Considering our beloved Center City is already home to Intermix, Zara, Madewell, Barney’s, and more, we certainly don't need another reason to walk into the chic neighborhood. Or do we?
Philadelphia’s hottest retail scene will be welcoming three new members later this year, and we have the details here:
1. UNIQLO | 1608 Chestnut Street | Opening: Friday, October 3
What is it? This Japanese retail chain may already have more than 1,000 stores worldwide, but it has only recently begun to break into the U.S. market with just over 20 stores stateside to date. The Chestnut Street location will be the second of three new Philadelphia-area stores, with the King of Prussia location already open and a Willow Grove location opening October 10.
Why should we be excited? UNIQLO specializes in affordable, high-quality basics and is a preferable alternative to the currently troubled American Apparel. (Dov Charney scandal, anyone?) Many of UNIQLO’s styles can carry an outfit from desk to dinner, particularly its wide selection of shirts and blouses in almost every color and material imaginable. I’m looking forward to purchasing some silk and linen blouses!
2. Nordstrom Rack | 1700 Chestnut Street | Opening: Friday, October 24
What is it? Nordstrom Rack is the retail outlet chain for Nordstrom, carrying off-season Nordstrom items at 50% off or more. Equipped with quality designer brands also found in Nordstrom stores, Nordstrom Rack is sure to be on any bargain hunter’s must-shop list.
Why should we be excited? The forthcoming Nordstrom Rack will be taking over the old Daffy’s location, which boasts 39,000 square feet and four floors of retail space. That’s practically an entire mall dedicated to a single store known for its designer steals. Need we say more?
3. Alex and Ani | TBA | Opening: Late 2014
What is it? Alex and Ani is the up-and-coming, trendy jewelry retail chain known for its “positive energy” ethos and philanthropic pursuits. The retailer is characterized by its adjustable bangles that feature licensed charms from universities to sports teams.
Why should we be excited? Alex and Ani carries Penn and sorority charmed bracelets—perfect gifts for your big or little! Many of their bracelets’ proceeds also directly support select charities, making the store a potential location for philanthropy events. Besides its flagship charm bangles, Alex and Ani’s other jewelry lines, such as its Spiritual Armor Wraps and Vintage Sixty-Six Collections, are also super chic. Be on the lookout for more information about the upcoming Philly location!
Honorable Mention: Century 21 | The Gallery at Market East, 901 Market Street | Opening: Fall 2014
What is it? Century 21 is a well-known, tourist-frequented New York City discount department store, not to be confused with the real estate company of the same name. The Philadelphia location will be the first outside of the NYC area, occupying the anchor store location of The Gallery at Market East.
Why should we be excited? Sure, it’s a bit past the main Chestnut and Walnut retail district of Center City, but it could very well be worth the trip, if only to serve as a piece of home to campus New Yorkers. Century 21 is also known to carry a designer markdown or two. Although, it will have to watch out for competition from Nordstrom Rack.
