In the wonderful world of beauty and fashion, for every high priced gem, there is a cheaper alternative. Unfortuantely, some of the cheaper alternatives don't work as well as the higher priced ones. Therefore, here are some products that I don't mind having to spend the extra dough on!

First up to bat is one of the many products offered by Miss Jessie's. Its their Curly Buttercreme. I took a chance over a month ago to test drive this on my kinky, frizzy curls and was more than thrilled with the results. Although I am sporting straight tresses now, this stuff was an answered pray for my curly colored fro. It moisturized, shaped, separated, and unfrizzed every curl. It was also perfect for helping me fight off the "fuzzy hairline" that I hate oh so much!Absolutely lovely and well worth the $60+ I convinced mi madre to spend. I convinced her by saying it was perfect for my little sister's hair and then I stopped by and just helped myself! BRILLIANT!

The next thing is Smashbox's Photo Finish Foundation Primer. The purpose of primer, in case you don't know, is to help set make-up and minimize pores and lines. Basically, it gives your the perfect base and canvas so that you can the best results out of your foundation. Years ago, I remember hearing some professional make-up maven say that when it comes to purchasing make-up and skincare, you should be willing to spend money on products that go directly on your skin(i.e primer, foundations, moisturizers). I have been following that beauty philosophy, especially in regards to primer and foundation. This is definitely the best primer on the market and more than worth $38.

I know that there are more exspensive moisturizers on the moisture market (can you form your lips to say "La Mer"), but Philosophy's Hope in a Jar is my favorite. A few years ago it was on Oprah's Favorites list and tested it out of curiosity. Actually, it was the first moisturizer I ever tried and I have not looked back since. I admit that I have been very, very fortunate to have owned a couple of jars of La Mer in the past, but Hope does it for me. I keep all my moisturizers and lotions by my bedside for those in the middle of the night dry feet/elbow/face feeling spells! I do have a little weirdness in me!

The one shoe that every woman should and probably already has is in her closet is a simple black pump. Its probably the most worn shoe, because they go with almost everything. Therefore, awhile ago, I decided that I would spend the money of a pair of Manolo Blahnik black pumps that could get me through the rest of my life! *Crosses fingers* . Its been over a year and they are still ticking and clicking. I look at them as an investment piece. If I could insure these babies and a couple other pair of my pricey pumps, I would!

Stay Stylish!