Inside Canada’s first Ann Taylor: We tour the new working girl haven at Toronto Eaton Centre

Ann Taylor Toronto Store Opening
Photography by George Pimentel
Ann Taylor Toronto Store Opening
Photography by George Pimentel

Check out the first Canadian Ann Taylor store and party pics!

Ann Taylor has touched down on Canadian soil. As a part of the brand’s global expansion, the first Canadian store was unveiled atToronto Eaton Centre. Conveniently nestled between the must-shop Apple Store and Lululemon, the bright white space was unveiled on Thursday. And there’s only one way to celebrate a store and that’s a party.

The spacious store was filled with bloggers like Style Panel’s Gracie Carroll and The Backseat StylersSharon Ng Hayes. Zoomer Magazine’s editor Suzanne Boyd and menswear designer Farley Chatto also showed up with others to scope the selection. Champagne and wine was sipped and tiny snacks consumed, the makings of any good party.

The space may have been crowded at the launch, but for the average shopping day it’s been perfectly planned to house the classic American brand’s clothing. Bright outerwear, embellished bangles, and classic oxford shirts hang from the wall and sit neatly folded on tables. The dressing area feels like a living room; there’s a large couch and matching chairs, perfect for boyfriends who get toted along shopping. Dalmatian printed chunky heels perch atop a stack of fashion themed coffee table books and Kate Hudson oversees the changing area (she’s the face of Ann Taylor).

While one may be reminded of their mother when thinking about Ann Taylor, the company has rebranded and created clothing that is tailored to the tastes of a classy working girl. Two tone silk shirts and brightly coloured pencil skirts will be excellent additions to a smart closet. This is the first of two locations for Ann Taylor. The second location will be at Yorkdale Shopping Centre and is set to open in November. A Canadian online site will be launched in 2013.

The print on the tote bags handed out at the launch says Ann hearts Toronto. Well, Ann. We think Toronto’s going to heart you too.

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