Hingham, MA, February 28, 2008 — Fashion is taking a playful approach to color this spring with a crayon-inspired palette that’s creating new choices for self expression, according to specialty retailer Talbots. “Bright, cheerful colors like lemon, tiger lily and tomato are clearly making a statement this season,” says Betsy Thompson, the company’s fashion spokesperson, “and they’re well-placed to catch the eye and spark conversation.” Equally expressive are exotic graphics, fresh florals and the timeless contrast of black and white. Sea creatures, dots, mixed stripes and bold paisleys add a sense of whimsy.

From Talbots, here are six trends to watch this spring and summer:

• Shades of Aspiration. Well-placed accents and interesting blends of bright colors convey an optimistic confidence.
  There are lots of options to invigorate the senses this spring - sleek leather hobo in tiger lily or banana ($110); patent leather driving moccasins in chili red ($84); crisp menswear shirt in garden green ($58); silk cocktail dress in fuchsia or kiwi ($178); classic crewneck tee in vivid green ($20); stretch Bermudas in orange crush or bright pink ($44).



• Fresh from the Garden. Floral patterns give fashion that ‘stop and smell the roses’ effect.
  Artful clippings from the garden include a breezy cotton tunic embroidered with blooming vines ($88), pima cotton cardigan bearing brushstroke blossoms ($98); swingy bias-cut skirt awash in dandelions ($108); or a V-neck floral sweater in garden green or daffodil ($68).



• Opposites Attract. Geometric patterns both large and small have timeless appeal when cast in black and white.
  Circle-print shirt dress ($158); geo dot jacket ($188); graphic print blouse with bubble sleeves ($78); polka dot linen dress ($148); swirl-print cropped pants ($68); dotted golf shorts ($48); pin dot jacquard dress ($138).



• Sense of Destination. Safari jackets, trench coats, exotic patterns and animal print accents add a sense of exploration to the closet… no passport required.
  Sweeping dress with matte jersey bodice and exotic print skirt ($148); belted safari jacket with elbow length sleeves ($198); animal-pattern enamel bangles ($38) and earrings ($32); snake-embossed peep-toe pumps ($118); zebra-pattern mules ($94); animal-print slingbacks ($88).



• Ship to Shore Ease. Striped tees, navy blazers, white jeans and canvas deck shoes have a nautical flare that’s crisp and refreshing. Look for embroidered palm trees or a sequined star fish to enhance this fun island vibe.
  Sequin-sparked or embroidered tees ($38), stretch denim crop jeans ($58); printed seafaring tote ($48); anchor pin ($34), pedal pushers in seaport blue ($48); stretch cotton blazer ($88); slip-on canvas sneakers ($38); or sporty flats in Madras plaid ($84).



• Hints of Glimmer. Patent and metallic finishes lend shimmer to daytime essentials like work satchels, bucket bags, ballet flats and flip-flops.
  Square toe ballet flats in warm café metallic ($98); T-strap sandals in rootbeer shimmer ($88); crinkled patent bag in scarlet ($118); cork platform wedge slides in lipstick red or dark bronze ($78); skinny belt in chocolate or white patent leather ($34).

Founded in 1947, Talbots is the headquarters for grown-up, classic style for the 35+ woman. Talbots offers an extensive selection of timeless styles in four different size ranges – Misses 0-20, Petite 0-16P, Woman’s 12W-24W and Woman’s Petite 12WP-24WP. The Company currently operates over 1,100 stores throughout the U.S. and Canada. Catalog and online shopping are also offered.

www.thetalbotsinc.com – corporate/press information
www.talbots.com – online shopping site
800-825-2687 – toll-free catalog

For high-resolution images, please contact betsy.thompson@talbots.com
(781-741-4066).

CONTACT:
Betsy Thompson
The Talbots, Inc.
781-741-4006 betsy.thompson@talbots.com

Melissa Jaffin/Amy Kover
Berns Communications Group
(212) 994-4660