Skip to main content

Stores From Malls We Wish Were Still Here

Fashion Bug, JCPenney, and Wilsons Leather stores are shown in a mall with people walking by.

You know, there's nothing quite like taking a trip down memory lane, especially when it comes to our favorite mall stores. Remember the days when we used to stroll through the mall, window shopping, and occasionally splurging on something special? Ah, those were the times. Let me jog your memory and take you back to some of the classic mall stores we all loved but have now disappeared for good.

A grand opening sign for Chess King store with balloons and clothing racks inside.

Who could forget Chess King? That trendy clothing store that opened in 1968 and became the go-to spot for all things fashion throughout the '70s and '80s. With over 500 locations nationwide, it's such a bummer they had to close their doors in 1995. Remember how we all wanted to look like the coolest chess pieces on the board? Good times.

And what about Hickory Farms? Oh man, we'd sample those mouth-watering meats and cheeses as we passed by their kiosks. They started in 1951 and once had over 1,000 locations, but sadly, they've mostly vanished from malls, focusing on their catalog business instead.

Hickory Farms of Ohio storefront with red barn design and people inside.

Casual Corner was another favorite, wasn't it? Founded in 1950 and peaking at 525 stores, this place was a one-stop-shop for stylish sportswear and clothing for working women. Unfortunately, the competition got the better of them, and all their stores closed by the end of 2005.

Then there's Wilson's Leather. I remember when it was called Wilson's House of Suede back in the day. We used to marvel at their chic leather jackets and sleek accessories. Sadly, they closed their retail locations and shifted their focus to online shopping.

Who could forget Gadzooks? This teenage hot spot opened in 1983, with their iconic VW bugs as displays. They once had nearly 200 stores, but they filed for bankruptcy in 2004, and Forever 21 eventually bought them out and phased out the remaining stores.

A family stands outside Gadzooks store, a clothing shop, with a sign offering a second item at 50% off.

And let's remember Kinney Shoes! They started in 1894 and became the largest family shoe retailer by 1936. They were a big name in the shoe business through the '90s, but their parent company started closing hundreds of stores in 1998. Luckily, their legacy lives on through their sister store, Foot Locker.

Ah, memories. But there are so many more stores that we used to love and have now disappeared. To take a trip down memory lane, check out this 'MadlyOdd' video featuring mall stores that have disappeared for good. You'll love it because it reminds you of simpler times and brings back fond memories. Remember to like and share it with your friends who also cherish these good old days!