I’ve been working to spin up this Substack that will cover items of interest about historic people and places in Dallas and the surrounding metropolitan areas. I was taken aback when news broke of the store’s closing. Not quite ready to launch the site it has taken me a week to get far enough that I can speak to it. Neiman Marcus’ and Dallas’ identities go together like a hand and a glove (just not O.J.’s glove).
The Downtown Dallas Neiman Marcus has been a cornerstone of luxury retail since its inception in 1907. Founded by Herbert Marcus, his sister Carrie Marcus Neiman, and her husband, A.L. Neiman, the store quickly established itself as a premier shopping destination. The original store, located at the intersection of Elm Street and North Field Street, was a beacon of elegance and sophistication. However, a devastating fire in 1913 led to the construction of a new flagship store at Main Street and Ervay Street, which opened in 1914.
The new store was designed to be fireproof and featured Renaissance Revival architecture, complete with an impressive double staircase and luxurious interiors. Over the years, the store underwent several expansions and renovations, including the addition of new floors and modern structures adjacent to the original building. The Neiman Marcus Building became a historic landmark, listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a contributing property of the Dallas Downtown Historic District.
Throughout its history, the Downtown Dallas Neiman Marcus has been more than just a store; it has been a symbol of Dallas culture and a pillar of the community. The store hosted numerous high-profile events, fashion shows, and charity galas, attracting celebrities and dignitaries from around the world. It set the standard for excellence in retail and became an integral part of the city's identity.
However, the store faced challenges in recent years. Neiman Marcus filed for bankruptcy protection in May 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic but emerged from bankruptcy later that year. In 2024, Saks Global acquired Neiman Marcus, and the flagship store's future became uncertain. On February 18, 2025, it was announced that the Downtown Dallas Neiman Marcus would close its doors on March 31, 2025, after more than a century of operation. The decision came after the company received a notice to terminate its occupancy from the landlord, following years of negotiations.
The closure of the Downtown Dallas Neiman Marcus marks the end of an era. It is a significant loss for the community, as the store has been a beloved institution and a symbol of the vibrancy that makes Dallas unique. Efforts are underway by city leaders and real estate professionals to find a solution to keep the iconic store open, but its future remains uncertain.
The legacy of the Downtown Dallas Neiman Marcus will continue to be remembered as a testament to the city's resilience, elegance, and enduring spirit.
Sources:
www.keranews.org
www.wfaa.com
en.wikipedia.org
spectrumlocalnews.com