Fashion

When it comes to my wardrobe, I tend to lean toward buying items that are well-made and that will last versus taking frequent trips to the mall for items I don’t want to wear in six months. I’ve been a fashion consumer ever since age 9, when I demanded that I get the neon bikini that stole my heart at Kohl’s department store. Since then, I have gone on many shopping journeys at all price points, and I am here to share some of my wisdom with those that might not feel like natural-born shoppers. Let me help you spend in the right places and save where you can. Hopefully my years of buyer’s remorse will assist you in your next big investment. 

1. Handbags 
I bought my first designer handbag at 26, and I’ve gotten a new one every year or so. That is a luxury, I realize, and one that I work hard for. Handbags (saying purse is reserved for the 85+ crowd) can make an outfit. They can Cinderella you from a plain Jane look to an iconic classic style. I’ve found that designer brands retain their value, especially if you keep them in good condition. I haven’t been the person to get the ‘safe’ black bag, and instead gravitate toward colors that make me happy.
The key is making sure to take care of them, especially if reselling is an option you’re thinking about. I save reselling for trendy bags (like my Gucci belt bag) to wear for a season then sell before the trend loses steam on a site like The Real Real. But something like my patent blue Chanel bag that you would think would get old, I still wear all the time and keep in good condition. If you’re looking to get a designer handbag of your own, getting them second-hand at a vintage store or online via the Real Real is a great start. If you want to keep your bag in good condition, I recommend storing it in its dust pouch. Saving the tags and the box are also bonus points for reselling! 

2. Jewelry 
High-quality jewelry also retains its resale value! In my experience, I’ve been able to sell old jewels for 60 percent the original value I paid for it. My Cartier wedding band from my first marriage? SOLD IT! With inscription for most of the original cost. My Tiffany necklace I got for graduation? Same thing. I find that “fine” jewelry, no matter who the designer, will retain value over the years, and you can even rework it to fit your changing life. I took my diamond earrings I got when I was 25 and added them to a ring. I have sold gold necklaces that I got for special moments and then taken that cash and bought something I love. It’s tempting to spend your money on trendy jewelry you’ll wear a few times then get sick of, but I’m telling you, saving that extra money to get something you wear all the time is worth it!

3. A good blazer 
If you are looking for a basic that will last for life, you will get a lot of mileage out of a high-quality black blazer (I recommend this Henning blazer!). When you compare blazers, pay attention to fit and cut. I’ve found cheap, fast-fashion blazers are made with low-quality fabrics that lay weird, and wear poorly over time. A nice blazer that is durable and fits great will last a lifetime!

4. Outerwear 
I love a classic coat, and I feel like outerwear is definitely worth an investment. A cheap coat will pill, get worn out quickly, and doesn’t always have a great cut. You can never go wrong with a long coat in a color that goes with everything (like camel or black) so why not get one that will last a lifetime?

5. A bra 
Many people wear a bra every single day of their life. If you’re spending $12 on a bra, chances are you have to replace it a few times a year. Save yourself that anguish and put in some extra money up front on a bra that won’t fall apart after a few months of wear, and will most likely make a difference in your daily comfort. 

  
6. A dermatologist 
Alright hear me out: you can spend hundreds of dollars trying to figure out what skincare works for you, but if you take the time to see a dermatologist (use your insurance!) and get skincare advice from an expert on what your skin needs, avoiding the trial-and-error period and getting right into the products that work for you. Also, you should be seeing one every year to get skin cancer checks anyway. I started getting Botox injections in my face at age 28, as often as I could afford (which was sometimes once a year) but I have found that it has been a long-term program I am happy with. Going to a good derm doesn’t necessarily mean needles, but it might be a prescription retinol that can make a real difference. 

7. Furniture 
Last but not least: Invest in a real couch. I’ve gone through so many cheap couches in my day, and they do not hold up—and it’s such a big item to waste! A good couch can last you decades (and become a family heirloom in the process) so don’t be afraid to invest. You can also buy a name-brand couch used for a fraction of the retail price. Just focus on finding a style you love that you can recover throughout the years so it can change as your style does.

1. Cashmere 
You don’t have to splurge on cashmere! I’ve found that regardless of where I get cashmere, it ages the same way. There’s no need to go all out on it, I love J.Crew for ‘affordable’ cashmere.

 
 
2. Wallets 
Investing in a designer wallet is a no from me! Even though a wallet is the lowest price point for designer items, nobody really sees your wallet, and it always gets dirty. I say just bank the cash you’d use to buy the wallet and put it toward a nice bag. 

3. Shoes 
Shoes get dirty and will inevitably show their wear over time, which is why I’m against spending major money on shoes. Even if you really love them and you want to wear the crap out of them, there are so many mid-range priced shoes that are great quality. I think in this case, it’s better get a pair of $200 boots (rather than a $50 pair you’ll have to replace every year after they fall apart) knowing you’ll take them to the cobbler in six or so years, rather than getting $900+ boots and having to do the same thing. 

4. Jeans 
There have been so many innovations in denim and I really think that mass brands can make a pretty good-looking jean—no need to splurge! To extend the life of your jeans, make sure to wash them inside out and don’t put them in the dryer. Some of my favorite jeans are from Good American, Universal Standard, Madewell, and Old Navy. 

5. Mascara 
I’ve tried them all. All of them. And truly, they are basically the same at every price point. Yes, some are better than others, but I have found the drug store brands carry ones that are just as good as that $68 designer mascara. One of my favorites is Covergirl Lash Blast mascara.  

6. Designer swimsuits 
A designer suit can make you feel fancy, but the truth is that most of them are not made for exposure to salt, chlorine, or sunscreen. (Really, it’s on the label!) Pretty rough to have fun in the sun when you can’t really participate in any of the fun. I think there are plenty of chic swimsuit brands that have a designer vibe without the price tag or fussiness. J.Crew, Swimsuits for All, Lands End, and Madewell all offer great selections, without breaking the bank.  More

Don’t let the article’s title or my fake tan fool you: I’m a Chicago girl through and through. It doesn’t feel like fall without restocking up on sweaters, and Christmas can’t come before it snows. But when I moved to sunny Los Angeles a few years ago, I was ready to give up hot chocolate, changing leaves, and the excitement of the first snowfall of the year—but I am not willing to give up these trends.Despite staying at home for almost an entire year, styles still come and go, and fashion feels just as fresh. This season brought trends so chic, unique, pretty, and bold that I just had to have them, even if the weather didn’t permit. Whether you live in year-round warm weather or are currently parked in front of a space heater with your coat on indoors, you’re going to want to indulge in these winter trends.

1. Everything Leather

Leather typically feels a little too hot and heavy for any temperature above 65 degrees. But this season said “thank you, next” to moto jackets, and leather started showing up in everything from fancy work trousers to sleek blazers. The everything-in-leather trend is so chic that I would endure a little extra sweat for the sake of fashion.

2. Cropped Puffers

OK, the last time someone wore a puffer coat in Los Angeles was, like, never. But in 2021, the cropped puffer is not just a tool to stay warm, it’s a fashion statement. It has become my loungewear of choice when running to the grocery store (or staying warm in my A.C.).

3. Fringe Sweaters

I’ve been wearing cozy sweaters since stay-at-home started a year ago, so frankly, I’m bored of knit. But they’re just so soft, there’s nothing I’d rather wear during another stay-at-home day or one of the (few) chilly days in LA (curse you, cashmere!). So the fix for my sweater boredom is adding a stylish detail: fringe. Wear it as a cardigan over a white tee and denim, or rock a high-neck version with your favorite leggings.

4. Quilting

That’s right: the pattern reminiscent of your grandma’s go-to hobby is officially cool. Whether it’s a lightweight puffy material or sleek faux leather, I can’t get enough of the subtle trend. Even though it’s traditionally on winter coats, I’ll be stocking up on accessories, skirts, and jackets for staples classic enough to keep for years, but trendy enough to look of-the-moment.

5. Colored Velvet

Maybe it’s the inner romantic in me, or maybe I’ve watched too much Bridgerton lately, but I can’t get enough of luxe velvet in jewel-tones and royal hues (Penelope Featherington’s OOTDs are a mood). Luckily, a lightweight piece like a blazer isn’t too warm for LA, and a velour set of sweatpants is basically a must-have at this point. 

6. Head-to-Toe Knit

Knit is no longer just a fabric; it’s a way of life. So why stop at a sweater or shirt? Since legs deserve some love too, my winter outfit of choice is knit from head to toe. Whether it’s a chic set (that looks way more stylish than my ratty old sweatpants and camp T-shirt), or a comfortably fitted midi dress (keyword: comfortably), I’m not giving it up, even as temperatures rise.

7. Statement Coat

Why should cities with cold weather have all the fun? I love a coat in a bold print or bright color because it makes any outfit look put-together and fashionable (no, seriously. Try it out yourself by throwing it over jeans and a tee). Don’t think statement coats can last season to season? I’ve had the same leopard print coat for five years (yes, I have worn it in LA). And it always looks like I bought it that season.

8. Winter White

There’s a reason white is the color of brides, angels, and snow: it just looks so pretty! (OK, maybe there are more logical reasons than the aesthetics, but you get my point.) I love a good white sundress come summer, but winter white is my favorite. Cozy sweaters and light denim are like making a statement with basics. To take full advantage of the trend, go head-to-toe white or opt for investment pieces (like a coat or bag) in the gorgeous hue. 

9. Chunky Boots

Before you ask, no, I’ve never been considered athletic (I “played” volleyball in high school and sat on the bench the entire time). But just because I’m not athletic doesn’t mean I can’t be good at athleisure. I’m obsessed with the it-boot of the season: the chunky, functional, and practical athletic boot. They’re like the trendier version of your old-school hiking boots. Since it never rains or snows in LA, the waterproof exterior is just a bonus. 

10. Plaid Outerwear

What would Blair Waldorf wear in the winter of 2021? You can bet she’d still be rocking that iconic plaid outerwear. While a classic peacoat is always in style, I also love the structured shackets (shirt-jackets) of the season that are a combination of lumberjack-chic and your nice work shirt. Think: wide collars, a thick material, and an oversized fit.

11. Sweater Vests

All bets were off in 2020, so it’s not surprising that one of the year’s most fashionable items was originally rocked by Chandler Bing. And in 2021, the sweater vest trend isn’t going anywhere. Wear it over collared shirts or turtlenecks while the weather is still cold, and I’ll be transitioning it under blazers (or on its own with denim shorts) as the temperature gets warmer. 

What cold weather trends are you obsessed with RN? More

So it’s the 10th month spent at home, the holidays are over, and the weather is pretty bleak. January is always a bummer of a month, even without a global pandemic (am I right, or am I right?). While staying-at-home persists, you might be feeling the Sunday Scaries every night of the week. If that’s not a plea for some retail therapy, I don’t know what is.Personally, I have not been online shopping as much this year as I typically do (at least my bank account is pleased), but the items I have purchased meant more. For one reason, expecting a package in the mail gives me the will to live, but cute trends and pretty pieces also make me feel hopeful for a little bit of normalcy. Maybe I’m overly sentimental, or maybe the trends RN are just so good, but as a little pick-me-up and post-holiday present for myself, these are the trends I’m so excited to wear later (whether it’s in warmer weather or when it’s safe to go out again), that I’m buying them now.

1. Belted Blazers

Since March, I’ve been dreaming of what I would wear on my first day back at the office. After 10+ months of reflecting, I can confidently say this will be it. There’s something about a tie belt that makes a standard blazer instantly chicer, and a silhouette immediately more flattering.

2. Distressed Flared Denim

If 2020 has done one thing for my closet, it’s that I’m ready to break up with my skinny jeans (and my sweatpants have doubled in numbers). The trendy pair of jeans I’ll be rocking in 2021 is a distressed pair with a flared leg. They’re chic, relaxed, and of-the-moment stylish, and they’re so comfortable, I can start wearing them now while lounging at home.

3. Mid-Length Knit

Keeps us warm, feels comfortable, and looks insanely stylish–what can’t knit do? The style I’m currently pining after is a mid-length dress, tight enough to comfortably cling to the body, without being so tight you can’t eat too many slices of pizza (you know what I’m talking about). Dress it up with heeled boots, or dress it down with white sneakers and rock it from now until summer.

4. Silky Printed Button-Downs

You may think button-downs are just for the office, but they’ve become my fashionable loungewear of choice. Think Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, only silkier, comfier, and more statement-making. The bloggers on my Instagram feed have been rocking printed button-downs for months over knit joggers and biker shorts, but they’ll look just as good tucked into distressed denim. The bolder print, the better. 

5. Spring Pastels

So the weather (and groundhog) still says winter, but I think we can all agree that we’re ready for spring. After a crazy few months, we need sunny days, warmer weather, and bright colors. I’m longing for colors like baby blue, pretty pink, and light yellow to brighten up OOTDs. Wear it now with knit sweaters in pastel colors, or save it for later with blouses, sundresses, and accessories.

6. Luxe Bra Tops

Am I the only one who hasn’t bought a new bra since senior year of high school? Lately, I’ve been shopping for comfy bra tops and luxurious bralettes because I’m an adult, and I deserve something pretty, damn it! Maybe I’ll be so bold to wear an outfit with a chic bra top and high-waisted jeans, maybe I’ll lounge at home in a jersey knit bra instead of my old wired ones, or maybe I’ll just feel an extra boost of confidence knowing there’s something pretty under my sweatshirt. Either way, sign me up.

7. Lug Chelsea Boots

I’m not usually so edgy to opt for a chunky boot, but apparently, 2020 has brought out my inner edge. Chelsea boots are always in style, but the 2021 version comes with a lug sole, AKA a thicker bottom with ridges (don’t worry, I had to Google it too). Lug Chelsea Boots add a casual, edgy detail to a classic, feminine style, AKA the perfect shoe for any outfit.

8. Fringe

Whether it’s Western-inspired fringe jackets you’d find in old John Wayne movies or glam fringe reminiscent of 1920s flappers, the trend is blowing up. Right now, I’m buying it in jackets and sweaters I can wear at home, as well as pretty accessories and dresses I can wear later. 

9. Sweater Vests

Who would’ve thought that Chandler Bing would’ve been a fashion icon in 2021? The ’90s fashion trend is back (and chicer than ever), which is no surprise since it’s the perfect combination of comfortable and stylish. Wear it over collared shirts or turtlenecks while the weather’s still cold, and transition it under blazers or on its own with denim shorts when the temperature gets warmer. 

10. Knee-High Boots with a Kitten Heel

Didn’t you hear? OTK boots are out, and knee-high boots are in. While I still love my chunky-heeled knee-high boots I bought last year, 2021 is all about the skinny and short heel. It’s a little more elegant, comfortable, and trendy, so consider me obsessed. I’ll be looking forward to wearing them out and about, but until then, I’ll be drooling over them in my closet.

What trends are you buying RN? More