Ann Taylor ventures into beauty

NEW YORK As part of its long-term growth strategy, AnnTaylor Stores today announced the launch of its new beauty collection in all 350 of its Ann Taylor stores and online at www.anntaylor.com.

The beauty collection currently includes a fine fragrance called "possibilities" and a line of body care products. The company said it intends to expand its presence in the beauty category over time, including a line of products for its LOFT division next year.

Petra Nemcova will be the face of the possibilities fragrance, the company reported. Adrienne Lazarus, president of Ann Taylor Stores, noted, "Petra is inspirational. Her warmth, grace and courage, combined with her desire to make a meaningful difference in the world, really moved me. She is truly beautiful on the inside and out -- and perfectly exemplifies the qualities of possibilities and the Ann Taylor brand."