Liberty House: Crafts Collective To Chic Emporium

In the late 1960's, at the height of the Civil Rights Movement, a group of people came together in Jackson, Mississippi to form a non-profit collective called Liberty House. Liberty House sold quilts and other craft items, giving the profits back to the local community. There were eventually seven stores, but now, only two remain, in New York City. Today's Liberty House stores showcase more than crafts and quilts. These two stores are chic emporiums of clothing, jewelry, and gifts.

This evening I visited one of the stores, on Broadway between 91st and 92nd Streets. Part Anthropologie, part Coldwater Creek, with a little Eileen Fisher thrown in, the space is filled with comfortable, yet stylish clothing, made mostly from natural fibers. I saw sweaters by Beyond Threads, separates by Endless Knot, and lots of other small, but high-quality manufacturers. Looking for artisan-crafted jewelry? Liberty House has it. Searching for that perfect candle, mug, or diary? Look for it at Liberty House. I felt so relaxed and comfy browsing around this store that I had a hard time leaving.

I'll share my thoughts on the other store in a few days. It happens to be in a very interesting location. Check back here this weekend to find out what that means!

Buzzing off for now...