There are some things luxurious investments are choices, much like choosing soda over water or spending savings on a vacation when you should be paying off student loans. However, the black pump, much like the little black dress is one investment that just cannot be overlooked.

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These Christian Louboutin Miminette 70mm Pumps are a perfect example of how an investment piece doesn’t have to be boring. The patent leather and amazing comfort that comes along with these small heels are amazingly understated, but still chic. Of course you could pick up a pair of patent leather pumps from a non-name designer from Target, Wal-Mart or even DSW, but will someone stop you on the street or at a job interview and say “Where in the world did you get those shoes?”

These shoes are available at Net-A-Porter for $595. They are 3 inches (hence the 77 mm in the name for all you Americans) and have the signature red soles of all Christian Louboutin heels.

For more information on why to wear expensive heels and why to invest in them check out this blog entry.

Ashley Shute spends eight hours a day working as a blue jean and t-shirt wearing community organizer in San Antonio. The other 16 hours are dedicated to dreaming about and shopping for the latest luxury fashions. Her style icon is Jacqueline Kennedy; classic, clean, and always professional. You will never find a fake bag in her closet and she wants a collection of Manolo Blahnik shoes before she turns 30.

You all know by now that I’m a sucker for a camisole and a cardigan. If I could get away with wearing a cardigan and a cami every day of the week, I would. But, what length of cardigan should you wear? The tiny itsy-bitsy almost bolero style cardigan? The regular jacket style cardigan or the duster style cardigan? So many choices!

Sak’s Fifth Avenue 

The Short Cardigan

This is the cardigan that you wear just to cover up your arms. It’s super chic.  This style will work if you have a a small to medium size chest. It probably will look fabulous. I wish I could wear it! wouldn’t recommend wearing this type of cardigan if you have a large chest. You’ll end up stretching it out. It probably won’t fit right and you’ll probably end up with half of your chest covered with the bolero. It’s happened to me, and I just don’t think it looks right. Oscar De La Renta Shawl Collar Cashmere Bolero Sweater -$1,690.

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The Regular Cardigan Sweater

This is the one that works on almost anyone. Dress it up, dress it own, accessorize,  wear a cute top, wear a plain top. This one has no rules. That’s why I adore it and have it in so many different colors. You can find this style at almost any price point and in any fabric (ranging front cotton to cashmere). Thakoon Pleated Silk Cardigan-$268

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The Long Duster Cardigan

A few seasons ago this was all the rage. I backed off this one to see if it stuck around more then one year, and it didn’t. However, you can still find this length here and there. Depending on the weather and you’re specific taste, then it may still be a good choice! However, I think real world designers caught on to the fact that unless all their buyers have the legs of Tyra Banks and the body of Kate Moss, the look just isn’t going to look good on everyone. Calvin Klein Kirkhama Cashmere Cardigan – $1,395

The real art of picking the right cardigan, no matter what season it is, is proportion. Depending on height and your body type you should be able to find a fabulous cardigan to go with that chic cami you’ve been rocking all summer. Just remember these simple tips and you should be golden!

Ashley Shute spends eight hours a day working as a blue jean and t-shirt wearing community organizer in San Antonio. The other 16 hours are dedicated to dreaming about and shopping for the latest luxury fashions. Her style icon is Jacqueline Kennedy; classic, clean, and always professional. You will never find a fake bag in her closet and she wants a collection of Manolo Blahnik shoes before she turns 30.

Owning and wearing lots of great solid tees and blouses is great. They’re fun to pair jewelry and great accessories, but there comes a time when patterns, prints, and funky fabrics are just necessary. Sometimes it’s hard to find the perfect print and even harder to find the perfect fit the trend for right now. Here are few options for the girl who is looking for the print for right now.

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Etro Paisley Print Poncho

Look at how bright and fun this is! Ponchos obviously just aren’t for the cold wet days in New England anymore now are they? This poncho would be great with any length of shorts, from tiny shorts that you can barely see to a longer more professional walking short. This has oversized arms so you’ll be airy and breezy. It is 100% cotton and is currently $690 from Net-A-Porter.

Net-A-Porter 

Leaves of Grass Surrey Printed Chiffon Blouse

I’m a sucker for the color blue. Combine it with a chic summer top and I’m 100% in. This top is a light and fun 100% silk material and some white embellished embroidery in the middle.  This is $450 and also from Net-A-Porter.

Net-A-Porter 

Roberto Cavalli Floral Print Chiffon Top

There is a fine line between fashionable and trashy when you’re talking about floral prints. This blouse is on the fashionable side. The flowers are just big enough to catch someone’s eye, but of course in a good way! It is 100% silk with 3/4 sleeve and has a round neck.

Ashley Shute spends eight hours a day working as a blue jean and t-shirt wearing community organizer in San Antonio. The other 16 hours are dedicated to dreaming about and shopping for the latest luxury fashions. Her style icon is Jacqueline Kennedy; classic, clean, and always professional. You will never find a fake bag in her closet and she wants a collection of Manolo Blahnik shoes before she turns 30.

I stil haven’t fallen in love with the ankle boot. They remind me of something I would wear when I was in second grade. However, I could definitely fall in love with the trend if I could wear the Christian Louboutin Paola 100 Ankle Boots.

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Look at that fabulous pattern. It’s a black demi-sheer lace-effect with the signature red soles and 4inch heels. With the sheer material of the boot you’ll have to get some awesome boot socks (yet another reason to buy boots…more fun socks!).

These are one of a kind boots, for sure. They aren’t the run of the mill luxury fashion boots that will cost $300-500. These are a major splurge for even those of you that live and die by the designer label at $1,155 from Net-A-Porter. but, if you have to have them, then… they’re worth it!

Ashley Shute spends eight hours a day working as a blue jean and t-shirt wearing community organizer in San Antonio. The other 16 hours are dedicated to dreaming about and shopping for the latest luxury fashions. Her style icon is Jacqueline Kennedy; classic, clean, and always professional. You will never find a fake bag in her closet and she wants a collection of Manolo Blahnik shoes before she turns 30.