Introducing: Ann Taylor at the Eaton Centre, the first international store from the women’s office-wear brand
Introducing: Ann Taylor at the Eaton Centre, the first international store from the women’s office-wear brand
Women’s office-wear retailers are battling it out on the third floor of the Eaton Centre: international chains J.Crew and Massimo Dutti both recently opened outposts there, and U.S. retailer Ann Taylor launched its first international store along the same corridor early last month (that’s in addition to the existing Club Monaco and Banana Republic locations). Ann Taylor is generally thought to be stodgier than the other two new brands, which probably compete more directly with its more casual spinoff, Ann Taylor Loft. However, the the well-constructed suits, separates, accessories and shoes are hipper—and the clientele younger—than its reputation would suggest.
That’s because Ann Taylor underwent an image revamp a few years ago that saw Lisa Axelson, formerly of Club Monaco, take over as lead designer. Her influence is evident in the sleek blazers, pencil skirts and pumps, as well as a push into evening and casual clothing. The garments are far from avant garde, but they will take you from the workday into evening with polish. A second location—as well as a Loft store—will be opening in the newly revitalized Yorkdale Shopping Centre in mid-November.
Check out the store and see our favourite items »
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- Cross-body bag/clutch, $128
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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- Gloves, $78; bracelet, $38
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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- Suede and leather boots, $198
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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- Suede pumps, $158
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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- Black and turquoise dress, $148; necklace, $98
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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- Jacket, $178
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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- Trousers, $128
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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- Printed blouse, $88; cape, $148
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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- Spotted blouse, $88
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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- Short-sleeved dress, $138; necklace, $98
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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- Skirt, $78
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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- Horizontal-striped sweater, $78
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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- Our picks: Peplum top, $68
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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- Some of the pumps and wedges on offer
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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- Belts range from $30 to $58
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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- The lounge by the dressing rooms
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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- The merchandise includes clothing, outerwear, shoes, accessories and jewellery
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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- The interior
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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- The selection at the Canadian stores will be similar to the U.S. counterparts
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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- The store is on the third level of the mall, close to the Queen Street entrance
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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- The Eaton Centre location is the first Ann Taylor store outside the U.S. The second will be the Yorkdale Shopping Centre location, which opens on November 16
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- Introducing: Ann Taylor
- Introducing: Ann Taylor
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Express is also opening soon in First Canadian Place downtown. Signage up. They took over Pharma Plus’ old location.
FYI: It’s no longer Ann Taylor Loft, but just plain LOFT. LOFT is not only more young-focused, but they actually offer XXSP and 00P in stores – Ann Taylor has those sizes, but they’re online only, and there’s no Canadian shipping as of yet.
Not sure why this is news but you failed to post the HR2 announcement