Style Buzz: The Case for Shopping Locally + Styling a Suede Duster

Eugene Stylist
Oct 2
3 min read

Three Ideas to Inspire Your Style This Week

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"Living in Eugene is a gift to personal style - whatever you want to wear

is acceptable here!"

*Too warm for boots, too cold for bare legs, so why not try knee-high socks that match my shoes??*

I really do agree with this (with the exception of wearing pajamas in public or the word "juicy" across your bum!) I love seeing the variety of peoples' self expression come out through what they choose to wear, and I hope - even if you were hesitant before - that this gives you a little seedling of inspiration to try something you weren't brave enough to try simply because you want to!

xxx rachel

LOCAL LOOKS GOOD ON YOU!

I’m often asked why I make such a fuss about shopping locally. It’s not just because I get style inspiration and good chats with the staff (though those are definite bonuses): it’s because buying from our local shops keeps money in our community, supports jobs for our neighbors, and makes the whole experience of shopping more human.

When you walk into a shop, you can try things on straight away—no waiting, no guessing if “medium” means roomy or “fits like a corset.” You can touch the fabrics with your hand, see the stitching, and know instantly whether something is worth the investment, even trying it on with pieces you already own to see how they work together. And let’s be honest: some of the best pieces are the ones you didn’t even know you were looking for until they caught your eye on the rack.

There’s also a bigger picture. If our local shops close, we’re left with long drives to Portland to shop, or the dreaded reliance on Amazon. That means more delivery trucks, more congestion, more road wear, more lost parcels, and the time-suck of online returns.

And it’s not just the clothing shops. Our tailors, cobblers, and leather repair experts only survive if we keep using them. If they disappear, so does the option to extend the life of what we already own, sending more perfectly good, mendable clothing straight to landfill.

So yes, shopping locally might feel like a small, limited act that doesn't have the massive variety and selection that online shopping has, but it keeps our community vibrant, sustainable, and stylish. Plus, it’s simply a nicer way to shop. Next time you’re tempted to click “Add to Cart,” maybe pop into one of the shops below instead—you might bump into me!

*****

3 WAYS TO WEAR IT: Mauve Suede Duster

I keep this on my main clothes rail all year but my eye completely glosses over it until the cooler Fall days roll around. I admit I bought it because of the color and how soft the faux suede fabric is, but was stumped for a while about how to wear it. It doesn't quite replace a coat yet it's awkward under one, but when the weather is cool and dry, it's an absolutely perfect layering piece.