2009: Style on a shoestring

Day 3:

   For those who thought fashion was just frivolity and estranged to the economy, 2009 has proven just the opposite. When times get tough conspicuous shopping looses its political correctness. The relationship between those two is subtle. A substantial change in the economical climate and you will see fashion trends following up. Fashion adapts to its current environment while retaining the glam effect.

   When the credit crunch struck, restrictions all of the sudden became not an enemy but an ally resulting in a sudden urge for a post-war, more fitted, tailored look. It gives the reassurance of the neat, uncluttered elegant woman. As simple feminity and glamorous trends returned to the fashion stage.combined with a crucial feel good and versatility factors. This transition in 2009 could have been advertised as the "let's go back to our secured values of who we are and what makes us feel good" year. Chanel, Jimmy Choo, Gucci and others designers were still a reference. Meanwhile we saw and heard redundancies one after the other. So when the storms were looming and clouds appeared the party season was launched with glitters and sequins all around. Style helps us to forget the odds of reality.

" We now understand what hangs in our wardrobe: Money!"

    Out of the econimic crash a new breed of consumers was born. The "Recessionistas" have learnt how to adapt in the current economy. T-K Max, Primark and other low budget high street fashion stores have grown in popularity and became part of the wardrobe of those who could still invest in a new designer outfit. Seasonal fashion events in high street stores became a new way of entertaining the clientele, and promoting fashion while clothes swapping parties recycle your wardrobe in a friendly and fun way. Indulging is now translated as investing and creativity as recycling.

"  The art of versatility has become a new trend"

     The sales for most are approaching. Stores like Hobbs and L.K.Bennett have already begun and there are some great bargains to be found. We are on a more limited budget so we are looking for that investment piece to look the part. The fashion industry is showing its understanding and there are a constant flow of deals both in-store or on-line. We now understood what hangs in our wardrobe: Money ! 2009 has unveiled the importance of making the most of selective buying and making the most of what we already have.

      The art of versatility has become the new trend. Wardrobe weeding is a great place to start. See my style consultations on how to make the most of what you already have, adding a few signature pieces, optimising the versatility of your wardrobe. That's the triple play: work, party and weekend. The new art of getting dressed is in how well you get the sense of your wardrobe multi usage.