I had a very disappointing experience at Nordstrom yesterday. I stood and then sat in the shoe department for about 20 minutes before anyone even acknowledged me. When I finally got an employee’s attention and showed him the shoes I was looking for, he was snobby and rude. He told me the shoes were not available and, from my experience, it did not seem like he actually made much of an effort to look for them.
What makes this even more frustrating is that I immediately checked the Nordstrom app, and the shoes were showing as available for in store pickup that same day. Since the employee was no help, I went online and purchased the shoes myself for in store pickup.
I placed the order around 3:00 PM, yet it was not ready for pickup until 7:46 PM, just 14 minutes before the store closed. Because of this, I had to make another trip back to the mall the following day just to pick up shoes that I originally tried to purchase in the store.
The customer service at Nordstrom has seriously gone downhill. Waiting 20 minutes just to be acknowledged, being treated rudely, and then having to do the employee’s job myself online was extremely frustrating. I expect much better customer service from Nordstrom, especially when I am trying to make a purchase in the store. Saks would never. It’s sad that this is the only department store available in the city I will be making the drive to Atlanta for now on. Absolutely pathetic customer service
To Management, Co-CEOs Erik Nordstrom and Pete Nordstrom,
Update — 8/25/2026 to 3 STARS
My experience with Nordstrom leadership has been an interesting and, ultimately, hopeful one.
On 8/18/2026, it became clear that while there are still some concerns at this location, there are also leaders who genuinely want to see meaningful change.
Heidi has emerged as a compassionate and encouraging face of change and inclusivity for this store.
I am hopeful that under her leadership, every customer will feel welcomed, respected, valued, and treated with dignity, regardless of who they are.
I appreciate the time leadership took to listen to my concerns, and I look forward to seeing those conversations translate into meaningful action. I plan to visit Nordstrom again and experience the outcome for myself.
My hope is simple: that every customer walks through those doors feeling seen, respected, and welcomed.
If you’ve had a similar experience, I encourage you to share your feedback, too. Your voice matters, and constructive feedback can help create positive change.
Update 8-4-2026
Heidi, a member of Nordstrom’s leadership team, personally contacted me and took the time to truly listen—not only to what happened, but to how it affected my family. She expressed genuine concern and a commitment to preventing this from happening to another family.
I encouraged continued Diversity Awareness, Unconscious Bias, and EEO Compliance training, along with consistent oversight.
Most importantly, I want my daughters to know that being silent is not an option. I deeply appreciate the love and effort they put into celebrating my birthday. Because of our conversation , we are willing to return to the Nashville store and try again, creating the positive family memories we originally hoped for. Thank you Heidi for the birthday wish! I look forward to updating this review after we speak again.
INITIAL REVIEW
Seierra: Your behavior displayed blatant prejudice and discrimination during what should have been a special celebration. We were the first customers waiting, yet attention was repeatedly directed elsewhere while we were overlooked. Offering a few giveaway items afterward did not make up for the treatment we received, the time that was wasted, or the experience that was taken from us. We were celebrating my birthday, and my daughter had carefully planned this makeup and shopping experience. That moment cannot be replaced.
Sabine: Thank you for being the exception. You were kind, considerate, attentive, and professional. Your outstanding customer service did not go unnoticed.
Management: I am not interested in a scripted response filled with “thank you” and “sorry.” At a time when disposable income is virtually nonexistent for many families, can Nordstrom really afford to have employees present the ugly face of racism to any customer?
This demands more than a note claiming a conversation was held. Real accountability is required. Sensitivity training, meaningful follow-up, and measurable changes in behavior are the minimum response this situation deserves.
I am requesting a formal written apology that acknowledges the harm caused, along with a clear explanation of the corrective actions being taken. Anything less sends the message that this conduct is tolerated.
I expect a genuine response, real accountability, and a commitment to change—not another scripted apology. Let's talk.