Celebrating 37 years in business early this September, Fraleigh’s Boutique is both a tradition and a treasure in Clemmons, NC. Co-owners Donna Merriman and her mother, Mary Francis Bingham, launched the business in 1981, and after working together on a daily basis for all these years, the two are even better friends than ever!
Their lives revolve around family, fashion, friendship, and fun, all part of the Fraleigh’s mission, as customers instantly become family, friends gather here to find outfits for life’s special occasions, and each experience browsing their clothing collections – that’s everything from casual jeans to party dresses, even mother-of-the-bride gowns – and shoes, purses, jewelry, and other accessories, always brings out some fun.
“To me, having a family-owned boutique was a dream for many years,” says Donna. “I’m grateful knowing my mother believed in that dream and wanted to work so closely together for 30 plus years – and that we are continuing to grow!”
Even its name, lovingly, and creatively derived from a blend of Mary’s middle name and Donna’s middle name, feels somehow special, and that’s how these ladies and their employees (currently a team of six) hope every customer will leave – feeling special. They pour their hearts and talents into the enjoyable task of sending clients home with the most flattering fashion choices possible, with care given to every detail involved in putting together a new outfit, or simply accessorizing one you have, and already love. From searching their immense variety of styles and price points to pulling together the final look with head-to-toe finishing touches, there’s no finer customer service and individual care around than what you’ll find at Fraleigh’s.
Given their impressive 37-year history as a Clemmons favorite, mother and daughter shopping duos are naturally common, as the shopping local tradition is passed down, and sizes comfortably range from two to 20, with everything in between. Heading into the fall season, one of their most exciting new lines is the Charleston Shoe Company. With fall boots that are comfortable, stylish and machine washable, what’s not to love?! As is true every season, this fall will find the boutique full of endless possibilities.
“We feel that Fraleigh’s can cater to anyone who is over 30,” explains Donna. “We make sure to order styles that work for different age groups, for example, tops and dresses that are sleeveless, but also many with three-quarter-length sleeves, or easy jackets for those who like a little more coverage.”
The staff hand picks every piece they order, making sure to choose lines they know will look great and wear well, but also wash and maintain well. Their policy is to only order four to six pieces of each individual style, so the choices you make are even more unique. That impeccable quality, paired with frequent specials that keep looking fabulous also affordable, and a discerning dedication to listening to what customers truly like, sets Fraleigh’s apart. For every customer who enters the boutique, Donna and her staff want nothing more than for them to leave absolutely in love with every item they have purchased.
Whether you’re more at ease browsing on your own, or you’re immediately ready for some top-rate fashion guidance from the team, you’ll find the perfect shopping scenario at Fraleigh’s – and you’ll feel decidedly at home!
Mark your calendar now to check out the September anniversary specials at Fraleigh’s Boutique. Visit them at 2626 Lewisville-Clemmons Road in Clemmons, 336-766-7440, and at fraleighsboutiquenc.com. Boutique hours are Monday – Friday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., but also follow them on Instagram and Facebook to keep up-to-date with specials and new arrivals!
