Not Your Father's State Department Store

The Moscow ГУМ (GUM) is a beautiful building facing the Kremlin on Red Square. Previously the State Department store, it was one of the only stores in the Soviet Union that did not suffer from shortages of goods, and lines often crossed the square.  GUM is currently a shopping mall owned by Bosco di Ciliegi, a Russian luxury company that designs the Russian Olympic uniforms.  The building looks like an elaborate gingerbread house, lit up with thousands of tiny lights at night.  A few years ago, GUM opened Gastronome № 1, one of my favorite food stores. It lacks the grand architecture and chandeliers of Eliseevsky on Tverskaya, but there is no comparison when it comes to the food.  GUM is one of my favorite stops in Moscow, a warm welcoming break from bad weather. The window displays and unique seasonal decor never disappoint.

GUM at Night

Talk about Throwback Fashion

Sakura Blooms in GUM

Sakura in Full Plastic Bloom