Southern Shopping Comforts

University Mall in Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Shopping is by far one of my favorite things to do when I travel!  Exploring new shops and finding some unique places to go makes it all worthwhile.  I love being able to find new pieces from small boutiques or stores and add them to my collection.

Although I didn’t have as much of a chance to explore around Chapel Hill or even make it to Durham or Raleigh while I was there to find some shops, I did make it to a few stores and found some great buys!

If you are ever in the Raleigh or Chapel Hill area, definitely stop by the University Mall.  It may at first seem like a typical mall (first thing you see is a huge Dillards)… but wander in and you will find some amazing antique stores, unique boutiques and a grocery/holiday store full of fudge, wine and specialty food items.  When I shop, I try to stick to things I need (my definition of need with shopping usually means replacing something that is worn out or if I have a particular event to attend) or things that are fun, yet extremely versatile and work with my current wardrobe.  I was once taught that you shouldn’t buy something unless if you know it will work with at least three other items in your closet.  Here are a couple of the places I went and what I bought:

Cameron’s was a great stop for a vast gift selection.  I actually did some pre-Black Friday shopping and got some great gifts (both cute and funny) for friends and family for Christmas.  Along with great gifts, Cameron’s had a wide selection of jewelry, handbags and scarves.  I picked up a gorgeous headband in gold and red for myself (perfect colors for tailgating next year… Go Iowa State!).

I also found this amazing necklace for under $20 at Dina Porter.  I am in love with gold accessories and when I picked this up and saw that you could shape it however you want, I knew it was the perfect piece for me!  Here are four ways to shape and wear this one piece (including one from a previous outfit post seen here):

In a circular form

Twisted and long

Long, straight and mixed in with other necklaces

Wrapped around as a bracelet

You can find this same necklace at Flexible Snake Necklaces in assorted colors, including gold, silver and tri-metallic!