Wednesday , March 27 2024
Fashionistas and social culture fans will enjoy this enlightening look at an international shopping mecca and New York icon.

DVD Review: ‘Scatter My Ashes at Bergdorf’s’

Bergdorf Goodman is such a famous mecca for the richest and most fashion-forward shoppers in the world that it holds a certain fascination even for many us far from New York City and far away from that lifestyle. Major fashion designers show their wares there and new designers can be made or broken if they are accepted or rejected by the store. This heart of the luxury world and the devotion it inspires is the subject.of Scatter My Ashes at Bergdorf’s.

bergdorfsMany celebrities contributed interviews regarding Bergdorf’s to the documentary, including major designers like Giorgio Armani, Michael Kors, Manolo Blahnik, Christian Louboutin, Karl Lagerfeld, Marc Jacobs, Isaac Mizrahi, Dolce & Gabbana, and celebrities such as Joan Rivers and Candice Bergen.

But there is much more here than just talking heads. There are fascinating historical photos, film, and anecdotes, including scenes from fabulous parties in the living quarters over the store and Barbra Streisand’s first TV special, which was filmed in Bergdorf’s.

There are also rare glimpses of the inner workings of the establishment, including salespeople who make six-figure incomes and the amazing artists who create the incredible window display, especially the world famous Christmas displays that are a main attraction every year for New Yorkers and tourists alike.

Scatter My Ashes at Bergdorf’s is fascinating social history and a glimpse at the lifestyles of the rich and pampered, as well as those who cater to them. It may engender the desire to save a paycheck and travel miles for some viewers in order to buy a pair of shoes.

Obviously this documentary will not be of interest to everyone, but the title makes it quite obvious what it is about. Fashionistas will enjoy the designer interviews and the glimpses of all the pretty stuff on display in the fabulous building. Students of social history will like the historic photos, film, and commentary. In fact, this reviewer would have liked to see more of that aspect.

The bonus material is fairly inconsequential but amusing. There is an alternate and possibly better introduction and there are funny interview outtakes. Overall, this would make a great video to rent and then buy if you feel you will want to watch or refer to it again.

About Rhetta Akamatsu

I am an author of non-fiction books and an online journalist. My books include Haunted Marietta, The Irish Slaves, T'ain't Nobody's Business If I Do: Blues Women Past and Present, Southern Crossroads: Georgia Bluesand Sex Sells: Women in Photography and Film.

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