What Biciclista said.

As for my favorites:

1) good moisture-wicking bras; Moving Comfort makes lots of nice bras. The Cara style is my favorite.

2) skorts or baggy shorts with good chamois (I am not comfortable is traditional cycling shorts); Terry liner shorts are awesome, and make any bottom into a cycling bottom. Not cheap (but cheaper than cycling shorts), but mine have held up very well, and have been worth the expense.

3) jerseys; Here's where I'll spend a little less. As long as it's a wicking fabric and fits ok, I don't care what brand it is.

4) outerwear/wind jackets; IMO, spend the extra for a jacket that converts to a vest. I have a Shebeest jacket that I like, and I like Pearl Izumi's version this year. it's like getting two garments in one, and will be very versatile almost year-round.

Have fun out there, and welcome aboard!
5) anything else you think I need to know . . . ? Wicking socks are the difference between happy feet and miserable feet. Wool is your friend- jerseys, socks, you name it! Gloves and a helmet are required gear, IMO.