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Here's a style philosophy I love: if you have great shoes and a beautiful bag, it doesn't really matter what else you're wearing. If you think about this, it is entirely true; the right shoes and bag can take your jeans and tee to new levels, but the wrong shoes can make even designer duds look like, well, duds.
When you shop, there are pieces worth splurging on and pieces that should always be bargains. How do you know the difference? A splurge should be a piece you will wear and wear and wear; it should have character and longevity. It should transcend trends, and be made to last. Having a few carefully chosen splurge pieces in your closet gives you a core to build on, but choose them carefully; you want these more expensive pieces to really work for you, not just to hang there reminding you how much they cost.
How do you know when to splurge and when to save? Here's a list of five basics in each category, as a starting point.
Where to splurge
1. Shoes. You get what you pay for in shoes; spend a little more and get a pair that will last and last. And then take care of them -- resole when needed, and have them cleaned and polished if possible.
2. Handbag. Invest in a bag that is timeless and classic and functional; spend more to get one that is well-made and it will last for years, even if you cram it full of stuff and carry it everywhere.
3. Winter coat. A good winter coat is worth the investment. Choose one that is appropriate for your region and lifestyle; this may mean a long wool dress coat or a down anorak or a lined trench, depending on where you live and what you do all day, but no matter what you choose, buy a good one. A classic winter coat of any style should be a piece that lasts for years.
4. Bras. A good bra is worth the investment, no matter what the price tag. Have a fitting and then stock up on bras in the right size and style; a really great bra will make everything you wear it with look that much better. The right bra can change your entire wardrobe, so don't skimp here.
5. Cashmere sweater. The cashmere sweater is a universal wardrobe staple; wear it with jeans and a tee or with your suit or over your little black dress. Cashmere is easy to care for and versatile and luxurious, and while it costs more than a basic cotton or wool sweater, you can find cashmere that won't break the bank. But don't buy the cheap stuff -- this is a piece that is worth the splurge, even if it's just a small splurge.
Where to save
1. Jeans. Sure, you can spend hundreds of dollars on jeans, but you don't need to; there are fantastic options in virtually every style in the mid to low price ranges. Fit matters more than price when we're talking about jeans, and a bigger price tag doesn't guarantee a better fit. Buy less expensive jeans and then care for them properly (machine wash inside out in cold water and gentle detergent; hang to dry) and no one will ever know how much they cost.
2. T-shirts and tanks. Again, you CAN spend a fortune on tees and tanks, but why bother? These are pieces that only last a year at most, and often don't make it through a season; splurging on them is silly. Instead, buy less expensive tees and replace as they wear out.
3. Cotton skirts. A simple cotton skirt is a great staple for summer, but there's no reason to spend a fortune on one. Retailers like Forever 21 and H&M are an excellent source for the basic cotton skirt, often for under $25.00. If you're concerned about the quality of your virtually free skirt, wash in the gentle cycle and hang to dry (the dryer is what really gets your clothes).
4. Little black dress. Yes, seriously! This is the kind of basic that you can shop the sales for, but remember a couple of things: don't buy ANYTHING on sale that you wouldn't buy at full price, and don't opt for something trendy just because it's cheaper. But
