ann-taylor-holiday17“It’s holiday time, so we all want a little bit of sparkle,” said Ann Taylor creative director Lisa Axelson. She wasn’t talking glitter and fireworks for holiday, but sophisticated glamour exemplified by a tailored leopard jacquard coat and a strapless black peplum top worn over bronzed jacquard pants in an animal pattern in the brand’s Holiday 2013 Collection.

Black lace adorned many of the pieces from the collection, whether appliquéd on a white coat or on a feminine blouse peeking out beneath a tuxedo jacket to round out the collection.

“I like to think of it as real-world glamour because she still goes to work,” said Axelson of her customer, who is looking for “desk-to-dinner, desk-to-party” clothes.

Rounding out the presentation was a holiday “Wish List” with 12 themes, among them “Best in Bow,” “Touch of Lace,” “The Couture T” and “Haute Hue,” illustrated through corresponding table displays.