Yesterday, I read a great post on Oh Joy! discussing items to splurge on in your thirties. When you reach your thirties, there’s usually a great deal more stability in you life (marriage, career, even kids). Hence you start investing a little more in certain purchases (her examples: cooking pots, skincare & boots) because you appreciate the quality.
Well I’m in my twenties, like many of you, and I’m not quite at the point where I can splurge as Joy does. But, I think it is very important to splurge sometimes. The key is to be very careful what you splurge on. We are at the stage in our lives where we’re moving into our own places, truly developing our sense of style or settling down in marriage. We’re also building savings accounts and paying off student loans. From those experiences, we start looking for what will last not just get us through the day.
If you’re a regular reader, you know I’m always sharing the affordable option. Never sacrifice quality. In my world, pretty = quality. It’s the biggest mistake twenty-somethings make. That said, here are a few purchases worth the splurge!
Furniture is one category I completely justify investing a little more than what you can afford. Taking into consideration function and lifespan, these are the pieces that can use a little splurging. Why? Because you will always need them. More than likely you will move a few times, but these pieces will always be in need. Make sure everything can survive your twenties. If there is one take away you remember from this, do not buy a cheap mattress!
Sources: Anson Sofa via Room & Board ($1,999), West Elm Parsons Desk via The Everygirl ($349-$499)
Kitchen tools also tend to have a hefty price tag. For this category, invest in what you love. If you love to bake, buy a mixer. If you love to cook, purchase a great set of knives. These tools will last for years and will make everything from preparing a simple meal to a full blown dinner party so much easier!
Sources: Wusthof Knives via Sur La Table (prices vary), Le Creuset 6-Piece Set via Williams Sonoma ($550), KitchenAid Mixer via Bed Bath & Beyond ($350)
Lastly but not least, apparel! I love to shop, but I’ve learned over the years that this is definitely a category where quality trumps quantity. Get your basics in order first and make sure these pieces will survive a good chunk of your twenties and all it’s wonderful parties. A great handbag, pair of shoes and coat will go such a long way!
Sources: Kate Spade Karolina Bow Pumps via Classy Girls Wear Pearls ($328), Legacy Handbag via Coach ($458), JCrew Coat via LA in the Bay ($325)
Plan ahead (aka save money) and you can invest in quality products. You may not be able to run off to Louis Vuitton right away, but you can work your way up! Quite simply, there are certain things you don’t want to have to buy over and over. Quality costs a pretty penny!