Storecasting: Henri Bendel Opening at Beverly Center in November

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All the Rage starts the day with some interesting news—luxury retailer Henri Bendel will be opening its first LA store in the Beverly Center this November. The brand has been garnering headlines since it decided to ditch its eclectic apparel offering earlier this year, instead focusing on accessories, beauty products and gift items.

Just like us, the LAT's blogger questioned how a high-end shop like this would fare in the Beverly Center, stating:

The Fifth Avenue retailer has more niche brands and higher-end merch than Macy’s and Bloomingdales -- the only two existing department stores currently in the mall -- so, who knows if the typical Beverly Center shopper will be willing to spend more than at the always-crowded stores such as Steve Madden and Aldo.

However, a recent article in WWD notes that Henri Bendel is developing an accessories concept strictly for malls, of which we have a feeling this is a part. If that's the case, a more mass market-friendly offering can probably be expected—but we still can't help but feel like the somewhat sleepy Beverly Center is an odd choice for launching a new concept, especially given all the newer, buzzier malls around town.
· Bendel Heads to the Beverly Center This October [All the Rage]
· Retail Concepts Look to Grow At ReCon Convention [WWD., sub. required]
· Henri Bendel [Official Site]