Nashville family-owned clothing retailer will shut its doors after 171 years

Levy’s Clothier, the oldest family-owned clothing men’s clothing store in the country, is closing its doors after 171 years. (Google Earth)

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) —Levy’s Clothier, the oldest family-owned clothing men’s clothing store in the country, is closing its doors after 171 years

A Nashville institution, Levy’s will close its Green Hills location in late December. The fifth-generation owners, David and Ellen Levy, cite health issues and a lease renewal

“When I look back at our history, I can’t help but be proud,” said David Levy, President. “While the decision to close is bittersweet, I am grateful for our incredible staff whose attention to detail is unmatched and to our customers for giving us the distinct privilege of dressing their family for generations. Our vendors, wife Ellen, sister-in-law Robin Rose, my two siblings Ralph and Gail, and our amazing store associates have all supported me in our mission to serve Nashville and Middle Tennessee clients with integrity and best practices. I am humbled by the store’s success—a rarity in retail that still bears my family name—and look forward to celebrating with Nashville over the next few months.”

Levy’s opened in 1855 on Market Street in Downtown Nashville, before the Civil War. Since it first opened, the store has survived the Great Depression, the Great Recession and changes to the commerce landscape with the advent of online shopping. The store moved to Green Hills in 1978

David Levy, great-great-grandson of the original owner, took the reins of Levy’s in the summer of 1998

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Levy’s is known for carefully curated luxury men’s and women’s apparel and accessories sourced from across the globe. Their wardrobe consultants aid customers with one-on-one shopping, and in-house tailors and seamstresses offer alterations, repairs and completely custom garments. September will be “Custom Month,” the last chance for clients to come to the store for custom tailoring with special discounts.

Levy’s tradition of customer service has made it a beloved Nashville business, and customers are invited to stop by the store and share their stories in the coming months before the final day

“I know I won’t be able to walk away from 49 years of friendships, but I look forward to more time spent with my family,” added Levy. “We’d love to hear your story—stop by the store or send us an email at customerservice@levysclothes.com to share your most memorable experiences shopping at Levy’s.”

Levy’s is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday. Private appointments are available. Customers can also shop online at levysclothes.com

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