Ann Taylor Stores Corporation announced that Diane Holtz has been named Executive Vice President, Merchandising and Design of Ann Taylor LOFT, reporting directly to Kay Krill, President and CEO.

Ms. Holtz, a seasoned retail executive formerly with Ann Taylor, will oversee all aspects of design and merchandising at Ann Taylor LOFT.  Ms. Krill stated, "I am delighted to welcome Diane back to Ann Taylor in this important leadership role for the Company.  She has a proven track record of success and accomplishment with our Company, and I am confident that her deep understanding of our business and our brands will maximize the performance and future growth of the LOFT division."  Added Ms. Holtz, "I am thrilled to be back at Ann Taylor and to have such an exciting opportunity at LOFT.  I look forward to working with the team to strengthen LOFT's position in the marketplace and further grow this wonderful brand." 

Ms. Holtz joins Ann Taylor from The Limited, where she served from 2000 to 2006, with her most recent role as President of Limited Stores since 2002.  Prior to The Limited, Ms. Holtz held various senior management positions at Bloomingdale's and Ann Taylor, including Senior Vice President, GMM of Ann Taylor Stores from 1997 to 2000.

Ann Taylor is one of the country's leading women's specialty retailers, operating 878 stores in 46 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and Online Stores at www.anntaylor.com and www.anntaylorLOFT.com as of May 5, 2007.