Ann Taylor speaks with a fresh, young voice across the new collection, embracing sportswear, dresses, bridal and accessories. The event location, specifically chosen to showcase the new offerings; i.e., the fantastic, top floor-through space of The Gramercy Park Hotel, filled to the brim with flowers of every size, shape and color, and giving some pretty incredible views of New York City, not to mention all of the champagne and goodies, to invited guests – was a most appropo environment for the pieces on view this time around.

Although there is still the de rigueur, classical feeling here; for which this retailer is well known, there is much creativity and a nod to a new kind of fashion on board. While the full clothing and accessories collection is worth a second look, the capsule bridal line — absolutely beautiful and definitely affordable for brides of all ages, mothers of the brides and bridal parties — which, for now, is only available at www.anntaylor.com, is most memorable, encompassing flowing long and short silhouettes, served up in shades of pure white and frosted, pastel-y colors. For those wanting to see and know more about the “Weddings & Events” collection, this interesting part of the website features a peek at the pieces, along with bridal specific topics such as fashion and beauty tips and stories on how to plan a perfect wedding party.

For those more interested in the regular Ann Taylor line, there is plenty to see, buy and wear. An interestng story, dubbed, “Shift Into Neutral” features lots of multi layering, bold prints, rich textures and a chic, new palette of bronze, khaki and black. Focus items, such as cool, trench toppers, streamline jackets wide-leg pants, silk sheaths, slim jeans, and the ‘it wouldn’t be Ann without a little animal’, ikat leopard top, anchor the grouping, alongside short and long tassel and chain-link necklaces, chunky bracelets, leather and utility belts, and platform sandals.

The “At Ease” part of the collection definitely shows a strong military side, in terms of a cleaner, more minimal attitude, Pretty and feminine, this grouping shows structured, utility detailing, married with pretty, delicate fabrications. Although the color palette is on the low-key side, eclectic touches of citrine and soft yellow, for example, add the necessary, bright pop of color. Although there are plenty of nifty pieces from which to pick and choose, and wear alone or layer all together for sport casual or dressy occassions, one of the stand-out ensembles is the canvas motorcycle jacket, metallic shell, antiqued lace tiered skirt and modern sparkle necklace.

“Effortlessly Elegant” defines Ann Taylor’s nouveau approach to polished, all-american fashion and stylish dressing-down, via a myriad of prettified prints, rendered in lilac, azalea, and violet themes, minlged with classic navy and white. The luxury touch is seen in the use of spring tweeds, darkened denim, lovely floral dresses, and lightened-up suitings. The signature camp shirt is cast in shiny, new, garden colors.

‘Signs of Spring” is the name of the game when it comes to an array of jewels, handbags, shoes, and small leather goods. Here, gold gets an antiqued patina; necklaces go shorty short to long, longer and longest; often embellished with a drop pendant or tassel. Case in Point: The big and sensual, burnished medallion necklace, which just happened to be the gift of choice, nestled in the editor’s decorated, canvas gift bag at the event. Natural canvas and leather adorn ballerina flats, sandals and strappy high heels. New for the season; the lady bag, complete with chain-link shoulder straps, and all done up in rich, earthy tones.

-Adrienne Weinfeld-Berg

The post Ann Taylor Spring 2011 … Light, Bright and Quite Creative appeared first on lookonline.

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

The post Ann Taylor Dazzles For The Holidays appeared first on lookonline.