Thursday, December 22, 2011

To invest or not to invest? There's no question!


Investment pieces - that is what we are talking about today. Those of you who know me know that there are some things that I am willing to drop good money on... and same things that I won't buy unless the price is right.

So how do you know what's worth the extra money?

Investment pieces depend on your wardrobe, profession, and lifestyle... but for the most part, there are a few pieces that should be on everyone's list.

- A good pair of dark jeans to wear with heels
- A good pair of jeans to wear with flats
- A good, sturdy purse
- Good, quality boots
- Solid layering pieces
- A nice overcoat
- A few good bras

While I have a much longer list of things that I would love to splurge on, these are the pieces that I think are essential to have in your wardrobe and to spend a little more money on - just to make sure that you get excellent quality.

These pieces will last you for years, so when you actually break it down to "price per wear," they actually wind up costing less per wear than some of the pieces that you may initially think are cheap. It's just about being willing to spend the money upfront.

The most expensive item in your closet is the item that you only wear once (or never wear).

That being said, all of the items that I have listed above are pieces that will be worn over and over, and I can assure you that you will get your money's worth.

Here are some brands that I like. You don't have to go couture, just be very aware of the quality. You usually get what you pay for.

A good pair of jeans (for heels or flats):

Hudson Jeans

Jag Jeans

Joe's Jeans

Mother Jeans

7 for all Mankind Jeans

DL1961 Jeans

Not Your Daughter's Jeans

Kut from the Kloth Jeans

J Brand Jeans

A good, sturdy purse:
Long Champ (So Sturdy!)
Tory Burch

Kate Spade

Botkier

Michael Kors

Cole Haan

MARC by Marc Jacobs (I adore mine!!!!)

Rebecca Minkoff
Ted Baker

Good, quality boots:


STEVEN by Steve Madden


Vince Camuto

Steve Madden

Alberto Fermani 

Franco Sarto

Ivanka Trump

Stuart Weitzman (my faves!)

Sam Edelman

Enzo Angiolini

Jeffery Campbell
Solid Layering Pieces:

Classiques Entier - every woman should have this tank in at least black, white and brown!

James Perse - Long sleeve, short sleeve, v-neck and crew neck - this brand holds it's shape and looks nice after several wears!


A nice overcoat:




Elie Tahari

Patagonia
Valette

Nicole Miller
A few good bras:

Natori

Cosabella

Cosabella

Natori

Le Mystere

Wacoal

Make sure that you get fitted by a professional - they do a great job at Nordstrom, as well as many boutiques in the area including Sol Lingerie (I would not recommend Victoria's Secret). 

Also, make sure you have a good bra in nude, black, and white. Not the sexiest colors but definitely the most practical. It's never attractive to see lace or color from your bra popping out under your shirt!


So there it is - my list of "Investment Pieces." Always watch for a good deal but don't settle for poor quality just to save a few bucks... you're worth it - and it will save you money in the long run!

Happy Shopping and Happy Holidays!

Xo, Kristin @Kristin Golden Image Consulting


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