[Chelsae Anne | Photography]

TOP, PANTS: (c/o) A.B.S. by Allen Schwartz/BAG, HEELS: (c/o) Neiman Marcus/CHOKER: (c/o) Bauble Bar

Growing up, I can confidently say that there may have been one (or two, or three, or fifteen… ok, more like fifty) instances where I spent a substantial amount of my paycheck on clothes. I mean, who hasn’t?! We’ve all done it. And if you haven’t? Mad props to you.

Around the time my disposable income grew (i.e. I got a better job), I stopped buying a ton of things from fast-fashion stores every weekend and instead, invested in a few pieces that I knew would last me a long time. I would choose one item a month on which I would spend slightly more… like classic pinstripe pants or a timeless bag or a great top or a killer piece of jewelry.

I would also ask myself questions like, “am I buying this just because it’s on sale?” or “does this go with my current wardrobe?” or “do I have to rationalize this purchase?” when I shopped. Which helped. I learned that frivolously buying clothing (especially when you’re in your twenties) was always a bad idea. [Ladies, if this is you – just put those items back on the rack. You know who you are. Trust me, I feel your pain. But you’ll get through this. You will.]

Let me state, that I still have a strong window shopping addiction. And I still cave every now and then. Whatever. That’s why I have a blog. But now when I buy an investment piece, I wear it with pride knowing I made a wise decision. And that I shopped smart. Like a boss. Girl boss to be exact.

I’ve talked about this so many times on the blog! It’s important to build a classic wardrobe (first) then splurge on seasonal pieces after you’re feeling relatively comfortable financially (let’s say, by the time you’re in your late-twenties/early thirties). At this point, you’ll be able to have the freedom to buy whatever you want. And that’s totally ok. Trust me, taking this approach will save you from having buyer’s remorse. I promise.

Or, flip it around. Buy trendy items from fast fashion stores (more on this tomorrow) to experiment with. Splurge on classics. Like tonight’s look…

I’m wearing a classic pair of pants with an off-the-shoulder peplum top from A.B.S. by Allen Schwartz. Allen Schwartz, the designer behind this #smart look, creates clothing for women who love fashion, with quality fabrics, an attention to detail and with luxury design in mind. In sum, his clothing is worth it. His clothing is elegant. It’s classic yet contemporary. It’s season-less. It’s luxury on a budget. AKA it’s “Style Bungalow” approved without the super high-end price tag to match… #yasyasyas

To shop tonight’s look, click the links above! Or, browse more A.B.S. here.

Xo, Stephanie