15 Department Stores That Defined Shopping Malls

For decades, department stores were the anchors that made malls bustling centers of community and commerce. Shoppers didn’t just visit for clothing or home goods; they came for experiences, window displays, and holiday traditions. Here’s a look back at 15 department stores that once defined the heart of malls across America.

1. 1. Sears

Sears was the foundation of many malls, drawing shoppers in with appliances, tools, clothing, and even car services. For decades, it was the ultimate one-stop shop for American families. As malls declined, so did Sears; its fading presence now reflects retail’s changing times.

2. 2. JCPenney

JCPenney was the family favorite for budget-friendly clothes, bedding, and dependable home goods. Its iconic catalogs and in-store promotions made shopping feel like an event. While some stores remain, its once-dominant role as a mall anchor has greatly diminished.

3. 3. Macy’s

Macy’s added a splash of sophistication and big-city charm to suburban malls. Known for its annual Thanksgiving Day Parade and festive window displays, it became an American holiday tradition. Though retail has evolved, Macy’s still stands as one of the last great department store icons.

4. 4. Montgomery Ward

Affectionately dubbed “Monkey Wards,” Montgomery Ward was a pioneer in catalog and mall-based shopping. Families loved its vast selection, from furniture to fashion, under one roof. When it closed in 2001, it marked the end of a truly all-encompassing retailer.

5. 5. Nordstrom

Nordstrom set itself apart with polished interiors, designer brands, and unmatched customer service. Shopping there felt like an experience rather than an errand. Its refined image and strong service helped bring a touch of elegance to the everyday mall.

6. 6. Bloomingdale’s

Famous for its trendsetting designs and those iconic brown shopping bags, Bloomingdale’s gave mall shopping a sense of prestige. It became synonymous with fashion-forward luxury. Even today, it stands as a cultural symbol of upscale retail.

7. 7. Lord & Taylor

Blending elegance and accessibility, Lord & Taylor was beloved for quality clothing and chic seasonal décor. Its famous window displays captivated mallgoers during the holidays. Though gone from most malls, it remains a touchstone of American retail history.

8. 8. Dillard’s

Dillard’s became a reliable name across the South and Midwest, offering everything from cosmetics to clothing in a comfortable setting. It was known for consistency and good value rather than flashiness. For many families, it was the dependable face of mall shopping.

9. 9. Mervyn’s

Mervyn’s was a practical favorite, especially for back-to-school shopping and affordable home essentials. Its approachable vibe made it a trusted stop for families on a budget. After closing in 2008, many still recall its simple charm and community connection.

10. 10. Bon-Ton

Bon-Ton served as the lifeline of mid-sized malls in smaller towns throughout the Northeast and Midwest. It offered friendly service, regular discounts, and a comforting sense of familiarity. Its 2018 bankruptcy marked a major loss for regional retail.

11. 11. Kohl’s

Kohl’s found success by merging the department store experience with discount pricing and modern convenience. Its rewards program and frequent coupons kept shoppers loyal. While newer than most on this list, Kohl’s became a cornerstone of suburban shopping centers.

12. 12. Saks Fifth Avenue

Saks brought pure luxury into the mall experience, with upscale fashion and beauty brands that felt aspirational. It became a destination for special-occasion shopping and indulgent browsing. Even today, Saks retains its aura of exclusivity and high-end sophistication.

13. 13. Belk

A staple across the South, Belk earned loyalty through its warm service and balance of affordability and class. From formalwear to home décor, it offered something for everyone. For many Southerners, Belk remains synonymous with local pride and tradition.

14. 14. Neiman Marcus

Neiman Marcus elevated mall shopping into an art form with its designer labels and curated selections. It wasn’t just a store; it was a symbol of luxury living. Even window-shoppers were drawn in by its allure, cementing its status as a top-tier department store.

15. 15. Gottschalks

Gottschalks served West Coast families with stylish yet practical selections and a welcoming, personal touch. As a regional favorite, it played a big part in the mall culture of California and nearby states. When it closed in 2009, shoppers lost more than a store; they lost a local institution.

• Tags:
• department stores
• shopping malls
• retail history
• mall culture
• American stores