Off the Cuff: A Q&A with Bergdorf Goodman’s Tracy Margolies

April 24, 2026

Tracy Margolies is president of Bergdorf Goodman

“Off the Cuff” is a Q&A series from Luxury Daily exploring the career paths, current projects and next steps of those shaping the world’s best luxury brands.

The interviews feature a Proust-style twist, allowing readers to get to know industry leaders on a personal level. This edition features Tracy Margolies, president of Bergdorf Goodman.

In this Q&A, Ms. Margolies discusses the ever-rising relevance of experiential engagement and the importance of putting relationships first, naming her own personal luxuries. Here is the dialogue:

What was your first job ever? What did it teach you?

My first job was an internship at Bergdorf Goodman in 1996, where I gained an invaluable foundation in fashion and retail. From the very beginning, I was immersed in the fundamentals of the business – but most importantly, I learned that the customer is at the center of everything.

That principle has stayed with me throughout my career and continues to guide how I lead and approach my business today. Serving as president of Bergdorf Goodman feels like a true full-circle moment.

Which skills have been critical to your success? Did you gain these skills within or outside of the workplace?

The two skills that have been foundational to my success are my ability to build meaningful connections and my strategic, risk-taking mindset.

I’m naturally relationship-driven, which has enabled me to build authentic, enduring connections.

My approach to strategic risk-taking has been honed through experience, allowing me to make forward-thinking decisions with confidence.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

The best advice I’ve received is to align teams around a clear vision and strategy, ensuring that every individual feels a sense of accountability, ownership and investment in the overall success.

How has your field changed since you started out in luxury, and what do you think your industry will look like in a decade?

The industry has evolved significantly, driven largely by the rise of social media and the immediacy it has created in client expectations. Today’s clients are more informed and connected, and they expect a level of access that didn’t exist before.

At the same time, there has been a meaningful shift toward personalization, digital innovation and truly seamless shopping experiences – all while preserving the craftsmanship and heritage that define true luxury.

Looking ahead, I believe luxury will increasingly be defined by how it makes people feel. The next decade will place even greater emphasis on immersive, emotional and unforgettable experiences.

Experiential luxury will continue to grow, with clients seeking more than physical products, but also meaningful relationships, curated lifestyle moments and compelling stories. Ultimately, the brands that succeed will be those that can deliver this level of connection and uncompromising standard of service.

What recent projects have ignited your passion for working in luxury?

My time at Bergdorf Goodman continues to fuel my passion for true luxury, where both product and client experience are paramount.

I’m deeply inspired by exceptional design and craftsmanship, and each fashion week brings a renewed sense of energy as I witness the evolution of creative talent and vision across the industry.

Partnering and collaborating with the world’s most desired brands to create something truly distinctive for the Bergdorf Goodman customer is what continues to fuel my passion for the luxury industry and for my role within the company.

Who, in any industry or sphere, would you most like to share a long lunch with and where would you take them?

I would love the opportunity to spend time with Sarah Jessica Parker – a true fashion icon – perhaps over dinner at Or’esh, a recent favorite.

How do you get into the right mindset before a big meeting or presentation?

I always practice before any big meeting or presentation. I prefer not to rely on a script – instead, I focus on being fully present so I can speak authentically as myself.

On your days off, what can you be found doing to relax or have some fun?

On my days off, I spend meaningful time with my son, focusing on quality over quantity. We especially love making sushi together!

>What does luxury mean to you?

To me, luxury is rooted in quality and craftsmanship, but also in the relationships behind the experience and the memorable moments that stay with you. It’s about working with an incredible team whose shared passion and attention to detail elevate every interaction.

Luxury is how an experience makes you feel, where the unexpected is part of what you come to expect. It’s something you can’t always define, but you recognize it instantly when it’s there.

Whether a product or service/experience, what is your favorite luxury indulgence?

I deeply value time away with my son – any opportunity I get to spend quality time with him is a personal luxury. Those shared moments together are something I never take for granted.

I also love to treat myself to a lymphatic massage to reset my body and restore balance so I can consistently show up as my best self for my family, friends and our team.

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Off the Cuff: A Q&A with Bergdorf Goodman’s Tracy Margolies

Off the Cuff: A Q&A with Bergdorf Goodman’s Tracy Margolies

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