Century 21 Files For Bankruptcy Due to COVID-19 Pandemic

Century 21 storefront advertising “Going out of business” sales | Photo by Lucas Drumond

After failing to receive $175 million from insurance providers, Century 21 filed for bankruptcy in September, joining the lengthy list of other national retailers who have done the same since the pandemic started.

Century 21 was well-known for its discounted prices off of designer brands such as Calvin Klein and Michael Kors. They carried everything from makeup, coats, shoes, handbags and hats. Thirteen locations were dispersed throughout the city; including one across the street from The King’s College student housing in Brooklyn and just a few blocks away from the King’s campus building in the Financial District.

Photo by Lucas Drumond

Its tagline, “New York’s Best Kept Secret,” couldn’t be further from the truth as it essentially became what the New York Times calls “a New York institution.” Century 21 became a part of pop culture, with references in shows such as Sex and the City, where Carrie Bradshaw deemed the store “the best part of jury duty.” It has made its way into New York Fashion Week and in The Met Show, titled “Our New Clothes: Acquisitions of the 1990’s.” Tourists go crazy for this store, entering with empty suitcases and leaving with full ones to take home. Celebrities such as Kim Kardashian and Cardi B couldn’t resist their prices as well, making this store one loved by all.

Century 21, the store across the street from the World Trade Center that survived the 9/11 attack, couldn’t survive the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. After 60 years of service, they will be closing their doors for good.

Photo by Lucas Drumond