Some of these are slightly more expensive pieces, but when you calculate the cost per wear, we believe they’re worth the extra money. However, we’ve also included links to similar affordable styles for those who aren’t ready to invest. I loved seeing what Abbey chose as her “can’t-live-without” items – after hearing her rave about it for months, I think she has finally convinced me to buy that seamless tank in every color. We’d love to hear what your favorite things are too, so please share with us in the comments below!
J. Crew Factory Cashmere Sweater
I own this in two colors & was so happy to see that they brought it back again this year (also available in black, gray, blue & lavender). This is the softest sweater I own and it’s the ideal weight for layering. You can see how I’ve previously worn it here, here, here & here. I’d watch their sales closely so you can get it for less – recommend going up one size from what you normally wear, unless you want a fitted look.
Old Navy Rockstar Skinny Jeans
Truth be told, I’ve been a Rockstar fan for quite a while. Being that I have some jeans in this style that are over 4 years old, I can say with 100% certainty that the fit & fabric has improved considerably. So if you’d tried them before & they didn’t work, I encourage you to give them another shot – you might just find your new favorite pair or jeans! Shop more versions here: light gray, dark gray, black & dark blue wash.
H&M Cashmere Scarf
You simply cannot survive a New York winter without a substatial collection of scarves to keep warm. I already own this exact scarf in camel from last year, but as soon as I saw this gorgeous burgundy one, I quickly added it to my cart (it also comes in gray, blush & black). More cashmere scarves: under $75, under $60 & under $40.
Ray-Ban Polarized Wayfarers
I wear these in nearly every outfit post here on the blog (to save you from a host of photos of me squinting). And I have gotten so many questions over the years about which exact style they are. Mine are over 5 years old and the only maintenance they’ve needed is a little screw tightening from time to time. You can get the same style for less (without the polarization) here or try this affordable pair.
Cluse La Bohème Watch
I love the design of this brand – all their watches are simple, timeless & elegant. My husband bought this blush one for me & I wear it all the time. This same style also comes in black/gold, brown/silver, grey/rose gold, mint/rose gold, nude/silver & gray/black/rose gold. Similar styles for less here: black, blush or brown.
Nadri Ear Crawlers
Simple enough for everyday, but such unique standout earrings. I wear these at least once a week and, whenever I do, I always get compliments from people wanting to know where I bought them. They also come in gold & would make a great holiday gift! Other pieces that I own & love from this line include these linear hoops & this sparkly ring.
Ivanka Trump Carver Boots
These were a fairly recent purchase of mine that I’ve been getting so much wear out of (I bought them in brown – see the posts here & here). I spray all of my suede boots & shoes with protector to help them hold up well in the elements. I own three different pairs of shoes from this brand & have found them all to be incredibly comfortable & well made. This style also comes in black leather here.
Madewell Ex-Boyfriend Shirt
I have a few plaid shirts in my closet, but none of them compare to this style – what makes it so good is that it’s lightweight enough to layer with , it’s a slightly longer length (perfect for wearing with faux leather leggings) & it has a figure-flattering fit. See more options here: buffalo check, green plaid, red plaid, mauve plaid, gray flannel, navy plaid, ivory plaid, burgundy plaid, black windowpane & chambray.
SWG Saddle Bag
This bag was first featured on the blog here and, since then, it has become my everyday bag. It’s just the right size for my wallet, phone & keys and I love that I can wear it over my shoulder or as a crossbody. Bonus: it looks exactly like the Chloe Hudson Bag, but for a fraction of the price!
Jeffrey Campbell Vionnet Loafers
This is another item that I own in multiples – I bought a leather pair last year and purchased some in suede at the beginning of the fall. These are honestly the most comfortable flats I own – anytime I’m heading into NYC for work, I always bring these along because I know I’ll be walking everywhere & I don’t want to end up with blisters. Shop more colors here: black leather, grey suede, camel suede, blush suede, grey leather, gold leather. Similar styles for less here: under $25, under $35, under $65, under $70.
J. Crew Factory Vail Parka
A warm coat with a hood is a necessity where we live, so I don’t mind spending a little more for quality outerwear. I got this parka last year at Christmas & I was so excited to pull it out again this season. I find myself wearing it everywhere & I like that the neutral color easily pairs with anything in my closet. Similar styles for less here: under $55, under $150, under $175, under $200.
J. Crew Factory Plaid Wrap Scarf
This toasty scarf combines two of my favorite things: soft cozy fabric & classic plaid. It comes in 3 different patterns & is the perfect way to add some interest to my fall outfits. When I go out for my nightly walk, I always bring this along with me – I recommend wearing it with a bright red lip for an extra-festive feel.
Eloise Reversible Seamless Tank
I can’t say enough about how good these tanks are. I wear them underneath cardigans, sweaters & blazers in the colder months & tucked into skirts during the spring & summer. The fabric is magical in the way that it “sucks” you in and you can make them scoop-neck or v-neck in one simple step.
Ivanka Trump Luci Tall Boots
I don’t know how I got by without a comfortable pair of tall boots. These were a recent purchase of mine & I’ve worn them countless different ways – with skirts & dresses or over leggings & jeans. They are also really easy to put on, thanks to the elastic in the back & they don’t slip down like other over-the-knee styles I’ve tried. Similar affordable options here: under $70, under $60, under $50, under $40.
Chico’s Faux Horn Necklace
This necklace is one of the most versatile pendants I own – thanks to the longer length & neutral color, it literally goes with everything & it looks so much more expensive than it is. It works just as well with my cargo jacket, tee & jeans as it does with a silk blouse & skirt. Other styles I own & love include this arrowhead necklace & this tassel pendant.
Kate Spade Crossbody Bag
I’m the kind of girl who would rather spend more to buy one handbag that I’ll carry all the time than to purchase less expensive options & constantly be switching them out based on my outfit. I’ve always admired Kate Spade bags for their quality & classic design + the size of this crossbody is great for carrying to & from school without weighing me down. The best way to find one for less is to sign up for their email list to be notified of sales or regularly check stores like Nordstrom Rack & TJ Maxx.
H&M Turtleneck Sweater
I’ve talked before about how I gravitate towards cozy pieces this time of year, so when I saw this sweater, it was love at first site. The color makes it stand out against the sea of neutrals in my closet (though it also comes in charcoal & light gray) and it’s the perfect slouchy shape. I love wearing it with high-waisted black denim & boots for an easy casual look.
Ray-Ban Original Aviators
I used to fall into the never-ending cycle of buying cheap sunglasses and then inevitably having them break on me. I was pretty hesitant about splurging on these, but I wear them nearly every day. Ray-Bans are pricey, but the quality makes it worth the investment – I’ve also seen them for less on sites like The Real Real, PoshMark & Overstock.
Sole Society Suede Pumps
In my opinion, everyone needs a pair of statement heels. This bold red hue is great for wearing with a cable-knit sweater & jeans or with a LBD. These pumps are real suede, come in 10 different colors & have a lower heel, which makes them super-comfortable. These do run small, however, so I recommend going up a 1/2 size to ensure a perfect fit.
Lululemon Hi-Rise Leggings
My sister was the first one to buy a pair of these pants and I told her she was crazy for spending that much on leggings. But, as soon as I tried them on, I completely understood the obsession. They hug your curves and are so soft – I’ve had mine for two years and they are still in amazing condition. I also love that Luluemon offers free hemming so you can get the perfect length you need. Similar style for less here or here (shorter length option for petites here).