How to Choose the Best Fashion Pieces to Invest In

August 2, 2018

Dior Saddle Bag Floral Suit Trend - How to Buy the Investment Pieces Right For You #christiandior #johngalliano #parisfashionweek #pfw #ss18 #fw18 #zarawoman #streetstyle #streetfashion #fashionblogger #fashioninfluencer #outfitideas #luxury #vintagedior #diorbag #saddlebag #runwaystyle #runwaytrends #buyingluxury #vintageluxury #canadianblogger #usblogger #lablogger #outfitideas #falloutfitinspo #falloutift #summerstyle #summeroutfit #floralsuit #suittrend #suitsRunway fashion always brings a plethora of inspiration, and understandably, not every single trend is for everyone. The soar in social influence admittedly makes quite a few of us, including myself, feel a pang of missing out, but the truth is, when we are too busy dreaming about what other people have, the only thing we are truly missing out on are the things we deeply desire the most. We all know the fashion cycle has literally gone from twice a year to more than 6 a year, and fast fashion has us flipping our heads from left to right from one new bag – new pair of shoes – jacket or next hot thing – to another.

Dior Saddle Bag Floral Suit Trend - How to Buy the Investment Pieces Right For You #christiandior #johngalliano #parisfashionweek #pfw #ss18 #fw18 #zarawoman #streetstyle #streetfashion #fashionblogger #fashioninfluencer #outfitideas #luxury #vintagedior #diorbag #saddlebag #runwaystyle #runwaytrends #buyingluxury #vintageluxury #canadianblogger #usblogger #lablogger #outfitideas #falloutfitinspo #falloutift #summerstyle #summeroutfit #floralsuit #suittrend #suitsDior Saddle Bag Floral Suit Trend - How to Buy the Investment Pieces Right For You #christiandior #johngalliano #parisfashionweek #pfw #ss18 #fw18 #zarawoman #streetstyle #streetfashion #fashionblogger #fashioninfluencer #outfitideas #luxury #vintagedior #diorbag #saddlebag #runwaystyle #runwaytrends #buyingluxury #vintageluxury #canadianblogger #usblogger #lablogger #outfitideas #falloutfitinspo #falloutift #summerstyle #summeroutfit #floralsuit #suittrend #suitsDior Saddle Bag Floral Suit Trend - How to Buy the Investment Pieces Right For You #christiandior #johngalliano #parisfashionweek #pfw #ss18 #fw18 #zarawoman #streetstyle #streetfashion #fashionblogger #fashioninfluencer #outfitideas #luxury #vintagedior #diorbag #saddlebag #runwaystyle #runwaytrends #buyingluxury #vintageluxury #canadianblogger #usblogger #lablogger #outfitideas #falloutfitinspo #falloutift #summerstyle #summeroutfit #floralsuit #suittrend #suitsDior Saddle Bag Floral Suit Trend - How to Buy the Investment Pieces Right For You #christiandior #johngalliano #parisfashionweek #pfw #ss18 #fw18 #zarawoman #streetstyle #streetfashion #fashionblogger #fashioninfluencer #outfitideas #luxury #vintagedior #diorbag #saddlebag #runwaystyle #runwaytrends #buyingluxury #vintageluxury #canadianblogger #usblogger #lablogger #outfitideas #falloutfitinspo #falloutift #summerstyle #summeroutfit #floralsuit #suittrend #suitsPersonally, I love luxury, but as you know, I have champagne taste on a beer budget. I simply cannot afford to buy all the new handbags I want, and I don’t believe in living beyond your means. Being selective is a good thing – it makes us work harder and feel a sense of accomplishment when we can buy the things we want.

With social apps like Instagram, it is easy to believe you really want something after you see it numerous times, especially on people you look up to, so when it comes down to making a big purchase, it’s best to ask ourselves a string of questions that help us make the most informed decision. These are the questions I ask to help me narrow down whether a new fashion piece is worth investing in.

Does that fit with my existing wardrobe?
One of the most important is seeking out pieces that can easily work with your style. If you’re the type of person that doesn’t change your style too much, a bag that works with your existing wardrobe is best. Think of the colors in your wardrobe and the statement your new fashion piece will make. Does it make sense? If it doesn’t work with your wardrobe, you may not want to spend your hard earned cash. A purchase that doesn’t work with your other accessories or clothes require a much greater investment than you might want.

Opportunity Cost. Am I prepared to give up X for Y?
You all know I constantly think in terms of opportunity cost. When you buy something, you are giving up something else you could spend that money on. So before you consider buying, ask yourself if the other thing you’d buy or spend your money on is worth giving up.

Would I really wear that more than a handful of times?
Unless it’s incredibly special, finding something that is chic and stylish doesn’t have to cost a complete fortune. So if you are usually on a budget and are going to spend your hard earned cash, choose something that you love and would wear regardless of trends.

Do I really want it? Or do I just have a fear of missing out?
Truth be told, with my Instagram feed showing person after person doing the same thing and owning the same items, I lose some desire for the item. Some people feel compelled to buy something the more they see it, others feel the opposite and that is totally okay. Narrowing down the things worth investing in is something I have been much more focused on in the past year and that means focusing less on Instagram and Facebook and more on inspirational boards and collages.

When the trend ends, will I still wear it? Will I get bored of it?
While I admire those who can spend money on bags without blinking an eye, I know that I cannot, so this sets the tone on how I spend on large purchase items. Buy things you truly love. These items are things you enjoy so much that it won’t matter even as the years pass. You have all seen me wear these Gucci mules plenty of times the past year here and here. Even to this day, I still wear my Valentino B Rockstud bag. When it comes to accessories, I like to go for items that I’d wear even years after the trend has passed, and if I have the option of investing in something that feels current even though it’s vintage, you can bet I’ve probably already looked.

Thoughts Behind My Purchase & Why This Dior Saddle Bag

Last season, we saw the Dior Saddle Bag hit the runway. I was so excited, but admittedly I felt deflated that yet another expensive luxury bag that I wanted fell on my wish list. The reason why we all fell in love with a brand becomes nostalgia, so being able to revive something that brings back wonderful memories is quite special, don’t you think?

I went through the list of questions above and knew that my decision this time around would be to get something vintage. I have a special place in my heart for second-hand pieces. There’s something to be said about wearing something that not everyone else can get their hands on, yet shares something that feels like it truly speaks of this moment.

I went into the Christian Dior store in Soho while spending a few days in New York City. I had even looked through quite a few vintage saddle bags that had become available from February to June and quite honestly, I hesitated on every single one I’d seen until I found this one. When you thoroughly go through a good shopping process and ask yourself the right questions, you’ll eventually feel great about your final purchase decision and wear your pieces for years to come (and even when the item is no longer around, I am still wearing my pieces proudly!) While the saddle bag is trending, I love that it’s actually been revived, but a rarer vintage one felt better suited for me. I also truly loved John Galliano’s designs back then, so for me, I’m paying homage to both the designer of that time and appreciating that there’s a revival for this time. How do you choose what fashion pieces to invest in?

For more inspiration on style and travel, follow me on Bloglovin♥, Twitter and Instagram. Don’t forget to subscribe to my mailing list for special announcements and exclusive content.

Xo,

Miki

Photo credit to my one and only, Rise Again BJJ

You Might Also Like

  • sharon wu August 2, 2018 at 4:19 pm

    That saddle bag suits you so well! I am glad you decided to buy it. It looks like a versatile piece that will stay in style for a long time, and goes with so many wardrobe pieces 🙂 but just like you, i always consider a lot of different things before making a big purchase like that hahaha xo, sharon

    https://www.stylelullaby.com/palm-springs/10-photogenic-hotels-in-greater-palm-springs-worth-checking-out/

  • The Fashion Folks August 2, 2018 at 4:52 pm

    Oh what a clever post Miki! I especially love the perspective of what will happen to the clothing piece once the trend is over. I feel like that’s such a great way of being honest with yourself what the purpose of the purchase is. I know I’d buy less things for sure! Xx

    http://www.thefashionfolks.com

  • Hadasah Love | Style To Love August 2, 2018 at 11:55 pm

    You look great my dear! Love it
    xx, Hadasah
    http://www.styletolove.com

  • Nina August 3, 2018 at 9:08 pm

    Love your choice, this Dior bag is amazing. You look stunning in this outfit.

    Nina’s Style Blog

  • Suzan J August 4, 2018 at 5:02 am

    This was super helpful! I love when trends like that Dior bag come back to life! It’s super chic.
    http://www.suzanj.com

  • May August 4, 2018 at 2:16 pm

    Girl you are killing it! Love this outfit and your earrings.

    May || http://themoderness.com

  • Christine Kong August 5, 2018 at 8:54 pm

    Everything in fashion eventually comes back again and here we are with the Dior saddle bag. I actually never purchased one when it first came out so I am now tempted to get the new version. I love that cropped top with the logo straps too. You always mix high end and more affordable pieces and I love the do’s and dont’s of investment pieces here. xoxo, Christine
    http://dailykongfidence.com/

  • Jessica August 6, 2018 at 12:49 am

    Love your picks dear, especially that Dior saddle bag. You really can’t go wrong with these luxurious styles.
    Jessica | notjessfashion.com

  • Yasmin August 6, 2018 at 11:48 pm

    I do get caught up in the latest it bag. But giving up x for y hasn’t been worth it yet for me. I think I’ll invest one day soon. I just need to choose a classic item. I too have champagne tastes on a beer budget haha!

    xx Yasmin
    http://banglesandbungalows.com

  • Andreea Birsan August 7, 2018 at 9:21 am

    This red suit is so damn pretty! Need it in my life along with those gorgeous Gucci mules. Have a lovely day. xx

    Andreea,
    http://couturezilla.com/

  • wendee August 8, 2018 at 7:03 pm

    beautiful photos
    The Glossychic
    Wonder Cottage

  • Alexandra August 8, 2018 at 11:06 pm

    Love all your pick!

    Cheers,
    Alexandra | Summer Bags That You’ll See it Everywhere”

  • Nina August 9, 2018 at 6:58 am

    I’m in love with your outfit! The colours, the form, your Dior handbag…. everything make a perfect combination!!
    Have a great day dear! xx

    La ilusión de Nina – http://lailusiondenina.blogspot.com/

  • Narhee August 9, 2018 at 11:03 pm

    Fab print! Love the look

    Narhee | Made in Mauve

  • Daniel August 10, 2018 at 2:56 am

    This is such a lovely dior bag! Great look!

    Daniel x

    The Daniel Originals | Instagram: danielpoonvignez

  • Zorica August 10, 2018 at 4:32 am

    Great post.
    Thanks for sharing.
    xx
    https://theonethattravels.wordpress.com/

  • Stella August 10, 2018 at 6:32 am

    Ah Miki how much I’ve missed talking with you about fashion & life over coffee! Your tips are always great and so on point! I want a saddle bag too but I am so indecisive I can’t pick a pattern and size! I love how you wear it here! As for opportunity cost, I always think about that too, well I try to haha, but I know you do 🙂 Can’t wait to see you again darling! Looking beyond amazing by the way!
    Love,
    Stella
    http://stellaasteria.com/influencer-awards-monaco-2018-stella-asteria/

  • The Exclusive Beauty Diary August 11, 2018 at 3:09 pm

    Your bag looks gorgeous! I really like it, like your whole outfit!
    Wish you beautiful weekend!

    http://www.exclusivebeautydiary.com

  • Biki August 12, 2018 at 5:10 am

    I’m so into this look you put together but I can’t make out if you are wearing shorts or a skirt- either way, I’m here for it!! Even though I’m not esctatic about getting older, I like how Insta came up in my 30s coz at this stage of my life I don’t have the same need to shop and have MORE MORE MOOOOORE as I did in my 20s. I’ve been around long enough to see trends regurgitated as new looks and now before I buy a piece I really think about it: so I really like the checklist you gave here. I tend to ask myself some of those questions. Anywho, have a lovely Sunday hon. Xo

  • Grace Louise August 12, 2018 at 8:19 am

    This outfit is so gorgeous, you look amazing in these pictures and I love your checklist – it’s so useful! Gorgeous post Hun 🙂

    Grace Louise || http://www.gracelouiseofficial.blogspot.co.uk/

  • Jalisa August 12, 2018 at 9:47 pm

    These are all such great tips, girl! I prefer luxury bags myself, after considering pretty much all you’ve suggested here. After answering the right answers to those questions, it makes sense to invest because you know it’ll be worth it in the long run. Ah, that bag of yours is gorgeous girl and you wear it so well! I love the 90s/early ’00s vibes it gives me. Thanks for sharing and I hope you have a great week ahead!

    XO,

    Jalisa
    THE STYLE CONTOUR

  • Radi August 13, 2018 at 3:47 am

    I love this look from head to toe. Great tips… I feel like often times we shop things we don’t need, but realize it months later and can’t do anything about it.

    http://www.fashionradi.com

  • Melody Jacob August 13, 2018 at 9:54 am

    Lovely outfit
    NEW POST
    https://www.melodyjacob.com/2018/08/white-dress.html

  • Elegant Duchess August 13, 2018 at 1:24 pm

    Great tips beautiful. I have to say that I do have a bad FOMO at times and I just buy things I like before anyone else would and very often regardless whether I actually need it. xx

    Much Love,
    Elegant Duchess xx
    https://www.elegantduchess.com/

  • Allie Mackin August 13, 2018 at 6:39 pm

    I know this can be tough, and these are great tips. I always think bags are a great way to go. I so want a Dior saddle bag or that orange Jadoir one that is all the rage right now.

    Allie of
    http://www.allienyc.com

  • Olivia Poncelet August 14, 2018 at 6:13 am

    So stylish, love this outfit babe! !
    Nice pics ! 😀
    Happy Tuesday <3
    Olivia Poncelet
    http://www.oliviaponcelet.com

  • Len Parent August 15, 2018 at 10:29 am

    You look absolutely amazing! I love your photos and outfit!!! Great styling as always!
    Stay fabulous!
    Have a great week my dear!
    Much love, Len ❤️
    http://www.lenparent.com

  • FASHION TALES August 15, 2018 at 1:55 pm

    I agree and love all of your tips here. I think about these when I do purchase a luxury item. Though for me I tend to spend more on shoes and outerwear. Jackets and boots are my favourite, but I do have a handful of fashion bags that are investments. Your outfit is gorgeous! That colourful print is everything! <3 x/Madison
    FASHION TALES

  • Diana August 15, 2018 at 2:47 pm

    I love this post, I always ask myself these questions before swiping my card when it comes to designer goods, more especially the question of “Do I really want this item, or am I just afraid of missing out?” The black saddle bag is stunning, I’m currently asking myself all these question about the Dior J’adior Flap Bag! x
    Diana | http://www.cettedame.com

  • yuka August 15, 2018 at 3:31 pm

    I love that you broke it down with your thought process! I am the most indecisive person on earth so it was really helpful hearing how you decide on your luxury purchases. Will definitely take these into consideration next time I make a big ticket item purchase!

    http://www.prettyinleather.net

  • Julia Comil August 16, 2018 at 3:35 am

    I am so obsessed with the Dior Saddle Bag for many years. I am so happy it is back in track! And I absolutely love the new collection. I like the saddle belt bag! It is so trendy but I feel the saddle handbag will be more timeless. Love your Dior bag anyway!!

  • sophie August 16, 2018 at 4:53 am

    This is so informative and your outfit is such a winner. You look amazing in it.I wish I could pull off shorts like that.
    http://www.sophieatieno.com/2018/08/i-wore-culottes-outfit-with-sneakers.html

  • Ashley Schuberg August 16, 2018 at 5:48 am

    BABE!! So in love! you look perfect babe and the saddle!!! AMAAAAAZING!!

    xxx

    Ashley

    http://www.missgunner.com

  • Yuliya August 16, 2018 at 6:17 am

    I am loving this co-ord, you look absolutely stunning in red xxx
    https://yukovablog.co.uk/leaving-healthy-after-a-sleepless-night/

  • Jenny Yang August 16, 2018 at 10:49 am

    these are such beautiful pieces and I love how you paired them together!
    xx jen
    http://lilthoughtswithjen.com/

  • anette Hepp August 16, 2018 at 2:01 pm

    Awesome pictures my dear and I love this saddle bag – it´s so classy! <3

    xoxo
    Anette à la Heppiness

    http://www.heppiness.de

  • Freja August 16, 2018 at 3:59 pm

    This advice is great and I really need to start asking myself these questions the next time I am buying something luxury (not that it happens a lot). I am glad that you decided to buy the Dior bag. It is stunning!

    http://whatmakesmesmileblog.com/

  • Naya August 17, 2018 at 2:52 am

    This was such an interesting fashion piece to read, you look absolutely gorgeous! I love the mix of colours here, red is always a good idea. Of course that Dior bag is so special; I miss John’s creations if I am being very honest! xx

    Naya
    partyparrotblog.com

  • Nada August 17, 2018 at 3:45 am

    great post hun 🙂
    PLEASE FOLLOW ME: THE COLORFUL THOUGHTS

  • Chanel August 17, 2018 at 2:37 pm

    I love this look! That bag is such a classic and will be such a great piece to pass down.

    x,
    S | Je M’appelle Chanel

  • mahryska August 18, 2018 at 2:25 pm

    you look fabulous babe and love that bag!
    kisses from dubai ❤️
    http://www.mahryska.com

  • vanessa August 19, 2018 at 8:06 am

    this outfit is so chic!
    love your blog, thankyou for sharing

    vnssachn.blogspot.com

  • vanessa August 19, 2018 at 8:21 am

    I love your outfit!
    thank you for sharing

    vnssachn.blogspot.com

  • Ms Via August 23, 2018 at 8:18 pm

    This is such a smart and honest post. I loved how you put together these questions that we really need to ask ourselves, even when we have these questions at the back of our minds we tend to ignore them. Lovely post and you are looking stunning in this outfit. The purse is beautiful good you invested in it. 🙂

    Via | http://glossnglitters.com