Tie One On...

Scarves are a versatile and stylish way to accessorize any outfit. From casual to dressy, a well-chosen scarf can make quite a difference, transforming a plain look to pulled-together-fabulous!

Scarves come in many fabric choices. Heavier weight scarves can keep you warm during the winter while light weight scarves can accentuate a simple T-shirt or sundress during the warmer months. Some scarves can be worn in any season.

Year-Round Scarves

Pashmina scarves come is a variety of weights and are good year-round. Available in almost every color of the rainbow, they coordinate nicely with a coat, jacket or sweater. Unlike wool, Pashmina scarves are woven with a natural fiber similar to Cashmere that won't irritate the skin. They are generally solid colors which takes the guess work out of selecting one as a gift. As long as you know the recipient's color palette, you can choose one that will be complimentary and worn often.

Winter Scarves

A nubby textured scarf or Cashmere scarf can dress up a coat or sweater in the cool weather. Knit generally feels more casual while Cashmere scarves feel more dressy.  Cashmere is extremely soft and warm and comes in infinite colors and weaves from neutral and conservative to bright and contemporary. Because winter scarves are functional and beautiful, they make perfect gifts.

Changing the Look of A Scarf

The way a scarf is worn can dramatically change its look. There are many ways to tie and wear a scarf. Above is one example of a style worn close to the neck. Below is a loose flowing look. Notice that the black T-shirt on the model is basically the same in both pictures, and yet, the outfit looks totally different with a different scarf choice.

The following video will inspire you by showing some simple yet stunning ways to wear a scarf.

Masten Fine Framing & Gifts carries a beautiful and varied selection of scarves. Stop by anytime to see what's new. We're always happy to make suggestions to help you find just the right scarf. We can also help demonstrate some fun ways to tie your scarf to make it a versatile wardrobe staple.

Come On Baby Light My Fire!

Fire dates back to caveman times. It's provides light and warmth. It cooks our food. Candles are a way to bring fire into our lives for other reasons. The flickering light of candles add ambience, romance and fragrance to our world. But what kind of candles will light up your world? Here are some options:

Candles for dinnertime

Choose unscented candles around food. You've spent all day cooking a spectacular meal, don't cover up the aroma with the scent of candles. Unscented tapers, votives and tea lights are best. They add elegance and make the meal feel like a celebration. When purchasing tapers, look for ones that are dripless. This will prevent a waxy mess on your table when dinner is over. When purchasing votive and tea lights, keep burn time and cleanup in mind. Some tea lights come in disposable clear plastic containers that are almost invisible and can be tossed when they are used up. 

Scented candles for a pleasing fragrance

Jar candles are usually the best bet for providing fragrance and hiding odors. They work equally well in the bathroom, kitchen and pet areas. Choose scents and colors that you like and that match the location. For example; you might use a citrus or herb candle in the kitchen and a fresh clean scent in a pet area. You may also want to consider a soy candle. Candles made from soy wax are healthier because they don't release petroleum soot into the air. They also burn more evenly and release more fragrance.

Candles for ambience and romance

When choosing a candle for your living room of bedroom, think about the appearance of the candle. Many candles come in decorative containers that can complement your decor. You can also purchase a candle that mimics the flame in a fireplace. "Ribbonwick" candles flicker like a real fireplace and are also scented. "Woodwick" candles lightly crackle as they burn, adding to the ambience.

Stop by Masten Fine Framing & Gifts for a beautiful selection of hand-dipped tapers, long-burning disposable tealights, scented soy jar candles and decorative Woodwick and Ribbonwick candles.