Christopher & Banks, a brand that has stood the test of time, began its journey in 1956 under the name Brauns Fashions in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Initially catering to a demographic of women aged 40 to 60, the brand quickly established itself as a go-to destination for stylish, age-appropriate apparel. Over the decades, Christopher & Banks evolved, reflecting the changing tides of fashion while staying true to its core customer base. The company went public in 1992, marking a significant milestone in its expansion and solidifying its presence in the retail market.

The turn of the millennium brought significant changes for the company, most notably the rebranding from Brauns Fashions to Christopher & Banks in 2000. This shift not only refreshed the brand’s image but also set the stage for further growth, including the introduction of CJ Banks, a plus-size sister brand, and the acquisition of Acorn Stores in 2004. Despite these expansions, the company faced challenges, particularly during the financial downturn of the late 2000s, leading to the closure of all Acorn Stores by the end of 2008. However, it was the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021 that dealt the most significant blow, forcing the company into bankruptcy and resulting in the closure of all its stores.

Despite these hurdles, Christopher & Banks has managed to endure, demonstrating resilience and adaptability. After being acquired by iMedia Brands following its 2021 bankruptcy, the brand made a comeback with a focus on online retail and a handful of physical stores. However, this revival was short-lived, as iMedia Brands itself filed for bankruptcy in 2023. The brand was once again sold, this time to IV Media, which acquired Christopher & Banks as part of a $55 million deal. Through these trials, Christopher & Banks continues to be a name synonymous with classic, reliable fashion, reflecting a rich history of adaptation and perseverance.

Christopher & Banks Commercial

How to tell if Christopher & Banks is vintage from the logo

Christopher & Banks has undergone several logo changes throughout its history, reflecting the brand’s evolution and adaptation to different eras in fashion. The variations in the logo over the decades can help determine the vintage of an item. Below, we explore the specific characteristics of the logos from the eras you’ve provided, helping you identify whether a Christopher & Banks item is vintage.

Can’t identify those vintage tags or labels? Upload a picture on our vintage tag identification page, and we’ll help you out!

1980s to now Christopher & Banks logo

• This logo features a classic serif font with both the “Christopher” and “Banks” names displayed in a traditional, elegant style.
• The ampersand (&) is a distinctive and prominent feature, styled in a way that blends seamlessly with the overall font.
• The logo from this era focuses on a clean and straightforward presentation, reflecting the brand’s appeal to a more mature and sophisticated audience.
• This logo has been in use for an extended period, with only slight variations, making it a recognizable symbol of the brand’s consistent identity.

1980s to now Christopher & Banks logo

2000s to now Christopher & Banks logo

• The 2000s version of the logo continues the use of a serif font but is more streamlined and modernized compared to earlier versions.
• The ampersand (&) remains a key feature, but it is now more stylized, adding a contemporary touch to the brand’s identity.
• The tagline “Life. You wear it well” appears beneath the logo, emphasizing the brand’s focus on lifestyle and versatility.
• This version of the logo reflects a subtle shift towards a more approachable and lifestyle-oriented brand image while maintaining its traditional roots.

2000s to now Christopher & Banks logo

How to tell if Christopher & Banks is vintage from the tags

Christopher & Banks has undergone several changes in its branding and tag designs over the decades. These changes reflect shifts in the company’s marketing strategy, aesthetic preferences, and production techniques. By examining the tags, it’s possible to determine the era of a Christopher & Banks garment, making it easier to identify vintage pieces.

1980s vintage Christopher & Banks tags

• Tags from this era typically feature a simple and minimalistic design.
• The font is straightforward, with “Christopher & Banks” printed in plain text, sometimes in all caps or mixed case.
• Tags are often rectangular and sewn into the neckline or waistband of garments.

1980s Christopher & Banks tags

1990s vintage Christopher & Banks tags

• Tags from the 1990s began to incorporate a more stylized and unique font.
• Some tags feature a larger “CB” logo, followed by the full brand name, “Christopher & Banks,” in smaller text.
• Tags might also include additional details such as size or country of manufacture, often printed directly on the tag.
• There is a noticeable shift toward more refined and upscale branding during this decade.

1990s Christopher & Banks tags

2000s vintage Christopher & Banks tags

• The 2000s tags continue the trend of refined and professional branding.
• The font remains elegant but becomes slightly bolder, with “Christopher & Banks” prominently displayed.
• Tags from this era often include additional elements such as a registered trademark symbol (®) and specific sizing information.
• Colors on the tags become more subdued, with neutral tones like beige and cream dominating the design.

2000s Christopher & Banks tags

2010s vintage Christopher & Banks tags

• Tags from the 2010s exhibit a more modern and contemporary design approach.
• The use of soft, pastel colors becomes more common, with some tags featuring embossed or embroidered logos.
• Branding remains consistent with previous decades but with a more polished and sleek presentation.
• Some tags from this era include additional design elements such as patterns or unique shapes, reflecting a more diverse approach to branding.

2010s Christopher & Banks tags