We decided to start a new series spotlighting retail shops in our neighborhood, Northern Liberties (us locals call it NoLibs).  There are tons of really great shops right here in our hood.  You could probably find something for everyone on your holiday shopping list.   We feel it is extremely important to support independent retailers – especially this time of year. I could list all the reasons, but instead I’ll just list one important one from the 350 Project: “For every $100 spent in locally owned independent stores, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll, and other expenditures.  If you spend that in a national chain, only $43 stays here.  Spend it online and nothing comes home.” (see more reasons to shop local here).  If you can’t make it to NoLibs, support an indie shop in your own neck of the woods!

So let’s start shopping!  First stop: Arcadia.  Located at 819 N. 2nd Street, Arcadia focuses on sustainable fashion.  The shop is stocked with beautiful clothing, jewelry & accessories by small, and often hard to find, indie fashion labels.  They also keep a well curated selection of vintage + recycled clothing.

Work by local artists adorn the walls & the shop hosts regular openings, trunk shows & other fun events (which always include a yummy, seasonal cocktail & we like cocktails….).

 There is also a nice selection of unique gift items, like these candles.  I especially love these little cactus candles, which I think would be a nice gift for a co-worker.

I am mesmerized by all the sparkly, handmade jewelry.  I love the earthy/bohemian vibe of it all – lots of stones, crystals and wood.

My favorites are these chunky wood rings and bangles.

There is a great selection of bags & scarves.  I love all the patterns & textures.

But my favorite thing about Arcadia are all the super cute clothes!  I love all the prints & the fabrics.  I got two of my all time favorite dresses here by designer Kelly Lane.  They fit me so perfectly and are so comfy.  Also, when you shop here you can feel good about what you are buying b/c the designers they carry all use sustainable business practices.

Now stop what you are doing and go check out Arcadia for yourself (or um, visit during the Holiday Shopping Spree cuz you’ll get a discount).

www.arcadiaboutique.com
819 N. 2nd Street
or visit their Rittenhouse location (it’s smaller than the NoLibs one and we are only telling you this b/c we care, we don’t just really want you to come up to our hood…tee-hee)
265 S. 20th Street