Good morning, Raleigh, Erin here. 👋 Raise your hand if you’re wearing a dress or a tie. Anyone? As someone who wore “real” clothes for the first four-ish weeks of quarantine, I can honestly confirm that there’s not much point — it’s so much easier to take the dogs for that midday stroll or jump onto your yoga mat at lunchtime if you’re already in something stretchy, right?
But as businesses begin to reopen and many offices start talking about that first day back, the time is nigh for many of us to resume the regimen of getting dressed. So whether you’re dusting off a favorite outfit or looking for a fresh look to make you feel less stay-at-home-y, here’s our list of where you should shop locally, based on your quarantine dress code:
If you’ve been wearing: PJs all day
🛍️ Edge of Urge
📍 215 E. Franklin Street, Raleigh
This local brand stocks everything from Vans shoes to handmade cuff bracelets, and we’re here for all of it. This is the perfect store to browse if you’re looking for comfy, casual styles that can still take you from work to play. Our pick: these tee shirts by NC artist Lauren Adams.
If you’ve been wearing: Athletic shorts
🛍️ Apex Outfitter
📍 23 W. Hargett Street, Raleigh
If you’re the type to hit the ground running, we recommend hitting up this shop, which was founded in 2012 by NC State alums Kyle and Megan Denis. They’ve got brands like Patagonia and Fjallraven + accessories and gear from local makers as well. Bonus: they’ve got another location (their flagship) in Apex.
If you’ve been wearing: T-shirts and leggings
🛍️ The Art of Style
📍 21 W. Hargett Street, Raleigh
If you’re ready to step out, the stylists at this downtown boutique have got you covered. Featuring pieces from major international designers, this locally-owned shop pushes the boundaries of “could I wear that?” And the answer is always yes, you can. ProTip: pick up one of the unisex fragrances designed by owner Kendra Leonard to complete your look.
If you’ve been wearing: Button-down and jeans
🛍️ Revolver Boutique
📍122 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh
Want to shop simple, high end looks at consignment prices? This shop at Glenwood South features an unending collection of gently-loved statement pieces for nearly every budget. Our pick: be sure to browse the shoes and accessories for some literal and figurative gems.
If you’ve been wearing: Suits or dresses
🛍️ Kannon’s Clothing
📍435 Daniels Street + 2015 Cameron Street, Raleigh
This family-owned business has been dressing people up (and we mean up) since 1916. Drop in and say hi + be sure to let the staff style you in some of the most elegant pieces from the season. Bonus: they offer in-house alterations so you don’t even have to make a second stop.
