Reflecting on my relationship with clothes and accessories post-baby (now a decade ago) and most recently post-pandemic, I must admit to a lack of consideration for anything other than practicality and comfort. When asked what I would purchase with $25,000, I had to think hard about what would excite me -- what I might WANT -- versus what I simply need.

Having enhanced my basics with jewelry, I would not replace my daily wear jeans, t-shirts, and button-downs. But I would upgrade my look with the tailored Moncler Down Longline Coat for $1815, and add a pop of color - and a bit of street style - with the Bottega Veneta Loop Candy Intracciato small leather shoulder bag in bright green for $1450. The color would make me happy every day, and the compact size lends itself to frequent, easy use.

For my last couple hundred dollars, I would purchase what consistently becomes my best yearly shoe purchase as a NYC resident - a pair of classic UGGs. The UGG Bailey Button II boot in black is only $180, but will complete my look.

My total spend would be $24,965, but my lifetime joy of these pieces would be priceless!