Earlier today, Ann Taylor announced the closing of 72 Stores by the end of 2010, but the company showed no sign of trouble last week when they held a trunk preview show of their Fall collection at the Ace Hotel. Christina Hendricks, husband Geoffrey Arend, Rachel Bilson, and Richie Rich were among the guests.-

The event reflects the recent concerted effort on the part of the brand to re-invent itself as a chic label, instead of just the place my mom shops for work clothes because they have a good Petits section. Throwing a party at the Ace Hotel and inviting Rachel Bilson to attend definitely goes a long way in achieving that goal, as does inviting Richie Rich, whose own line is probably the antithesis of Ann Taylor.

[Photos taken by Hanuk Hanuk]