Thursday

THE AGE GAME

I've always thought Talbots would be better named Robots - the same capris, the same crunchy, wilt-on-the-hanger linen, the same boxy shapes and boating styles season after season. But like Ann Taylor, this brand is in the shop for a re-haul, and the results are making me look twice.

One of the best aspects of their new look is its versatility. Think classic, not dowdy; sophisticated, not overwrought. Talbots isn't abandoning its baby-boomer demographic (nor should it; this is a bafflingly neglected age group), but it is dusting off some of the talcum powder. The new ad campaign is spot on with a little something for everyone. You young things focus on the pics on the left - stately ladies will love the looks on the right. And whatever your age, you'll want the green coat.

Another great look. It's a bit Ralph Lauren - and I like it. Still sophisticated enough for Aunty Edwina, young enough to pull of some skinny jeans and chunky heels. Even the ads look younger. You can tell the clothes are cool now because the models who wear them jump in the air. Just like Vogue!

Polka-spots! Mix it up with some other patterns and colors, or go for that ubiquitous matriarchal scarf. I'd like to put in a kindly word for scarves, however. Here - and pretty much anywhere - the scarf denotes age. It's tough to wear them right when you still have your natural hair color.  'Twas not always so. I'd like to see them make a comeback as accessories for any age.

And finally, some new Talbots accessories. These are SO chic, and you can dress them up or down. I'd particularly love to pin some fun buttons or brooches on the navy bag.
All images, Talbots.com.

13 comments:

Kate Spears said...

i'm trying to bring scarves back into the world of chic-dom for youngish folks....not rizzo-style a' la grease, but classic jackie o style on capri. i think it's all about keeping the rest of the outfit youthful and not going too matchy matchy with scarf/shoes/belt/etc. glad talbots is youthing it up!

Kathysue said...

Love this post, you are spot on!! I am a baby boomer and I say I might be a grammy but I refuse to dress like a Nana!! I try to keep it fresh but classic and I love the green coat, I have a lime coat I wear all the time with my jeans and white shirt!! Keep these post coming we baby-boomers need to be heard!! and dressed well!!Thanks for this post, loved it!! Kathysue

Jade @ Flip Flops + Pearls Design said...

I agree that Ann Taylor & Talbots are stepping up their game! Especially Talbots!

Averill said...

Goodness. Tabolts is certainly looking chic, isn't it? Tell me Skyla, is it that we're just getting older and our idea of chic has shifted or is for real?! ;)

Love the grean topcoat.

FrenchBlue said...

This is so true! Thanks for showing us that we can still be hip and clasic all in one look! Great Post!
XO

a lovely being said...

it's about time-- talbots + ann taylor NEEDED a rehaul like nobody's business! I'll have to pop into the store the next time I'm out and see what's new :)

Sarah Klassen said...

*jaw-dropping* I had to take a second look and re-read your post. Talbots? Really? Wow -- loving the change that is happening and the re-positioning of their brand. I'm quite taken with the second look -- very chic!

Have a great weekend, Skyla*

p.s laughing over Averill's comment!

Beach House Living said...

Okay I take a walk into Talbots. It is literally next door to Ann Taylor out this way.

Samantha said...

I remember when Talbots was a label that said "I paid a lot of money to look this frumpy." Times have changed. I need to check out their outlet on Long Island.

Sarah said...

Thank you for sharing...yes, dowdy should be out for good...I've always liked the classic look of Talbots, but these pictures scream 'fresh and modern' to me...those checks and that green coat...aahhh, love, love!

The Uppity Puppy said...

You are so funny! Great post - a co-worker has been wearing amazing jewelry for the past 6 months that she tells me her mom bought at Talbots. I was shocked, but it looks like they're on the upswing!

Things That Inspire said...

Oh no - please don't let the Talbots secret out! I shop at Talbots a lot - there is no better store out there for the basics - the pants that are not too tight, not too loose, the cute tops that go with everything. But no one else my age group (late 30s) seems to know about it, so I never have the dilemma where I show up somewhere and someone else is wearing the same thing!

I had not seen the new fall offerings, and I am excited. I am definitely classic through and through!

Unknown said...

Thanks for the awesome post. Yes... that green coat is divine. Here's another look...
http://redchairconfessions.com/ink/ink-and-due-props/

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