Baker's Shoes

Baker’s Shoes was a staple of the Monroeville Mall’s retail landscape from its early years through the early 2010s. Known for its affordable, trendy women’s footwear, it became a nostalgic landmark for "mall rats" of the 1970s and '80s and is immortalized in pop culture through the mall's cinematic history.

Retail History & Role in the Mall

• Early Presence: Baker's was part of the mall's "golden era" after it opened in 1969. It was situated on the first floor and was a primary competitor to other shoe retailers like Butler's, which sat just a few doors down.
• Signature Services: The store was famous for its "sit-and-fit" full service, where salespeople brought shoes to customers. It was also the go-to location for dyeing shoes and purses to match prom or wedding dresses.
• Fashion Trends: During the 1970s and 80s, Baker's was known for carrying the latest trends, including platform shoes, go-go boots, and fringed boots.

Pop Culture: Dawn of the Dead (1978)

• The "Shoe Zombie": Because the George A. Romero horror classic was filmed inside the mall during off-hours, Baker's Shoes appears in the background of several scenes.
• Fan Heritage: Fans of the film often visit the mall to see the locations where iconic shots were taken. The mall currently hosts the Living Dead Museum, which commemorates the film's production.

Decline and Closure

• Corporate Bankruptcy: The parent company, Bakers Footwear Group, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in October 2012 due to declining mall traffic and competition.
• Final Closure: Most remaining stores, including the Monroeville location, were liquidated or closed shortly after the bankruptcy proceedings were finalized.