3 Autumn Items I Never Spend Excessively On (and 3 I Do)

      In poker, it's essential to understand when to hold your cards and when to fold. Similarly, in fashion, you need to recognize when to invest in quality items and when to be frugal. When it comes to autumn attire, not everything in your wardrobe needs to come with a high price. In fact, many items we frequently wear tend to deteriorate quickly, making them ideal for budget-friendly shopping. The trick is to identify where to save so you can update your wardrobe each season without feeling regretful about your purchases. Conversely, there are certain fall essentials that are worth spending your hard-earned money on, as they truly enhance your outfits and endure over time. Key items like a tailored blazer that instantly elevates a look, knee-high boots that improve with wear, and a luxurious suede jacket that remains timeless all belong in the "investment" category. Below, I will detail the items I choose to splurge on versus those I save on each season, and explain how this strategy keeps my closet looking refined and practical.

      **Don't Splurge On: Suede Bags**

      Retailers like Gap and Zara offer impressive suede bag options at reasonable prices. I particularly appreciate Gap's Vegan Suede Slouchy Tote Bag ($62), which serves as a worthy alternative to Dakota Johnson's $1190 version from The Row.

      **Splurge On: Knee-High Boots**

      I believe knee-high boots are worth the investment. Quality leather will age beautifully and conform to your feet, while cheaper versions tend to crack, lose structure, and become uncomfortable over time. Additionally, knee-high boots can significantly enhance even the simplest outfits.

      **Don't Splurge On: Sweaters**

      In general, expensive sweaters can be burdensome to maintain. You're not only paying a higher initial cost but also facing hefty cleaning and repair bills. I prefer machine-washable items, so I typically avoid spending more than $75 on sweaters.

      **Splurge On: Suede Jackets**

      I can easily identify a low-quality suede jacket. It often appears stiff, flimsy, plastic-like, and lackluster. In contrast, high-quality suede boasts a softness and color depth that inferior versions rarely achieve. Furthermore, a well-crafted suede jacket instantly adds a touch of luxury to an outfit and can last for decades.

      **Don't Splurge On: Loungewear**

      When it comes to loungewear, my priority is comfort. Therefore, I don’t see the need to spend a lot in this category. After much trial and error, I've discovered that items under $50 can be just as comfortable as those that are much more expensive.

      **Splurge On: Blazers**

      A well-constructed blazer can serve you for a lifetime—not just a season or a decade. Some of my favorite designers include Veronica Beard, Nili Lotan, Frame, Liberowe, Anine Bing, Ralph Lauren, and Theory.