Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither should your wardrobe be. In a world cluttered with disposable clothing, we wanted to give credence to a few stand out, go-to pieces that are worth the splurge:
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A leather jacket
Whether it be moto, bomber or a blazer – the style trends change, but if you find the look that flatters you, a great leather jacket is always worth the splurge. Think Grease, Top Gun, or even The Matrix – the leather jacket just has a way of setting a “says it all” tone. The leather jacket is the perfect juxtaposition for adding a bit of edge over a floaty dress. Throw over a dressy look and you’ve taken it down a notch in a super cool way. For the more classic lady, a leather jacket can complete a sleek, tailored look without being too prim. Any way you wear it, the leather jacket is a go-to wardrobe piece for any fashionista.
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A little black dress
As men have had their weapons from the dawn of time, a LBD is the crowning piece in a woman’s fashion arsenal. Useful for all occasions: dates, luncheon, shower or even a business meeting – every woman has to have it. The magic of the LBD is that it can range from casual to cocktail to more black tie if called for. Whatever your style, all that matters is it makes you feel like a million bucks and it’s is worth every penny.
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A proper leather handbag
A timeless leather handbag is essential. One that will hold up, sit on your arm the way you prefer, and in a neutral color will be hard to find – but worth its weight in gold. Think about it. You carry a handbag every day of your life – for hours upon hours. You need that sucker to lift, carry, haul and be flung about as much as you do day after day. With that said, I have to admit to being a ardent supporter of great handbag craftsmanship from legendary houses such as Louis Vuitton. I’ve been amazed how time and time again, I will see 20+ year old Louis that have nary lost their heft and handle. Now, if you balk at spending close to $1000 or more on a single item, there are plenty of other great options out there as well. I recommend Cole Haan and Ralph Lauren, whose leatherwork seems to hold up well unto the great pressure that being a woman sidekick is.
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A Trench
The French have style, hands down. And, over and over, the trench makes the lists on how to attain that French sense of style. From Brigit Bardot, to Audrey, to Lauren Hutton – that trench just adds that certain je ne sais quois over any outfit to make you feel polished, pulled together and womanly.
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A pair (or more) of ballet flats
Again with the French? Well, all I know is that with all the running around we women do, we’ve got to take care of our feet! My little puppies can’t handle heels day in and day out, so I say hooray for the ballet flat! A ballet flat is so chic, so simple and effortless – and a great investment pair will last you season after season for years to come. Pick a standout color to mix and match with outfits and avoid being matchy matchy. But, you can’t go wrong with a neutral pair either, just as long as you’re pairing them with ankle pants and flirty dresses.
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Statement jewelry
A friend of mine always picks up a bauble worth talking about on her travels. It’s a great memento to take home and remind her of where she’s been. I love having a knock out piece for that very reason – give ’em something to talk about! Don your favorite statement jewelry with abandon – a cocktail ring, a dazzling choker, fabulous arm candy or even a great earring. In the spirit of Elizabeth Taylor, one stunning gem can take even the most drab to gossip-worthy proportions.
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A winter coat
As the seasons change, let’s face it – you may spend hours getting dressed only to top it off with that same old coat. With that said, get yourself a coat you are proud to wear all fall and winter. Anna Wintour said in this month’s Vogue that it’s her first new purchase every fall. Pick a color, pattern, and style that works for you, not the trends. A bright, bold color that cheers every mood or a belted style that defines your waist like no Spanx ever could… Investing in a great coat is like a great fire. It gives you the warmth, glow and energy to face whatever the elements bring.
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