Being an adult with a big-girl job is funny because sometimes my shopping budget is footloose and fancy-free, and other times I have to sell those previously purchased clothes to make rent. It's safe to say no one has ever come to me for financial advice, but I'm your girl if you're looking to spend your money. This week, I wanted to find a high-low mix of outerwear, footwear, bags, and other pieces that are useful investments for fall and winter. Suede jackets and merlot-colored accessories are the of-the-moment items on the list, but I've also included wardrobe building blocks: a basic black cashmere sweater and trench coat, for example. To discover my favorite items that fit a wide range of budgets, scroll below.
$400 and Up
Suede outerwear is the It girl this season, so why not go all out with an investment piece?
Editors giggled with excitement when they saw this bag drop from Coach.
I've worn a similar black coat for seven winters in a row. You'll wear this one so much that it'll practically pay for itself.
A designer loafer that feels fresh.
It's like a very chic sleeping bag.
A sleek shoe for all the upcoming holiday parties.
I like what Free People is doing with this suede pullover.
New work bag, anyone?
Another version of those chic slingbacks above.
The perfect relaxed, worn-in feel of a vintage jacket (sans the smell).
KhrisJoy makes outerwear that combines function with style in a beautiful way.
I simultaneously want to wear this color and paint it on my apartment walls.
Here's a vest option if you live somewhere with mild weather.
$200 and Below
Our love for all things merlot is nothing new.
Layer this with a white T-shirt for a '90s-inspired look.
This looks far more expensive that $198, but I'll take it.
I'm writing this story as it's dumping rain in NYC. I wish I could overnight this to my place.
My coworker Michaela wore this last weekend, and it was such a cool alternative to the classic denim jacket.
I have plain long-sleeve shirts from last year that I will wear again. But what I don't have is a boatneck style.
This east-west bag trend is not going anywhere.
I've been on the lookout for denim alternatives to wear during fall and winter—this is a strong start.
Another great option inspired by the men's section.
These also come in black and merlot.
The collar sold me.
Banana Republic is on a roll right now.
A fashion-forward, under-$150 work tote.
If you're in the market for a puffer jacket that's made for every day rather than hitting the slopes, I recommend this one.
I'm single-handedly trying to bring overalls back into the zeitgeist.
The color! The shape! The price!
