A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step -- in the right socks! Meet Maggie Stern, sole proprietor of Maggie Stern Stitches, based in Massachusetts, USA. She designs socks ornamented with her own drawings of notable women and we've got them in the shop at CAN! From Rosie the Riveter and Virginia Woolf to the notorious RBG, the socks look great, make us feel empowered and the quality is amazing. And we're not just saying that! One of our customers called them "the first pair of socks she's worn in years, and one of the most comfortable pairs of socks she's ever owned." That's a good thing, because we've still got a lot of marching to do!
Maggie Stern began her career as a writer of children's books. She quickly became known for one-of-a-kind pieces that she created in wood, felt and buttons, and then turned to stitching animals onto found antique linens. Museum stores and specialty shops began to carry her work, and she tiptoed into manufacturing (foreshadowing: this would later help her launch her collection of socks). Maggie was in a groove, but then the 2016 presidential election happened.
After November 8th, 2016 Maggie didn't just sink into the abyss of despair like many others. She tried to stay positive, focused and empowered. Ruth Bader Ginsberg had always been one of her heroes, and so she started sketching. And then what began as a tribute to RBG became a single, notorious pair of socks that sparked an entire series of RBG designs! And that led to more socks, all embroidered with notable women both past and present. Maggie called her new collection, WE MARCH ON.
Maggie Stern Stitches became a thriving business in 2018. It wasn't anything Maggie had ever planned on doing, but there was definitely a demand and as she says, 'socks are both utilitarian and stylish'. What began with Ruth Bader Ginsberg -- current day myth, rock star and noble giant despite her small stature according to Maggie -- has become a thriving small business. About her creative journey, Maggie quotes John Lennon: "Life is what happens to you when you're busy making other plans!"
Be sure to check out CAN's full collection of Maggie's socks! Thanks for reading, and remember to keep marching on! ~Team CAN
