J.Crew Rides Obama Coattails to Higher Sales

J.Crew's(JCG Quote) free publicity from the First Family is still helping drive sales even in the volatile market.

Michelle Obama and the presidential daughters have been spotted wearing J.Crew to some of the biggest White House events, including Inauguration Day -- a product-placement of the absolute highest order, and one that has stirred intense media and consumer attention.

And while the company's earnings dropped 33% in the first quarter to $20.4 million, or 32 cents a share, its sales managed to inch up 1.5% to $345.8 million. Analysts expected the company to earn 11 cents a share.

The news sent share soaring 13% in after-market trading to $23.12. ...