Designer jeans: a "do" or a "dud"?

In today's economy, people are rethinking all of their purchases. Everything is being reconsidered, from groceries to entertainment to automobiles. We just don't have the money we used to have to spend on those "extras" like going to the movies, dining at a nice restaurant or travelling. I know of many women who are second-guessing their spending habits in the clothing, accessories and beauty departments.

One of the best examples that comes to mind is designer jeans. Do we really need to spend $150 or even upwards of $200 on a pair of jeans? Our mothers and grandmothers would likely disapprove. But jeans today make a true fashion statement. With an increasingly casual work environment, and numerous celebrities popularizing high-end jeans, the fashion-minded are clamoring to find the latest "it" jean. And it doesn't come cheap.

But is it worth it?

On the "yes" side, I have to say I own several pairs of designer jeans. The fit is incredible, and I enjoy the styles offered. Plus, there's just something about wearing designer that makes you feel, well, special. I was concerned when I found a hole in one designer pair recently, but was pleasantly surprised when I emailed the company, I found out that they'd repair or replace my jeans for free. This, to me, makes it worth the higher cost.

On the "no" side, before I moved to downtown Chicago, I lived in a suburban area in Michigan. People still dressed stylishly, but the emphasis on high-end jeans was not so pronounced. It wasn't until I moved here that I felt the pressure. Even some of my good friends, who by no means had the extra money, still encouraged me that I needed these designer labels. Now I like them, and don't know if I could go back...but I survived before. I was fine without my designer jeans.

There are good points to both sides, but just like comparing drug store makeup to department store makeup, or a $20,000 car to a $50,000 one, it comes down to your priorities. Is it worth it to spend more and save less? Or are you willing to take the lesser of the two items (where the difference is often unnoticeable) to save money? It's up to you.