Rothmans Celebrated 100 Years of Menswear

The family-run New York City clothing institution marked a century of business with a special anniversary event.

Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Men’s Clothing

Bold vector editorial illustration of a tailored men's blazer and vintage tailor shears, evoking the heritage and craftsmanship of a century-old menswear institution. — New York City menswear retailer Rothmans marked its 100th anniversary this week, commemorating a century of business in the city's competitive retail landscape. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Rothmans celebrated its 100th anniversary in New York City with a gala event. The store has evolved over a century from its humble roots into a staple of the city's menswear scene.

Why it matters

This milestone highlights the endurance of a multi-generational retail business that has adapted to changing consumer tastes. The celebration honored a century of history since the founder first started the store.

The retailer has remained in business for 100 years and is now managed by the fourth generation of the family. The store was originally founded by Harry Rothman, who began his career selling goods from a pushcart.

The players

Harry Rothman

He founded the menswear business in 1926 after starting his career selling rags from a pushcart.

Ken Giddon

He began managing the business in 1985 to oversee a liquidation and now operates the store.

Jim Giddon

He is a current operator of the family-run menswear store.

Will Giddon

He joined the store as a representative of the fourth generation of the founding family.

The details

To mark the anniversary, the store cleared its main floor to host a stage and bar, accompanied by a video retrospective of the company. The business transitioned from a discount model in the Lower East Side to a full-price menswear institution.

1918: Harry Rothman's father died when Harry was 15.
1926: Harry Rothman founded the business.
1985: Ken Giddon joined the store to manage its liquidation.
October 8, 2026: The centennial anniversary party occurred.

Culture Shift

Rothmans mirrors the broader evolution of the retail industry's transition from discount-focused survival models to full-price boutique branding. This shift highlights a departure from 20th-century bargain retail toward specialized fashion institutions that prioritize long-term brand equity.

For local shoppers, this milestone reflects the continued availability of a long-standing menswear destination in the city. The celebration reinforces the store's role as a staple for consumers looking for established, family-operated retail options.

The takeaway

The longevity of this business underscores how adaptation remains vital for survival in a changing retail environment. Local business owners can look to the store's transition from liquidation to a thriving institution as a model for reinventing a legacy brand.