5 Fall Staples Worthy of Blowing Your Severance

Having recently lost my job due to a “company wide re-org,” I probably shouldn’t be thinking about spending a dime on anything other than basic essentials such as food and shelter. That said, with all those irresistible pre-fall fashions trickling into stores, how bad would it be to dip into my severance for some retail therapy? Come to think of it, isn’t clothing also considered a “staple?” Without further adieu, following are 5 fall wardrobe essentials I’ve been salivating over since getting the dreaded pink slip.

Peplum Power

Having just viewed all 5 seasons of Mad Men in 2 weeks (another benefit of having some time on my hands), I’m feeling the need to wear a Joan Harris-inspired power dress like this glittery peplum prize from Cynthia Steffe. And to think I found it at online at Dillards.com of all places?

Pointy-Toe Pumps

These killer patent-leather red pumps from B by Brian Atwood are pure perfection. Not sure how practical 4” heels will be whilst pushing 3 year-old twins around in a double stroller on the cobblestone streets of Dumbo, but can’t a girl dream? Pair these beauties with 7 For All Mankind’s new wax-coated skinnies in merlot and you’re good to go.

Cobalt Crush

I’m obsessed with electric blue (ideal for drawing attention away from my sleep-deprived under eye circles) and anything from French newcomer Maje (same owner as Sandro and Claudie Pierlot, a.k.a. SMCP Group). Right now I’m loving this fitted electric blue wool coat with supple leather sleeves. My biggest beef with this brand: the smallest available size is typically 36 (equivalent to a US 4), which means I’ll have to spend extra coin getting it altered to fit my frame. C’est dommage.

Bold Handbags

Most fashionistas I know are obsessed with Celine’s new “It Bag,” the Trapeze, which starts at only $2,100. Aside from the price tag (which would require me to take out a second mortgage), I personally prefer a lighter weight and more functional carryall to tote around my belongings. Enter Jerome Dreyfuss, a Paris-based designer who recently made his foray into the US market. Incidentally, I’ve noticed his jaw-dropping designs decorating store shelves at the likes of Barneys, Zoe and other online sites such as Shopbop, Ssense, La Garconne and even Saks. So much for that undiscovered secret! Certainly not cheap with prices ranging from $950+, but I do think his latest incarnation of last year’s Max hobo – the Etienne, is worth the investment. While available in black, forest green and dark grey, my personal fave is fire-engine red – an obnoxiously chic standout shade that happens to blend perfectly with the burgundy Iro biker jacket I’ve been lusting after.

Buyer beware: if you opt for the calfskin version, make sure you don’t wear it in the rain. I accidentally threw an opened water bottle inside my precious Max last fall and the burgundy leather turned a darker shade in one very obvious spot. I still haven’t forgiven myself for that faux pas.

Luxe Leather

With regard to outerwear this fall, it’s a toss-up between IRO’s bordeaux leather biker jacket and Mackage’s Mongolian-trim Kivi. I’m not the biggest fan of toggles (blustery winds often creep through the gaps), but think this beauty is beyond sophisticated. Sadly I have a slight fur allergy, but would be willing to put up with a rash and hives, at least for this season.

Dear reader: would you consider blowing your severance on frivolous fashion items? Feel free to share your stories/comments with the FJ community. I love hearing from you!

xo
Fashion Junkie

 

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1 Comment

  • 8/30/12 4:24 The Posh Mama:

    I would definitely consider blowing my severance pay (or any other limited funds for that matter) on designer threads!  I’ve done so in the past. However, I am still paying for those temporary, yet costly, moments of weakness!  So my advice is to wait it out and spend some of your first pay from your new job (coming soon!) on fall attire!  Or go to Miami and strip for $1,000/hr??! No?

    MamaPosh 🙂

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