Ann Taylor
4
I shopped at this store recently and purchased several outfits to wear to work, things that I could mix and match and wear relatively often but are generic enough that no one would notice. The look I am going for is sharp and professional.
Since beginning working at a professional office, I realize the need to buy more staple type items and less attention-getting "trendy" clothes. I am not talking boring clothing, but if you buy the right thing, you should blend in with everyone else at work and not be noticed for something inappropriate. Anyway my point is AT offers these options. Most of my purchases were basic items like a black skirt, white shirt, and shirts of different colors to wear with basic pants or to switch around with a suit, as well as a pin stripe suit, suits of conservative colors, and a white suit for spring. It does sound boring, but when I get dressed for work now, I do not worry about whether or not I look fine. It is kind of status quo-mainstream stuff, which is troubling, but you can always differentiate by accessorizing.
What is good is AT provided me with a variety of the things I needed. The garment quality is good. I used to shop at Casual Corner. CC offered garments of similar quality (and price) to AT but I think the clothes are better at AT, as far as fit and detail. I would not purchase any after-work or casual items at AT. The things are overpriced, like camisoles or jeans. I would also not purchase any "trendy" type of outfits here, like tweed suits or suits with odd patterns or colors, which do pop up there on occasion. I did try on some Jackie-O style tweed suits but they were ill fitting on me, and I'd probably end up wearing them only once. I would not purchase shoes or jewelry here, because I suspect that the quality is not properly matched with the price.
My biggest problem with the store is that they do not offer enough of my size. This is a double edged sword; while it would be good that not every size 0-2 (depending on the garment) is wearing the same outfit I bought, getting there last to discover a wonderful blazer is missing it's equally awesome counterpart is disappointing. And the sales girls offered to call other stores, but I wasn't in the mood to travel across the city for a pair of pants. Another slight problem is that I see other girls at work wearing suits that look very AT like, but you can probably get a nice suit at a department store or other retailer, and they'll pretty much look the same. Because AT offers so many classic looks you are bound to see other people with similar outfits, and if you are dressed appropriately you will blend in with everyone else, and your outfits won't be memorable; on a daily basis no one will remember what you wore on Monday vs. Friday. It sounds horrible to be so main stream but work is not a fashion show, although sometimes it seems like the eager youngsters are always trying to one up each other with their attire. If I had the money I would have purchased suits at an upscale department store known for designer brands and high quality. But I don't make that kind of money yet. While AT is definitely pricey, it is not designer pricey, and any woman who is working a decent job can afford to buy a few things here; actually she can't afford not to go here, lest she risk looking like a slob or a tart at the office and lose her job or career momentum.
Overall if you are looking for basic career wear, this is the place to go, although you can expect to spend a pretty penny. I spent about a month's net salary on several outfits, but they will carry me far into this year and next. Most of the shirts I purchased on sale for $30, which to me is about right for a nice blouse, however normal price was $58 to $78 dollars, laughable for a basic blouse. Unless it has incredible detailing or is made out of luxury material, I'd rather buy the shirts on sale. However you can find some nice things in the sales racks, but usually what is left are the larger sizes, which is good if you are a larger size. Another store besides CC where I used to shop is Banana Republic. I purchased several things there and I have to say I am already finding more favor with my AT career wear than with the BR. The BR "suits" seem to be made of more casual material and the clothing styles and colors are so bland, and white bread, I am regretful to have purchased anything there at all. However, in comparison, AT offered a variety of different outfits and separates that were conservative, not as boring, and much classier and dressier than a similar outfit at BR. In the past, I regretfully purchased items at AT Loft, thinking the quality would be there. The clothes there are so drab and do not hold a fraction of the class and tailored look that the regular AT offers. AT Loft may be ok for casual outings but in my opinion, not for work. Well that's my opinion, take it or leave it.
