Few occasions could gather half the designers on the fashion calendar under one roof for an evening of cocktails and camaraderie—especially on the eve of New York Fashion Week. But Nordstrom’s 125th anniversary made for one very valid reason. “It’s a little bit of a homecoming,” said Pete Nordstrom, the co-CEO of the family-run business. “When I was looking at the RSVP list, I couldn’t believe everyone who was making it out. I’m flattered by it. It’s wonderful.”
Nordstrom was referring to the roster of designers carried by the retailer—Sergio Hudson, Joseph Altuzarra, and more—many of whom took a night off from prepping for their own shows to raise a glass to Nordstrom’s momentous milestone. Co-hosted by CFDA chairman Thom Browne and CEO Steven Kolb, the evening unfolded at Wolf; the retailer’s upscale eatery at its 57th Street flagship. A crowd of fashion community fixtures could be found clinking Champagne flutes in one corner, immersing themselves in visual history lesson. Greeting guests at the door, a panoramic installation chronicled Nordstrom’s 125-year ascent, from a single storefront in Seattle to the mammoth luxury retailer it is today.
When asked about what made it all possible, Nordstrom VP, fashion director and Vogue alum, Rickie De Sole gave credit where credit was due. “So many designers have been part of the journey, and having them here tonight feels really special. The partnerships and the longevity of all being in this together is what matters. I hope everyone leaves with that sense of family.”
According to Kolb, the adulation is mutual. “CFDA is a not-for-profit. We don’t sell magazine subscriptions or shoes. We fund what we do through industry support, and Nordstrom has consistently been involved at every turn,” he praised. “They really care about nurturing and developing a new generation of talent. It’s that human factor that I celebrate and appreciate.”
The night culminated—as all good birthday parties do—with a heartfelt toast. “To the brands and vendor partners that are here today, thank you all for being an important part of the recipe of what makes Nordstrom special and helping to elevate the store. We so appreciate you being along on the journey. Here’s to the next 125 years!”
On their way out, guests did what one does best in a department store—they shopped around. Heels were slipped on for size, wrists were misted with fragrance, and new-in sunglasses were tried on with quiet delight. As ever, the what’s-new-at-Nordstrom allure endured.