Barneys New York Is Back: A Nostalgic Beauty Collaboration
If you find yourself wandering the bustling streets of SoHo, specifically Prince Street, over the next few weeks, there’s a cultural revival happening. The iconic Barneys New York has made a much-anticipated return for a limited time only. Known as more than just a department store, Barneys was once a cultural barometer in NYC’s fashion scene—a place that launched countless brands and where trends were set.
Revival Through Collaboration
The resurgence is spearheaded by a nostalgic beauty collaboration with Hourglass Cosmetics, marking two decades since the brand first debuted at Barneys. This partnership brings back fond memories of an era when fashion and beauty intersected in the most magical ways on the streets of New York.
Barney’s Legacy
When Barneys closed its doors in 2019, it left a void that many felt deeply. The store was more than just a shopping destination; it was a cultural institution where aspirational brands found their footing and where industry insiders mingled with style enthusiasts.
Hourglass Cosmetics: A Celebratory Return
At the heart of this revival is Hourglass founder Carisa Janes, who fondly recalls Barneys as an essential part of her brand’s history. “Barneys was like a family,” Janes shares from her New York base. Her vision for celebrating two decades with a pop-up store aims to bring back that familial atmosphere.
Collaborative Spirit
The project gained momentum quickly after conversations between Janes, former Barneys creative director Simon Doonan, and ex-senior vice president Julie Gilhart. Together, they envisioned a space that would honor the store’s legacy while introducing new brands to its storied platform.
Mixing Icons with Innovators
True to Barneys’ ethos of blending established names with emerging talent, the pop-up will feature iconic fashion houses like Marc Jacobs and Thom Browne alongside beauty newcomers such as Reome and Perfumehead. This mix aims to celebrate the past while embracing the future.
Involving Emerging Talent
The involvement of new brands is pivotal, according to Gilhart: “Barneys was an exciting place where a new brand could get its start.” Janes hopes this collaboration will echo that spirit by showcasing NYC’s dynamic and diverse talent pool.
An Experiential Journey
Opening amidst the excitement of New York Fashion Week on September 5th, the pop-up promises more than just shopping. The plan includes a series of events and activations designed to immerse visitors in an experience—a blend of theatre, discovery, and nostalgia.
A Beauty Bar Experience
At the core of this space is a beauty bar where Hourglass’s beloved products, like the Vanish Airbrush Concealer and Ambient Light Powder, are on display. This includes exclusive limited-edition items featuring artwork from Na Kim, further intertwining Barneys’ storied past with Hourglass’s modern aesthetic.
Passing the Baton
The entire project is a homage to where both brands began, aiming to “pass the baton” by nurturing new talent. Janes encapsulates this sentiment: “We feel strongly that Barneys helped us and now, let’s pay it forward.”
Visit and Discover
Set to open at 14 Prince Street until October 11th, 2024, the Barneys New York and Hourglass pop-up store is a must-visit for fashion and beauty enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking nostalgia or inspiration, this collaboration promises an unforgettable experience.
The Barneys New York and Hourglass Pop-Up:
5 September – 11 October 2024
14 Prince Street (at the corner of Prince Street and Elizabeth Street in SoHo)
Featured Product: Ambient Lighting Edit Palette
- $90
- A collaboration between Hourglass Cosmetics and Barneys New York.
The return of Barneys, even if temporary, is a testament to the enduring impact of iconic brands in shaping culture and setting trends. As visitors step into this pop-up store, they’re not just walking through another retail space—they’re stepping into a chapter of fashion history reborn.