3 Fall Items I Never Splurge On (and 3 I Do)

In poker, you should know when to hold ’em and when to fold ’em. In fashion, you ought to know when to splurge on smart investments and when to save your pennies. When it comes to fall fashion, not everything in your closet needs to come with a hefty price tag. In fact, some of the pieces we reach for most tend to wear out quickly, making them the perfect categories to shop affordably. The key is knowing where to save so you can still refresh your wardrobe each season without the sting of buyer’s remorse.

On the flip side, there are a few fall staples worth your hard-earned dollars because they truly anchor your outfits and will stand the test of time. A sharp blazer that instantly pulls a look together, knee-high boots that only get better with age, and a luxe suede jacket that feels like a forever piece all fall firmly into the “investment” camp. Ahead, I’m breaking down exactly which items I splurge on versus save on each season and why this mix keeps my closet feeling elevated and practical.

Don’t Splurge On: Suede Bags

Brands like Gap and Zara have impressive selections of suede bags that don’t break the bank. I particularly love Gap’s Vegan Suede Slouchy Tote Bag ($62), which is a more-than-worthy alternative to Dakota Johnson’s $1190 version by The Row.

Gap Vegan Suede Slouchy Tote Bag

ZARA Mini Split Leather Bowling Bag

Splurge On: Knee-High Boots

In my opinion, knee-high boots are worth the splurge. High-quality leather will age beautifully and mold to your feet, but cheap pairs often crack, lose shape, and become uncomfortable over time. Plus, knee-high boots can instantly elevate even the simplest of outfits.

J.Crew Piper Boots

Sézane Bridget Knee Boots

Don’t Splurge On: Sweaters

Generally speaking, expensive sweaters are costly to take care of. Not only are you paying more up front, but you’re also shelling out high prices for dry cleaning and repairs. I’m more of a machine-wash kind of person when it comes to sweaters, so I typically don’t spend more than $75 for one.

H&M Sweater

MANGO Boat Neck Ribbed Sweater

Splurge On: Suede Jackets

I can spot a cheap suede jacket from a mile away. It often looks stiff, flimsy, plasticky, and flat. High-quality suede, on the other hand, has a softness and depth of color that a cheap version rarely replicates. Plus, a nice suede jacket instantly makes an outfit look more luxe and will last you for decades to come.

Banana Republic Heritage Suede Jacket

Veda Lincoln Suede Shirt Jacket

Don’t Splurge On: Loungewear

There’s only one thing I look for when it comes to loungewear: comfort. So why would I need to spend a fortune on this category? Through a lot of trial and error, I’ve found that under-$50 pieces can be just as cozy as items that are triple the price.

BP Baggy Wide Leg Sweatpants

H&M Oversized Sweatshirt

Splurge On: Blazers

A well-made blazer is the type of thing that can last you a lifetime. Not a season, a year, or a decade—a lifetime. Some of my favorite designers are Veronica Beard, Nili Lotan, Frame, Liberowe, Anine Bing, Ralph Lauren, and Theory.

FRAME Houndstooth Tweed Blazer

Nili Lotan Fleur Jacket