With the economy the way it is, I feel like every girl is watching what she spends these days. From foregoing that third glass of wine to the question of, “Do I really need another pair of black strappy sandals,” women these days are definitely thinking twice before making the big purchases they used to when the economy was thriving, when our homes were worth more than what we paid, and when job security was so much better.

I think it’s really smart to be mindful of wasteful purchases, however, there are exceptions. Here are five items on which a woman should always splurge

Jeans:

What’s the difference between a woman wearing True Religion jeans and a woman wearing an inexpensive, generic brand of jeans? A GREAT BODY! Trust me on this one, girls. Jeans make or break your figure and the simple fact is, you get what you pay for. Designer jeans will enhance the body you work so hard for. You work out, you eat right, you do Pilates and yoga and you walk, and you watch your carbs. Reward yourself with a good pair of jeans that will make you look even more fabulous! Hudson’s, True Religion, Joe’s. Invest in a good brand that fits you well and you’ll not only have guys staring at you, YOU will be loving how you look and feel. A really nice pair of denim can cost you between $180-$300. But, keep in mind, even if you just get one pair, you’ll be thrilled.

Organic fruits and vegetables:

There are so many studies out that show organic fruits and vegetables are healthier than non-organic.  One in particular was done by the USDA, which showed that most non-organic produce had residual pesticides on them even after washing. Yuck! You don’t have to switch all your fruits and veggies to organic, because it really can get expensive, but some that contain a high percentage of pesticides are peaches and nectarines, apples, strawberries, spinach, pears and potatoes. It may cost a little more to buy organic, but isn’t your health worth it.

An everyday hand bag:

 I’m a huge fan of knock offs for certain things. A little Prada evening clutch, a David Yurman bracelet, Dolce and Gabbana sunglasses (since you’re probably going to lose them before summer’s over anyhow.) But one thing you don’t want to skimp on is something you carry around with you every single day: your purse! I am probably with my purse more hours than I’m with any human being on a daily basis, including my children! So, why not make sure your every day handbag is stylish, looks great on you, and that its quality is good enough to hold up for at least a year? I just bought a big Valentino bag that is sort of a tote style. The price wasn’t outrageous, but it wasn’t cheap either. And I have to say, it’s my most favourite bag I’ve ever owned! Worth every penny.

Hair color:

There’s nothing worse than seeing a beautiful, young woman with a few gray hairs sticking out of her head. Does she think people aren’t noticing this? Does she not care?? Take the time to cover those grays, even if there are just a few. It makes a difference! And don’t use an “at home” box of colour. Let a professional do it. But, here’s a tip. Some salons purposely tell their stylists not to leave the color on long enough, because they want the grey to come back sooner (so that you have to come back sooner-hence they make more money)! It’s such a scam. Color can be left on the hair for 45 minutes. Make sure you ask your stylist about it.

Seats at an event:

You’ve been waiting to see Lady Gaga for years. Adam Levine and Maroon 5 have been your favorite band since you first heard the song This Love. You’re attending your first Chicago Bull’s game ever. Why on earth wouldn’t you make sure you have good seats? An event is an entirely different experience in the right seats, unless of course you’re at a Chicago Cubs game sitting in the bleachers. Then it doesn’t matter how far you are. I guarantee out of any of the sections, you’re having the most fun, even though you are sitting furthest from the field. Ask any Cubs fan! That said, you only live once, and remembering that you were standing ten feet from Katy Perry will be something special. Go for the good seats!

Things you can save money on:

1. Cut down on drinking! You’ll be shocked at how much money you’ll save. A diet coke is $2, a glass of wine is $12.
2. Stop buying workout clothes. They never go out of style and do you really care that much about the ladies at the gym? They’ll love you no matter what you’re wearing.
3. Don’t buy paperbacks and magazines. Get a Kindle and start reading online magazines like Your Coffee Break!

By: Jackie Pilossoph

Author of two novels, magazine writer, newspaper columnist and blogger. 

http://www.jackiepilossoph.net