Anne Peterson curates historical treasures at SMU’s DeGolyer Library, including Stanley Marcus’ papers, reflecting Neiman Marcus’ lasting fashion legacy.
DALLAS — At SMU’s DeGolyer Library, curator of photographs Anne Peterson has access to a treasure trove of historical artifacts and the rarest collections.
“You could say it’s like a museum with books,” she said, handling collections that span decades — even centuries, including rare gems like the Stanley Marcus papers.
Stanley Marcus, the visionary behind department store giant Neiman Marcus, revolutionized retail, merchandising, and marketing. There are more than 400 boxes in the library filled with documents, pictures, ads, and correspondence.
“He was ahead of his time. He was the brilliance of the family,” Peterson said.
His innovative approach transformed Neiman Marcus into a global icon, a Dallas institution that brought high-end fashion to the heart of the city.
Neiman Marcus’ flagship store, an architectural landmark since 1907, was once a beacon of luxury.
The neo-classical building downtown became a global draw, hosting fashion shows long before they were commonplace. Fashion legends like Coco Chanel, Sophia Loren, and Yves Saint Laurent graced its halls and can be seen in photos with Marcus.
As the retail landscape evolves, the flagship’s closing marks the end of an era.
“Downtown department stores are becoming a thing of the past,” shares fashion media professor Ethan Lascity. What began in a city known for cotton and oil, evolved into a fashion hub.
“Neiman Marcus was so influential with fashion promotion,” Lascity added.
For many, the store wasn’t just a place to shop — it was a place of tradition for many families.
“It’s almost like a way of life that you would go there,” said Peterson. As Neiman Marcus closes its doors, its legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of countless Texans.
