J.Crew Boatneck Popover
I was in Forever 21 looking for a bracelet that I saw on their website when I stumbled across the “Essential Striped Rib Knit Top“. As soon as I saw it, I immediately thought of the J.Crew boatneck popover from the Spring 2012 collection. When it came out, I tried it on at the store and liked it but thought it was overpriced at $105 + it had some drawbacks like the boxy fit and material that seemed to snag easily (see “Gigi’s Gone Shopping review” here for more details). Also, one of the styles that I try (emphasis on try) to stay away from are boatneck tops. I have wide shoulders and boatnecks don’t help. Once in a while though, if the item is just too fun and pretty to pass up, I do break my rule. Anyway, on the JC boatneck popover, it was a pass for me.
Then I saw this version at F21 for $19.80 and I actually like it better than the J.Crew version. Don’t get me wrong, the JC popover feels more luxurious but not worth it at $105 for me. The F21 version is exactly the same except the material is actually sturdier; it’s a rib knit with quite a bit of stretch. The front pockets are faux and the fit is still a bit boxy but I love where it hits me on the hips. It runs small for me because of my shoulders so I got in Large. The color is black stripes with cream background just like the JC version.
Example of how I would style the F21 top as seen here in Polyvore
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Verdict: Knock-out
I would recommend the F21 version especially for the price. You can view it here on their website or in stores. It also comes in a pink/cream version. If you prefer the real thing, there are quite a few available on eBay here ranging in price from $55 to $80, both new and used.
F21 Version in Black/Cream
F21 Version in Pink/Cream
Dear Boo and Lulu 
Ohhh wow! I missed this post, and this f21 looks the same as the boatneck sweater from JC! I wouldn’t never pay the price asked for the JC one, but was able to grabbed it on a pop back online for $19.99-extra%! It was the first time I tried it on, and could not resist the price 😛 but would not think twice in grabbing this F21 version in case I didn’t have the JC one, so pretty! Well done, I love your founds!
Xoxo
Thanks so much! Great job grabbing the pop back – I don’t have much luck with pop backs so I’m thankful when other stores like F21, H&M, Gap, Old Navy and even Target create dups or similar items. What is that saying again? Imitation is the greatest form of flattery – J.Crew must be overwhelmingly flattered by all the “imitations” (LOL).