Recession-proof splurges: What $200 buys at Topshop.com

Almost as cool as the Clash:

Topshop.com has finally created a U.S. website, so we can get the goods in our own flailing currency. I was beginning to wonder if the delay in Topshop coming to America had something to do with us bailing on the Brits back in the day. (Sadly, the opening of the store in Soho, N.Y., continues to be pushed back and it may not open until March, I hear.)

So, what will $200 buy you at Topshop.com? A lot. Like this pique tuxedo jacket ($110), right, with asymmetrical sleeves a la Rick Owens. Pair it with jeans or a jewel-tone frock to add a tailored and androgynous edge.
There are also great jersey dresses -- edged in lace -- and sweater dresses, perfect for fall.

Dozens of ankle boots in suede and vibrant-hued leather also await. (The TBar tassle Mary Janes in purple suede, above right, sell for just $125.) I did a side-by-side comparison of net-a-porter.com and Topshop.com and found that my adrenaline soared higher when I was trawling the lower priced retailer -- surely, that had something to do with the amount of merchandise I could actually afford. The corset dress in blush, above left, costs $240 (OK, it's a bit more than $200 -- sue me)  and would have instant chemistry with black tights and a pair of platform pumps.

Lastly, the accessories -- jewelry, hats, scarves, and corsages -- may be the best  area to browse if you want to stock up on trendy accents. One sure way to avoid making expensive seasonal impulse purchases is to invest in of-the-moment accessories -- like this enamel heart belt for $36 -- instead of staple pieces. 

-- Monica Corcoran

photos: AFP / Getty Images and Topshop.com