I've been wearing Margaret O'Leary for probably close to 25 years. Which is pretty amazing to be honest, because I don't think I've loved anything except my husband for that long. I remember buying a Margaret sweater when I lived in Seattle, I was barely 26 years old, just married, no kids. She had a little store near Pike's market that sold her sweaters, and they were the chunky knit, authentic looking Irish cardigans that I will always identify with her.

Of course over the years she's grown, become more refined, fancier maybe, but all without losing her roots. The fact that she is still in the industry after all these years itself is a testament to the quality of her work, and to the timelessness of her designs. I have sweaters that have held up for so long that I ended up giving them away simply because there is a point after 10 or so years that you just need something new because you've worn the sweater SO many times no one wants to see you in it again. 

I know there are some people that were really upset with her decision to have some of her line produced in China. I think you have to remember though, she's an international person. She's Irish, and yes, she's been in the U.S. forever, but she's got a global mindset. What's most important to her is the working conditions, the fair labor aspect, and above all, the quality. You can protect those things anywhere in the world, and I think she does that.

Her pieces are spendy, but I don't think I've ever regretted making the investment, even when the investment felt huge (like at 26 when a the reality of school loans were hitting).  Her pieces are indulges, but the best kind of indulgences because they are useful, last forever, and make you happy.  

Basically, I love you Margaret, and I thank you for your years of fabulous work because they have contributed to my happy closet in all the best ways!

Signed, ME {lv}