We may be in the midst of a recession, but, call me a spendthrift, I’ve found it pretty difficult to give up my established clothes shopping habits. Come on, I work at MyShape…it’s tough to be surrounded by gorgeous designer dresses and brilliantly constructed jeans that make your tookis look fabulous without taking home a few favorites. And, after all, regardless of the economy, a woman still has to look polished and professional when the situation demands it, whether she’s off to her office or a job interview. Fortunately for my budget, this week our semi-annual sale is starting, and that means new markdowns on a pair of office-to-everywhere-else fashions from the ingenious Nanette Lepore.

Too often women’s suits appear boxy and masculine—which is fine if you’re into an androgynous ’80s look. For those of us who want the option to suit up without manning up, though, there are the curve-loving suits of Nanette Lepore. The real beauty of these dazzling duos is not just their couture-quality fit but also their adaptability. Take Nanette Lepore’s Shrink Me Jacket and Absinthe Skirt. When paired they form a perfectly pulled-together look, but each piece has its own personality and can be combined with other styles to create numerous day and evening ensembles. Heading out on a field trip to the children’s museum with your kindergartner’s class? Throw on a tank, denim Capris and a pair of flats, and top it all off with the jacket for a mommies-can-be-cool-too fashion statement. Snagged a few hours for a hot date with your hubby? Dress up the skirt with a flirty satin blouse, killer heels and a piece of jewelry with sentimental value.

In short: you can’t go wrong with a Nanette Lepore suit. Neither can I, which is why I’m making a strategic investment in these two smart pieces—unless you beat me to it and move them right off my wish list and into your shopping bag!