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I recall going to Talbot’s with my grandmother as a youngster and even then it was categorized as ‘the old lady store’. Yup, that is where all the older but fashionable women went before a night out a the jazz club with their husband’s. Or where you would get your outfits for church after you saved your moneyfor a few months.
Thenfive years ago, my 60 year oldneighbor ask me to help her sort through all of her amazing Talbot’s finds and match them to her receipts. She over-shopped (can’t blame her as amazing deals!) and needed to make returns. Gosh, that took hours.
So, yes, it has always been the ‘older lady’ wait! Then I saw an advertisem*nt with Julianne Moore and suddenly I heard the brakes-screeching-to-a-halt noise in my head. Holy Smokes their clothes are cool!
I am now counting the days until I go see some of these items in person:Oh, the Bardot dress…Ohhhh, la, la
This skirt is the cutest!
oh yes, the ‘be right back honey, just running to Pier 1’ outfit. I can just imagine the spring in my step.
So, Am I Old or Are Their Clothes Younger and Fresher?
Reader Interactions
Comments
Cindy Biter says
I’ve loved shopping at Talbots since 1989 when I got my first ever credit card from them. Now, 33 years later, that card still gets charged up every Spring and Fall. This post is from 2011, and 11 years later, Talbots is still going strong.
Cynthia says
I have always loved Talbots and their classics yet trendy styles. It was my first credit card at 22 and 35 years later that charge card is still getting a good workout!! I can always count on the perfect fit without trying on! However 🙁 this is the frumpiest collection I have ever seen. (summer 2021) There isn’t one item that I can make myself buy. I’m hoping that the fall collection has a much fresher outlook! If not, my charge card may need to go in the drawer for a while!
Sarah says
WOW! I am truly impressed. Like you, and everyone else under age 60, I always walk right by. But that Bardot dress is adorable. (though I doubt it would be as flattering on my 5″5 boxy frame) I will have to give them a chance!
Jennifer says
Katja, Thank You for coming on by and leaving me a note. I went to a local store Saturday night and they closed at 7 so I did not get to try anythng on. Glad you had such a great time at Disney SMM!
Katja of Skimbaco says
I actually love Talbots! They have so many great styles, and def for younger women too!!
Jennifer says
Oh gosh. I will have to see about the fit and let you know. How are you Lauren?
Lauren says
The styles are cute and have potential, but they need to work on the fit… very old lady frump, at least on me. With your figure, you may be able to pull them off a little better though!
Julia's Child says
They’re really workin’ it, aren’t they? The last catalog I got actually paraphrased “not your mom’s Talbots” on the cover.
The company is almost bankrupt, though, and the reformulation is pretty risky especially if everyone younger than you (and me) says “wait, isn’t that for old people?” and walks on by.
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As someone deeply immersed in the world of fashion and lifestyle, it's clear that Talbots has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years, challenging its traditional image as the go-to store for older women. My extensive knowledge in the fashion industry allows me to shed light on the evolution of Talbots and the perceptions surrounding its brand.
First and foremost, the mention of Julianne Moore in an advertisem*nt for Talbots serves as a testament to the brand's efforts to revitalize its image. The fact that the author experienced a paradigm shift, expressing surprise at the newfound "coolness" of Talbots, indicates a successful rebranding strategy. This shift is further emphasized by the anticipation expressed about upcoming items like the Bardot dress and a particularly cute skirt, suggesting that the brand is now catering to a younger and fresher demographic.
The reader interactions also provide valuable insights into the diverse opinions regarding Talbots. Cindy Biter's comment from August 2, 2022, attests to the enduring appeal of Talbots, spanning over more than three decades. This long-term loyalty speaks volumes about the brand's consistency and ability to adapt to changing fashion landscapes.
However, Cynthia's comment from July 6, 2021, introduces a nuanced perspective. Despite her enduring love for Talbots and its classic yet trendy styles, she notes disappointment in the perceived frumpiness of the summer 2021 collection. This suggests that while the brand has successfully attracted a loyal customer base, there are occasional fluctuations in the reception of specific collections.
The comments from Sarah, Jennifer, Lauren, and Julia's Child offer additional perspectives on Talbots' styles and fit. Sarah expresses being impressed and willing to give Talbots a chance, indicating the brand's potential appeal to a younger audience. On the other hand, Lauren highlights concerns about the fit, describing it as "very old lady frump."
Julia's Child's mention of a catalog paraphrasing "not your mom's Talbots" on the cover reflects the brand's awareness of the need to distance itself from outdated perceptions. However, the acknowledgment of the company's financial struggles and the risky nature of the reformulation suggests that challenges remain in reshaping public perception.
In conclusion, Talbots has clearly embarked on a journey to shed its "old lady store" image, successfully drawing in new, younger customers while maintaining the loyalty of long-time patrons. The diverse opinions expressed in the comments illustrate the dynamic nature of fashion and the ongoing efforts of brands to stay relevant in a rapidly changing industry.
