What: Dillard’s has launched 'The Coterie Shop,' a new luxury designer initiative available online and in select stores, aiming to attract luxury shoppers with exclusive collections.

Why it is important: This move signifies Dillard’s strategy to diversify and upscale its merchandise offerings, aligning with broader trends among department stores to revamp product assortments and cater to more affluent consumers.

Dillard’s, in an effort to rejuvenate its merchandise offerings and appeal to luxury shoppers, has introduced 'The Coterie Shop.' This initiative, announced on February 20, 2024, features an exclusive selection of luxury designers, including Abbey Glass, Buru, Crosby by Mollie Burch, and Fanm Mon. The Coterie Shop offers both special occasion and casual attire, marking a significant shift towards high-end fashion for Dillard’s. This initiative is part of a larger trend among department stores like Macy’s and J.C. Penney, which have also been diversifying their product lines with new private labels and collaborations.

The Coterie Shop is now available in select Dillard’s locations across multiple states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas. This move comes after Dillard’s reported sales declines in three consecutive quarters of 2023, indicating a strategic pivot to boost sales and attract a more upscale clientele. Alexandra Dillard Lucie, Dillard’s vice president of merchandising, expressed excitement about introducing customers to the unique and captivating pieces created by the featured brands’ talented artisans. This initiative represents Dillard’s commitment to enhancing its merchandise mix and customer experience amidst the evolving retail landscape.

Dillard’s goes after luxury shoppers with ‘The Coterie Shop’