by coutorture 0

Ann Taylor's new design director Lisa Axelson is looking to give the brand a higher profile through a more stylish offering this fall. Inspired by Paris in the 1920s, Axelson presented her fall 2010 collection in New York's Ace Hotel with Rachel Bilson and Christina Hendricks in attendance. To be sure, there were classic workwear pieces for which Ann Taylor is known, but we also spotted a new lineup of fresher-looking separates (short, ruched dresses and military jackets) and noteworthy accessories (lace-up, open-toe booties and oversize costume jewelry) that will surely attract a new crop of much younger shoppers. “I feel like we’ve evolved, but we still have a foot in the past,” said Axelson.