I love a luxurious designer item as much as anyone. They are true investments for good reason, often made using top-notch production processes and the best materials. Usually, though, the price points don't fit within my budget. I love a good, end-of-season sale, where you really can dig through the markdowns and find some real gems, but let’s face it—I generally can’t hang at full price. So I make it my mission to find stellar contemporary items throughout the season that are just as good as designer to satisfy my taste for luxury goods without compromising my savings account. Since quality is important to me, I look for pieces that are still well-made and timeless and generally use good materials—think real leather over faux—that will get me the most bang for my buck. At the moment, I have an obsession with handbags, dresses, and shoes. I’ve found these categories offer a lot of opportunity to spring for something cool and chic without having to pay upward of $1000. Structured bags, classic dresses with a twist, and pointy shoes—like knee-high boots and kitten heels—are all at the top of my current shopping cart lists, and I have a hunch you're going to love them too. Take a peek below to see what I am shopping for right now.
BAGS WITH SERIOUS STRUCTURE
This bright, cherry red is sure to break up the winter doldrums.
A classic double-strap bag for $70? I am sold.
This has Y2K vibes written all over it, and I am here for it.
Puffy, compact, and will fit all the essentials.
Convertible strap. Enough said.
This one is made from recycled materials.
I am loving the '70s, Jane Birkin feel.
It's giving me '90s shoulder bag.
This moon shape will stand out in a crowd.
This looks way more expensive than the price tag.
CLASSIC DRESSES WITH A TWIST
Classic tweed gets a modern makeover.
How cute are the jeweled buttons on this one?
I love a winter white (but it also comes in black, if you prefer).
This chain-link belt is really selling it for me.
Comfortable and practical. All I want in a dress right now.
This sweetheart neckline is divine.
This isn't your grandma's tweed dress.
I am all about a scoop neckline at the moment.
What is better than a timeless, ribbed dress?
I can't wait to wear this with the sheerest black tights possible.
SHOES THAT GET TO THE POINT
These boots were made for walking.
I would pair these with socks now and wear them barefoot come spring.
A little kitten heel to pair back to jeans, dresses, and skirts.
Suede boots are always must-haves in my book.
I am stepping it up with white shoes this season—a departure from my classic black.
A little bit of a splurge but totally worth it.
How cool is the Western-style cap toe on these?
These are destined to be my new going-out boots.
Again, white shoes are sparking so many styling ideas.
I can't get over the delicate bow on these.
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