Neiman Marcus Inc. vice president and men’s fashion director Colby McWilliams said Monday he will soon retire, capping a career with the Dallas-based luxury retailer that has spanned over three decades.
“I have decided to leave Neiman Marcus after 37 years to pursue my interests — interior design, photography, art, writing and consulting,” McWilliams said.
He is recognized as an authority on men’s fashion who over the years imparted his knowledge to numerous Neiman Marcus buyers and merchandise executives.
After graduating from Southern Methodist University with a degree in marketing, he joined the company in 1972 as a sales associate in men’s furnishings at the downtown Dallas flagship. He advanced through the executive training program and positions of increasing responsibility, from assistant buyer of dress shirts and ties, to department manager of men’s at the Houston Galleria store, to buyer of shirts and ties. In 1988, he was promoted to director of men’s fashion and merchandise development. In 1992, he attained the title of vice president.
He appears to be the most tenured fashion director in American department stores, which have been curtailing such positions recently. The company has no immediate plans to replace him.