Hint: It involves a little bit of math
You’re well-versed when it comes to investment shopping: Shelling out on a trench coat that you’ll wear from now until eternity makes total sense, but you’d think twice about splurging on anything too trendy. Little do you know that if you use our super-scientific fashion calculator, you'll see some of spring's biggest trends are surprisingly affordable. We’ve partnered with Neiman Marcus to break down the best of the bunch by their cost-per-wear. Take a look at our analysis and get excited.
CULOTTES: 21 WEARS = $26
It’s practically a guarantee that you’ll wear this workhorse at least once a week (with a silk blouse and heeled mules or a T-shirt and flats), from May until the end of September. That means each wear costs less than movie tickets for two.
Get the look: Suno ($550)
LACE SEPARATES: 10 WEARS = $81
’Tis the season for summer weddings and backyard cocktails, and this daisy-lace, short-sleeved blouse and skirt make for the perfect combination. Chances are, you’ll pair them together at least once a month, but because the pieces are separates, they’ll carry you even further. Match the skirt with a striped tank and throw the blouse over any distressed denim.
Get the look: Self Portrait top ($375), Self Portrait skirt ($435)
LACE-UP SANDALS: 70 WEARS = $6
In our opinion, a comfortable sandal that doesn’t induce blisters is alwaysworth the splurge. To get the most wear, grab a pair in a neutral color that plays well with others. Next, give the suede a quick protective spray and hit the town. With the padded footbed and leather lining, these shoes will feel like walking on a cloud.
Get the look: Stuart Weitzman ($445)
OFF-THE-SHOULDER TOP: 9 WEARS = $22
We see you, collarbones. Shoulder-baring tops, the trend du jour, are going to be everywhere. But truthfully, we can’t see them sticking around for too long after sun sets on summer. For this reason, save by snagging a more economically sound version. This cropped style will garner plenty of compliments, and you won’t feel bad retiring it come fall.
Get the look: Alice + Olivia ($198)
BLAZER: 100 WEARS = $33
We know, we gasped that the price tag, too. But you haven’t lived until you’ve tried on a perfectly tailored jacket. Worn over dresses, skirts, pants, tops and, well, almost everything else in your closet (except color-blocked leggings), this blazer will stay with you until you die. OK, that’s dramatic--but we wouldn’t doubt it.
Get the look: Brunello Cucinelli ($3,295)
TASSEL CLUTCH: 90 WEARS = $3
If you’re going to go for a funky handbag, we advise that you fully commit to carrying it every day. We love this Rebecca Minkoff version because it keeps a solid base color, but the tassels add a hint of pizzazz.
Get the look: Rebecca Minkoff ($245)
WIDE-LEG DENIM: 25 WEARS = $22
You can’t go wrong when it comes to denim. No matter what the style, it’s a staple that can be worn countless times, in countless ways. And God bless denim's revolving door (welcome back, fuller cuts!). This jean is ultra flattering (slims through your hips and thighs) and can be easily dressed up or down.
Get the look: Co ($550)
JUMPSUIT: 12 WEARS = $35
For when you just can't bear to wear a dress, take solace in the jumpsuit. Nab one with a simple silhouette and you can wear it virtually anywhere. Yep, even to work.
Get the look: Milly ($425)
STATEMENT EARRINGS: 15 WEARS = $18
Earrings aren’t something we normally think to invest in (unless we’re talking carats). But a pair that gives off a vintage, art-deco vibe will never go out of style. Team them with your new jumpsuit above or your PWT (plain white T-shirt).