I, like many, am definitely feeling the economic pinch and have been forced to reassess the value of my purchases and discover the hidden virtues behind the concept of downsizing.
Now as an avid fashion fanatic who is constantly surrounded by amazing items and some of the best-dressed people ever, abstaining from the stores is downright TORTUROUS!
Every season I like to make a few key purchases, my anchor items if you will. In season’s past I was guilty of going beyond my rigid wishlist, but this time around I WILL show restraint by sticking to the items I know I need and forgoing the rest, because in truth, I have plenty of fabulous pieces to get me by and I know you do too. So after careful consideration, the following items are those I deemed worthy of the investment during this very woeful season.
1) Riding Boots
I definitely believe that boots are always worthy splurges and that owning at least one sleek, high-quality pair is a must. Riding boots- a close cousin of motorcycle boots- are worth the investment on account of their mega versatility and capacity to up the chic-quotient of any ensemble.
My Pick: Burberry Trench Belt Riding Boot, $795
A sleek, structured style like this one will outlast trends and seasons and serve you well for years to come. This pair is classic, but still a little cutting-edge and can complete just about any look- leggings and a tunic, day dress, a cocktail dress, jeans and tee, the options are endless.
2) Leather Bomber Jacket
This season is all about the juxtaposition between naughty and nice and there is no better way to achieve the naughty than with a fiercely fabulous leather bomber. You can layer under your bomber with some chunky knits during the cold months and then strip away the layers and sport your bomber over a sexy tank or strapless cocktail frock when the weather warms up. A classic bomber will never go out of style which is why I definitely think quality is key.
My Pick: Mike & Chris Chapman Woven Leather Jacket, $990
Mike & Chris are known for their incredible bombers and while they come at a hefty price tag, I can assure you that the styles are well worth it.
3) A Statement Party Dress
With every season comes a new batch of absolutely stunning, jaw-dropping statement dresses guaranteed to keep you front and center at any fete. These dresses can’t be worn often, but when you do throw them into the rotation the results are well worth it. And seriously, every gal deserves to be the center of attention from time to time.
My Pick: Mint Jodi Arnold Tajana Mini Dress, Was: $418; NOW: $125.40
I actually wore this dress on New Years and it KILLED! When choosing a statement party dress, key things to look for are bold colors, unique embellishments, made-for-you fit, or a cutting edge silhouette. This dress fits the bill on account of the striking shade (which is even more incredible in person) and ultra-chic silhouette.
4) Killer Shoes
The statement-making shoes have taken over this season and this fabulous trend will not be leaving us anytime soon. Killer shoes take any outfit to the next level and have the power to not only make you look amazing, but they can radically transform how you feel by providing that super sexy strut that gets heads turning every which way!
My Pick: Gucci Iman Triple Ankle Strap Sandal, $1,275
These insanely sexy pumps seriously speak for themselves!
5) Statement Necklace
I am from the school of thought that it’s not so much what you wear, but rather, the accessories you wear it with that makes all the difference. I am all about the statement accessories. If I had to pick one statement piece to invest in it would be necklaces hands down. A glamorous necklace can turn a subdued look into a sensational one. It’s easy to stock up on cheap jewelry from Forever 21 and H&M, believe me, I have piles, but you should definitely invest in at least one jaw dropping, high-quality piece
My Pick: Vera Wang Motorcycle Chain Necklace, $895
I LOVE the edgy-glam style of this necklace. And it’s definitely one of those powerhouse pieces that will instantly make any outfit more fashion-forward.
Bonus Pick: Maison Martin Margiela Chain Necklace, Was: $275; NOW: $165
I have had my eye on this piece for quite some time, it’s so unique and unexpected and definitely not a style that you come across too often. With something like this, even the most basic jeans-and-tee outfit will look massively chic.