It was not quite Christmas in July, but last week Ann Taylor unveiled their Holiday 2010 collection in a chic, winter wonderland created in the lower level of their Madison Avenue flagship store in New York City. For years the retailer was known primarily as a place for career women to find wardrobe staples. Although Ann Taylor has not turned its back on that customer, recently the line has grown increasingly sophisticated, providing a range of options for day into evening.
The collection featured a variety of luxurious sweaters, including metallic cardigans, soft cowl necks and lush cableknits. There was even the occasional knit trimmed with faux fur. The color palette was comprised of camel, champagne, blush, black, and some pastels.
Essential outerwear pieces were updated with fashion forward elements. A houndstooth check coat had short sleeves to layer over a sweater and a sleek, satin puffer jacket was shown with a skinny belt. The “must have” black, biker jacket was made of boucle knit, and what is more perfect for the holidays than a red Wool Event Coat? This one was accented with an oversized collar.
There were plenty of dressy looks for evening, like the One Shoulder Cascade Dress and a sumptuous, strapless cocktail dress in a color combination called “ Winter Rose”. The flirty, black Feather Pointe Skirt was worn by the entertainer for the evening, New York based singer Alexa Wilding.
Shoes and accessories figured prominently into the Ann Taylor holiday offerings. There were more than a few pairs of uber, high heels, in spectators, peeptoes, lace and classic black patent. Handbags ran the gamut from a quilted black satchel to a Snow Leopard Clutch. “Vintage inspired” jewels adorned almost every look and guests took home a necklace and bracelet to keep as souvenirs, until this attractively priced collection arrives in stores this fall.
– Rhonda Erb
