Liberty celebrates 140 years in style

From exclusive launches to the Christmas window unveiling, discover how you can help commemorate Liberty London’s 140th birthday

In fashion, labels come and go from decade to decade, but longevity is testament to design excellence, quality and a commitment to evolve with the times – while remaining true to one’s heart, style and identity. It is hard to think of a name that epitomises this more than Liberty London, whose iconic brand and flagship store celebrate their 140th birthday this year.

So that you can join in the celebrations, Liberty is hosting a number of exciting parties, events and exhibitions (see the Dates for Your Diary box).

Liberty is also marking the occasion with an exclusive new print, ‘Mayflower’, named as a nod to the May anniversary and the iconic Mayflower weathervane that sits atop the store. Using the Liberty archive as inspiration, two key elements bring the print to life: the Art Nouveau swirls from the very early archive prints, and the more abstract, graphic detail from the Dahlia print representative of an exploding firework. This combination of classic and modern ensures the print is true to the Liberty brand.

It has been an incredible 140 years so far. Back in 1875, Arthur Lasenby Liberty borrowed £2,000 from his future father-in-law and took over half of 218a Regent Street with three dedicated staff. Devoted to his vision of an eastern bazaar and determined to change the look of homeware and fashion, his collection of ornaments, fabrics and objets d’art proved irresistible to a society intoxicated by Japan and the East. Within 18 months, the loan had been repaid, the second half of the building bought and neighbouring properties added to accommodate the demand for Liberty’s beautifully crafted carpets and furniture.

By 1884, Arthur Liberty was working with Costume Society founder Edward William Godwin to create in-house apparel to challenge the fashions of Paris. As a Royal Warrant holder dedicated to quality, he also forged strong relationships with many British designers, most famously the protagonists of the Art Nouveau movement.

These are traditions that continue today in the store’s commitment to inspirational, impeccably made goods and services.

From its in-house collections of scarves, accessories, beauty and fabrics, to the finest designer fashion and homeware, and collaborations with top designers and brands, Liberty is just as relevant and cutting-edge as ever.

Dates for your diary

9 October
Liberty in Fashion exhibition at the Fashion and Textile Museum

14 October
Ed Burstell book launch and signing

15 October
Eskandar personal appearance

11 November
Manolo Blahnik book launch and signing

15 November
Liberty Christmas window unveiling

Celebrating 140 years 

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