Monday Musings: Splurge or Save and I Need Your Opinion
Happy Monday, ladies. I’ve got a mish-mash of things on my mind this week, and I’d really like to hear your input.
SPLURGE OR SAVE
These price comparison posts are always popular with you ladies, so today, I thought we’d do one with fall outfits in mind.
Temperatures may not be dropping in your neck of the woods anytime soon, but stores have all their merchandise marked down to prepare for fall arrivals.
CHAIN BRACELET – WESTERN BOOTIE
Much of the autumn fashion we see first involves faux or real leather, booties, wool coats and jackets, and richer neutrals. Western booties are a big trend again this fall, so today’s look offers two options. Paisley is a popular print year-round, but especially in the fall.
CHAIN BRACELET – WESTERN BOOTIE
The save outfit comes in at $426, and the splurge is around $7,165. Can you tell just by looking which outfit costs less? Was there one item that gave it away for you?
Tiny Try-On
Last week I tried on a ton of things at the Nordstrom sale, and most are already sold out. Here are the few that still have some stock:
I tried this knit blazer on in three of the five colors it comes in and several sizes. It’s a fun casual piece for fall in a fabric that resembles sweatshirt fleece. It does not close, so you just wear it open as a third layer. These fabulous jeans have been selling out and getting restocked for several days and seem currently in stock now. I sized up in the tee and could have gone up to a large because it has a very slim fit.
It’s hard to go wrong with a leopard print top for fall. Vince Camuto makes a great one in a nice silky-feeling fabric you could dress up or down. The pants are a rich chocolate brown which I’m seeing lots of for fall. They have stretch and could take you to work or dress down with a sweater and flats. This fringe cardigan is super soft and runs quite large, so I suggest you size down. It did come in brown, but that sold out fast, and they have black in stock.
Sadly these jeans sold out after I bought them. They fit so well, I love the brand. This pair is very similar. I love to see the return of raglan sleeves, which I find much more flattering on most women. This wool and cashmere v-neck sweater comes in three gorgeous colors and is still in stock.
Here’s the knit jacket in navy, which is probably my fav on me. I’m wearing it over the cotton button-up I shared here. These Kut From The Kloth jeans are a nice rich wash with a flare that will look great over booties this fall. I’m so happy to see flare legs continue because they flatter most figures and help make our legs look longer when worn over a tiny heel
This cashmere blend coat is a lovely burgundy shade for fall. It’s not lined and clearly states that in the description. It’s perfect for fall and places where the winters are milder. It runs large, so I would size down. I bought this cashmere sweater in this shade. I love it!
I love fashion and style, but I believe there’s more to a well styled life than just what you wear. I like to share lifestyle topics and all things that help us age in the healthiest way possible. As I plan my content for late summer and fall, I’d love to know what topics surrounding healthy aging, fashion, beauty, skincare, etc. that you’d like to see more of. Please share in the comments.
Thanks for reading, and be sure to wear what makes you feel confident.
I would love to see articles about products for crepey skin and under eye bags. Also, I keep seeing commercials on TV about Laser Lipo (Sono Bello) and Cool Sculpting and wonder if these treatments really work and are they safe for older gals. Anything on hairstyles for women over 65 (does long hair age you?) are always interesting. Thanks, Jennifer! You are my favorite blogger!
Those are great ideas. Thanks Sharon
Hi Jennifer, one blogger I know will also sometimes give a link to an eBay search for the item, especially if it is a classic investment piece. I’ve had great experiences buying “New with tags” or gently used items. There are often pictures with a tape measure and you can see the exact bust, waist and length of a garment, which can be very helpful. I always look at the return policy, often it is free. It’s an excellent way to try a new style or brand without a steep investment. Or to find your size in a certain brand. Thred Up is also an excellent place to look for that name brand garment. I recently had my eye on a very expensive white Irish linen short sleeve blouse and I found it there for under $20, with the store folds still in it. Thrifting is a bit of work, but it’s good for the environment, and a great option for us thriftly gals who know we can have a lovely wardrobe at a fraction of the price. I’m sure we could learn some tips from a thrifting expert? Thanks for considering this.
I would never consider myself a thrifting expert, but I can sure try to learn. Thanks Laura
Iām a 69 year old & Iām wondering just how many clothes do I really need. I do love your fashion ideas. I also enjoy reading about your vacations & your road trips. More info on health would be great too! Thanks for what you do š
We only need as much as we will really get wear out of. I think it’s always a good idea to weed out our wardrobes and keep things fresh.
I knew immediately the splurge vs save. The main giveaways were the handbag and earrings.
Love your fall items from Nordies. Sadly, we cannot wear here in eternal SE Florida Summer.
I would enjoy hearing more about how to control age spots on our face, those pesky spider veins on our legs, finding the best combination of facial skin care products for dry skin (I have very dry skin but few wrinkles and many of the “natural” products I react to with adult acne), continued products to reduce thinning hair and balding (other than supplements) as well as innovations in home use technology for our personal health and well-being. I know a handful but hope others will relate.
Those are great ideas, Katelyn. My spots and veins are multplying pretty quick!
Yes to recycle/”gently used” sites and also using EBay as a shopping site?
Thanks for the opportunity to tell you what I like about this site! I come to your website to see the latest trends in fashion. I also appreciate your advice on the best looks for different body types and how to choose colors and textures that are flattering. I would like to see more advice on modern haircuts. I am not really interested in home decor, or aging issues including healthy lifestyles, eating or exercise.
Thank you Janet. I may be switching my hair cut up very soon.
At 101 degrees today, Iām dressed in wide linen white pants and a white with tiny nave print crinkled top. Leather or pleather would never appeal to me, it doesnāt breath. Otherwise, I like both outfits but wouldnāt be able to spend 7K on an outfit. I like the white wide leg jeans! You look so smart in that outfit.
Healthy aging, films and books with fun mature characters and always your take on fashion for women of a certain age, would be of interest. But you do a great job and inspire me in your blog as it is now. Good work.
Coat and slacks gave it away for me!
Thanks for the tip on the Caslon knit blazer. Just bought in in rust, which should be a good color for me and my wardrobe. I picked the Splurge outfit solely on the camel button front coat, lovely!
Hi Jennifer. Coming to you from London Ontario Canada. Wondering if you could do a post on eyeglass frames appropriate to oneās face shape? Love your info.
I have an older post for that you may enjoy here-How to Choose the Best Eyeglasses
I love all of your posts. One thing I don’t want are weight loss programs being evaluated. However, I am great with healthy lifestyle content. I just don’t want to be pitched weight loss programs. How about a post or two about alterations on something that is either no longer current or not the right style. e.g. change the sleeves, tailor the pants etc. I would also love to hear more about brands that are re-cycling their merchandise, such as clean Eileen.
I love those ideas, Mary!
For me, what gave it away was the clasp on the bracelet. Expensive jewelry always has a quality clasp (better to not lose the piece!). The coat was the second give away. Fine construction. The handbag threw me off: I actually liked the Amazon handbag better than the $3400(!!!) bag. Don’t care how much money I have, I could not justify paying that insane amount for a handbag. Wowzer! I don’t wear raglan sleeves because I have narrow shoulders and fitted sleeves fit better. Thanks for your great post. Hope you are having fun in Vancouver. It’s on my “bucket” list.
The paisley blouse gave it away for me. The muted print looks more expensive.
I live in a small city with very limited shopping. I read blogs to see the apparel that’s out there. I skip over articles about hair care, make up and skin care because I’m very low maintenance and don’t have much time/$ to devote to those things.
Jennifer, I think you provide a variety of interesting topics. I really like Monday Musing and LOVE dressing room diaries.
I do like another readerās suggestion about shopping your closet. For instance, I love the plaid Vince Camuto jacket you got from nordie sale, would like to see the different ways you might style itā¦..sorta like ādressing room diaries at home.ā
Thx for a great blog!
What gives it away for me is usually the shoes or the bag. It’s the details or just how the item sits. For me, personally, I liked the cheaper look much better than the expensive look, although the top is a little low cut for cool fall weather.
This time I like elements of the “save” better. The coat would be a better choice for my shape. I wouldn’t wear the “splurge” coat. The clasp on the “save” earrings wouldn’t fly open like the “splurge earrings”.
I love the one button jacket and how you paired it with the cotton button up shirt. The color combo is spot on for a fall hit!
The bag and shoes always seem to be the give away for me. What a price range between the two options! You prove again that there is current fashion available at every price point!
I really benefit from your dressing room episodes. The visual benefit seems to be huge for me and your personal comments help immensely. Itās an exercise that I hope you continue. I donāt get out to the stores that often but this helps me stay current and offers so many new and fun options to try.
Thank you!
The handbag (its clasp) and classic tailored coat (though I prefer the camel color of the ‘save’ one) plus a closer observation of the top with its pin-tucking and covered buttons were the ‘splurge’ indicators to me. As to a suggestion for posts; perhaps model a few pieces showing various ways how to wear/style them. In other words, similar to what is done in a capsule wardrobe. This could also include mixing high and low ends, new garments with old etc. -Brenda-
Hello Jennifer,
I enjoy your fashion posts very much. I would like to suggest an occasional post on health especially one warning women about the steep decline in hormones post menopause, the dangers of too little vitamin D and the onset of osteoporosis. Maybe this is too technical a subject, but most women are lacking in vitamin D and have no idea.
Thanks!
That’s a great idea. I know Vit D is so important!
The blouse was the giveaway for me. The red blouse did not go well with the colors of the outfit while the muted colors of the pricier outfit looked really classy and fitting.
I enjoy the splurge or save posts – I don’t always guess correctly, but it’s fun to compare – a great way to train my eyes!
I would love some posts on how to dress for fall when the new colors aren’t ones that look good on you. Thanks for your blog, Jennifer!
Great idea!
I love natural fibers.
Merino anything
Down
Quality shoes
Travel in a tiny suitcase outfits
Summer coloring outfits
I enjoy all of your posts. The skincare ones are not as interesting to me.
Would love a post on necklines — they can make or break your look. I remember when I used to go to a coffee shop all the time, and the women had to wear t shirts with a high crew neck. One day I ran into one of the women on her day off and she had on a v neck top. She looked like a whole different person! So much prettier on her.
Also it might be good to see a post on alterations. An inch can sometimes make a difference on a skirt length, or pants too. Maybe a before and after thing with a tailor’s advice? I used to sew, so I know there are some little tweaks that can help you look your best. I often raise the shoulder of a garment a tiny bit — or use a 1/4″ shoulder pad — and it makes a bigger difference than you’d expect.
Love your travel and packing posts! I haven’t been able to travel for several years, for various reasons, and I am getting ready to go somewhere — anywhere — this fall. Your experienced tips are very helpful!
Also — this might require readers’ input — which brands tend to run long? Or petite-friendly? Or always tight in the sleeves?
One of the other comments mentioned previously worn clothing. I’ve been enjoying thredUp — my secret thrill is finding the same garment that I have been wearing but is worn out, or a jacket that I had a couple of years ago and would love to have again! The amount of items can be daunting, but they have good filters. My go-to is to select all colors except black, and that saves a lot of time. Except if I want black, lol.
Great ideas, Delia. I will try to do more packing posts too
Hi Jennifer, I donāt know if this is a broad enough topic for everyone to be interested inā¦ I have trouble finding cute WIDE shoes, boots, booties. As Iāve gained weight the last few years my feet have gotten wider too. Thank you menopause, LOL. Would this be a topic youād be able to turn into a post? Thanks for your blog!
It’s a great topic! Narrow too. So few of us are average anymore and we all want great footwear.
That was an easy pick for me. The splurge outfit just looked classy. BTW I love those glasses on you.
Thanks Diane. Theyāre an old frame.
Never ever would I pay close to $4000 for a plain leather bag. There are too many lovely leather bags for much less.
I thought both outfits had attractive pieces
Maybe a mashup of the 2 would be best for me.
No a fan of faux leather pants or the leggings. Think a lovely trouser would also work with these outfits.
Hi Jennifer – picking out which outfit was spend vs splurge – what gave it away for me was the blouse.
As far as other topics to cover – I recently got new glasses which means that now I can really see the wrinkles on my face, especially under my eyes! I’ve never used retinol but I would like to find out more about it’s use for sensitive skin or other wrinkle treatments – I’ve been trying to research this myself and I am a bit overwhelmed with the amount of information online! My apologies if you have already covered this topic!
Lol, but not fun! My wrinkles seem to show more if I try to wear contacts. This are great ideas for posts.
I think you already do a great job covering a variety of topics. I always enjoy your Monday Musings and reading comments and suggestions from your community regarding books, skin care, hair or any other topic you have brought up. The personal safety conversation last week was a real eye opener. And as Robin mentioned, I would enjoy seeing more of your everyday outfits. A while ago you mentioned that you were re-evaluating your style and I’m wondering how that is progressing. I’ve noticed my style taste has changed from last summer when I was adding a lot of bright colours but now I want a more refined, sophisticated look.
As for the Splurge or Save, it was the coat that was the giveaway for me – it looks like a classic, cashmere/wool coat that will be in style forever.
I think a lot of us were surpised at that post. I didn’t know how much I needed to know. I’m still working on my style and doing the same as you. Loving brighter but leaning toward soft neutrals. Taupes, cream, beige and gray. Fall will be fun!
I thought it was difficult to decipher between the splurge and save today, only the bracelet gave it away. Iām not thrilled with large paisley prints on me especially with the save. However, Iām happy that western style booties are on trend this fall, as I find them very comfortable. Sadly items that I would have purchased at the Nordstrom sale were sold out for me too. Now about that Pearl necklace, love it. Did you add the enhancer? Thanks!
It came with the enhancer. I’ll try to find one like to to link in the future.
I am a natural fabric fan BUT I recently purchased a faux leather moto jacket which was half price. Itās black and pairs well with a white tee and jeansā¦I am loving the look. Just a fun pieceā¦and I think fashion should be fun.
I would like to see a feature post on a variety of flattering hairstyles for the over 60 age group. Also a health feature that might cover osteoporosis, dry skin and exercise outfits that might help those of us who want to look stylish and cute outfits for walking?
A big ask I know but you are fashion savvy :-))
Thank you,
Leslie
Great ideas Leslie. Bone health is sooo important as we age.
Fun post today!
1. Outfit inspo – I am immediately drawn to each item on the right, except the pants. The coat and the handbag were the definite looks that called out splurge. Alas, my pockets are tooo small to afford these things.
2. I ADORE the necklace you are wearing. You don’t mention it, so I assume it is yours.
3. The last outfit is incredible. The color of the coat! I am not good at putting colors together, but the sweater and coat combination is smart and gorgeous. Unfortunately, as I no longer commute on public transport and work downtown and take nice long walks at lunch near the office, I rarely wear a coat-lengthed coat in NE winters. They are too bulky to war in the car for short trips with multiple stops. Also late career change to teaching – I park barely 100 steps from the school door.
Yes, I’ve owned it for awhile, sorry.
Loved all your Nordstrom finds! I’m wondering if any of these items might come to the Rack? Prices are so much better there. I can’t think of a lifestyle topic you haven’t covered here. You do such a great job.
They might but itās always a gamble theyāll have your size when and if they do.
The handbag was the giveaway on the splurge outfit. But remarkably close! Iām not a fan of faux leather. It always looks like plastic to me, and itās not comfortable to wear. Do you like it?
I have a few pair but theyāre the wider leg styles.
I picked the Splurge outfit almost instantly. The tip off was the handbag, pants and definitely the coat. The coat looks like a beautiful, tailored, cashmere coat. The Splurge looks rich & classy. Always in style. Love the look!
The cashmere sweater in lilac looks so good on you. Your face lights up with that color. As far as new content, I would like to see outfits using what you already have in your closet.
Sounds good Robin. Thanks
Good morning, Jennifer. Besides fashion, I am interested in healthy aging topics. How about a healthy aging book club? I read quite a few nonfiction books related to healthy aging. I bet other people do too.
Great idea!
Echo that! I love to read and a book club on healthy aging sounds great.
This is such a good idea! I can heartily recommend the book The Age Well Project (I got my copy used from Amazon, it’s a UK book). The ladies who wrote it met at the school gates years ago and both had cause to look into healthy aging, as one had a parent with Alzheimer’s and the other had breast cancer in the family. They also have a website of the same name and you can sign up for the newsletter. The book (and website) covers a wide range of topics with lots of ideas for healthy living as we age. Highly recommended!
That sounds really fun! Thanks for sharing it Patricia
I LOVE fall fashion, so your post today was a real treat. Thank you!
I read and enjoy your blog every day and will continue to do so. Could you work in some posts on these topics?:
1. Building a sustainable wardrobe. Iām trying to swap out environmentally damaging materials for earth friendlier options such as organic cotton, lyocell, modal, wool, hemp, linen, down and silk. Itās a long process. In this effort, Iām trying to only purchase clothes in these materials. Itās harder than I thought it would be. Posts with āall earth friendlyā outfits would inspire me.
2. Feature recycled and repurposed products. More brands are remaking and reselling their used products. Eileen Fisher has done this for some time. Nic and Zoe has joined the party. Coach offers some really cool remakes of their used bags. Iād enjoy a post featuring an upcycled item or two.
3. On beauty, ask readers to list a product (or products) that they never run out of. With so many options, it would be helpful to know what products your readers purchase on repeat and why.
Thatās it. Keep up the good work.
Those are wonderful ideas! I love them. Thanks Susan
The splurge outfit is beautiful but I too would never spend that kind of money for one outfit.
I would like to know about exercise to relieve aches and pains. I am 73 and seem to wake up with parts of my body needing an “oil can”.
Thanks for great blogs always.
Lol, I hear you Lin!
How about tips on shopping at quality thrift stores and consignment shops? Or dressing room diaries at a few more moderate- end shops. I do enjoy the Kohlās segments.
Iāve never had any luck at consignment shops but Iāll see what I can do Mary.
Love the splurge or save! Recognised the save from the handbag, which I already have in a wish list for fall!
Would like some advice regarding best sunscreen for the body that is not “sport” (aka waterproof). Need one for everyday for arms and find waterproof too lol hot to wear.
I donāt differentiate between face or body sunscreen unless itās tinted. Many of mine are water resistant. I like the Australian Gold brand.
It is show hard to think about fall with our very warm temps in South Carolina.
The coat and the paisley top were the giveaways for me. š
Oh I really prefer the splurge pieces here with the exception of the jacket ( I like both jackets equally). I think the handbag and the blouse/faux leather pants did it for me.
However I do not spend over seven thousand dollars on any one outfit- ever! But if I were that wealthy I would definitely choose the splurge selection.
Happy Monday Paulette
This is always such a fun post. The tailoring on the coat was my first clue. Also I could spot which bracelet was real gold. I cannot imagine paying over 3 grand for a bag. But then I can’t imagine spending 300 for one. I’m a small purse woman so large bags have no attraction for me. I bought 2 of the one-button knit jackets and was very pleased with them especially for the price. They will come in handy when the weather cools off.
I loved that little jacket
I have the faux leather pants from Veronica Beard so I knew immediately what the splurge was. I was a little hesitant, but I was curious and knew I could return. I am definitely keeping these pants and ordered the matching blazer. Say what you will about faux leather, but these pants are so luxurious, gorgeous, comfortable and of the highest quality. Love them!
That’s great to know!
The pleather pants look slightly worse on the budget model. If you traded those out for dark jeans, white jeans or black tailored pants, either outfit would work.
Great idea!!
In the Splurge or Save display the bracelet was the giveaway for me. Splurge has a very nice clasp , the kind you put on expensive jewelry. The coat is also much more classic. What gave me trouble was the purse in Save. it looks like expensive leather in the picture. May have to order it to see if it really looks that good in person!
Interesting! I didnāt zero in on the clasp. Good catch.
Good morning Jennifer
I like the outfits you . As for the splurge outfit, is with the long coat, I see quality in that whole look
Good morning Pat!
Everything looks beautiful except for the three short blazer/jackets.
It’s funny you say that about raglan sleeves. You’ve said that you have broad shoulders, so it makes sense. A strong shoulder in clothes is much more flattering on me, so I generally don’t consider anything with raglan sleeves, they’re a disaster on me – although I did like and purchase the Eileen Fisher merino with raglan sleeves during the Anniversary Sale. That one probably works because it has a boat neck.
Jeanne–I am the same way. I have narrow shoulders and do better with a set-in sleeve. (Although I have hated the cutsy puffed up ones–they always look like someone didn’t know how to do it properly.) The structure balances me. The boat neck may do something similar for you.