In mid-September, NYC received another devastating news when it comes to the retail scene. A cornerstone retailer, well-known as a bargain shopping destination for local fashionistas and foreigners alike, has filed Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Protection. Century 21 Department Store has failed to receive an insurance payment for business disruption totaling $175M and announced their decision to close all of its 13 stores. This leaves us wondering – are there any Century 21 Alternatives left?
The news caused a turmoil among NYC fashionistas who frequently followed in Carrie Bradshaw footsteps and dropped in at C21 to check out marked down designer goods on their lunch breaks. To quote SATC, C21 closing is truly “the end of an era”. This blow follows many other unsettling news we received in 2020. Retailers like Neiman Marcus Group, Lord & Taylor and dozens of others have also announced their bankruptcies and liquidations. This begs the question – what will be left?
Are there any Century 21 Alternatives?
The answer is online.
We are watching a tremendous shift to web shopping, expedited at unprecedented speed. It is yet unclear whether C21 website will remain active, but for now they are running some fantastic sales!
Here are another 8 Stores You Can Check Out as Alternatives to Century 21:
1. TheOutnet
TheOutnet is a sister company of another famous NY luxury outfitter – Net-a-Porter. This online retailer serves as Net-a-Porter’s outlet and has a great selection of off-season items often marked down 70 or more percent.
2 & 3. Gilt & RueLaLa
These two stores are some of the oldest online sample sale destinations. Launched over ten years ago, both run pop up sales that start at Noon EST for Gilt and 11am EST for Ruelala. If you love bargain hunting, definitely check them out and subscribe to their emails to always be in the loop for great discounts!
4. Nordstrom Rack
Rack often features similar merchandise as C21, at comparable prices.
5. Saks Off Fifth
This Saks outlet store also offers a selection of items that’s a close match to what could be found at C21 – from budget friendly items to luxury!
6. YOOX
A large worldwide chain, Yoox is well-stocked in European brands we would often find at Century but not at local department stores.
7. Overstock
If you loved visiting C21 home departments for great linens, flatware and home textiles at bargain prices, check out Overstock’s selection. With their fast 2 day shipping, it’s almost like shopping in a store!
You can also check out our Guide to Shopping & Saving in Europe – Online!
Know of more stores we can add to the list?
Share with us in our Facebook Group!