The Shut Down Of Iconic Brand: Henri Bendel
To my shock and surprise the iconic brand Henri Bendel officially closed it’s doors and shut down 23 brick-and-mortar store’s and their online store on January 31, 2019. I was aware that they had shut down a few brick-and-mortar stores but had no clue the brand who has been around for 123 years was closing for good. Henri Bendel was a staple brand, especially to New Yorkers. It was the first luxury store to open on upper 5th avenue, have a runway show, and hold a semi-annual sale. Bendel’s originally sold clothing, handbags, and cosmetics. They also showcased the likes of Coco Chanel as a debut designer on some of the first ever in-store displays. Equally impressive, they hired Andy Warhol as an illustrator. In a press release from L Brands chairman and CEO Les Wexner said:
“ He’s shutting down the Bendel stores and online operations because the company, which also owns Bath & Body Works, wants to improve profitability and focus on its “larger brands that have greater growth potential”.
To know they chose to “ Focus on brands that have better potential for growth like Victoria Secret & Bath & Body Works” instead of a luxury brand such as Bendels, baffles me. I’m just confused about why they wouldn’t invest more time, marketing strategies, and new designers to revive and refresh the brand instead of closing it. I personally own a number of their saffiano leather goods which includes: a beautiful powder blue monogrammed luggage set, lavender monogrammed travel wallet wristlet, a yellow monogrammed cross body, and I have owned multiple candles. One of my biggest regrets is not snagging a leather laptop case when I had the chance. It was one of the pieces I always adored and wanted but thought I had time to get. uhhhhhh (eye roll). I just can’t believe they would do this to the fashion world. The main reason: The company grossed $85 million dollars in revenue last year but at an operating loss of $45 million which speaks to the statement made by the CEO.
They have been kind enough to leave up the Instagram profile so us fashionistas can reminisce on the chocolate and cream striped signature small leather goods, brightly colored quality leather bags and backpacks, and the cute cartoon fashion figures that encompassed every style of girl. What a travesty. I hope it can make it’s way back somehow or I can buy a piece or two off Poshmark or eBay in the future.
Tell me about your love for Bendel’s in the comments below. What pieces do you have?
XOXO,
KVT
Photo Credit: Profile picture from: www.townandcountry.com, Gallery Photo’s From: @HenriBendel, @WaitYouNeedThis, @Samiraradmehr, @ScoutTheCity, @Rrayyme, @Candacemread, @AwedByMoni
