First, don’t bother to read this if you have never liked either of these concepts. Â Neither “NEW” is new enough for you.
However, if like me, you have shopped these stores at some point in their (and your) long life, then you may be interested in the revamping. Â Identity crises, sluggish sales and general style malaise have motivated both of these brands to remodel and attempt to reach a hipper, more fashion forward shopper.
Despite the appearance of their new spokes-actress-models, Katie Holmes for Ann Taylor and Julianne Moore for Talbots, both stores have had a fashion makeover rather than an overhaul. Â They both clearly maintain their identity. Â Ann Taylor still carries clothes for the working girl (and we do mean office) in muted, practical tones and Talbots still looks like church or a picnic, with lots and lots of color. Â Both have do have newer, “hipper” options. Â Ann Taylor has some cute dresses and tops, sequins and silks, and some very fun new shoes. Talbots goes even farther with several pieces – a ltd edition caramel lambskin coat & suede tank, some snake print sandals with plexiglass heels and an adorable snake print cross body. Â Washed silk peasant blouses in a dozen different hues and fab retro print that does really well in a full skirt. Â Neither website begins to do their clothing justice (sort of stuck in their old non hip stage) so you should make a trip to the stores. Â A couple of faves from both stores, below:
