First Look Inside Nordstrom Canada

It is undeniable that Canada will be watching as the beloved American luxury department store opens their first retail store in Canada this Friday.

Nordstrom will call Calgary, AB home first and will follow by opening stores across the country in 2015. Ottawa next, followed by their largest store in Vancouver, BC.

But yesterday, as possibly the luckiest blogger, I was invited to enter the blacked out storefront to explore their new digs and drool over their collections; some of which will be making their first appearance in Canada.

And what I saw satisfied me beyond my wildest expectations!

Here are several things that made me go WOW!

1. Shoes

Nordstrom started their business as a shoe store, so we all expect pretty great things from that department.

Well they certainly haven’t failed there, the store will house 5 shoe departments! 3 women’s, 1 men’s, and 1 children’s.

For women, luxury designers like Valentino have arrived with classic and daring choices.

While the fashion huntresses will be hot & heavy exploring new lines like the SJP collection which is exclusive to Nordstrom.

Finally Calgary can channel Carrie Bradshaw realness!

2. Cosmetics

A new way to shop cosmetics will show counters without divisions.

Side by side and in a line, shoppers will be able to view & compare brands at a glance as products have been made easily accessible.

One of the newest and most interesting concepts, that I’ve never seen before, will be available to customers as well:

A Beauty Concierge.

A staffed desk which offers shoppers answers and advice on trends, product comparisons and brands.

If you saw something in a magazine but have no idea where to start, the beauty concierge is your perfect helper. This will also be a great resource for men shopping for their ladies with no idea what’s in that crinkled tube or empty compact.

3. Kids

You got ’em, Nordstrom loves them.

They have an expansive department for you to shop, and a place to make your children to feel special in.

A playhouse for the little ones to craft while you “ohhh” & “awww” over their private label collection.

But the thoughtfulness doesn’t end there…

Nordstrom will offer fun events like shoe tying classes.

And to make your child’s first shoe buying experience memorable, they’ll receive a complimentary ‘Nordie’ to commemorate the event.

It’s virtually a child’s Oscar for “Best in Shoe”.

Oh… And Calgary, home of the Calgary Stampede, check out these perfect boots at a ridiculously low price point! ($39.95)

4. Sip and Snack

I had heard of the EBar, a small in store coffee shop that offers coffees and snacks to go.

But what was news to me was the full-on restaurant included in the Calgary concept: Bazille… It is only the 3rd of its kind!

Not only did I get a chance to view the menu which varies from Ginger Crusted Ahi Tuna Salad, Prime Rib French Dip and Grilled shrimp & Asparagus Risotto; The chefs were kind enough to satisfy my sweet tooth by packing me up a Bread Pudding to go.

Hands down this is the best bread pudding I’ve had to date, and trust me, I am an expert when it comes to desserts!

5. Men’s

Yes guys, we finally have a entire area to call our own!

Fragrances and skin care products are all housed in the men’s department.

Shoes & suits so close together that you could practically put together an entire look by reaching left to right.

With endless amounts of designer denim and stylishly cool pairings to compete your look.

Guys will finally have a place to be guys!

6. Oh Canada

Nordstrom hasn’t come unprepared. They have been hard at work to understand our culture and embrace our people.

As such, they have styled the store walls by using 17 unique pieces of art by 11 Canadian Artists.

A fact that might go unnoticed by some, but is certainly a considerate touch.

7. The Party Room

Gossip with your girlfriends whist draping yourself in delectable fashions. The women’s fitting room in their BP department offers a unique concept:

Adjoining curtained fitting rooms.

No longer will you have to sashay in front of strangers when shopping with friends. The room is double the size, with a mirror on each end and a divider curtain in between… When you’re both ready to reveal your looks, just pull the curtain back and judge each other in private.

Nordstrom has certainly come to Canada with a new fresh look on shopping.

At an expansive 140,000 sq feet it’s a place loaded with new concepts, new brands and delicious wares which will keep you occupied all day long.

I am so excited to hear the reviews after the store opens to the public on Friday, September 19th.

They’ve certainly blown me away and I’m certain you’ll feel the same way.

Thank you to all my new friends at Nordstrom for sharing this first look with myself and my readers.

You say “We Love Your Style, Calgary” and I say “We Love You” right back!

Welcome to your new home!

Mr. Fab strom