Say Goodbye to DSW Rockford: Store Closing Date Announced

It’s the end of an era for Rockford’s shoe lovers. The DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse at 6636 E. State Street is packing up its shoes and calling it quits on September 20. That’s according to a team member who probably has been fielding the same “Wait… WHAT?!” reaction all week.

DSW in Rockford Is Closing — Where Will We Get Discount Designer Shoes Now?

Get our free mobile app

This one hurts a little. When I was growing up, all the grown men I aspired to be like believed that "you can judge a man by his shoes.” As a boy, I didn't completely understand that; all I saw were some cool men in very nice shoes, and I wanted to be just like them. I used to have to drive to the Chicago suburbs to find good-looking, high-quality shoes, so I was thrilled when DSW opened in Rockford. Back to the burbs, I guess.

Nearly a Decade of Discount Shoe Heaven

The Rockford DSW opened in 2015, blessing us with aisles of discounted designer shoes, boots, sneakers, heels, sandals, and accessories. And now, after almost ten years of being the place you could “just browse” and leave with three pairs, it’s leaving us.

Why This Hurts Shoe Shoppers

Sure, DSW has over 500 stores in the U.S. and Canada, but those aren’t in Rockford. They’re “out there” in other towns, and no, a road trip for boots doesn’t hit the same. This store was our go-to for that perfect mix of “practical” and “unnecessary but totally worth it.”

MORE: LOOK! 5 Most Hated Intersections in Rockford, Do You Agree?

When’s the Closing Sale?

If you’re like me, you’re already planning to casually “stop by” once the clearance stickers start appearing. And by casually, I mean sprinting in like there’s a limited-edition sneaker drop.

The Countdown Begins

So mark your calendars: September 20 is goodbye day, according to mystateline.com. Until then, let’s keep our eyes open, wallets ready, and feet prepared for one last Rockford DSW treasure hunt.

And seriously — text me when the sale starts.

MORE: 5 Places in Rockford Area Serving the Best Comfort Food