Top 11 "must-haves" for 2011

As stores start to bring in Spring clothes and new trends, I have started my own personal list of 2011 must haves. Although stores like H&M, Forever21 and other similar chains can have good staples for office clothes or "disposable" club attire, I think that it is a better long-term investment to be able to buy quality pieces that will last longer than a few months (even if you have to, gulp, spend more money up front!) However, this is just a list of suggestions and obviously it would be a lot of money to purchase all of these items. Take a peek and let me know if there's anything else you think could be added?

A boyfriend jacket - perfect for a night out with friends or at the office with black pants or casual jeans.

A LBD - a little black dress. I have quite a few and I always think that they are great because you can do some much with them.

A bubble umbrella - these are absolutely necessary for rain and wind. They not only protect your entire upper body but also make walking in crowds a piece of cake.



A colorful scarf - every girl's got to have one. Silk scarves can be a great accessory for a dull office suit or can serve as a hair wrap for the summer with a pair of awesome sunglasses.

A pair of designer glasses - Not saying you have to drop hundreds of dollars but let's face it, higher quality glasses not only look better but last longer and you can change the lenses if you ever scratch or wear them out.

A Brooks Brothers wrinkle-free shirt - OMG these things are amazing. I know they are expensive but if you think you spend about $25-30 per H&M shirt, you can buy one of these and save yourself having to toss the others. All you have to do is stick it in the dryer and it comes out perfectly pressed.



A playful or chunky necklace - J.Crew has some wonderful necklaces and bracelets and when they are on sale they are definitely affordable.

A pair of black leather boots - preferably ones that can be used for multiple occasions. I have a pair that fold over for a more casual look or can be wore up when going out at night.

A trench - Burberry would be nice...but I've seen some really nice trenches from Zara, Club Monaco, Banana Republic or even H&M.



Something vintage - whether it is your grandmother's ring, a piece of vintage clothing or even a bag you gotta have a throw back. Last year, I went to this amazing private clothing sale and bought a silk jacket that was made from a vintage skirt. It is gorgeous.

Something hand-made - always a conversation starter. I make my own jewelry and have an obsession with rhinestoning but if you don't feel creative enough to try something like that there are other options. Etsy has really taken off but even stopping at a craft fair or flea market can be exciting because there's always something unique or hand-made.