Nowadays, aspirational fashion is very much attainable. You may have to eat a whole week's worth of instant ramen to get that investment piece, but it will be worth your weight in sodium.
Need a little more convincing? Our E! Style Collective members—industry pros and influencers—share the experiences of their first very splurge (made before those big checks started rolling in).
Today, style blogger Nashelly Messina of Fabulatina takes a stroll down memory lane...in some very chic shoes, no less.
WHAT: Gucci T-strap heels
WHY: Timeless and uber sexy
WHERE: Gucci outlet in Italy
HOW: I truly couldn't afford them, even at outlet prices (around $400-$500), but I couldn't walk away. Pizza for the rest of my trip.
My first splurge was a pair of Gucci T-Strap sandals that I purchased at the brand's outlet in Italy. I was already way in over my head, taking the trip on my income tax return money. I kept checking them out, then tried them on (just for kicks!). Leave it to your best friend to convince you that you've worked hard enough, life is too short and just get the shoes! I did. Eleven years later, I wear them every summer, and compliments still pour in.
Gucci Suede Sandals, $115