Lindsay Erin: Quality vs. Quantity

Glasses: GlassesUSA, Necklace: eBay, Sweater: JCrew outlet (similar), Skirt: Loft (love this, and this one) ,
Booties: UrbanOG.com, Jewelry: Stella&Dot, Lila's Trunk

As I've embarked on this blogging journey, I've evolved as an individual, but also as a fashionista. I still love my good bargains. I still prefer to shop the sale racks. However, I'm also realizing that I would rather have select quality items in my closet as opposed to an abundance of "cheap" pieces.

There are certain times when a purchase becomes an investment. The important thing is to know when you are making an investment and when you are making a purchase. So, I thought I would share some tools I use when deciding on a purchase.

Investment Pieces
These are the pieces that are going to be worn for years to come. Pieces that are not just trends. Classics, staples, and timeless pieces that you want to last forever because you can wear them forever.
Some of the pieces I consider investment pieces (and I'm willing to drop more money for) are:

jeans
jackets, blazers, and cardigans
shoes
sweaters
skirts and dresses

Now, I am not saying that I never buy "cheap" versions of these items. I absolutely do. Especially if they have a trendy pattern, color, or distressed look as those things fade in and out with the seasons. And, there are times that I have purchased investment pieces that are inexpensive. Price doesn't always equate quality. (i.e. my denim jacket above was $25 at Old Navy and I've had it for years)

When making these purchases I generally ask myself some questions before swiping my card:

How many ways can I wear this with other pieces already in my closet?
Is this truly timeless? Will I wear this 5 years from now?
Is it flattering? Does it fit?
Does it fit my lifestyle? Will I be able to wear it often?

It's important to ensure that a piece you want to consider an investment is versatile. Be sure you know how to properly care for those articles of clothing and that you are willing to properly tend to those items. If it is delicate, treat it as one.

Non-investment Pieces

There are definitely times when you don't need to drop a wad of cash for a piece you want to add to your wardrobe. For instance, the peplum. I love it. It flatters my body because it hides my ~~trouble zone~~ tummy. However, I will be surprised if the peplum is still "in" this time next year.

I love stores like Forever 21, Target, Old Navy, and Kohl's because they provide everyone the opportunity to have flattering, modern, affordable wardrobes. If I'm honest, most of my closet is from these stores. They give women like us the ability to rock studded collars, colored denim, and emerald green while they are current without breaking the bank and leaving us with closet full of expensive has-beens three months later. I definitely don't discriminate.

Pieces I do not consider investments and therefore shop frugally for:

trends
tights/socks
accessories
shorts
workout clothing
camisoles (they are replaced way too often to be investments)

The important thing is to purchase items that are flattering to your shape, fit your lifestyle, and work with other pieces in your wardrobe. If you make sure to focus on those things, you will be able to mix and match your investment and non-investment pieces to create great style.

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