In consideration of the crazy Texas weather, this week I thought it might be helpful to write about rain gear.

For those of you who are not native to this area of the country, the weather here is probably not what you are used to. As a former

Boy Scout (and now an Eagle Scout-that’s right, I’m an Eagle Scout) I was taught to “be prepared” for every situation, within reason.

A good rule of thumb is that during the fall and spring months one should always have, or have easy access to closed-toe shoes, galoshes, a jacket or sweater, and an umbrella. I think it is better to wear many layers and take them off rather than have too few.

First, let’s tackle the idea of galoshes. It is my firm belief that designer galoshes are a big waste of money. Unlike normal shoes, their purpose is to walk though rainwater and mud, so why spend $250 on Gucci rain boots? I am all for fabulous designer shoes and accessories, particularly if they are really fashion-forward or of an outstanding quality, but with rain boots, they are all made of the same things: rubber, plastic, and fabric. So what’s the point of paying for something that probably won’t last thought the next season? I suggest buying the Target galoshes. They are darling, practical and are only about $20; I even wear them.

As far as jackets and trench coats are concerned, this is what I would say to shell out the cash for: When it’s raining cats and dogs, there are few things as cute as a designer trench. Whether it’s Burberry, Prada or Dior these puppies are one thing worth paying that “little extra”. Although I am not personally a fan of wild plaids or bizarre colors, trench coats are one of the few things that I am inclined to look the other way.

A designer trench (assuming that it is made to go in the rain-the patent leather ones are only for looks) generally have a shelf life of several seasons, whereas the cheaper ones are lucky if they make it though a Texas April. If the designer one begins to fall apart, there is a good chance that you can take it back to the store and have it repaired (again, within reason). As with all things rain, I suggest to treat the garment with a rain-repellant spray or such if the piece has not already been pretreated.

Back to something that is absolutely not worth spending more than necessary for: umbrellas. Take it from someone who has had the pleasure of watching several designer umbrellas snap like twigs: Do not invest in a designer umbrella, you will regret it.

Case in point: I know a woman who bought a Gucci umbrella (and no I am not “hating” on Gucci-it is one of my favorite labels), and not two weeks later, when the rain was accompanied by strong wind as is often the case here in Dallas (I have not lived for extended periods of time elsewhere, so I am not inclined to speak for other cities) the umbrella-as you can probably guess-broke. I would normally say just to take it back to the store, which is just what she did, but when it came back over six weeks later (way after when it was most needed) with new fabric on top, they hadn’t even touched the snapped bars. Umbrellas are not made to withstand a harsh wind, which is why I have my fabulous Target umbrella for those rainy days. I would only carry a designer umbrella if it were free; that way when it breaks I won’t be overcome with grief.

So for all those Burberry-clad girls out there, don’t be surprised when I am laughing at you while your boots get overcome with mud and your umbrella turns inside out beyond repair. The only good thing I might have to say about your outfit is that I like your coat, but even then, when I turn to my friend and laugh, she is more than likely to say, “I know, right?”