There are some wardrobe elements worth investing more money because they will pay off in the long term and help all your outfits to look more polished and expensive.
1. The Perfect Bag
It doesn't matter what type of bag it is as long as you know you will wear it often. If you prefer a tote bag, invest in one classic piece that goes with everything in your wardrobe. If you like messenger or smaller bags, find one that fits everything you usually carry and go for it.
The number one rule is to go with a neutral shade (nude, black, white, grey, beige, taupe) because it will tie your wardrobe pieces well and you will always have a well rounded outfit. Also, choose styles that are timeless rather then the ones that feature current trends like fringes or pop art and other.
If you think that more than $50 is too much to pay for a bag, just think about those countless bags of $10 or $20 that are laying around. And you could easily have bought a beautiful timeless $1000 bag so far. You can easily find designer bags on sale and save as much as 70%, you just have to be patient.
Here are two lovely examples of a beautiful, high quality tote bag:
2. Good Pair of Shoes
I think this one was an obvious one as it is pretty important to be comfortable to look fashionable and chic. You can really deform or injure your feet if you wear improper shoes all the time and not to mention the effects on spine, posture and overall look. If you want to look gracious and beautiful start with a good support for your body frame and everything else will look better.
I know it is hard to resist those crazy sales where you get tons of pretty shoes for only $20-30 or buy one, get one free sales. However, a true fashionista knows it is necessary to be strong. The smartest way to create a quality shoe wardrobe is to start with classics or things you wear most often, like pumps, ballerina shoes or boots.
When you have one pair of high quality shoes, you can slowly build a small but great shoe wardrobe. And you can always indulge and go crazy on the current trend or a one time occasion shoes once in a while. It's fine because you have your staples and you wont be left with tons of uncomfortable shoes that you can't wear almost anywhere.
3. White Button Down or White Tee
Depends on your personal style, preference and age, but these tops are worth the money. If you wear business casual or any kind of professional clothes, a high quality, crisp white button down shirt is a must have. It will give you a polished business look and make you appear neat and clean.
Higher end shirts are usually made of more quality materials so you will have a more comfortable and breathable shirt. This makes such a difference when you run from meeting to meeting or you are in for an important job interview.
If you are still in school or your look is more casual, you can invest in a nice, comfy white tee that fits you perfectly and will compliment any outfit that you put together. Romantic types could choose to invest in a nice white or off white silky blouse which can be worn in endless combinations.
4. Sweaters or Cardigans
Most people wouldn't invest in these pieces but if you try just one luxury sweater or cardigan, you will never want to go back to cheaper versions. The difference between low end, synthetic items and more expensive natural fiber garments is enormous.
The first thing is the longevity of the garment as a cashmere sweater can last you a decade while a cheap sweater probably wont last longer than one winter. Second thing is comfort as a cashmere or merino wool sweater will feel as you are wearing a fluffy cloud. Meanwhile, a cheap sweater is often hard, itchy and makes you sweat all the time because the fabric is not breathable.
5. Basic Tops
I know this sounds boring and you wouldn't even consider spending more than $4 for a basic tank top that looks plain and you use it mostly for layering. But lets just think about how that top fits and how many of those you bought in the last year. Buying a tank top at $20 instead of $4 can bring so much more value to your wardrobe and outfits. The colors will last longer, you will be able to find a nicer fit and a very comfortable material which also makes layering easier and chic looking.
6. Little Black Dress
I think everyone should have one in their closet regardless of age,occupation or other lifestyle characteristics. There will always be opportunities to wear it dressed up or down and if you choose the right style for your body type and personality you will never again say no when someone asks you to join for a nice dinner or event because you know you will look fabulous.It's definitely a piece worth investing in as it can last for years and will always have your back.
7. Black Pants/Trousers
It's not easy to find a good pair of black trousers and they are so versatile that any wardrobe should have them. Any top you wear will look good with them and they are appropriate for a lot of occasions. This pair will save you so much time trying to coordinate outfits and will look chic no matter what current trends are because they are timeless.
8. Underwear
This is the base of every outfit and a garment that can make or break your look. Wearing a wrong size or style of panties can ruin even the most flattering pair of pants or a dress. It's even worse if you choose a bad bra because this will poke the eye first and can make your whole outfit look silly. Invest in quality materials that feel good, wash well and move nicely with your body. Go for subtle lines and shapes that compliment your body instead of bumpy, tacky lace textures and tight, cheap fabrics.
9. Activewear
I know it is very easy to be seduced by cute sporty outfits, but these items should always have other priorities, like functionality, durability and comfort. It's not a pretty sight when you notice a girl in the gym that can barely do squats properly because she is wearing cheap, too tight clothes that barely gives her any freedom to move. There is plenty of specialty stores that sell sportswear and you should rather buy from a quality sports brand store than indulge and buy something like Forever21 where cute is before functional.
10. Jewelry
When you mention investing in jewelry, many people will instantly think about buying expensive gemstones and designer pieces and would rather spend money on costume jewelry. Don't get me wrong, I don't have anything against costume jewelry, but you should definitely understand what you are buying.
Some cheap jewelry can even be toxic or have a negative impact on your skin, like redness or rash. Quality jewelry will always look better and give a chic element to your outfits as well as last longer and look the same throughout the years.