From Coco Chanel to Princess Grace: the Icons Who Adored Neiman’s Downtown Flagship

We all have expectations. Expectations that a trip to Neiman’s downtown flagship store in Dallas would be special.

Expectations that we would be dazzled by the perfumes that floated through the air when we entered and that the sales associates would be impeccably dressed in the latest attire and that the Zodiac Room’s popovers would always be served with strawberry butter.

And expectations that it would always be there, but we were wrong.

This is the iconic store’s final week. It looks like unless we receive a Christmas miracle in March, the doors will be locked. Even as the store shelves are emptying — evidently the Chanel cosmetic counter cleared out six months ago — the historic building still holds a shopping bag full of memories.

Saks Global, Downtown Consortium Spar Over Neiman Marcus Narrative

Fanciful Fortnights

For 29 years, Neiman Marcus brought its over-the-top Fortnight celebrations to the downtown Dallas flagship. These events were extravagant, two-week-long showcases of designer collections and luxurious fashion. The very first Fortnight, an affair celebrating France, took place in 1957 with a visit from no less than Coco Chanel herself.

Stanley Marcus may have held the title of president, but he was the P.T. Barnum of the fashion world in the very best way. The French Legion of Honor awarded him the Chevalier Award and Time magazine covered the event in its October 28^th, 1957 issue. A tradition was born when the Brits had contacted him for an English version before the curtain was down on the French Fortnight.

Glittering fashionistas, attention-seekers, and even royalty paraded through the store through the years. The downtown Dallas Neiman Marcus has long been a magnet for celebrities, socialites, and dignitaries. The store’s reputation for luxury, high fashion, and impeccable service, made it a must-visit Dallas destination.

Fortnights, award ceremonies, and promotional opportunities drew the famous to Dallas. Helping to put Dallas on the high-fashion map were the celebrities who walked through the doors of the historic specialty store. From Princess Grace to Princess Margaret, from Brigitte Bardot to Sophia Loren, the beautiful people came to Texas, met Mr. Marcus, and added some sparkle while they were here.

Pilgrimages to Neiman’s Downtown Flagship

Southern ladies wanted a piece of that glamour, too. Many a club doyenne made appointments for seasonal ensembles, while mommas brought their daughters to select their bridal gowns and make their china selections, too. Businesspeople in town for conventions and coeds here for the annual OU-Texas football game would make a trek to buy something. How many children, shined up and dressed in velvet for the trek, told Santa what they wanted?

Thank You, Neiman Marcus, From the Velvet Girls

Neiman Marcus’ flagship store radiated glamor that fascinated generations. The prestige and status found there were as big as Texas.

Now the signature glass doors will close. Neither North Park’s Neiman Marcus nor online shopping will replace downtown Neiman Marcus. Life goes on. Expectations must change.

I shall wear black this week, not as a fashion statement, but I am, after all, in mourning.

What are your favorite memories of the downtown Dallas Neiman Marcus flagship? Share them below, and you may be featured in an upcoming CandysDirt.com story.