The retail operator for Eddie Bauer’s North American stores has filed for bankruptcy.

Depending on how things turn out, the outdoor gear brand could see the closure of nearly 200 stores across the United States and Canada. The Seattle Times also reports that the company's store operator plans to close its headquarters in Seattle and lay off 60 workers. 

This isn’t the first sign of trouble for the Seattle-based business, which faced bankruptcy proceedings in 2003 and 2009. 

This latest filing won’t affect the company’s wholesale, manufacturing or online operations -- so it’s not like the brand’s going away completely.

But the news still feels pretty big…. 

Because once upon a time, not too long ago, Eddie Bauer was a premiere spot for outdoor gear. It outfitted the first American to summit Mount Everest.  

And there was a time when it was quite the fashion statement to walk into work with an Eddie Bauer puffer. 

As the company faces an uncertain future, we decided to reflect on its legacy. 

Guests: 

• Clara Berg, a fashion historian and Curator of Collections at MOHAI.

Related links:

• Our Story – Eddie Bauer
• Eddie Bauer to close its Seattle headquarters, lay off 60 workers | The Seattle Times
• Eddie Bauer: From Outdoor Staple to Bankruptcy Watch - Business Insider
• Retail operator of Eddie Bauer files for bankruptcy, will keep stores open during restructuring | AP News
• Eddie Bauer store operator files for bankruptcy, seeks sale | Reuters

Thank you to the supporters of KUOW, you help make this show possible! If you want to help out, go to kuow.org/donate/soundsidenotes

Soundside is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network.