Accessories Make A Statement

Accessories are often essential items but are not limited by function. They help tell your fashion story, which does not have to be eccentric but is hopefully not boring. Some accessories are worth spending money on. For example, I justify spending a little extra dough on my spectacles because I wear them everyday and they are one of the first things people notice on me. (I love scrolling through our reading glass spinner on my way through the store. Did you know Eyebob frames can have prescriptions put in them!)

Accessories might strike some as feminine. But men's fashion has caught onto a lot of what women have been enjoying for years. Take stretch denim for example. At The Foursome, we have a hard time keeping our beloved 34 Heritage denim fully stocked because it literally flies out the door. These "stretch" jeans are slimming and comfortable, yet are made to fit men well with extra height in the back waistline and the right amount of room everywhere else. Or what about socks? (I used to collect socks from my favorite Japanese line, so I am aware of the uniqueness a pair can offer your outfit.) Between Marcoliani and St. Croix and SmartWool, men are not left out in the cold when it comes to sock fashion. Socks are no longer just essential, they make a statement.

Of the many available accessories for men, scarves are on my radar these days. Without looking at statistics, I can say from observation that scarves are a hot item. Women and men are wearing them every season of the year, they range from cotton to wool to silk and their price range is just as far reaching. A scarf adds color, pattern, personality. Winter is the obvious time to grab a few new ones to spice up your collection or replace the oldies.

While dressing mannequins a few months ago, I happened to walk past an informal buying meeting with Seaward & Stearn. In addition to eye-catching ties with flair and color, I spied a collection of scarves with as much fun woven into them as you would expect from this London based company. This week I noticed their arrival at The Foursome when I first came into work. I unfolded them and put them on display immediately. Seeing a folded pile of these beauties does not do them justice, varied weaves from front to back with reverse color and a mixtures of polka dots and stripes. They feel exquisite and look sophisticated. A truly special gift for yourself or someone important.

  - Words and Photos by Beth Dougherty, Inspiration and Display Coordinator at The Foursome