Talbots Copying J.Crew Too?

In Tuesday's "J.Crew News: Battle with Ann Taylor" post, we discussed the similarities of Ann Taylor (& AT Loft) offerings with those from J.Crew. Many of you mentioned Talbots as another go-to retailer.

Well, I just got a catalog from them today and... Dayum! I thought I was looking at a J.Crew catalog!

The Talbots cover has the same rich, dark tones that J.Crew's September catalog has. But that's not all! Many of J.Crew's {lovely} models from season's past are in the Talbots latest issue too.

As for the clothes... There were lots of {beautiful} pieces in the Talbots catalog that reminded me of J.Crew's current offerings. Below are a few examples.
Talbot's Sequin Boyfriend Cardigan (Item C21025; $149.00) versus J.Crew's Ombré Paillette Cardigan (Item 27176; $118.00, now $79.99).

Talbots' Sequin Silk Sweater (Item 16025; $129.00) versus Sequined Starland Tank (Item 22401; $138.00, now $59.99).

Talbots' Faux Fur Collar ($49.00) versus J.Crew's Mongolian Lamb Stole (Item 31393; $98.00).

I realize that J.Crew borrows a few elements of design from other designers when it comes to their own styles. However, it does feel like some of J.Crew's direct competitors are borrowing from J.Crew. (I could be wrong, since I only really pay attention to J.Crew.) It seems like J.Crew is clearly doing something right to have all these other retailers changing their styles to that of J.Crew's. ;)

What are your thoughts on Talbots similarities to J.Crew? Do you like Talbots? What do think of the various retailers sharing a striking resemblance to J.Crew (or maybe it's vice versa, what do I know)? ;)