Montgomery County’s Kimberly McGlonn wears many hats. She’s a professor at Drexel University, a Jenkintown councilwoman, a traveler, and an activist. Her latest venture is the most recent installment of her fashion endeavors. Black Ivy Thrift opened earlier this year in West Philadelphia, writes Franki Rudnesky for Philly Voice.  

This curated collection of sustainable 1950s–1970s vintage items honors the Civil Rights era.  

“I wanted to do something that would continue to amplify all that Philadelphia offers American culture by paying homage to the figures who came through Philadelphia in the civil rights movement, and how they use style to tell stories,” she said.  

The shop is full of pieces that McGlonn found from traveling around the country.

She calls Black Ivy a “shoppable” museum. The building it occupies used to be her premier store, Grant Blvd, which has since moved to the University of Pennsylvania’s campus. Grant Blvd is considered the largest Black female-owned shop in the city.  

The store also includes original artwork, first-edition books by Black authors, and vinyl.

McGlonn says that the inspiration to open the shop was sparked by her activism, travels, and time as a teacher.  

Read more about Black Ivy Thrift in Philly Voice.  

FOX29 Philadelphia takes a tour of the Black Ivy clothing shop.