Original Location Of Iconic Retailer Closes In New Haven

NEW HAVEN, CT — The original location of Ann Taylor on Chapel Street has closed permanently, according to The New Haven Independent.

The store dates back to 1954, when New Haven native Richard Liebeskind opened Ann Taylor. The name represented the style of a best-selling dress that had been a gift to the store owner.

"The 'Ann Taylor' design was made for the well-dressed woman, and the legacy was born," a statement from the company reads. "By 1983, Ann Taylor had grown from a regional brand to a national brand with 47 stores across the United States."

However, recent times haven't been as prosperous for Ann Taylor. The retailer's parent company, Ascena Retail Group, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy last week. Ascena also operates Justice, Lane Bryant, Catherine's, Lou & Grey, and Cacique.

Ascena Retail Group announced plans to close about half its 2,800 stores, including 76 Ann Taylor, LOFT and Lou & Grey stores, more than 600 Justice stores and all Catherine's plus-size clothing store locations. All locations outside the U.S. will also close.

Disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the company said the last few months negatively impacted "meaningful progress" to get back on track financially.