The J.Crew group’s first Madewell store in New York City’s Soho section was feted by a private reception last night, and three more stores are to follow this year.

That’s great news to those of us who have been intrigued by the internet catalog of sorts, where you have to place orders by phone.

Now New Yorkers can see the styles in person, as will shoppers in Annapolis Mall in Maryland, Lenox Square in Atlanta and Tysons Corner in McLean, Va. this spring and summer.

The fashions are similar to those of other J.Crew Group holdings, but with a lower price point and a few funkier, more downtown styles. The overall vibe is definitely more casual, a sort of American Eagle for the Banana Republic shopper.

J. Crew execs hope that the Topshop store moving in down the street will increase pedestrian traffic to the block, further south in Soho than most retailers.

If you get over to the store, let us know what you think!

[Image: Getty; Source]