Dressbarn debuts new e-commerce site

Suffern, N.Y. Value apparel retailer Dressbarn said Wednesday that it has launched its first e-commerce site.

With the site debut, Dressbarn now offers more than 1,000 daily items online in petite, missy and woman's sizes. The site -- located at Dressbarn.com -- also sells gift cards, shoes and accessories in addition to seasonal clothing.

The launch of the retailer's online site is the latest move toward the brand's reinvigoration. Over the past year, Dressbarn has revamped its offerings, acquired the retail chain Justice, opened more than 15 new stores and remodeled nearly 10 existing ones.

The new dressbarn.com allows shoppers to browse by occasions, trends, items and sizes, as well as create a personal wish list of items they like, but aren't yet ready to buy. Dressbarn.com also offers extended sizes, such as tall length pants, with the ability to return to store at no charge. There is also a 'live chat' option for select hours where associates will provide guidance about everything from style and fit to payment and shipping.

To promote the debut of its e-commerce site, Dressbarn has created in-store signage, direct mail pieces and email blasts targeting existing shoppers. It will also communicate via Twitter and Facebook, which link directly to the new Dressbarn.com site.