The Limited closes at Westfield Montgomery Mall; Aeropostale to reopen Jan. 6 (Photos)

The Limited has closed at Westfield Montgomery Mall in Bethesda. Known for casual and workplace apparel, the chain is in full collapse after struggling in recent years. Its first store opened in 1963 in Columbus, Ohio, and eventually grew into a retail empire that acquired Victoria's Secret, Express, Abercrombie & Fitch, Galyan's, Lane Bryant and Lerner. The company also created Bath & Body Works and Structure. In recent years, The Limited teamed with actress Eva Longoria on a clothing line.

While their stores are closing nationwide (Bethesda closed early, most are shuttering this Saturday), The Limited's website is still open with savings of 50% on all merchandise. Be advised that all sales are final.

In more positive retail news, the equally-struggling Aeropostale will reopen and reveal its store makeover this Friday, January 6. A whiteboard outside the temporarily-closed store sports cheerful John Hancocks from the "Aerofamily."