17 Shopping Catalogs That Arrived Every Month
Monthly shopping catalogs shaped how people discovered and bought products before online shopping existed.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 5 min read
For most of the twentieth century, shopping catalogs were a key way for households to explore clothing, furniture, toys, and appliances. They were delivered directly to homes, creating a consistent link between consumers and brands. While many have stopped printing, their role in shaping modern retail remains significant.
1. Sears Catalog
Mike Kalasnik on Wikimedia Commons
The Sears catalog began in the late 1800s and became one of the most widely distributed catalogs in the United States. It offered clothing, appliances, furniture, and even house kits. For families in rural areas, the catalog was often their main access to products. It is considered a major influence on American consumer culture.
2. JCPenney Catalog
John Margolies on Wikimedia Commons
The JCPenney catalog started in the early 1900s and was known for affordable clothing and home goods. It was delivered monthly and gave families the ability to shop without leaving home. Many relied on it for back-to-school shopping and seasonal fashion. The catalog remained important until it was discontinued in 2010.
3. Spiegel Catalog
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The Spiegel catalog first appeared in the late 1800s and grew popular in the twentieth century. It featured women’s fashion, home décor, and later credit options that made purchases easier. Spiegel became one of the first catalogs to highlight modern trends. Its distribution stopped in 2012 after more than a century of publication.
4. Montgomery Ward Catalog
Caldorwards4 on Wikimedia Commons
Montgomery Ward introduced its catalog in 1872, making it the first major mail-order catalog in the United States. It allowed rural customers to purchase items that were otherwise unavailable. The catalog included clothing, tools, and appliances. It ended in 2000 after years of declining use.
5. L.L.Bean Catalog
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The L.L.Bean catalog began in 1912 and focused on outdoor wear and equipment. It was valued for its durable boots, jackets, and camping supplies. The catalog became a trusted resource for outdoor enthusiasts across the country. It continues to be published in smaller editions alongside the company’s online store.
6. Victoria’s Secret Catalog
Challiyan on Wikimedia Commons
The Victoria’s Secret catalog was launched in 1977 and quickly became a well-known source for lingerie and fashion. It reached millions of households and introduced new product lines through its monthly mailings. The catalog was a key part of the brand’s marketing strategy. It was officially discontinued in 2016 as the company shifted to digital marketing.
7. Avon Catalog
Brian Collins on Wikimedia Commons
Avon catalogs were distributed through representatives who sold beauty and household products door-to-door. The catalog was updated monthly with new items, perfumes, and seasonal collections. Many buyers appreciated the convenience of ordering directly from someone they knew. Avon continues to print catalogs in many regions worldwide.
8. IKEA Catalog
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The IKEA catalog was first published in 1951 and became one of the most widely distributed catalogs in the world. It showcased furniture and home design ideas with practical layouts. Each issue served as both a catalog and a design guide. IKEA ended the catalog in 2020 after nearly 70 years.
9. Sharper Image Catalog
Sharper Image on Wikimedia Commons
The Sharper Image catalog launched in the late 1970s and focused on gadgets and unusual products. It was known for featuring high-tech and novelty items not found in regular stores. Many people browsed it for entertainment as much as for shopping. The catalog’s popularity declined, and it shifted online in the 2000s.
10. Lands’ End Catalog
Lands’ End on Wikimedia Commons
The Lands’ End catalog was launched in the 1960s with a focus on outdoor clothing and casual wear. It became popular with families looking for durable everyday apparel. The catalog also offered personalization, such as monogrammed clothing and bags. It continues to be distributed today along with the brand’s online presence.
11. Neiman Marcus Catalog
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Neiman Marcus introduced luxury catalogs that highlighted high-end fashion, beauty products, and exclusive items. Its famous Christmas catalog became especially notable for extravagant gift ideas. Many people viewed the catalog as an aspirational shopping experience. It remains a symbol of luxury marketing.
12. Pottery Barn Catalog
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The Pottery Barn catalog has been a consistent source of home design inspiration since the mid-twentieth century. It featured furniture, bedding, and decorative items arranged in lifestyle settings. Readers often used it to plan home updates. The catalog is still distributed today alongside digital editions.
13. L.L.Bean Home Catalog
L.L. Bean, Inc. on Wikimedia Commons
Separate from its outdoor catalog, L.L.Bean produced a home edition that focused on bedding, furniture, and accessories. It highlighted comfort and quality with a rustic style. Many households used it as a guide for functional yet attractive home essentials. It remains part of L.L.Bean’s catalog lineup.
14. Crate & Barrel Catalog
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The Crate & Barrel catalog launched in the 1960s and became popular with young professionals and families. It emphasized simple, modern home furnishings and décor. Each issue reflected current design trends while keeping prices accessible. The catalog continues to play a role in the company’s marketing.
15. Restoration Hardware Catalog
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Restoration Hardware, now RH, became known for its oversized catalogs featuring luxury furniture. Each mailing functioned almost like a design book, presenting entire room concepts. It targeted customers seeking premium home furnishings. The company continues to use its large-format “Source Book” catalogs.
16. Toys “R” Us Catalog
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The Toys “R” Us catalog was a highly anticipated mailing, especially around the holiday season. It displayed new toys and games that children often marked for wish lists. Parents used it to plan holiday shopping. The catalog ended when Toys “R” Us closed many of its stores in 2018.
17. Bloomingdale’s Catalog
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The Bloomingdale’s catalog offered luxury fashion, accessories, and beauty items. It reflected New York trends and positioned the store as a leader in style. Many readers treated it as both a catalog and a fashion guide. Its print presence has mostly faded as Bloomingdale’s emphasizes digital platforms.