No matter what your political views, everyone is affected by the current economy — including leading fashion designers like Ben Sherman, Giorgio Armani and Ralph Lauren. Fashion designers are taking queues from consumers who reigning in discretionary spending, even if they’re doing well financially.

People with money will still spend it, but given these uncertain times they want to feel confident that they’re making wise investments. When it comes to wardrobe building, people want clothes and accessories that will last more than one season. That means so long to the super trendy and increasingly tailored and feminine fashion from recent runway shows, and hello to conservative cool.

Here’s how to incorporate practical, yet stylish, pieces into your fall wardrobe.

•    Choose high quality pieces that will stand the test of time. Think of your dad’s favorite cable knit sweater or your grandfather’s Navy peacoat.

•    Sticks to the basics. You can’t go wrong with a crisp, white button down and several pair of flat-front slacks in neutral colors. Add personality with colorful silk ties, sharp-looking cuff links and well-made leather shoes.

•    Sweaters, sweaters, and more sweaters.

•    Tweed is the name of the game. A peacoat is the coat to own this season. They’re sophisticated in a modern and minimalist way.

The Best Men’s Fall Coats

Double-breasted coats was seen all over the runway in outerwear — from blazers to jackets and even men’s sweaters. If the double-breasted or peacoat style isn’t for you, try a modern version of the trenchcoat.

Spiewak Dugan Peacoat

Classic and young, this peacoat works for the office and casual looks.

J. Lindeberg Weldon True Melton Coat

This isn't your dad's trenchcoat but it's perfect for the trendsetter and trendy dads.

Armani Wool Overcoat

You can't go wrong with Armani's modern version of the overcoat.

7 For All Mankind Jeans Wool Peacoat

This is the coat for the young and hip.

Buying a suit for a job interview is an opportunity to start building the wardrobe that will take you up the corporate ladder. Don’t think of an interview suit as a one-time investment that you won’t see a return on—your interview suit can become a power suit.

Now you have even more reason to get excited when the Victoria's Secret catalog comes in the mail (or to your girlfriend's coffee table). The popular lingerie store has added the ultra feminine Italian lingerie line Intimissi to select stores in the US and online. The lacy bras and panties resemble the exclusive La Perla style but for a fraction of the price--like this Butterfly lace unlined demi bra for only $34. Now, go impress that special someone with some gorgeous Italian lingerie from Victoria's Secret.

::A. Covington for Belisi

Photo: Victoria's Secret

Company dress codes are rarely written down in the professional world. While it’s common sense not to wear flip-flops and board shorts to the office (unless you would for a surfboard company), the rest is left for you to decipher.

Many think life insurance is a dry, if not daunting, subject. But a burgeoning field called “life settlements” may change the way you think about life insurance.

By M. Bryan Freeman

After nearly 30 years in the business, I know many people would rather have a medical procedure than discuss life insurance. One reason: Life insurance deals with the inevitable topic of death—not a pleasant topic. A new trend in life insurance, something called life settlements, has put the “life” back in life insurance.

Now’s the time to take advantage of the winter sales. It’s still cold as heck outside, so you’ll get lots of use out of winter wear. Plus, lightweight jackets and sweaters will get you through the remainder of winter and serve you well in the unpredictable Spring days ahead.

Turn a Dinner for Two into a Breakfast in Bed
By Amy Covington for Belisi Fashions

Whether you waited until the last minute and can’t get a reservation at a decent restaurant or you want to surprise your Valentine with a little (or a lot) of romance, a home-cooked meal will earn you bonus points in the double digits.

What to get your girlfriend or wife for Valentine's Day

Whether you’re buying for your longtime sweetheart or a naughty little vixen, finding a gift that circumvents the typical clichés, doesn’t offend or send too strong of a message takes some thought. Valentine’s Day means different things to everyone. Some view it as a goofy Hallmark holiday that calls for less serious gifts.

Others view it as the ultimate romantic holiday when you can go all out to show your love for each other. You know your partner best. If you think she will get a kick out of edible underwear go for it. But if you’ve only been dating for two weeks, it’s best to leave the gag gifts and crotchless panties for another guy to explain.

The New Hummer HX Concept

While some of us languished after graduating from college—caught in the Catch 22 of needing experience to get a job and needing a job to get experience. But three engineering superstars -- David Rojas, Min Young Kang and Robert Jablonski -- managed to earn the trust of carmaker HUMMER to design the next generation of Hummers, the HX.

Spend it Wisely: Why Leasing a Luxury Car is a Wise “Investment”

Driving a luxury vehicle has always been a status symbol. But maybe you haven’t quite reached the pinnacle of success—yet. Or, maybe you don’t want to drop $80k on a car at this stage in your life. You can still drive a status car without breaking the bank.