From the Family Behind Barneys New York: The Phyllis and Fred Pressman Collection Heads to Auction at Freeman’s | Hindman

This fall, Freeman's | Hindman is proud to present Property from the Collection of Phyllis and Fred Pressman—a thoughtfully curated series of auctions honoring the extraordinary legacy of two visionary collectors whose refined taste and entrepreneurial spirit helped shape the American luxury experience.

As the guiding force behind Barneys New York, Phyllis and Fred Pressman redefined the shopping experience and elevated the brand into an international style icon. Mr. Pressman was the former CEO of Barneys and the son of Barney and Bertha Pressman, founders of Barneys New York. The couple’s influence extended far beyond fashion, as reflected in the remarkable collection they cultivated over decades. With homes in New York City, Southampton, and Palm Beach, the Pressmans surrounded themselves with fine art, furniture, and decorative objects chosen with discernment. Every piece in their collection speaks to a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, beauty, and innovation.

BULGARI, YELLOW GOLD AND DIAMOND NECKLACE Estimate: $30,000 – 50,000

BULGARI, GOLD AND DIAMOND BANGLE BRACELET Estimate: $12,000 – 18,000

The collection will be presented across five sales: within a single-owner sequence of the Important Jewelry sale on September 16, as a dedicated, online offering of furniture and decorative art on October 24, in the Post War and Contemporary Art sale on November 14, within The Holiday Edit: Jewelry and Luxury Handbags sale on November 18, and as a featured section of the December 7 American Art and Pennsylvania Impressionists auction. Together, these auctions will offer a remarkable glimpse into the Pressmans' world—one shaped by sophistication, discernment, and an unwavering passion for excellence.

A special emphasis will be placed on Phyllis Pressman, whose visionary leadership shaped Barneys’ identity during its most transformative years. As founder of Chelsea Passage, she championed home design as an expression of personal style and brought a new energy to the retail space, spotlighting artisans and designers from around the world. Her intuitive eye and creative instinct are reflected not only in the store she helped build, but in the objects that filled the couple’s homes.

Among the highlights is her exceptional jewelry collection, featuring pieces from celebrated houses such as Bulgari, Harry Winston, and Van Cleef & Arpels. These treasures are emblematic of her innate elegance and keen sense of style. Equally notable is the Pressmans’ thoughtful collection of American art, including paintings by Frederick Carl Frieseke, Edward Henry Potthast, William Merritt Chase, Robert Reid, amongst others, reflecting a deep affinity for the genre. This aspect of the collection speaks to their roots in Manhattan and their role in shaping a uniquely American expression of luxury.

On View in Southampton

Select highlights—including jewelry and luxury handbags—from the Pressman Collection will debut at Freeman’s | Hindman’s inaugural Hamptons Summer Soirée at the Southampton Arts Center on July 25, 6:00–8:00pm. This event also kicks off our exciting summer auction season, including the Hamptons Design Edit, sold to benefit East Side House. Guests will enjoy early access to the Pressman Collection alongside Southampton SEEN, photography by the notable designer, author, and Southampton resident Steven Stolman. For more information and to RSVP to our Hamptons Summer Soirée, please visit: https://summerhamptonsoiree.splashthat.com/

Further preview dates and viewing opportunities will be shared closer to each auction.

Upcoming Auctions featuring the Collection of Phyllis and Fred Pressman

Live Auction, Chicago Important Jewelry | September 16

Online Auction Interiors: The Phyllis and Fred Pressman Collection | October 24

Live Auction, New York Post War and Contemporary Art | November 14

Live Auction, Chicago The Holiday Edit: Jewelry and Luxury Handbags | November 18

Live Auction, Philadelphia American Art and Pennsylvania Impressionists | December 7