November 11, 2009

Anthro-chic

When I shop, I really try and patronize smaller, non-chain stores. I took the Shop Locally 3/50 Pledge earlier this year and really try to keep my promise. Anthropologie falls somewhere between a national chain store and a local store. With 130 stores world-wide, including a newly opened one on London’s chic Regent Street, they’re far smaller than, say, Walmart.

I have always liked their quirky mix of items and their artistic way of merchandising what’s on offer. Apparently, EVERYTHING in the store is for sale, including the window displays, which at the Soho store, were made of paper and plastic cups!NYC 082Someone had made two life-size (not that I am 100% certain about this) ostriches from pages of books! NYC 068 He was taller than I am, and had the funniest expression on his face. His companion had his head buried in the sand.

NYC 067 NYC 070

Speaking of books, there was the most massive hand-made book laid out on one of the beds on display. It must have measured about 20 x 20 inches. NYC 077The book was full of short poems/rhymes and illustrations. It was really amazing.

As I mentioned, I am quite partial to Anthropologie’s displays, and loved the crossed spoon plate holders. I took a closer look at one, and figured that with a little bit of heavy gauge wire and some solder, I could whip a couple of these up, tout de suite!NYC 066 I thought the initials on these cups were perfectly placed… and no, I didn’t hang them this way!NYC 074 These bowls reminded me of one of Madeline Weinrib’s fabrics – Green Brooke, perhaps? Or maybe an ikat?NYC 072 Another thing I could whip in my copious spare time is this quilt made from old plaid blankets. It was backed with a very soft wool and looked to be very cozy!NYC 079Last, but not least, was this incredible GIANT knitted blanket. I am a knitter and I can not even imagine what size needles you would need to make stitches this large! NYC 080 I knitted a blanket once, it was hot pink mohair and was light as a feather and kept me toasty warm in the cold Welsh winters, springs, summers and falls.

16 comments:

  1. I would love to learn how to knit, is it too late?!! Anthropologie is just great.

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  2. That stuff looks neat.Those quilts and those bowls look good.Are they hand made or machine made?

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  3. I'm thoroughly enjoying Man Shops Globe - so interesting to see their process. Tonight's episode made me want that salad spinner.

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  4. I'll wander into Anthropologie as much to check out their displays as to play with the merchandise. We've never had ostriches though!

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  5. Anthro definitely needs to open up a store in Norway!!

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  6. Have you every watched the Sundance shoe Man Shops Globe? It is about the head buyer(maybe owner) of Anthro and tracks his travels around the globe searching for amazing item and artists for the store. He is OK, not my fave, but his travels and finds are as good as it gets.

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  7. I LOVE these shots! Especially the fun artsy pieces.

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  8. I LOVE Anthropolgie's window displays, even more than the clothes. Anytime I'm at the (dreaded) mall in Towson, I immediately head up to the 4th floor to check out A's latest window display. Their cut books in all kinds of shapes and patterns are some of the most amazing, inventive things I've seen. Inspired me to try it myself, though I think you'd need a super-sharp exacto knife. You should also check out Tracy Porter (tracyporter.com) for beautiful, original design.

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  9. I spent a rainy yesterday morning happily sipping a gingerbread latte while browsing in an Anthro. as well.
    Our little one isn't quite as fantastic as yours, but after waiting 10 years to get one, I will not complain!

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  10. Meg,
    I knit as well. How much would it hurt one's fingers to knit with wool so thick. Again, it might be worth it for the quick results.

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  11. Meg - nothing makes me more cheerful than a trip Anthropologie when I'm down. I snagged that green Ikat bowl just because I couldn't resist. We have a small version of it's store here in Houston. I am use to a large store like they had in Seattle. When it come to Anthro.; the bigger the better. I wonder if anyone does not like to shop there?

    * their windows rock

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  12. I really like those plate holders. I wonder if they'd need polishing though? Got enough of that to do piling up now... .

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  13. My very hip niece introduced me to Anthro a few years ago. I love the initial mugs. I have one for every houseguest. "D" works for my Dad or my sister Deborah, etc. So far I have the S,M,K,J,O,W. It makes guests feel welcome to have their own mug - and it reminds me of my far-away family and friends after they've returned home!

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  14. I love anthropology, but rarely buy anything there, isn't that funny?
    I am inspired by their display as well.
    I think the Soho store is unique and very different from the one I have out in the burbs.

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  15. What a visual treat. Thanks! I need to pay a visit soon.

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  16. I love A's visuals as well and funny that you mentioned the 3/50 pledge, because I had the exact debate in my head the other day when I was in there. I had to buy a gift and found a book there most appropriate. I knew that I could not buy it and go down to the local bookseller nearby and patronize him instead. Buy now--go to local guy...hmmm. I finally decided that at that moment I couldn't justify the 45 minutes it would take me to go to the bookstore so I bought the book at A. I justified just like you---it isn't Walmart! And they do try to seek out locals artisans wherever they buy so they are improving the lives of many people worldwide.
    Olga
    PS-I LOVE the ostriches!

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