Talbots Spring 2011

In an attempt to expand their customer base and attract a younger set of women, Talbots, is stepping up their profile by making major changes to the brand. In recent seasons, under the direction of Chief Creative Officer Michael Smaldone, previously at Anne Klein and Elie Tahari, the company has presented a series of stellar collections that are chic, trendy, and VERY fashion-forward. Gone are the “mature” designs that catered to a decidedly older clientele.

The Spring 2011 collection (actress Julianne Moore is face of the campaign), inspired by old-school (think 1950’s) Paris but tailored for the American aesthetics, is no exception and superbly demonstrates the new direction. Expect fitted bodices, sheer pieces, pleated ascents (most skirts are loosely pleated), flowing skirts along some beautiful designed pencil skirts; as shown in the “daisy laced pencil skirt ($129),” with tiny crochet daisy this skirt is just darling. The fabrics selection include a mix of linen, chiffon, silk, burlap and denim fabrics. There’s also a really incredible selection of floral-prints as featured in the “confetti print dress ($59)” or in the “belle floral dress ($169).” If the wares are amazing, the accessories are amazing (+) seriously. So elegant and graceful with a bit modern twist as displayed in the “mesh bead necklace ($69).”

Overall I am thrilled with the changes and with this collection. The new designs are younger and (yes) hipper. Kudos to Talbots for taking the leap. And, don’t worry Talbots is not abandoning their customer base, they staple pieces will remain just more fabulous.

Take a look at images we snapped from the preview (where we scored a fabulous cashmere scarf)

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