economy
188-year-old NYC pharmacy has been 'packed like sardines'—all because of $40 headbands and FX's 'Love Story'
Twenty-somethings are flocking to a nearly 200-year-old pharmacy in New York to buy headbands once worn by Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, the drugstore's owners say.
TL;DR
- C.O. Bigelow, an 188-year-old New York City pharmacy, is experiencing unprecedented customer traffic, particularly from twenty-somethings.
- The recent surge in visitors is driven by the popularity of a $40 tortoiseshell headband, linked to Carolyn Bessette Kennedy and featured in the FX show 'Love Story'.
- The pharmacy, owned by the Ginsberg family since 1939, has a history of sourcing luxury beauty products and hair accessories from Europe.
- Experts suggest the headband offers Gen Z "social currency," signaling cultural awareness and affordability.
- The store has maintained its commitment to an authentic customer experience, including knowledgeable staff and preserving historical aspects of its interior.
- The headbands have sold out multiple times since the show's premiere, with sales rising at other businesses associated with Bessette Kennedy.