Warmer weather may awaken an urge to shop. But this year economic woes will likely put a damper on spending. So how does a stylish Washingtonian sensibly follow fashion? Smart investing.

We asked five people to name a few new items still on their spring shopping lists. Many plan to buy pieces by favorite designers—Gucci, Ralph Lauren, and Donna Karan among them—but most say they’re scaling back. Debra Lee, CEO of BET Holdings, says shopping is now “more about making an old outfit look new. With the economy the way it is, you need to think about sprucing up what you already have.”

Devon McTavish, a soccer star with DC United, says he’ll spend less than $200 for classic items to update his wardrobe. Others will splurge on one or two of the season’s trends—flowing, Grecian-inspired dresses, men’s suits that recall the elegant Mad Men era, or accessories with bold geometric prints and patterns.

“I get the most compliments when I wear something unique,” says dermatologist Tina Alster. “Learning to cherry-pick something really beautiful is the key to dressing well.”