We have recently watched the stock market take a joy ride to middle earth. I compare it to one of those water slides we all have experienced where you stand like a mummy, your footing disappears and in a flash stinging water shoots you straight down. At the end of the ride you get out of the water, shake off and try to figure out how to get what's meant to cover you out of the crack. With Autumn pending and fun fall fashions turning up everywhere, here are some tips on what to splurge on and where to save. Bathing suit: optional.

I always recommend having a great pair of jeans in your wardrobe. Most of the time for ladies they are not inexpensive but worth the splurge for a great fit. I find that value jeans tend to stretch and bag and never have the same fit twice. No one wants to walk around with droopy drawers when they fit perfectly two hours ago. Men have a much easier go at it, just run to Highcliffe Clothiers and get a pair of original Levi's, break them in and rarely wash them. They will fit like a glove when you strut around like the Boss on the cover of the Born in the USA album. They won't break the bank but will turn heads for sure.

What fashionable girl doesn't like a little bling? Unless looking for a special piece that will be in your collection for years, I say save. Trendy costume jewelry is an easy addition to make for variety, style and saving. Lou Lou has built an accessory empire on just that and on a daily basis you can get your fix.

I have to admit that I am a shoe junkie and I tend to gravitate toward upscale labels, Stuart Weitzman being my main squeeze. The "Nudist" shoe, in my opinion, is the perfect shoe and comes in many colors and heel heights. It goes with everything, has classic lines and is comfortable which is always a plus. If the original is not in your budget, you can easily find off label shoes inspired by the Nudist, however they may lack the comfort factor despite their design similarity. Splurge if you can, but if not, keep some BandAids in your purse just in case.

A wrap dress is a girl's best friend, sorry diamonds. A patterned variety in heavy jersey material never goes out of fashion, flatters everyone and packs like a dream for business trips or romantic get aways. I stress the importance of having quality material as it keeps your frock from sticking to the wrong spots. The beauty is you can find them at a variety of price ranges. Score!

Edwardian blazers seem to be all over the fashion pages, but I say stick with the classics. If you choose to go on trend, keep your purchase at a value price point as I dare say you won't be sporting it next year. Man or woman, I recommend splurging on a good fitting, high quality blazer. There are a number of local places where you can find one, but I really like the current collection "at the feed store". Check them out at Tri-County, throw one on with a scarf or tie and you are all set.