J.Crew's Victoria {they're back ...kind of} ;)

If you have been reading this blog for awhile, then you know that I love (that is right, l-o-v-e!) the Victoria-style that J.Crew offers. So much so that I own several of the button down shirts and camis –including the polka dot one. (Don't bother judging me. I already know!) ;)

After seeing J.Crew roll out the Silk Frances Cami (Item 17428; $88.00) and the Kelsey Ruffle Top (Item 19064; $88.00) this Fall, I was worried that it would be the last we would see of the Victoria. Well, that is not the case!

"Thanks!" to Marietta who was kind enough to not only let us know about a Victoria-inspired shirt from Ann Taylor Loft that was featured in the recent In Style Magazine, but also scanned the image for us to view. "Thanks!" to Arielle who also let us know about this shirt! :) To view the image larger, click here or on the image itself.

The Loft's version, is called the Pleated Collar Button Front (20259; $44.50), and costs a lot less. This is very similar to J.Crew's Victoria Ruffle Shirt (Item 99694; $89.50, now $49.99), although the Loft version lacks the double standing pleated collar.

But wait, there's more! As I stopped by a local T.J. Maxx, what do I see... the Victoria Ruffle Cami (Item 99742; Regular: $88.00, now $29.99)! However, upon closer inspection it was not from J.Crew! It was made by another clothes maker ("thanks!" to the JCAs in this post who let us know it's "Willi Smith").

This top retails for $29.99 and comes in a soft chartreuse green and cranberry red. More importantly, the top had the same double-ruffle micro-pleated collar as the Victoria from J.Crew. It also appeared to be silk (but of a lesser quality than the J.Crew version).

I understand that fashion styles get copied by retailers all the time. However, I was a bit sad to see J.Crew's Victoria being duplicated by other retailers. I guess it's because I wanted my tops to be a bit more unique. (Even though J.Crew is a nation-wide retailer, unique to J.Crew.) ;) On a bright note, this is great news for all those JCAs who missed-out on getting the Victoria tops earlier this year. Especially, since the alternatives have lower starting price points. :)

What are your thoughts on the Victoria-inspired tops being offered by other retailers? Do you like the alternatives or J.Crew's version more? Have you seen any other Victoria-inspired tops at other retailers besides J.Crew? If so, please share. :)