The Scarf

We hear from our customers all the time that they don't know how to wear scarves. Scarves are my personal favorite accessory, and they're easier to wear than you think!

The good news is it's almost impossible to go wrong with a scarf. They are the perfect accessory because they not only make your outfit more interesting, they also offer the added bonus of keeping you warm!


There are the fool proof ways of wearing a scarf, such as simply looped around the neck as shown below.

 

However, with a few simple tricks you can turn your scarf into a work of art.

 

 

This felt scarf is interesting on its own with the flower detail, but it's also a little harder to wear than a traditional scarf because it is shorter and more detailed. A great way to wear this scarf is to hold it together with a brooch. The brooch used in the above photo mimics the flower detail in the scarf making it a perfect match.

 

 

If you prefer a longer scarf, simply pull one end longer and pin close to the neck to hold the scarf in place. This gives the scarf a more traditional look, and if done well, you can make people believe the scarf is longer than it actually is.

 

 

A simple twist also creates interest in a striped winter scarf.

 

When you twist both ends and pin them together, it creates a dramatic infinity type heavy scarf.
(* Hint: any scarf can be an infinity scarf as long as you can tie the ends together)

 

 

We also have a collection of pashminas at the store than can be worn in a variety of ways. Traditionally a pashmina is worn more as a wrap (as shown above) than a scarf, but they also make beautiful scarves.

 

Again a simple twist creates a beautiful effect!

 

 To create the effect, start with the scarf simply hung around your neck and tie a simple knot as if you were tying your shoes.

Then take one side of the scarf and twist. You can choose to make it a smooth twist or a rougher one. I prefer a smoother twist.

Once you have one end fully twisted, simply wrap the twist around one side of the circle around your neck. The twist should end with the end of the scarf on the underside so as not to be seen. Simply pin the end in place with a safety pin, and go out and impress your friends with your scarf!

 

Another fun, and even more simple, way to wear your scarf is to again utilize the simple twist! For this look start with the simple scarf look as shown in the first picture. Have the loop as close to the neck as your comfortable with. I pulled the loop flush with the neck so that the ends of my scarf would be longer. Next you simply twist the loose ends around the loop at your neck. If you wish, you could add a brooch to add a little bit of sparkle.

 

You can also do less twists, and end with the ends of the scarf on the underside of the loop, rather than on top of it. When done this way, your scarf acts as a necklace. You could also add a necklace along the loop to give it more sparkle.

 

If you love these simple yet beautiful scarf looks, visit Scarves.net. They have a master list of scarf knots that can be made with a variety of different scarf types.

Be sure to come in to Our Friends' Closet and show us your beautiful scarves, and teach us how to make your favorite knot!

-Erica

Shoes, Shoes, Shoes!!

Women and their shoes. Is there a bond any stronger than the bond between a woman and her shoes? We lust over shoes so much that they have been objects of legal battles, and the sales of shoes were one of few things not affected by the recent recession.

Of course shoes have been around forever, but the high heel is thought to have been around since the 1600s, when the "rider's heel" became popular in Europe. The rider's heel was only 1 1/2 inches, but was used to help hold a horse back riders foot in place in the stirrups.

Today, shoes are no longer simply for function. We use shoes as the cap on a perfect outfit, or some use them as the best starting place for the perfect outfit. Christian Louboutin, the creator of those infamous red soles, has been crowned the Most Prestigious Women's Shoes. Louboutin was inspired to create women's shoes by his mother, his sisters, and a sign he once saw in Africa forbidding women to wear stilettos on an expensive floor for fear of scratches.  According to him, he "wanted to create something that broke rules and made women feel confident and empowered." Those red soles? He got the idea for those when he saw a girl painting her nails red. He grabbed the bottle from her and painted the sole of the shoe!

 

Of course at Our Friends' Closet, we have a great variety of shoes for every size and every occasion! You don't need to spend hundreds of dollars to feel more confident, you just have to find the right shoes!

 

Size 6- $16

These Anne Klein heels are perfect for work! The wider stacked heel makes them easier to walk in.

 

 Size 6- $26

 

These BCBG Generation peep toe pumps are also good for work (unless your office is super conservative), but they also double as great party shoes! The height and details make these pumps super fun, but the suede texture, and light brown color keep them on the more conservative side.

 

Size 5.5- $52

 

For those who are more adventurous and have better balance, these 5/48 beauty's are sky high and will make your legs look a mile long!

 

size 7- $49

 

We also have shoes for those of you who prefer a more western look! This Nashville girl says you can never go wrong when it comes to cowboy boots! These are made from great quality leather, and the subtle detail on the shaft make them perfect for everyday wear!

 

size 7- $9

 

Not all of us can handle the pain of heels everyday, and that is exactly why we have these leopard flats. Animal print is officially a neutral, which means this will pair beautifully with anything!

 

 

Lilly Pulitzer size 8-$69

 

We also have more traditional ballet flats if animal print isn't your style.

 

 

Kelly & Katie size 9.5 - $28

 

These heels will spice up any outfit! Perfect pop of color for the little black dress!

 

Via Spiga size 10- $99

 

If designer shoes are what you're after, we have you covered there as well. These Via Spiga riding boots are a classic and you'll be able to keep them forever!

 

Diane von Furstenburg size 8.5 - $49

 

If vintage is your style, look no further than these Diane Von Furstenburg flats!

 

YSL- size 6.5

 

We may not (currently) have any Louboutins, but these sandals are by the iconic brand Yves Saint Laurent. YSL also happens to be the brand that got in a legal battle with Louboutin over a pair of red soled YSL shoes!

 

 

Never forget the importance of a beautiful pair of shoes. Not only will they complete your outfit, they can also give you more confidence. The important thing about shoes is to make sure you can walk in them! Grace is a key part of beauty!

Being Aware

Here at Our Friends' Closet we aren't always focused on fashion. 

Everyone knows that October is breast cancer awareness month. Most large organizations do something for breast cancer awareness, even the NFL has joined the movement. However simply wearing a pink ribbon doesn't mean someone is aware of the facts.

The largest, and most saddening statistic is that breast cancer is number 2 killer of women. (Heart disease is number one) One way to lower this statistic is to get checked! Yearly mammograms need to start at age 40, but even women under forty need to be performing self breast exams. 7% of all breast cancer cases occur in women under 40. While 7% may not seem like a large number, if you or a friend is in that 7%, it can suddenly seem much smaller. Remember, when doing a self breast exam, natural breast tissue is not a solid form. You will feel lumps and bumps, the key is learning your own lumps and bumps so that if anything changes you can let your doctor know.

One of the most shocking statistics is that, while rare, 1% of all breast cancer cases occur in men. Of course, men won't be getting mammograms, but if they would share their symptoms with their doctors it would lead to earlier detection, and a higher survival rate. Ladies, if the man in your life is having issues around his breast tissue, encourage him to see his doctor.

Every woman should make herself aware of the facts and the myths of breast cancer. Some reputable websites to visit are http://ww5.komen.org/ and http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/.

Of course at Our Friends' Closet, we have plenty of items to keep you in pink during October, and every month of the year!

(Front) Silpada Necklace- $69

Beaded Necklace- $14
Bracelet Set- $10

Earrings- $7

Juicy Couture Sunglasses- $79

Beanie- $8
Vera Bradley Purse (Left)- $19
The Sak Bag (Center)- $12

Beijo purse (Right)- $39

Want to support breast cancer and a major designer as well? We have you covered!

Kate Spade Purse- $74

We also have pink clothing! The lines of this knit Tibi skirt make it super figure flattering. The mix of pink tones makes it perfect for all complexions, and the beige stripe adds a neutral element that allows you to wear a neutral on top.

Bag- $16

Necklace- $9

Carolyn Taylor Top- M- $10
Tibi Skirt- 8- $34

Up close of bag

Those who have a lighter complexion should wear darker pink on top. A light pink tends to wash out lighter complexions.

Kim Rogers Cardigan- 3x- $14

INC top- L/P- $12

Sterling Necklace- $28

We always like to put together a spunkier outfit for those who might be attending an event, or who just like a little extra glitter in their lives.

Limited tank- M- $12

Valerie Stevens Cashmere Cardigan- M- $20

For those that are more comfortable wearing neutral colors, but still want to show your support, this outfit is perfect for you! The Free People Cardigan has a thin yarn of pink running through it that adds just the perfect touch of color to this mostly brown cardigan(it also has a touch of yellow). Wearing light pink jewelry helps to bring out the pink in the sweater.

Free People Cardigan- S- $52

Banana Republic Top- XS- $19

We have every kind of accessory in pink to show your support. We even have hair ties for you, or for the younger girls in your family who want to show their support.

 Hair Ties- Multiple colors and patterns- $2 each

Premier Designs Necklace

This weekend we are having 15-60% off all accessories in the store! This includes purses, shoes, belts, jewelry, scarves, etc!

Sale ends at close on 10/27/13.

  

Be sure to keep yourself healthy, and visit Our Friends' Closet for all of your fashion needs!

Show Your Team Spirit! Featuring COACH!

Here in Raleigh we're surrounded by colleges and universities. If you yourself didn't go to one of these schools, chances are you have a family member or a friend who has. Or maybe you just like to support local teams. Either way at Our Friends' Closet, we have you covered. Whether you are attending a game, or just wanting to support your team while doing daily activities, we have something that will show your team spirit.

Two of our employees are current NC State Students. Both girls are studying textiles. Gwen is in her last semester of her bachelor's program, and Erica is in her first semester of her master's program. Since NC State has the most representation currently at Our Friends' Closet we will start there.

Bisou Bisou top - Medium- $14

Coach purse $79

This elegant look works perfectly for a STATE basketball game, but it also works wonderfully to show your team spirit any day of the week.

The second look we have for NC state is wonderful for athletic events. The skirt features the NC state logo embroidered on it, and the Premier Designs necklace and Coach bag keep the look sophisticated.

Loft top - small- $12
State Skirt - 14- $29
Premier Designs Necklace -  $27
Coach Purse

While two of our girls go to NC State, our wonderful store owner, Jennifer, got her bachelor's and her master's from UNC. You can imagine the (good natured) arguments we have at the store.

Joes Jeans - $59
Investments Cashmere Sweater - L- $24
Necklace - $5
Coach Purse - $99

Don't be afraid to wear white after Labor. There are no true fashion rules! Plus these Joe's pants are corduroy, which is perfect for fall.

Fairway & Green Sweater - M- $20
Loft Jeans - 8- $14
OrYANY Crossbody- $99
Premier Designs Earrings- $23

With the gorgeous simplicity of this outfit, you don't even need to be a Tarhill fan to wear it. Even though the look is simple, the quality of all the pieces gives it a higher end feel. The detail of the OrYANY crossbody bag adds interest to the outfit. The small size makes it perfect to take to athletic events.

The last North Carolina school we have represented at Our Friends' Closet may not be as close as NC State or UNC, but we couldn't leave out Amy who got her interior design degree from East Carolina University. Even though ECU has the most unconventional color combination, that doesn't mean you can't express your team spirit everyday!

Ann Taylor Tank- M- $10

Cable & Gauge Cardigan - M- $12

Pilcro Pant - 8- $19

Coach Purse - $79

While this look may be bold for some, purple and yellow happen to be across from each other on the color wheel making them complementary colors. No clashing here!

Anne Klein Top - 14- $17

Forwear Skirt - 8- $14

Lucky Brand Scarf - $19

Necklace - $12

For those who prefer a more muted look, pair a yellow top with some purple accessories. This purple Lucky Brand scarf doubles as a shawl to keep you warm during those chilly night games. The pom poms and tassels add whimsy to this understated look, much like Amy adds whimsy at Our Friends' closet!

While Mary didn't attend a school in North Carolina, she really liked the luxe look of this Wake Forrest inspired outfit! 

Simply Vera Cardigan - XS- $20

Cabi Tank - S- $12

Queen Collection Pants - 10- $12

Black and gold are colors you can't go wrong with. Black denim is versatile and when you buy a quality pair of jeans, you can rest assured they will last you for years.

The gold thread and sequins through out this garment add interest, while still keeping the cardigan daytime wearable.

While working on this blog in the store, a Wake Forest mom commented on the fact that finding the perfect black and gold clothing isn't easy. She absolutely loved this amazing top.

Starington Top - 20- $18

Ann Taylor Skirt -8p- $16

Karen Scott Boots - 8- $26

This is a look more suited for work with the satin skirt and heeled boots, but switching out the skirt for skinny jeans and rolling up the sleeves of the top takes this fancy top and makes it more casual. You can bet all the other Wake Forrest moms will be dying to know where you scored such an amazing find.

Of course we can't forget our Devils in Durham.

Annabella Top - M- $17
Elle Pants -4p- $12

Coach Purse - $49

Duke is all about their blue and whoever wears this look will be too.This blue denim needs to be the stand out of the outfit. Adding accessories in a more muted blue helps to keep the focal point on the bright hue of the pants while still keeping your team spirit in tact.

Loft Top - XL- $14
Banana Republic Skirt -8- $14
Coach Purse - $129
Necklace - $5

Duke blue is an easy color to make a monochromatic outfit out of. Even though the outfit consists of only blue, having different shades of blue is what keeps this outfit interesting. (Not to mention the beautiful patent blue Coach bag!)

As you may have noticed, most of these outfits feature a Coach purse. Our Friends' Closet has a great selection of Coach purses, wristlets, and wallets! We always have Coach in stock, and sometimes you can even catch them on sale! Some of our Coach bags (like the patent blue one above) are brand new and would make great gifts! We also have a selection of vintage Coach. Whether you have been a collector for years, or you're just now finding a Coach bag you like, Our Friends' Closet has a bag for you!

I am happy to announce that the store now features a rack that houses all of the clothing items mentioned in each weeks blog!

Come in this weekend to get some clothing in your favorite teams colors. If you bring a friend Saturday or Sunday (10/19-20) you and your friend will each receive 15% off your total purchase!!

Stretching Your Wardrobe From Spring To Fall

These days, it seems that everyone is on a budget! Even Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, has been known to repeat a few outfits. Instead of spending less and getting more, spend more on higher quality items that will last longer, and learn how to make them function for more than one season at a time! Even if your not on a budget, dressing for fall in Raleigh can be complicated. The mornings are chilly, but at the height of the day temperatures can still reach the 80s. Don't suffer through the crazy weather, dress stylishly in layers to work with the weather!

 

Maxi skirts have been a trend for many summers now, but they are now making appearances in the fall too.

 

 

For the summer maxi skirts are great with tank tops, but when you want to carry them into fall, the best way to make your maxi skirt work is to throw on a denim or chambray shirt. Skip the flip flops and instead put on a pair of ankle booties. If you're really brave, you can wear your maxi skirt in winter with a chunky sweater and scarf.

 

Loft Skirt size small - $19
Guess tank size small - $12
Ralph Lauren denim shirt - $18

 

When you're looking for clothing that can be multi-seasonal, one thing to keep in mind is fabric. Traditionally floral prints are seen as spring items, but if their done in the right fabric, they easily transition to fall.

 

Express top size Medium - $12
Elevenses Skirt size 8 - $24
Vintage Necklace - $10

 

Because this floral print is done with darker color flowers, and in a corduroy type fabric, it makes it a great option for fall. Even when the weather gets colder, this skirt can be worn a dark green top, brown tights, and tall brown or cognac boots.  We also have a pair of dark green suede boots that would be a fun pairing for this outfit.

 

 

A really fun, and interesting way to double your wardrobe is to layer over dresses.

 

 

This dress is great for spring with the light fabric, and silhouette, but when you layer a sweater over it, it looks great for fall!

 

Be Bop Dress size Medium- $15
Loft Sweater size XS - $15
Napier Necklace - $10

 

Having the dress showing at the collar as well as the bottom makes the look more interesting than just wearing a sweater and a skirt. Again, putting on a pair of tights and oxford shoes makes the look even more interesting.

 

Of course, when trying to make your clothing stretch multiple seasons, there are easy things to do as well, and here at Our Friends' Closet we have that covered as well.

 

Fumblin' Foe Dress size Large - $18
Belt size Small - $10
Chevron scarf - $15

 

One of my favorite ways to warm up a spring outfit is to throw on a scarf. Instantly your outfit is more interesting, and you get the added benefit of warmth. At our store, we have multiple options to choose from such as this beautiful infinity scarf in multiple colors, as well as different patterns such as the trendy chevron pattern, or a classic houndstooth. We also have pashminas in every color to match any of your spring to fall outfits!

 

Of course the most simple, yet chic, way to make your spring wardrobe work for fall is to add a cardigan over your tanks. We have many cardigans in stock from a variety of brands.

 

Loft Cardigan size Medium - $14
NEW Christopher & Banks tank size small - $14
Purple Necklace - $12
Sterling bead necklace - $36

 

If you want to make this simple look more interesting, mix fun colors like pink and orange! Also mixing textures gives the outfit more depth.

 

 

The best part of fashion is to make it your own! If you don't feel confident in what you're wearing, you can't expect others to think you look good. Ignore the traditional rules of fashion and wear what makes you feel most beautiful!

 

 

* Due to the nature of consignment, the items mentioned in this post may no longer be available.