October brings cooler days and as the weather shifts, so should your style!
Layering at this time of year is key for both adults and kids and when we say “layering” we mean layers of color, texture AND articles of clothing. For example, a seamless tank or a long-sleeve white tee are great and versatile base layers. Both provide smoothing under tighter-fitting sweaters while adding just one extra layer to keep your core warm on chilly days. Elegant tops, puff-sleeve detailing, a little extra ruffle trim, a pintuck at cuffs and collars or a lace trim at the hem all add that extra special detail that makes your outfit memorable. Always try to seek out tops with that little extra pizazz.
Next, let’s talk about bottoms. Layer leggings under dresses (maxi and mini) paired with a great pair of tall boots. Velvet and leather are both excellent and luxurious textures for fall and velvet skirts go beautifully with lace-trimmed or puff-sleeve sweaters. For a sophisticated look from day to evening, pair leather pants with chic satin tops, floral long-sleeve henleys and chunky sweaters. In the name of fall fashion, comfort is key – choose outfits that make you feel fabulous at football games, bonfires, hayrides and all things fall!
October is also the time to start thinking about holiday gifting. Late this month and throughout November, SHIFT will host several pop-up shops at a number of local (and non-local) venues including Davison Athletic Club, Warwick Hills Golf & Country Club, Birmingham Country Club and School Holidays Shopping evenings. The SHIFT team will also do in-home private parties, so be sure to inquire if you want to host a super-fun holiday shopping event!
Many unique gifts can be found for everyone on your list at these “one-stop-shop” local shopping opportunities. For example, Atlas Valley Golf Club hosts a fabulous Sip N Shop Holiday Bazaar featuring over 40 vendors selling everything from ornaments, cocoa bombs and chocolate-covered everything, personalized items such as doormats and wreaths alongside bath bombs, clean beauty products, permanent jewelry, unique accessories, hats, scarves, mittens and more!
Often, these events include a charitable component raising funds through raffles, prize drawings and a portion of sales proceeds donated to local families in need. How great is it to feel good about helping others while shopping for your loved ones? We encourage everyone to shop local and support small businesses when looking for unique gifts this year.
Many local retailers have been hit hard in the recent post-COVID years. Our current “work from home” world doesn’t require people to go out for lunch or leave their home offices whereas before, they may have grabbed a gift from a local boutique, bookstore, jeweler, spa or any other number of amazeballs small businesses. Handmade art, fused glass serving ware, hand-knitted scarves, gently-used books and gift cards all make excellent gifts.
So, be intentional about your gift giving and shopping this year! Encourage the craft and love by supporting local folks who are working hard to stay in business.
