Today you would be hard pressed to find a better one-stop shop for high-end Kentucky Derby fashion than Rodes for Him/Her in Louisville. In business since 1914 Rodes for Him/Her has always been a Louisville staple for high-end fashion and luxury brands. Originally a Men’s Haberdashery which had expanded to 7 locations within a century, went through a rebranding in the late 1990’s, when the store shifted towards selling more specialized and focused brands and apparel. In 2002, the store added women’s apparel and Rodes for Her was born and continues the legacy of offering high-end hats and clothes. Every spring, Rodes fills with bright dresses and hats and fascinators (most are Christine A. Moore Millinery of course), all in anticipation of America's most famous fashion sporting event, the Kentucky Derby!
Needless to say this year has been a little different. On March 16th, Rodes closed their doors in accordance with the state of Kentucky’s mandated non-essential business closures due to COVID19. A day later, Churchill Downs announced the postponement of The 146th Kentucky Derby to September 5th. A bustling, bright spring season suddenly came to a halt. After surviving the 1918 pandemic, the Great Depression, the Louisville flood of 1937 and two World Wars Rodes was not about to let this break them. Like many stores they took to social media to connect with their staff, clients and the community by sharing words of encouragement, wisdom and strength.
A little over two months later Rodes is finally re-opening! This Wednesday, May 20th, Rodes will open their doors again. During the interim they worked hard to make sure both staff and customers will be able to shop safely. While the store was closed, it underwent a deep clean and will continue with routine and constant cleaning of surfaces and high-touch areas. The store will have modified store hours at first and Monday’s will be by private appointment only. The store hours will be 11am-5pm, Tuesday through Saturday. All staff members will wear masks, there will be sanitizing stations available, and all try-on clothing will be thoroughly steamed before returning to the floor. Social distancing shopping will of course be observed but virtual shopping via video conferencing and curbside pickup with free shipping and local delivery will also be available.
Rodes for Her/Him is all about making sure their customer has an amazing experience in their store - and when you shop there you can feel the love! This is why they have endured so long and the reason we love partnering with them! We love their integrity, their expertise and their elegant style! I am so happy Rodes is opening and I can't wait to get back to Louisville for a Trunk Show. All of us here at Christine A. Moore Millinery have missed them! Happy shopping and Happy Derby!