Now is the time of year when designers and stores do their deepest discounting, and when smart shoppers can find insane deals on high quality classic pieces or trendy items that will still be chic for another season or two. Here are my selections for the key pieces to scoop up at unbeatable prices right now.

SMART SPLURGE 1: Something Trend-Driven That Will Carry Over to Spring

The spring runways were filled with sheer, linergie-inspired items, and since lace was a huge Fall/Winter 2010 trend there are tons of slightly see-through, frilly options that can be scored now and worn well into spring and summer.

Splendid lace and jersey racerback tank, original price $51, now $35.70

Opening Ceremony lace cropped top, original price $280, now $140

Alexander Wang lace cropped top, original price $425, now $212.50

SMART SPLURGE 2: Sweaters and Knitwear

This is a great time of year to stock up on sweaters since we still have a few months of winter ahead. Stores are already starting to receive their spring merchandise, so they have to make room for it by moving out their winter inventory.

Vince cropped wool sweater, original price $265, now $132.50

VKoo Knitwear cable cape sweater, original price $335, now $134

Anna Molinari shimmer knit sweater, original price $785, now $157

SMART SPLURGE 3: A Leather Jacket

A well-tailored leather moto jacket in high quality leather usually doesn’t come cheap. Since this is a piece every woman needs in her sartorial arsenal, score one now while prices are being slashed.

DKNY quilted leather scuba jacket, original price $350, now $149.97

Yigal Azrouel cropped asymmetrical leather jacket, original price $1350, now $575

Rag & Bone moto jacket, original price $1495, now $747.50

SMART SPLURGE 4: A Really Nice Pair of Classic Black Boots That Will Last You Several Winters

Another pricey item that every woman needs is a pair of tall black boots. This is the time to invest in a great pair you might not otherwise buy–treat yourself to a super supple suede or an Italian-made pair.

Elizabeth and James “Scuff” leather boots, original price $495, now $247.50

Stuart Weitzman “Dunkirk” over-the-knee boot, original price $635, now $375

Maison Martin Margiela tall boots, original price $990, now $495

SMART SPLURGE 5: Multi-Strand Pearl Jewelry
Pearls are another wardrobe classic, but right now, it’s about clustered jewels and lots of strands, over a Barbara Bush-style single strand. These options are a more modern way to wear the iconic look.

Glass-pearl cluster necklace, original price $98, now $44.99

Greenbeads by Emily & Ashley multi-strand pearl necklace, original price $340, now $160

Stella McCartney faux pearl necklace, original price $725, now $362.50