Some of the leading American department store chains are:

• Macy's: The largest department store chain in the U.S. by retail sales, with over 500 stores across the country. It offers a wide range of products and brands, from affordable to upscale, and is known for its annual Thanksgiving Day Parade, its flagship store in New York City, and its involvement in fashion shows and events. ¹
• Kohl's: The second-largest department store chain in the U.S. by retail sales, with more than 1,000 stores in 49 states. It sells mid-priced and upscale fashions and merchandise, and has exclusive partnerships with celebrities and influencers, such as Jennifer Lopez, LC Lauren Conrad, and Scott Living. It also plans to open more than 300 new stores over the next decade. ^{2 3}
• Nordstrom: A high-end department store chain with over 100 stores in the U.S. It sells luxury and designer brands, such as Armani, Burberry, Chanel, Gucci, and Prada, and has its own private labels, such as Nordstrom Signature, Halogen, Zella, and BP. It is known for its excellent customer service, free shipping and returns, and loyalty program. It also operates Nordstrom Rack, a discount off-price division. ^{1 3}
• Belk: A regional department store chain that operates nearly 300 stores in 16 states, mainly in the Southeast. It sells clothing, shoes, accessories, home goods, and beauty products, with a focus on Southern style and culture. It is a family-owned company that was founded in 1888, and is one of the oldest department store chains in the U.S. ^{4 5}