season-less basics!

This is the time of year when most of us stop buying winter clothes (except for maybe some awesome deals - hello, sale season!) and start thinking about spring clothes.  But it's still a touch early to actually start buying for spring and really most retailers haven't even put out their spring lines yet.  It's this weird in-between season for fashion (and maybe for life!?!?).  The classic "in-between".

I am definitely starting to think about my spring wardrobe and am working on planning some fun spring themed posts here on the blog. But we aren't quite THERE yet. No?

This is a great time to think about season-less basics instead.  Those wardrobe builders that yes, you can wear this spring, but - maybe even wear now and this summer and even next fall.  The pieces that work for most weather (maybe except for the extremes; like super hot or the super cold).  The thing I love about these pieces is that they are so classic and easy while still be fresh.  Because as we say goodbye to winter I think there is a certain fresh-ness we all crave.

These are the skinny jeans that I am obsessed with.  Or they are available stretch version - which I also love.  They aren't cheap but these two pairs are the ones I wear about 95% of the time.  They are so so worth it in my book. 

Perfect for spring rain or blustery cold days with a sweater underneath, this trench coat is a classic piece you will own and were for YEARS to come. 

I wore these sneakers in jr high and now apparently they are all the rage with the gals in Paris (or so I've heard).  We all know Parisians know a thing or two about style.  Either I was 25 years ahead of the curve or these babies are back in style!  These are on my current wishlist!

You really can't go wrong with a classic camel handbag.  And these tassels are just the icing on top.  I LOVE this bag right now!

I love throwing a simple graphic tee under cardigans, blazers, jean jackets or army coats.  So easy, so chic. 

A striped sweater will never go out of style.  If yours needs updating, this classic version is a winner!

Beautiful and simple jewelry like this pretty bracelet is always on point.  This is another piece that's on my wishlist!

I'm a sunglass hoarder... I love this oversized pair of sunglasses.  And the price is right on these babies!  Go ahead and "add to cart" on these!

My black distressed jeans get TONS of wear!  They are so easy to throw on with pretty much anything and I find black jeans to be extremely slimming too.  Which never hurts!

When I purchased a red blazer a while ago I thought it was kind of a crazy purchase.  Turns out it so classic!  I can see it never going out of style!

These pink earrings are the perfect spring and summer staple.  Wear them now with a sweater for a little slice of sunshine!

I picked up a similar long cardigan last fall and plan on wearing it this spring too.  It's the perfect extra layer without being too bulky.

I'm pretty much drooling over these tortoise print flats - I have the same pair in 'light oak' and they are so comfortable and easy to slip on.  The tortoise version is totally next level though!

This white blouse is the perfect example of a great transitional piece.  Wear it now with a cardigan and flats and then on it's own with sandals and skinny jeans this spring.  And then again with blazers in the fall...

fun & fresh wardrobe basics for 2017!

Happy New Year friends!  2017 is going to be a really great year... I can feel it already! We've spent the past week sleeping in, overloading on family time, continuing to pull the house together after renovations and in general doing a whole lot of nothing.  It was everything a Christmas break should be.  But now with the New Year upon us I, like everyone else, am ready to snap to attention and start this year off on the right foot.

A big part of organizing myself for 2017 is organizing my closet and my wardrobe goals for 2017.  I'm revisiting this blog post to get my closet refresh going (and boy does it need it!) and I'll be posting a few blog posts this month about what direction I hope to take my closet this year.  Lately I am craving casual pieces with a refined edge to them.  Pieces that can easily be dressed up or dressed down is just what I am looking for in 2017.  Blouses that stand on their own or layer well.  Great fitting and flattering denim.  Sneakers that are comfortable AND cute. Oversized sweaters and sweatshirts. And easy to wear accessories like simple earrings and a classic bucket bag   These are just the types of pieces I am looking to add to my closet this year.

What about you? What are your style goals for 2017? Any new trends you are looking to try? Are you looking to decrease the number of items you own, but go for better quality? Do you need to fill gaps in your wardrobe after a pregnancy or weight loss? I would love to hear! We can go through the process together!

top row: loafers - loafers are having a moment for 2017!, striped peplum top, bucket bag, distressed black jeans, floral blouse - perfect under a cozy cardigan!

middle row: earrings - I have these and love them!, ankle ugg boots, grey sweatshirt, sunglasses - love these wild sunnies for combating snow glare!

bottom row: puffball sneakers - obsessed with these!, skinny jeans, oversized cardigan, cream sweater, small cross-body bag - perfect for wearing under bulky coats!

10 classic wardrobe staples!

One of the most common questions I get from readers are about starting from scratch with your wardrobe.  Often times life changes like becoming a stay-at-home mom, reaching your weight loss goals or even just deciding that your wardrobe needs a major overhaul leads to the big question of "where to start?"

I always encourage the ladies that ask these questions to start with really high quality basics that are absolutely timeless.  Taking your wardrobe back to bare bones can be refreshing and it's a great way to build a foundation that you can slowly grow on.  Very few people have the money or patience to shop for an entire wardrobe at once.  Keying in on beautiful basics first makes the process simple and makes getting dressed and putting together outfits right away easy.

Here are 10 classic wardrobe staples that are a great place to start... or maybe you have a solid wardrobe, but you need to refresh a few pieces.  These are the pieces I like to make sure I always have on hand for a well rounded closet.

A classic cardigan is perfect for layering over tees, tanks or plaid shirts this fall.  

I love this plaid scarf, it's classic and the colors will work perfect with other neutrals in your closet. Plus, it adds a bit of style and texture to any fall look.

These slouchy fit jeans are the next iteration of boyfriend jeans.  They are a modern and casual and perfect for pairing with sweaters or blouses for a pulled together but laid back look. 

A pair of classic black flats are perfect for everyday wear.  Pair them with leggings or jeans, sweaters and jeans for an easy and comfortable shoe option.

A striped top is a classic wardrobe staple that is great for layering or wearing on it's own.  It's the perfect upgrade to a standard t-shirt.

A top with visual interest like this white bell sleeve top is great to have on hand to look and feel a little dressier without sacrificing comfort.

Ankle boots are the perfect way to bring any look into fall.  The small heel gives them a sophisticated feel when paired with a great pair of jeans. 

Classic sweaters like this black sweater are great to have on hand for cooler fall and winter days.  They don't have to be anything fancy, but a knit always looks great.  I love every thing Everlane carries if you are looking for classic sweaters. 

A simple trench coat will never go out of style and will always elevate any look as an extra layer!

Last but certainly not least, I always depend on a great pair of black jeans for an ultra flattering but comfortable and practical foundation to any outfit. 

fall must haves 2016!

Each fall on the blog I like to pull together the ultimate round up of this season's must have items for your closet. The weather is still pretty warm here in the midwest so it's almost impossible to start thinking about plaid shirts, knee high boots and suede jackets QUITE yet... but it's coming friends.  The cool weather will be here (unfortunately) before we know it and when it does arrive we want to be ready!

Today's round up is all about the must-haves for all. Moody colors, denim, suede and layers take center stage this time of year.  These pieces are easy to wear and to mix and match to make getting dressed this fall super simple and stylish.

Some of my favorite pieces see are the bell sleeve blouse, which is perfect for layering under a utility vest or on it's own to the office or for a night out paired with the lace up flats   The graphic tee is perfect for layering under the suede moto jacket or the long cardigan with ankle boots   And the plaid top is perfect with black leather-like jeans and pair of over the knee boots.  What are your favorite fall combos?

tops: lace up sweater, oversized sweater, sleeveless turtleneck sweater, bell sleeve blouse, graphic tee, plaid top

bottoms: grey jeans, black leather-like jeans, boyfriend jeans (or with no distressing)

layers: suede moto jacket, long cardigan, utility vest

accessories: suede satchel - love this olive color for fall!, teal cross-body bag, choker/bolo suede necklace, rings, over the knee boots, lace up flats, ankle boots

spring/summer wardrobe essentials 2016

Spring is finally, finally here and my wardrobe is SOOOOOO ready for a little refresh.  How about yours?  

Each season I round up the wardrobe essentials that your closet (and mine!) absolutely need this season.  I combined spring and summer together because for me the two really blur together into one season as far as my clothes go.  Once the shorts, dresses and sandals come out in spring, they don't get put away until fall.  

This warm weather season I am sticking to the basics like denim shorts, striped dresses, white jeans and striped tops.  But I am also loving fun boho pieces that are super trendy right now and easy to wear as well, like flare jeans, peplum, and off the shoulder tops.  Today I rounded up my favorite styles for spring and I think I found the perfect balance between fun and trendy pieces and classic staples to keep you looking and feeling your best until fall.  

I love the idea of mixing and matching the classic pieces with the trendy pieces for this spring and summer.  For instance, how cute would the off-the-shoulder top look with white jeans? Or a classic striped top with flare jeans?  The best thing about spring and summer clothes is that shorts, dresses and tanks tend to be less of an investment than sweaters and boots for fall and winter, so you can really have some fun with trying new trends or investing in the classic pieces that will last. 

shop the pieces: 

bottoms & dresses: flare jeans, white jeans, black linen shorts, denim shorts, white shorts, denim skirt, striped dress, midi dress, chambray dress

tops: spring sweater, striped top, chambray top, off-the-shoulder top, tunic top, peplum top, grey t-shirt

jackets & accessories: linen blazer, denim jacket, sunglasses, hat, tote, cross-body bag

shoes & jewelry: wedges, sneakers, lace up sandals, birkenstocks, espadrilles, necklace, rings

brand to know: vince

Do you ever come across a new (to you) brand name and think: 'YES! This is SO me!!!'  I had that recently with a brand that Nordstrom carries called Vince.  I had heard of the brand before but never really gave it a second glance until I was randomly in Nordstrom Rack a few weeks back with no real plan (dangerous!) and came across a navy v-neck Vince sweater that was so soft and luxurious that it had to come home with me.

Then this past weekend I was shopping in Chicago at Nordstrom on Michigan Avenue and stopped by the Vince area and was literally melting at the fabrics, cuts and styles that Vince offers.  All the fabrics are swoon worthy and they really take the relaxed and casual cuts to the next level.  Vince has really nailed the simple but gorgeous basics - elevated basics - that are right on par with what I crave for my wardrobe these days.

And while this brand is definitely in the "investment" category for my wardrobe - it's definitely worth putting a few of these pieces on my wishlist.  A lot of the pieces are season-less fabrics and styles which makes investing in this brand an easier decision in the long run because you can really get so much great wear out of them.  And as a bonus... they are not only available at Nordstrom, but at Nordstrom Rack online too - an at a great savings.

What do you think of this brand? Do you own any Vince pieces?  I'd love to know your thoughts! (And keep in mind, in some instances the photos do absolutely NO justice to how beautiful these pieces are... don't you hate when that happens?!)

black pop-over dress, tailored leather jacket, v-neck sheath dress, navy v-neck blouse, drape front cardigan, grey v-neck sweater, navy wedge espadrille sandals, cream chunky knit sweater, cream roll neck pullover, cream cable knit sweater, white boat-neck sweater, nude cross-body bag, ankle boots

shop the post here...

16 seasonless basics!

Not feeling inspired by your winter wardrobe? Not ready to dress for spring yet?

Season-less basics are what is getting me through lately... neutrals are the perfect pieces to mix and match this time of year when winter inspiration is low.  Here are a few of my favorites and wish list items...

top row: field jacket, blazer, lace up flats, leopard flats, black flats

middle row: striped top, cashmere sweater, long sleeve top, black jeans, white jeans, skinny jeans

bottom row: cream cross-body bag, camel moto bag, black tote, necklace, earrings

Shop the post here...

30 winter wardrobe essentials...

This post is a little late seeing as we are about halfway through winter already, however I still wanted to take time to put it together for a few reasons.  One being, if you are like me you are already getting sick of your winter clothes... this post may work to remind us of pieces we already own but forgot about OR you may still be filling holes in your winter wardrobe and now is the time to do that with many winter pieces on sale now.  The other reason is that this is the perfect reminder that you don't need TONS of winter clothes to make for a cohesive winter wardrobe.  Winter is all about really solid basics like great jeans and sweaters and coats and boots that will keep us warm and stylish for the next couple of months.

My winter wardrobe is the one I really invest in.  Warm winter coats and boots don't come cheap and if you buy right these investments should last several years.  The same goes for sweaters and jeans... I don't want anything that is falling apart, stretching out or pilling mid-season.  Go for investment pieces this time of year and you won't regret it.

Accessories like scarves, a few delicate pieces of jewelry and a great bag or two can go a long way as well.  For bags I like to use a big tote this time of year (easy to sling over the shoulder with all the layers on) or a cross body bag to leave your hands free for mittens or gloves - or a nice warm drink!  And warm socks are ALWAYS in style this time of year... below I featured the pair I can't live without!  High quality snow boots like Ugg and Sorel are absolutely essential for keeping your feet warm.  And for days when it's not too snowy or cold, ankle boots, riding boots or even a pair of sneakers works for looking stylish - if it's warmer where you live or you get a random mild day a gorgeous pair of flats is always nice to have on hand.

This is the season for layering as much as possible, coats or jackets with tops and sweaters and scarves... layer it all on!  Being freezing cold is never in style.  So here are my top 30 winter wardrobe essentials... I hope this inspires your winter wardrobe in a positive way. I know that many of these pieces are similar to items that I own and love and depend on in my wardrobe.

coats/scarves

camel coat, faux fur hooded anorak, leather jacket, blazer, plaid scarf, grey scarf

sweaters

striped sweater, cream sweater, turtleneck sweater, grey cardigan, cream poncho

tops

grey sweatshirt, striped top, chambray top, plaid top

jeans/bottoms

leather leggings, dark skinny jeans, distressed jeans, black jeans

shoes

sorel snow boots, riding boots, ankle boots, ugg boots, sneakers, flats

accessories

tote, cross body bag, delicate ring set, necklace, warm socks

Or shop the pieces here...

2016 style resolution: black shoes!

I am quite picky when it comes to purchasing shoes and boots for myself.  Especially since in the last few years I have overall tried to curate my wardrobe more thoughtfully.  Instead of buying whatever is inexpensive or on sale or the latest trend from Target (all of which find their way to the 'donate' pile faster than I would like) I have been focusing on investing in shoes that I not only really, really (really!) love but also that will hopefully last multiple seasons. If a shoe can last two seasons that is good, four or five seasons is even better!  But as you may have experienced or can guess, finding that perfect shoe that fits the budget and is stylish and can last that long isn't an easy task.

I recently snagged a new pair of black mocs on crazy sale at Nordstrom Rack.  But not before humming and hawing a great deal about it.  I literally walked around the store for an hour with them in hand while trying to decide.  But then I had an "aha!" moment.  One really can't have too many black shoes.  Or at least this applies to me.  (Does it work for you too!?)  Black shoes always end up sticking around my closet longer and are also the first color of shoe I reach for on a regular basis.  They simply go with everything and are (almost) season-less. So one of my 2016 Style Resolutions is to remember that black shoes are always good to add to the mix.  Do you agree?

Have you made any style resolutions for 2016? If so... what are they?

Here are some of my favorite black shoes that I either already own... or wouldn't mind adding to my collection!

top row: pumps, slip on sneakers, ankle boots

middle row: loafer moccasins, tory burch flats, lace up ballet flats

bottom row: over the knee boots (I've acquired the most awful crush on these!), riding boots, hunter boots

Or shop them below...

jeans I love… and you will too!

You know I am a jean fan to the end… I wear jeans pretty much 99% of the time. As a busy mom that still wants to stay stylish, these jeans are just what I need to accomplish both! Today I have rounded up 7 of my tried and true denim cuts and styles.  These are jeans that have stood up to tons of wear, always look great, and are the pairs I pull out again and again.

Read on to see check out my favorite jeans and why I love them so much. Maybe you will find a pair you love too!

7 for all Mankind Slim Illusion - on sale! … these jeans suck you in at all the right places.  7's usually run long on my short legs… so I cut off them hem on these myself.

Gap Black Coated Skinny Jeans… sadly Gap no longer makes this style. But I've found similar pairs here and here.  Coated denim add a dressed up feel to any look.

Target Frayed Hem Skinny Jeans - free shipping today!… after happening upon these jeans over the summer they have quickly become a favorite. Plus, the price is definitely right on these!

AG Stevie Ankle… these are my most tried and true jeans… the ones I always pull out, they always look great and are a great basic but refined pair of jeans.

AG Prima Legging Jean - free shipping today!… these are the best legging jeans.  They are super soft and ultra stretchy but thick enough that they are still very flattering.  These feel like sweatpants on the inside but look like jeans on the outside… can't go wrong with that!

Gap True Resolution… The Gap True Resolution jean is awesome.  These jeans fit GREAT and feel great on.  I have a few pairs of these jeans and they are a true favorite.  Plus, the price is right on these.

Blank NYC Distressed Jeans… these ultra-distressed jeans are fun to wear and are my favorite distressed jeans by far.  They are super soft, but also a nice thick high quality denim.

Or shop them all here…

fall closet staple: the blazer!

It's no secret around here that I am a blazer fanatic… I'm guessing a few of my you gals reading right now are too.  In my opinion there is a blazer for every occasion and an occasion for every blazer.  I definitely could wear this closet staple everyday… especially this time of year.  Blazers are the absolute perfect transitional wear… which means for me they get heavy wear in the spring and especially the fall.

I love that you can layer a blazer over a tank, tee or even a sweater… so you can really customize your outfit for the seasons and your style effortlessly.  Here are eight of my favorite blazer looks that I have worn here on the blog… PLUS my top picks for blazers that are in stores this fall. There are seriously SO. MANY. GORGEOUS. OPTIONS.  It's darn near impossible to even choose a favorite here… but tweed, velvet and houndstooth have got to take the cake here.  But all of these are gorgeous and classic pieces that would be perfect in any fall wardrobe.   What are your favorites? I'd love to hear!

1. navy tweed 2. camel herringbone 3. grey boyfriend 4. classic navy 5. black one-button 6. grey ruched sleeves 7. houndstooth 8. grey velvet 9. bright red wool 10. camel corduroy 11. grey herringbone 12. knit one-button

or shop the pieces below…

fall wardrobe essentials/2015

Earlier this summer I kicked off a new seasonal series here on the blog featuring wardrobe essentials based on some awesome feedback from you, my readers!  You gals were loud and clear that you wanted clear and concise seasonal advice on what to put in your closet.  Some of you wanted inspiration on filling in the potential holes in your wardrobe each season and others of you wanted a specific guide on creating a capsule wardrobe to minimize the amount of items in your closet while maximizing the style and ease of getting dressed each morning.

I loved the idea too… so I was happy to deliver! You gals loved the summer version of the "wardrobe essentials" so I knew it would be a great series here on the blog. Today I've got the fall version of the wardrobe essentials for you… and I think you are going to 'fall' (wink, wink) in love.  Keep in mind… some of these pieces you may already own, or you may own similar items.  Use this as a guide for a cohesive fall wardrobe filling in blank spots in your personal closet as needed.

I don't personally subscribe to a 'capsule' wardrobe but I will say that I don't own a ton of clothes… I really zero in on what I love each season and try to create outfits repeatedly out of those pieces without adding endless new clothes to the mix. I find it easier to create outfits with a smaller palate… and that is really what capsule dressing is at it's core, I suppose.

Here are my fall wardrobe essentials… which pieces do you plan to add to your wardrobe this fall?

get the pieces: (*item shown)

leather moto jacket (save | splurge*), trench coat (save*| splurge), military vest (save | splurge*), puffer vest (save | splurge*), navy blazer (save | splurge*)

black jeans (save | splurge*), distressed jeans (save | splurge*), army green pants (save | splurge*), boyfriend jeans (save*| splurge), black skirt (save*| splurge), chambray dress (save | splurge*), striped dress (save*| splurge), burgundy t-shirt dress (save*| splurge)

striped top (save | splurge*), grey henley (save | splurge*), blue striped oxford (save | splurge*), plaid shirt (save*| splurge), long line cardigan (save* | splurge), sweatshirt (save*| splurge)

riding boots (save* | splurge), ankle boots (save | splurge*), burgundy flats (save | splurge*), leopard flats (save | splurge*), lace up flats (save* | splurge)

grey tote (save | splurge*), leopard clutch (save | splurge*), cream wool scarf (save | splurge*), cross ring (save | splurge*), bold gold bracelet (save* | splurge), geode necklace (save* | splurge)

Or shop the pieces below… 

(remember some thumbnails will show items in different colors… it just means there are multiple colors available of that piece!) 

 Shop the tops and blazers…

Shop the bottoms and dresses…

Shop the tops and sweaters…

Shop the shoes and boots…

Shop the accessories…

9 gorgeous handbags...

There are few investments for your wardrobe that will last as long or give as much return for the money as a gorgeous handbag. A few years ago I made a promise to myself that I was done buying one-off cheap handbags and that I was going to invest in gorgeous quality handbags, preferably that were leather or other high quality materials, even if that meant owning less handbags or getting to purchase them less often.  It's a decision that I have never regretted especially since now I have a collection (albeit, small and practical) of beautiful bags for any occasion.

Investing in a gorgeous handbag is the way to go in my opinion! Here are a few of my favorites right now…

one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine

10 wardrobe staples for busy moms!

In honor of Mother's Day weekend I thought I would pull together some great spring and summer wardrobe staples for busy moms on the go!  Classic white tees, slip on shoes and sandals, simple skirts, cozy sweatshirts and boyfriend jeans are just a few of the pieces that busy moms should have on hand in their closet.  They are easy to wear, layer and mix and match and they all make for super easy outfit combos whenever you need to look great with minimal effort.

Have an extra special Mothers Day weekend to all the moms out there!!

above: pale pink scarf, leopard sandals, boyfriend jeans, weekend sweatshirt, maxi dress, slouchy chambray shorts, grey skirt, white t-shirt, slip on espadrilles, navy tank top

my everyday style: the basics!

When the seasons change my basic staples seem to magically change with them. Suddenly my chambray shirt isn't for layering for winter… it can now stand on it's own for spring and feels fresh and new.  Or my black jeans don't have to be paired with boots, but seem to have new appeal when paired with sandals.

When you dress for the full four seasons like we do here in the midwest, even the season-less basics can look and feel a little different each season.  That is the fun (or challenge!) of dressing for a 100 degree swing in temps in a year.  Now don't get me wrong… especially after spending a little over a week in California recently, I wouldn't mind less of a swing in temps, but that's the reality of living in Michigan.  

(photos by Tracy Carmody)

Details:

Vest, Old Navy (old but similar or similar)

Chambray Top, J.Crew Factory (similar or similar)

Black Jeans, Gap (or similar less expensive)

Bag, Madewell 

Sandals, J.Crew (or similar less expensive)

spring staples at all price points!

There are a few wardrobe pieces this time of year that are absolute staples to have on hand. These are the pieces that get worn over and over again and really become the foundation for your spring wardrobe.  These pieces work great with the trendier pieces you may choose this spring and also are great for the sometimes cool, sometimes warm weather that the spring season throws our way.

Shop these pieces below at all price points… so that no matter your budget your closet will be set for spring!

striped top: steal, spend (shown), splurge

white jeans: steal, spend, splurge (shown)

field jacket: steal, spend, splurge (shown)

sunglasses: steal, spend (shown), splurge

classic tee: steal, spend (shown), splurge

boyfriend jeans: steal, spend, splurge (shown)

clutch: steal, spend, splurge (shown)

cross sandals: steal, spend (shown), splurge

sneakers: steal, spend (shown), splurge

striped dress: steal (shown), spend, splurge

delicate necklace: steal, spend (shown), splurge

summer sweater: steal, spend (shown), splurge

spring classics/2015

From the timeless denim jacket to your (new) favorite jean shorts to a fun and flirty tank… this season I am LOVING the classics.  A linen blazer in white, a pair of loafers with bows and fun details like scallops and tassels are the perfect balance of classic and modern this season.  Pieces like these become instant favorites and are sure to be on repeat in your closet throughout the spring and summer.

above: bracelet, gold/white clutch, bow loafers, white linen blazer, black sandals, denim shorts, blue tunic, peach tank, geo print tassel clutch, scalloped tank dress, denim jacket, white jeans

splurge worthy basics for fall/winter!

A well rounded wardrobe is all about balance. Finding the perfect pieces at high and low price points helps to build a great closet while still watching your budget.

Over the years I have found that there are certain items that are always worth the investment.  For quality and for style… these ten pieces will never fail you!

leather shoes… I've never regretted any of the quality leather shoes I have bought.  Sure they are a little more money, but they will end up being much more comfortable and longer lasting.

leather gloves… a great pair of leather gloves is not only a gorgeous addition to your closet, but a warm one!

chambray top… I wear mine chambray top so much that the cost-per-wear is probably the lowest out of all of the pieces in my closet, even though it's at $80.

leather boots… for long mid-west winters a pair of boots that is warm, well made and beautiful will be an asset for your wardrobe.

blazers… many of the blazers I own are several years old and they still get worn a ton.  Invest in great cuts that fit well and you will have them for years to come.

cashmere sweaters… this is something I hope to invest in this winter, beautiful cashmere can last for years when cared for right and will always add an extra touch of femininity and class to your wardrobe.

warm winter boots… warm winter boots that you love will pay you back ten-fold on freezing cold winter days. These will keep your feet unbelievably warm and you won't look like an eskimo wearing them!

leather bags… a real leather bag will last forever. Literally.  I have a collection of a few bags that I know I will keep forever or that hopefully I can pass on to my daughter. I've never regretted spending money on a beautiful bag.

winter coat… treat yourself to a gorgeous wool coat this year.  You can dress it up or down and it's another piece that you will have for years and years to come.

denim… I love to go high and low with jeans. But I always make sure there are at least a couple of kick-a$! jeans in my closet at all times for days when my ego needs a little boost or I have somewhere to be that I want to feel my best.  Madewell's skinny-skinny is my current favorite - but you should find your own favorite!