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It's the end of an era. Arcadia is closing, taking with it an impossibly cool inventory of hard-to-find indie designers and curated vintage. This was the boutique that introduced Philly to Mary Meyer, that we trusted to tell us which trends were worthy of tackling, and that made sustainable fashion more chic, less granola.
On the eve of her store's final day in business, Arcadia founder/owner Ali McCloud takes a look back at her seven-year run in Northern Liberties, reflecting on the friends and talent she's encountered along the way and sharing what's in store next for her space at 819 North Second Street.
Dear Philly,On May 23, 2014, Arcadia will be closing up shop, after seven great years in Northern Liberties. We have worked with so many fun, interesting, and talented designers, customers, fellow business owners, and friends along the way. We will miss you all and wish you the best of luck. Philadelphia is full of independent fashion and design talent, and we've loved being a little part of that community.
It is hard for me to part with a business I've been so passionate about for so long, but I feel lucky we've had such a great run, and I'm truly grateful for all of the experiences I've had and the people I've met building Arcadia. For me, running a small business has been a great experience, but full of ups and downs, successes and failures, and many long hours of work. In the past seven years we've seen so many businesses come and go, neighbors come and go, wonderful Arcadia employees come and go, our own Rittenhouse location open and close, and I've been lucky to have two amazing little boys, Finn and Tobin. It has all been part of a great ride!
After some soul searching I know it is the right time for some new adventures! I'm going to take a few weeks off to hang out and picnic with my boys. This summer I am starting a new job with Ticketfly, so I'll be around the city visiting my favorite concert and arts venues. Arcadia's truly wonderful manager, Betsy, and I are also going to keep working on Arcadia's blog so we can continue to keep an eye on the fashion community we love.
I'm also excited that another shop we all love is going to scoop up Arcadia's space in Northern Liberties and plans to carry some of the same designers and vintage we've been lucky to showcase over the years. They will bring a fresh, new aesthetic and energy to the space. I'm excited to see what's in store for 819! Good luck ladies!
Thanks for seven great years Philly! Let's keep in touch!
xoxo,
Ali
Editor's note: Arcadia's space has been scooped up by Ritual Ritual. More to come tomorrow.
· Breaking! Arcadia Boutique to Shutter Next Month [Racked Philly]
· Read It and Weep: Parting Words From Franklin Square's Liz Burt [Racked Philly]
· A Goodbye Letter From The Little Apple's Molly Cygan Rossettie [Racked Philly]