J. Jill’s new retail location in Bellevue has elevated the shopping experience to be a modern day escape for those who seek simplicity. The completely redesigned space opened late April under the brand’s new platform with a fresh philosophy–“uncomplicated.” Chris Gayton, the Vice President of Brand Marketing, gave an in-depth tour of the store explaining how different sections of the store will appeal to different J. Jill customers. J. Jill is known for draped linen, layered cotton and soft knits in earth tones and pastels. Some of the more lighthearted designs of summer include nautical-inspired separates and more conservative pieces closer to J. Jill’s traditional lines Additionally, the petites section and plus-size collection have choices for every shape and size.
The new uncomplicated philosophy stretches into the dressing rooms as well, where a privacy wall, heavy curtains and tranquil music await. Shoppers will find a rack full of freshly pressed and cleaned basics like button-down shirts, black and white leggings and tank tops for assembling and outfit on the spot. This is especially helpful for the dozens of times you aren’t wearing the right bottom or top when you shop.
J. Jill has also used this redesign to realign their philanthropic efforts with the local community. Throughout the year, retail locations at Alderwood Mall and Bellevue Square invite customers to take part in Your Closet to Their Closet clothing donations. For every gently-used clothing item that patrons bring in they are given 25 percent off of any new purchase. An outreach connected to J.Jill’s Compassion Fund, the company aims to be “a brand that stands for more than just providing clothing,” said Gayton. For the past 11 years, J. Jill has given away more than $3 million in grants to organizations across the country that help women in need of education, job skills and housing.
Since its founding, J. Jill has always enjoyed broad appeal for its generously cut linens, basic designs, fine textures and subtle prints. In the shuffle of flashier labels, that subtlety was getting a bit lost. But J. Jill is back, not just as a brand, but as a philanthropic force in the fashion industry. And that’s something to celebrate.
