A week ago, retail veteran Adrienne Lazarus visited Aritzia in The Westchester mall in White Plains, N.Y., and was bowled over by what she saw.

“Aritzia is killing it,” said Lazarus, who has been president or chief executive officer at Madewell, Intermix Ann Taylor, Frye and Bandier. “It’s all elevated, tailored, refined clothes for work and going out — beautiful coats, luxe sweaters, cashmere cardigans, beautiful blouses, skirts and trousers. It’s so put together. And upstairs I saw the best casualwear and puffers, for work and the weekend.”

This year, Aritzia is leading a pack of fashion specialty retailers with outstanding financial results including Ralph Lauren, Aerie, Urban Outfitters, Gap brand, Coach, Toteme and Fast Retailing.…