Expensive Materialistic Things I Shouldn't Buy

There was definitely a time I thought about quantity over quality and ended up with the same three tops in three different colors each that lasted for about 3 washes before they probably should have been tossed. I didn't have time to try things on and just wanted inexpensive and available. I have learned it is better to spend a lot more money on a few really nice things, than little money on crap. If the more expensive things reflect a classic style and fit well then they will last and not end up in the bag of clothes for the roadside donation bins that who knows who actually sorts through. Spend more money now and save money over time, unless you need shopping for occasional mental health therapy - then spend more money now and more money later but hey, you gain a wardrobe and happiness. 

Here are a few of my favorite things. But unlike Oprah, I am not loaded so you're not all getting one for Christmas.

Tory Burch (who, in my household is on a first name basis)

Tory Burch is a beautiful business owner and working mother who not only has an amazing design sense for her brand but who also launched the Tory Burch Foundation - a nonprofit that supports the economic empowerment of women entrepreneurs and their families in the U.S. through small business loans, mentoring programs and education.

The sally wedge is a mid-heel leather wedge that is actually super comfortable once broken in a bit. The wedge gives you the feeling of wearing high heels but not actually wearing foot-cramping heels all day long. Not as tall of a wedge as others, it still looks formal and is very professional. These shoes were certainly an investment but I've worn them for years and all seasons and want them now in beige.

The thora sandal is the perfect casual sandal. Its leather straps are very comfortable and take no getting used to. This sandal can be worn to the beach or with a dress to a nice restaurant. I love the gold, white and camel color combination of this sandal for summer. 

The amanda logo clutch is by far the bag/purse I've gotten the most compliments on - especially by strangers!  The detachable chain makes this clutch into a convenient cross-body or the chain can be removed or tucked inside for a more formal clutch appearance. Again, this item can be used from casual day to fine dining night. It actually is pretty spacious inside and has an inner zipper and a zipper compartment on the outside under the flap that fits my iPhone to a tee. 

Photo credit: www.toryburch.com

Lily Pulitzer

I've always immediately associated this design with sorority girls but once I tried on a pair of her shorts I decided I could get past the association. All Lily shorts are true to size, have a little stretch, are not too short but not too long, and come in great summer colors and styles. 

This buttercup scallop hem short is exactly what I want to be wearing right now. They are very cute but mature and can be dressed up with heels or down for any day.

Photo credit: www.lilypulitzer.com

Alex and Ani

(+) ENERGY

This jewelry maker is my current favorite. I love the bangles and especially the Rafaelian gold finish - it's not too brassy and not yellow gold, it's that coppery mix that goes so well with all the colors of summer. The bangles look great stacked together so it's difficult to buy just one. Each bangle means something and they are supposed to encourage positive energy. Plus, they are made in the USA!

Photo Credit: www.alexandani.com

Some of my other long time "quality focused" purchases are White House Black Market for tops and jackets and Michael Kors for timepieces! (who am I kidding, I mean - watches). 

Photo Credit: www.whitehouseblackmarket.com

These tops can always be worn out and about or to work. Have to love double purpose items when you're paying $100 for a top. Most all of the items are classics too and will last years. Subscribe to their catalog and use those $20 off of $100 coupons. 

Photo Credit: www.michaelkors.com

I have this watch only with a white leather band. It's great because it can be worn with anything and the rose gold metal ties together all of your other jewelry colors. Get a watch like this at Nordstrom Rack for half the price of anywhere else Michael Kors is sold!