8 Splurges I Want to Make and the More Affordable Alts I Might Buy Instead

I know 2025 is still basically two months away, but boy, have I already racked up a healthy list of items I want to invest in. At the start of each year, I like to sit down and catalog all the major purchases I want to make from interior décor to beauty and wellness investments, travel plans, and yes, fashion items. I mostly do this so that when it comes time to celebrate a milestone or simply treat myself, it's something I've already vetted. Even though we have yet to get through the holidays, my list of luxury fashion buys is taking shape. I've been eyeing every one of the below eight buys for months (and in some cases, years), so I can say with certainty that they're more than a passing whim.

But as much as I would love to hit order on all of them right this second, the reality is that my wallet and my taste are two different sizes. On the one hand, I should just wait and save up for what I really want, but on the other hand, the less expensive alts I've uncovered are honestly just as good. Whether you're shopping on a budget like me or just curious which items are making my splurge list, continue for the eight fashion investments I'm itching to make and several more budget-friendly options that achieve the same look.

The Splurge: Bottega Veneta Andiamo Clutch

Ask anyone on our fashion team—we've all been talking about the Bottega Veneta Andiamo Clutch for months now and even one of our very own editors has purchased it. The east-west top-handle shape comes at a time when sleek clutches are earning more and more airtime among stylish celebs, and it's reminded me just how much I'm in need of a great evening bag.

The More Affordable Alts

The Splurge: Toteme Shearling Coat

No doubt winter 2023 was the year of the faux-fur coat (can you say mob wife aesthetic?), and the outlook for 2024 is looking pretty consistent. I, for one, am thankful for the movement because it shone a light on my need for a great statement coat this time of year. It's this Toteme pick with a collarless silhouette and beautiful chocolate brown color that has my heart. It's classic, but the shape and color makes it feel directional and cool.

The More Affordable Alts

The Splurge: Saint Laurent Resin Bangle

Everything Saint Laurent is doing right now is so good. Not to be dramatic, but if I could have an entire closet full of just one label, it would without a doubt be Anthony Vaccarello's designs. While I have several pumps and handbags on my wish list, it's these beautiful resin bangles from the F/W 24 collection that I can't stop drooling over. On the runway, they were styled with sheer pencil skirts and furry coats in warm jewel tones, and I can't stop thinking about how resin is set to be the next big material in jewelry trends.

The More Affordable Alts

The Splurge: Khaite Cedar Pumps

Khaite is proposing the return of peep-toe pumps, and at first I was turned off by the idea, but once I caught a glimpse of the Cedar Pumps at the brand's showroom recently, I couldn't help but realize just how chic they can be, and it made me realize that there is a small but growing number of peep-toe heels out there that are making a strong case for the shoe's return.

The More Affordable Alts

The Splurge: Cartier Baignoire Watch

I turn 30 this year (eep!), and I'm planning on investing in a really nice watch to celebrate the milestone, specifically, the Cartier Baignoire. I adore the oval shape and bangle-like wrist that can easily be worn among a stack of bracelets or styled solo. Nothing comes close to it in terms of look or history, but given that it's far from a casual purchase, I've pulled a few watches with similar jewelry-inspired bands.

The More Affordable Alts

The Splurge: Prada Canvas Jacket

Everyone and their mother is after Prada's canvas jacket, and I'm proudly one of them. I mean, just look at how beautiful it is (especially styled with a sheer skirt and pumps as it was on the runway). The contrasting leather collar and perfectly distressed details—not to mention the massive popularity of barn jackets this season—has made it continually sell out, so even though my budget is the real reason I haven't bought one yet, I'm telling myself it's because of its limited availability. Luckily, the internet is rife with alternates.

The More Affordable Alts

The Splurge: Wardrobe.NYC Side Zip Legging

It's overly talked about, but it's true: Every closet needs a great pair of black leggings, but Proenza Schouler made a bold claim on its S/S 25 runway: Layering with leggings is fashionable again. Styled underneath long coats and midi dresses, leggings that zip at the ankles peeked out where we'd otherwise see bare legs, and it gave the looks a cool sporty tone that feels so forward. I'm dying to try it out this winter and am eyeing a number of ankle-zip leggings to re-create the look with.

The More Affordable Alts

The Splurge: Loro Piana Jasmine Rabbit Hair Felt Pillbox Hat

To me, nothing embodies quiet luxury more than an elegant little pillbox hat. A hat is a piece that instantly transforms just about any look from regular to otherworldly and takes up far less closet space than other statement pieces. Plus, the fall runways gave me plenty of hat styling ideas to tap into.

The More Affordable Alts