Arden B.

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While many fashion lines espouse distinctive philosophies that set them apart from the competition, Arden B. seems to have evolved from a retail concept rather than a singular creative vision. With clothing safe enough for the stodgiest of offices (and office parties), the company’s defining characteristic is the speed with which it adopts and knocks off the trends of the dominant fashion houses. Women who crave high-fashion looks but don’t want to become budget-busting fashion plates can satiate their au-courant impulses here. Sequins are in? Fur makes a comeback? Expect to find glittery details and faux-fur linings accenting Arden B.’s otherwise dependable (if undistinguished) trousers, tops, and dresses, all on hand just as the trends hit the mainstream. At the Fifth Avenue location, the sales racks of the loft-like second level show just how quickly new styles are churned out—and how quickly they fade: It's not unusual to see last season’s looks going for up to 65 percent off. — Kate Jacobs