There's a little-known secret about shopping in Memphis: There are real steals to be had from some of the country's top retailers and wholsesalers, thanks to the proximity of all those FedEx planes at Memphis International Airport. As the world's busiest cargo airport (and don't forget being nicely located smack-dab in the middle of the country), Memphis is home to some incredible outlet shopping, including a manufacturer of home decor who supplies the oh-so-picky buyers from the likes of Neiman Marcus, Horchow and other high-end stores.
World's Away has trade showrooms all over the country, but here in Memphis it has a little-known outlet called World's Apart. Located in Midtown near the Liberty Bowl Stadium, the warehouse-style outlet is crammed full of all the designer-favorite accessories, furniture, wall decor and lighting that's seen in the best homes in the country.
A nifty bar cart at World's Apart. — Photo courtesy of World's Away, Inc.
The new location for the outlet is roomier, so navigating all the goods is easier. Think of it like a scavenger hunt for that perfect side table or pair of silk curtains (with random shoes and jackets thrown in) to complete a room. Prices on last year's top accessories - many of which are a mix of contemporary and classic - are hugely discounted from what you'd have paid through one of the high-end stores. One of our favorite finds were gorgeous lampshades and those pretty, painted metal holders for Pyrex dishes - a steal starting at $9 and up, and easy to pack for a trip home.
If you're within driving distance and in the market for chic home goods, then World's Apart alone is worth the car trip to Memphis.
