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Ann Taylor debuted its Holiday 2011 Collection in an Editor Preview on Wednesday, and the glass-centric Garden Room of the Mondrian Soho hotel was abuzz with agreements that the classic fashion house did not disappoint.
Head of Design Lisa Axelson created the holiday line with "Paris, the city of lights," in mind, according to Director of Public Relations Andrew Taylor. Her chic view of the modern working woman is right on target, and this collection especially emphasizes faux fur and the infusion of color—mostly winter pastels—into classic silhouettes. The look of the powerful female Ann Taylor so often creates for is still apparent, as mens wear-inspired fabrics like tweed and herringbone are also featured prominently throughout the collection.
While Ann Taylor continues its tradition of producing comfortable cashmere sweaters and modern office staples, the brand is also branching out with its new line, Metropolitan Chic, that features cocktail and black tie attire. Ann Taylor decided to make the shift to floor-length gowns and intricate feather-adorned garments after "we started to see women wanted to dress up more," Taylor said. While some of these high-end pieces will only be carried in select stores in major cities, they would make for stylish, slightly-mod additions to the closet of any woman with an upscale event on the horizon.
The collection preview also showcased edgy shoes, glamorous jewelry and imaginative tote bags, all of which Taylor says will make for great gifts in the November and December holiday season. —Katie Gonzalez
· Ann Taylor [Official Site]