If you’re a Gossip Girl fan (like us here at Buro HQ), then you’ll remember that throughout the series, Serena and Blair were spotted sporting Henri Bendel’s iconic striped shopping bags on more tha one occasion, and the store even popped up in Blair’s Audrey Hepburn-inspired dreams.
It comes as sad news then that the luxury department store is officially shutting its doors after 123 years in business.
After opening its doors in 1895, Henri Bendel will close all of its stores (23 to be exact), including the 714 5th Avenue flagship in New York City and its e-commerce site, come January 2019.
According to WWD, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of L Brands, Leslie Wexner, said: “We are committed to improving performance in the business and increasing shareholder value. As part of that effort, we have decided to stop operating Bendel to improve company profitability and focus on our larger brands that have greater growth potential. This decision is right for the future growth of our company, but not easy because of the impact to our L Brands family. I want to thank our Bendel associates for their dedication to this iconic brand and to our loyal Bendel customers.”
Just before saying farewell to the department store, you’ll be able to shop the last pieces from the store over the next few months, as they’ll continue to sell new merchandise, all throughout the holiday season, too.
However don’t despair — discover other top places to shop in New York City.
