Inside the Reopening of Century 21’s Flagship Location

Approximately two hours before Tuesday’s official reopening of Lower Manhattan’s legacy department store Century 21 (22 Cortlandt St.), the line of bargain hunters was already wrapped around the block. Some shoppers had even come from the wayyyyy outer-boroughs for the event — anticipating that they’d be leaving the flagship location with bags upon bags to heft onto the train.

Visibly excited to return since the location’s 2020 shuttering back at the height of the Covid pandemic, some New Yorkers cheered as they entered the front doors.

The atmosphere on this sunny spring morning was undeniably exhilarating. 

June and Anna, two opening day attendees who described themselves as “avid” Century 21 shoppers, were looking forward to exploring all four floors of the reopened location. “We’re so happy they’re back,” said Anna.

The new iteration of the store spans 100,000 square feet in total. The first level, where customers can enter from either Cortlandt St. or Dey St., features loads of handbags, including some particularly high-end wares from designers like Chanel, YSL and Gucci.

That said, customers looking for more mid-range or downright affordable bags will also find plenty to peruse.

If handbags aren’t your thing, mosey over to the displays of glasses and sunglasses, a section of the store which quickly became packed on the sunny opening day. On the same floor, you’ll find fragrances, accessories, beauty items and a limited selection of home gifts like candles and vases. 

The downstairs lower level has men’s and women’s shoes, plus luggage and children’s apparel. The second level boasts racks of women’s apparel, from swimsuits to floor-sweeping gowns to athletic wear and basically everything in between. The third and highest level of the store features men’s apparel and the alterations department. 

If you’re itching to explore the store for yourself, we’d give it a few days to let the crowds come through. Of course, if you just can’t wait to get back in there, we certainly don’t blame you.