“Dress to Invest” Pop-Up Shops for Spring

Tax season can be taxing on more than just our wallets, but spring shopping shouldn’t be. And whether or not you’re expecting a tax refund, you should expect convenience and great prices when buying new things.

We asked three of our favorite personal finance experts–all of whom just happen to be very stylish women–to share their top clothing and accessory picks for spring.  And from now through Tuesday (Tax Day), we’ll be treating you to shoppable pop-ups featuring the items curated by them.

Meet our curators:

CBS News Business and Economics Correspondent Rebecca Jarvis says that her mom taught her to walk straight to the sale racks, and she’s never looked back.  Rebecca says her style varies from classic to trendy “as long as the cut is still flattering”.

Host of Yahoo’s Financially Fit and author of Psych Yourself Rich, Farnoosh Torabi has a style that is tailored, smart and sophisticated–but she keeps it interesting with bold necklaces, belts and colorful heels. She’s always up for a fashion challenge.

Manisha Thakor teaches women the practice of Money Zen™, a joy-based approach to the basics of personal finance.  When it comes to her wardrobe, she’s about investing in comfortable classics which she describes as “Coco Chanel meets Katherine Hepburn”.

While none of our experts would recommend blowing your tax refund on a new wardrobe, we’re excited to share their savvy selections for spring.

So, if not on clothing, what do they suggest you do when that check comes in the mail?

Manisha recommends paying down any credit card balances with your refund. “If you have a 17% interest rate on your credit card, and you use your tax refund to pay an outstanding balance down, it’s like getting a guaranteed 17% rate of return on those dollars. Given the lackluster state of the economy and the uncertainty around jobs, paying down high interest credit card debt is one investment that is sure to pay off!”

Rebecca says, “Think of your tax refund as a fresh opportunity to improve your future. Put it towards improving your health or learning a new skill. Stretch that money as far as you can by making a lasting investment in yourself. You spent all of last year earning your refund; There’s no reason you can’t take some time to think of how you’ll spend it.”

Farnoosh urges investing your refund to make life easier, better or more meaningful. “Would paying off your credit card make life easier? Would saving half and using the rest to tune up your car? Or, would it mean using it to take an evening class to pursue a passion? Enjoy it.”

Of course, we won’t tell if you decide to use just a little of what’s left over to treat yourself to something great for spring.