20 Department Store Perks That Don’t Exist Today
Once upon a time, department stores offered unique perks and experiences that made shopping feel like an event, not just an errand.
- Chris Graciano
- 4 min read
Department stores used to be more than just retail spaces; they were social hubs packed with personal service, memorable features, and customer-first extras. Over the years, many of those special touches have quietly disappeared as stores modernized or shut down. Here are 20 department store perks that shoppers used to enjoy—but won’t find anymore.
1. Personal Shoppers
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Having someone assist you with outfits and gift choices was once standard in major department stores. These in-store stylists offered free advice tailored to your preferences.
2. In-House Cafeterias
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Many stores had full cafeterias or tea rooms where you could sit down for lunch mid-shopping. These weren’t just snack stops—they were full-service, complete with daily specials and kids’ menus.
3. Free Gift Wrapping
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You could buy a gift and have it perfectly wrapped with ribbon and bows before leaving the store. It was especially common during the holidays.
4. Layaway Programs
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Before credit cards were everywhere, layaway let you reserve items and pay over time without interest. It made larger purchases manageable and gave shoppers flexibility.
5. Live Piano Players
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Some upscale stores featured live piano music near escalators or in the entrance. It created an elegant, almost cinematic shopping atmosphere.
6. Elevator Attendants
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Riding in a department store elevator used to come with an attendant who operated the controls and offered assistance. They’d greet customers, announce floors, and sometimes help with bags.
7. S&H Green Stamps or Reward Books
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Shoppers used to collect stamps with purchases, saving them in booklets to redeem for household goods. It felt like getting rewarded for everyday shopping.
8. Children’s Play Areas
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Stores once had small play zones or even supervised sections to keep kids entertained while parents shopped. Some even offered mini-theaters or puppet shows.
9. In-Store Santa Visits
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Visiting Santa at the department store was a holiday tradition, complete with photo ops and candy canes. Elaborate displays and themed villages made the experience magical.
10. On-Site Alteration Services
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Buying clothes and getting them tailored on the spot used to be easy. Tailors worked within the store to make adjustments quickly, sometimes even on the same day.
11. Bridal and Gift Registries with In-Store Consultants
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You’d sit down with a store consultant and scan items while sipping coffee or flipping through catalogs. These personalized registry services made newlyweds feel celebrated.
12. Uniformed Doormen
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Greeting you at the entrance, doormen added a sense of grandeur and warmth to the shopping experience. They’d help with bags, hail cabs, and even hold the door with a flourish.
13. Shoe Fitting Services
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Staff would kneel with a Brannock device and help you find the perfect size, not just hand you a box. They’d recommend styles and make sure you leave with comfortable shoes.
14. In-House Credit Accounts
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Before major credit cards were common, stores offered their own charge accounts. Loyal shoppers got exclusive perks, payment plans, and VIP treatment.
15. Full-Service Beauty Counters
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You didn’t just buy makeup—you got makeovers, skincare consultations, and expert tips. Beauty advisors gave tailored recommendations based on your skin type and routine.
16. Annual Holiday Windows
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Big-city department stores used to compete for the best holiday window displays, complete with animatronics and moving scenes. Crowds would gather to see the seasonal magic.
17. In-Store Fashion Shows
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Some stores hosted small runway events to showcase seasonal trends. These events added glamour to the shopping trip and gave customers fresh style inspiration.
18. On-Site Photography Studios
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Department stores once housed photo studios for portraits, baby pictures, and school photos. It was convenient and affordable, often tied into store promotions.
19. Catalog Pickup Desks
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Before online shopping, you could order from a catalog and pick up at the store; there was no shipping involved. The desk felt like a secret shortcut for savvy shoppers.
20. Generous Return Policies with No Receipts
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Stores used to have lenient return rules—no receipt was needed, and no questions were asked. Associates would look up your purchase or simply give you store credit.