeline
1983 J.Crew debuted and launched its first catalogue under the direction of Emily Woods, the founder’s daughter.
1985–87 The iconic roll-neck sweater, the perfect pocket tee and the barn jacket make their first appearances.
1989 The first retail store opens in New York.
1990 Jenna graduates from Parsons The New School for Design, where she interned for Donna Karan.
Position: Starts at J.Crew as an assistant designer.
1996 Jcrew.com is launched.
1997 J.Crew is sold to Texas Pacific Group: Emily Woods leaves the helm.
2000 100th retail store opens.
2003 After three CEOs in five years, former Gap CEO Millard “Mickey” Drexler takes over, reportedly saying to employees, “Everything and anything is under attack.”
2007 Jenna becomes creative director
2008 J.Crew Women’s Collection store opens.
2008 The catalogue starts running ”Jenna’s Picks,” which becomes a cult phenomenon.
2010 J.Crew’s cool American-heritage style brand, Madewell.com, is launched, along with the first bridal store. Position: Jenna becomes president.
2011 J.Crew becomes a private company and opens its first Canadian store in Toronto.
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