You won’t have to look far to see how impactful The Ladies’ Village Improvement Society has been in shaping what the Hamptons have been and are today. Founded over 125 years ago and still active today, LVIS serves the Hamptons in many capacities, from historical and environmental preservation to hosting events, community service, and publishing cookbooks.
Take a drive down Main Street in East Hampton and look at the trees along the road. None of them have the common “Y” of most trees in the Hamptons that have been trimmed and contorted, like a bonsai tree, to grow around power lines. Thanks to the LVIS, all the power lines have been buried, allowing the trees to grow naturally and beautifully. Today, their work can be seen in the continued care for East Hampton’s Greens, Trees and Nature Trail.
Their community outreach is seen and felt in their many civic outreach initiatives and events. Every year their generous scholarship fund donates $190,000 to East Hampton High School seniors and two women returning to college. Their year-round events are a fun for everyone and also raise awareness for important local preservation efforts.
LVIS operates a boutique consignment shop from the Gardiner Brown House on 95 Main Street in East Hampton. Let the ladies at LVIS help elevate your style with their unique collections of vintage, every day, and designer clothes. I have found designer clothes barely worn, trendy 90s-style fits that are no cap drippin’.
Their selection is unmatched, fueled by generous donations from East End residents and visitors alike. Insider’s tip: LVIS is sure to be filled with fresh finds from post-holiday gifts turned donations. It’s also a great time of year to donate threads that no longer spark joy!
Not just clothes, LVIS offers curated collections of local books from artists, photographers, chefs, and architecture focused on the Hamptons. I got some great Christmas presents from their books collections. In particular, many of their photography books are out of print and fetch a hefty price online.
Their beautiful building is on the national historical registry and is a must-see example of Hampton’s architecture. Since 1999, LVIS has been the caretaker of the one-of-a-kind Octagon Dollhouse, which is on display year-round. Every time I go, I get caught looking at all the details and miniature crafts.
To me, LVIS is the epitome of community and a reminder of the many joys of retail. Everyone is happy inside LVIS and you can hear happy couples call to each other with exciting finds. Their friendly and helpful volunteers are a testament to the LVIS’ commitment to improving life in the Hamptons.
Be sure to check out their website at LVIS.org for more information on their community work and ways you can give back.
