One hundred-and-twenty-one-year-old JCPenney has undergone a makeover of late, investing big in store improvements, expanding their beauty offerings and partnering up on all sorts of fun collaborations and creative partnerships with big names. Shoppers are noticing, bestowing the retailer with awards, “best of” honors and buzz. Not to worry — all this hype doesn’t mean they’ve changed their core business model, which is to be an affordable shopping destination for families. And fortunately, JCPenney frequently features excellent deals and coupons to help you reduce costs even more, a generous (and free) rewards program and many other cost-conscious options for JCPenney shoppers out there.
If you haven’t been to a JCPenney or shopped JCP online or via their app lately, or maybe you’ve never familiarized yourself with JCPenney in the first place, here are 11 reasons to give the store a fresh look: hidden gems you might not expect to find on the shelves of JCPenney. Before you buy any of the items below, activate our JCPenney cash back offer to automatically get back a percentage of what you spend.
David Beckham Refined Woods Eau De Parfum
Global icon David Beckham and Coty launched Beckham’s trio of new fragrances, based on the places he’s been, exclusively at JCP this fall before they hit anywhere else. They quickly became the retailer’s best-selling beauty product.
The woodsy, warm, spicy Refined Woods, inspired, the label says, by “David’s love of taking to the open road to explore different landscapes, cultures and cuisines,” is a versatile fragrance with notes of cardamom, lavender, cedarwood and Vetiver that can be worn by anyone, day or night.
Why it’s a gem: This is just one of many partnerships the retailer has with huge names, and it’s clearly paying off for them — and for customers.
Shop: $54.99
Worthington X Jason Bolden Womens Mid Rise Midi Pleated Skirt
Though JCPenney is a value-driven company, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t offer up on-trend styles. Case in point: they tapped celebrity stylist Jason Bolden to design for both men and women under the brand’s private labels, J.Ferrar and Worthington for the the J.Ferrar x Jason Bolden and Worthington x Jason Bolden collections.
Why it’s a gem: This fabulous red skirt, made from faux leather, has a hidden zipper and hits mid-rise. It looks perfect with tops in white or black, or you can pick up Jason’s matching red mock turtleneck for an attention-grabbing, all-red look. This is also available in plus sizes — Bolden’s JCP looks are available in a range of sizes.
Shop: $36.60
JF J.Ferrar X Jason Bolden Mens-Big and Tall Midweight Bomber Jacket
Inspired by vintage flight styles, this faux leather bomber is nice for cool days and for a more relaxed layering piece instead of a typical suit jacket. The warm brown shade makes it just as appropriate for day as for night.
Why it’s a gem: It’s fun to get dressed by the same stylist who’s gotten Michael B. Jordan, Dwyane Wade and Vanessa Hudgen red-carpet ready, and we frequently spot them on sale.
Shop: $47.60
JCPenney Portraits by Lifetouch
There are over 450 JCPenney portrait studios where you can get photos taken of yourself, your family or your kids. You can get a professional headshot or a graduation photo taken, and in some locations even have your pictures snapped outside. Recently, JCP launched mermaid and pirate theme photo shoots for kids — so adorable!
Why it’s a gem: The prices at the portrait studio are very reasonable — and you can save even more with a bit of smart shopping. Instead of DIY-ing, head to JCP for professional lighting and photographers, a variety of background options, fun props and image finishing.
Shop: prices vary
Relevant Sol Tone Resurface & Glow Solution
Use this gentle vegan resurfacing solution, with ingredients including witch hazel, coffee seed oil and banana fruit extract to smooth and brighten your skin. This is part of the Thirteen Lune at JCP collection, where 90 percent of the brands are BIPOC owned and founded.
Why it’s a gem: As Lisa Davis reported for RetailMeNot, JCPenney is the beauty world’s newest “it” girl, having revamped and redesigned their beauty aisles and offerings. Now? It’s the place to be.
Shop: $58
Abbott Elementary Long Sleeve Kindness Sweater
This “Kindness” crewneck pullover is a blend of rayon, polyester and nylon, and it’s part of the retailer’s exclusive “Abbott Elementary” collection — comfortable, attractive styles teachers and anyone else can move in during busy days.
The line was inspired by the hit show, of course, and by the educators who do so much for our children and communities, with real teachers even serving as models in the JCP ad campaign.
Why it’s a gem: Besides this being a budget-friendly, fun style, it is also part of a cool initiative: along with announcing this special collab, JCPenney also promised to invest $300,000 over the course of three years in “The Walking Classroom,” a program that finds innovative ways to strengthen students’ health and wellness.
Shop: $19.60
Levi’s Men’s 541 Eco Ease Athletic Taper Leg Jean
Sure, there are plenty of fashion-forward looks at JCPenney, but you can still stock up on all your basics, too, including all sorts of different cuts and brands of denim. Levi’s 541, for example, is created for muscular builds with enough room for an athletic thigh and butt, and they’re eco-friendly and made in a special Levi’s reuse and recycle facility.
Why it’s a gem: There are eight different washes and a huge range of sizes in the 541 line — not to mention plenty of other styles if a more roomy fit isn’t your thing — so start with JCPenney if you’re looking to stock up on jeans for work and play.
Shop: $48.65
Worthington Long Sleeve Ombre Midi Wrap Dress
This silky and spectacular ombre wrap dress looks like it’s pure silk, but it’s made with polyester, and yes, it’s machine washable! Wear it out for dinner, to dance all night or for any special occasion.
Why it’s a gem: Worthington Clothing is worth a look for your work wardrobe and dressy events.
Shop: $67.19
Columbia Steens Mountain Boys Fleece Lightweight Jacket
JCPenney has an extensive selection of clothing for babies and kids of all ages, like this comfy and durable fleece zip-up. Count on this brand to hold up no matter how much abuse your kid puts it through.
Why it’s a gem: Under $30 for a Columbia jacket is a total steal — sale prices at JCPenney cannot be beat.
Shop: $45
Mesa Mia by Jenny Martinez Chapala Stoneware Dipping Bowl
JCPenney isn’t just partnering with fashion and beauty brands — they’re also working with cooking pros, like Jenny Martinez. The popular chef and social media influencer designed her line of cooking tools and dishware line with the colors, flowers and terracotta of her native Chapala, Jalisco, in mind.
Why it’s a gem:This pretty bowl looks great on your table, but it’s also oven, microwave and dishwasher-safe.
Shop: $10.49
16 x 16 Mudcloth Patterns I
You can get the basics like sheets and towels for your home at JCPenney, and you can also find art to decorate your home with, as well. Love this cool framed 16 x 16 piece!
Why it’s a gem: This is part of the brand’s Juneteenth apparel, décor and accessories collection.
Shop: $29.39
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