If you've read my article about the importance of shopping small, you know that I love to look for the latest styles at local boutiques. This weekend I scoped out all my favorite small shops to bring you some of my favorites for fall. It might seem a little early to be thinking about cool-weather clothes, but a lot of stores are having store-wide sales to get rid of summer merchandise and to see which new fall styles sell. Keep an eye out for these end-of-summer saving opportunities and shop small for fall!

This article features items from Madison, Bevello, and James Clothing Boutique. A couple of my other favorites are Beaufort Linen Company, Island Proper Boutique, Foxy Flamingo Boutique, and Charlotte's.

Here are some of my favorites from some of my favorite boutiques.

Madison

Cameron Village and North Hills Mall- Raleigh, NC

Keegan Embroidery Tank ($64)

This is one of my favorite items that I came across this weekend! Usually, I'm not a fan of browns or burnt orange tones but for some reason, I fell in love with this top. I tried on the extra small and the laid nicely across my shoulders and chest but was flowy and comfy around the waist.

This top also falls into the category of clothing that I call "transition pieces." We all organize our clothes by "summer, fall, winter, spring," and yet we all know that even though it's supposed to be a cool October day, it can get so hot around the middle of the day. So what? Do you wear your summer-colored tank tops? Convince others that you don't sweat but simply "shimmer" while you try to survive in your favorite fall sweater? I know- it's a struggle. That's why I try to choose a few outfits that have in-season colors with warm weather cuts when thinking about clothes for the fall. Go through your summer and fall wardrobe and pick out potential "transition pieces" and check out this top to add to that new section of your closet!

I can't wait to pair this top with a pair of medium to dark wash jeans, distressed or classic, and some taupe heeled booties to match the tan embroidery in the top.

Sofia Embroidered Top ($64)

This top would be great for some of those August and September Carolina football games! It's a little on the summery side with the light colors and stripes, but you can take this top all the way through fall by pairing it with a nice dark-wash jean that complements the deep navy embroidery. When I saw this top in store, they had already sold out in my size! Get yours while they last.

Bevello

Multiple NC Locations

Ruffle Sleeve Tee ($40)

This army green tee has all the feminine details of a nice blouse with the soft, comfy fit of a tee shirt. Not only do the sleeves feature ruffles but the top also has a scooped back that shows off your shoulders. The color is perfect for fall and the sleeves won't get in your way like a lot of other flared styles will. I always like to pair this green with gold accents and neutral tones. For those early and warm fall months, pair this top with a pair of distressed denim shorts or skirt and once it gets a bit cooler, swap out the short bottoms for your favorite pair of jeans and tan booties.

Moselle Striped Top ($75)

When I saw this top in store, it actually reminded me of one that I bought last fall and wore all the time! The black and white combo is a classic that can fit in any season as long as the ratio of dark to light is appropriate. For example, in the summer and spring, opt for a black and white look that is mainly white with black accents. For fall and winter, either keep the ratio equal or go for an overall darker aesthetic. This top would pair well with black denim shorts for those hotter fall months or under a military jacket once it gets a little cooler outside.

Bevello Exclusive All in One Clutch by Gigi NY ($155)

This bag is 9" by 7" and is the perfect size for carrying your wallet, phone, and keys without a bulky frame. The chic and thin design lays nicely against your side as you shop till you drop or run errands while giving you a pop of unique style. A couple weekends back, Bevello had an anniversary sale where the entire store was discounted and I picked out this bag in a deep taupe color (just right to pair with fall outfits) and I could not be happier with the investment. The textured details of this crossbody, paired with the gold accents make it unique and trendy. Check out this bag and matching tote styles in store or online,

James Clothing Boutique

Morehead City, NC

Raelyn Snake Ruffled Dress ($59)

So sad that this dress did not fit me! This snake print dress is adorable on, but it only comes in small, medium and large. I tried on the small, but unfortunately, it was a little too big and revealing in the front for me. Still, this dress features a lot of muted, fall colors and has a print that is unusual but so cute. Again, even though this dress did not fit me well enough, it is a beautifully designed dress that accentuated my waistline and lengthened the look of my legs (which is always a plus for a shortie like me). I encourage you all to give it a try if you like the style because it may fit you perfectly. Some of the girls working there suggested using Hollywood tape to keep it in place which might also work well for you if you try it out and want a little extra security!

BC Footwear Combust Bootie ( $80 $48)

Yes, these last season booties (that would still be in for this fall) are marked down 40%! I love the cut outs at the arch as well as the wood heel. The block style heel will make walking in these 3+ inch booties way easier and will give you an effortless boost in height! One thing I love about the color is that the neutral brown pairs well with the stitching and accents of most classic pairs of denim jeans. Reference my article about How to Incorporate Neutrals into Your Wardrobe for more styling suggestions. James' did not have my size in these shoes but they might have yours! Check them out by clicking on the photo above.

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Those are some of my weekend favorites that are fall-bound! I hope you visit these stores for yourself or consider ordering online if they are a bit of a drive. Enjoy the rest of you summer styles and get ready, set, and shop for fall.