12 Department Store Features That Are Gone Forever
Explore the long-lost charms of department stores from a bygone era that today's shoppers may never experience again.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read
Department stores were once the heart of every shopping trip. They brought a mix of convenience and entertainment. Over the years, many of their most beloved features have vanished. Here’s a nostalgic look at 12 department store staples that have disappeared for good.
1. In-Store Restaurants
Nicholas Eckhart on Flickr
Dining while shopping used to be part of the experience, with cozy cafes and elegant tea rooms nestled right inside the store. Shoppers could take a break for coffee, club sandwiches, or a slice of pie without ever leaving the building.
2. Live Elevator Operators
Neeta Lind on Flickr
Elegant and uniformed, elevator operators once made vertical travel a personal service. They greeted guests, pressed buttons, and even gave directions.
3. Pneumatic Tube Systems
Hexafluoride on Wikimedia Commons
These vacuum-powered systems whisked cash and receipts between floors in seconds. Kids would watch in fascination as money whooshed away in canisters.
4. Gift Wrapping Counters
Emre Akyol on Pexels
Many stores offered complimentary or low-cost gift wrapping with colorful papers and ribbon options. Staff expertly folded and taped, turning any purchase into a presentation.
5. Santa’s Workshop Displays
Loodogs on Flickr
During the holidays, some stores transformed entire sections into magical winter scenes complete with moving parts, snow effects, and even a Santa meet-and-greet.
6. Layaway Counters
Random Retail on Flickr
Before credit cards were common, layaway let customers pay over time and collect items later. It taught patience and budgeting without interest fees.
7. Personal Shoppers
Ron Lach on Pexels
Once considered a luxury, some department stores offered personal shoppers who curated outfits or gift selections. These style advisors added a boutique feel to big-box stores.
8. In-House Tailoring
Jorge Royan on Wikimedia Commons
Need a quick hem or sleeve adjustment? No problem — department stores had on-site tailors who’d fix it while you waited. That level of instant customization is mostly gone now.
9. Glamorous Window Displays
Masood Aslami on Pexels
Especially during the holidays, stores competed to design elaborate window scenes that drew crowds. They were mini theatrical productions with lighting, motion, and storytelling.
10. Full-Service Shoe Departments
FASTILY on Wikimedia Commons
Try on a dozen pairs, get measured, and have your size fetched by a courteous clerk — that used to be the norm. Shoe departments were almost like mini shoe stores, with service as the focus.
11. Beauty Counters with Makeovers
Kymberly Janisch on Flickr
Cosmetic sections once offered free samples, beauty advice, and even full-face makeovers. Shoppers could experiment before they bought, guided by skilled consultants.
12. Store-Specific Credit Cards with Real Perks
Kampus Production on Pexels
Before generic Visa or MasterCard options, store-branded cards came with real benefits — private sales, exclusive lounges, and generous loyalty programs.