Pricey, but quality

On a vein similar to yesterday's post, I want to talk fashion and combine it with cost (hehe).

I've discovered a couple of lines that are really quite fantastic, as are the prices. But as I've said again and again since the dawn of time, if you buy a few pricey items, it beats buying a shit-ton of cheap, trendy ones you have to keep replacing.

Here are a few things to remember when you're shopping in the most fantastic realms of fashion--which you really should be doing (it just means you have to *gasp* save your money first!).

1. Don't buy obviously trendy clothing.
2. Classic pieces will last you forever.
3. Think functionality: will I wear this once, or can I adapt it over and over? Can I wear it for work and play?
4. Is it dry clean only? And if yes, do I want to go to the dry cleaners often?
5. Read up on the types of pieces that will flatter your figure, and get a second opinion in the store. At some stores, the person helping you will give an honest opinion if you just ask.
6. Purchase versatile pieces to be the building blocks of numerous outfits.
7. Think undergarments. If you love this dress that you can't wear a bra with and you NEED to wear a bra, chances are you'll never be able to pull it off.
8. And going with 7, if it doesn't fit now, don't buy it under the presumption you'll fit into it later.

And now, a few places to start trying these tips at.

Ralph Lauren
Anthropologie
Ann Taylor Loft
Searle
Mango
DKNY

If you can think of any other high-quality stores, let me know. I'm always open to new experiences.