Exhibit 23.1

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ CONSENT

We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement No. 33-72086 of The Talbots, Inc. on Form S-8 of our report, dated June 25, 2003, appearing in this Annual Report on Form 11-K of The Talbots, Inc. Retirement Savings Voluntary Plan for the year ended December 31, 2002.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Boston, Massachusetts
June 25, 2003