The Right Way to Splurge

Although this blog is about saving money in college, sometimes you need or to splurge a little bit. I'm really into handbags, so after working 6 days a week for 7 months I went out and bought myself a bag that I always wanted. What's life without rewarding yourself every once in a while? Splurging is totally okay, if you can afford it without forcing yourself to eat ramen for a month. Whether your rewarding yourself for a successful internship or job or treating yourself to a birthday gift, there are some tips to keep in mind while shopping to make sure you are getting the most out of your hard earned cash. I've broken it down into typical items us college girls like to lust after and given you some examples.

Handbags

photo credits: Bloomingdale's Tory Burch, Coach

from left to right: Kate Spade - $378.00, Tory Burch - $495.00, Coach - $495.00

• Examine the exterior, interior, stitching, hardware, and handles - You want the bag to hold up for a while and not fall apart as soon as you put a heavy laptop or book inside. Also, look for bags with saffiano leather. It wears well and resists scratches.

• Opt for a neutral color - This ensures that you'll get the most use out of the bag and can wear it with all types of outfits.

• Choose a bag with multiple interior pockets and handles/straps - Pockets will keep your things in order and within easy reach, while a bag with handles and a crossbody strap can be worn day or night.

Jeans

photo credits: J Brand, Nordstrom, ShopBop, Lucky Brand

from left to right: J Brand - $158.00, Citizens of Humanity - $188.00, AG - $168.00, Lucky Brand - $139.00

• Keep the wash to a dark blue or black - Anything else will look too trendy and you won't get to wear them as often or with as many tops.

• Wash them only when you absolutely have to! - This sounds gross but seriously, it will make your jeans last 5x longer. Don't believe me? Levi Strauss' CEO suggests only spot cleaning them and never machine washing or drying them. Anderson Cooper is also a big supporter of this technique. 

• Choose a skinny or straight leg style - These are the most versatile styles since you can wear them with boots, flats, or heels. They look good cuffed too! Don't be afraid to try on as many pairs or brands as you can to find your perfect fit.

Heels

photo credits: Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus

from left to right: Kate Spade - $298.00, Stuart Weitzman - $365.00, Via Spiga - $195.00

• Pick a classic, pointy toe pump - this style will go with literally everything in your closet. The shape also makes your legs look longer. Black or nude colors are best.

• Go for the highest heel that you feel comfortable in - if you are okay with a heel higher than 3 inches the go right ahead. You're going to wear these shoes to work, nights out and other special occasions, so make sure that the heel hight can work for all situations.

• Never choose suede - Suede is very delicate and doesn't get along with water. It also, in my opinion, is more appropirate during the colder months. If you buy a pair in leather or patent leather, then they will last longer and look good all year round.

Little Black Dress

photo credits: Bloomingdale's, Neiman Marcus, BCBG, Vince

from left to right: Diane von Furstenberg - $368.00, Theory - $138.00 (reg. $398), BCBG - $248.00, Vince - $325.00

• Again, go with a solid, neutral color - keeping the dress color simple will allow you to style it in countless ways and dress it up or down. It doesn't have to be black. Navy and cream colored dresses are just as versatile.

• Opt for silhouettes that aren't too form-fitting and that you can move in - Any dress that you don't feel comfortable in will instantly go to the back of your closet and you will barely wear it. This dress is supposed to be a wardrobe staple and one that you can wear all day long.

• Pick the right fabic - The best fabrics are either a knit or jersey. These will keep you comfy and don't wrinkle easy. If they do get wrinkles, ironing them is a breeze. Anything silk, chiffon, or lace will look too nighttime or cocktail party.