Looking hot in a cold economy
May 30th 2009 06:12
So the global economy has gone bust and forced us all to re-think our spending. Nothing new there. Several of the world's most prominent fashion houses have gone under, too, the most recent being Christian Lacroix. But just because we're experiencing the worst recession in decades, doesn't mean that we have to sacrifice our own sense of style. In fact, when it comes to fashion, this economic downturn could almost be a blessing in disguise: it forces us to be both creative and resourceful when it comes to what we wear, separating the truly stylish from the rest of the fashion pack.
When it comes to 'recessionista' fashion, it's all about cost-per-wear and focusing on style rather than trends. You can afford to spend a little bit more on items like jeans, handbags, coats, watches and boots, because you'll be getting enough wear out of them to justify a higher price tag. You don't have to go designer, either; there are plenty of stylish and high-quality garments from chain stores like Sportsgirl, Cue and Witchery that come at a fraction of the cost of what you'd spend at Armani or Christian Dior. Make sure that these items fall into the 'classic' category as opposed to the 'trendy' one - it's not investment dressing if you can only wear the item for one season!
And whatever you do, don't be tempted to go for cheap designer knock-offs. Not only will you be supporting criminal organisations by paying for these nasty counterfeits, you will also get a reputation for being a tacky try-hard. DON'T DO IT.
As for adding a bit of trendiness to your classic outfit, make sure you do your research first. You don't want to spend $30 on a skull-and-crossbones scarf only to discover that pirate-themed fashion is so last year (which incidentally, it is). Websites like this one, as well as weekly fashion mags like Grazia, will help you identify between the hot and the not. Also, when it comes to trends, keep your focus on tops and accessories only. This has the double effect of keeping you within your clothing budget, as well as preventing you from looking like a fashion victim. Nothing says victim like too many trends worn at once; you need to mix the looks of the season with your own personal style.
A classic recessionista trick is to keep your outfit monochromatic black or white, then use vibrant accessories to add flair. Black and white are never out of fashion, though they're best not worn together in equal amounts, as you end up looking like a waitress. However, a simple black dress worn with red heels can be an absolute head-turner, as can a white dress with a brightly-coloured belt cinched at the waist. The black or white garment creates a backdrop for the metallic, earthy, or bright statement accessory, and the effect is equal parts elegant and trendy.
And if you've never taken up the challenge of op shopping, then now's the perfect time! Places like Vinnies, the Salvos and Red Cross shops certainly have their fair share of junk (and let's not even talk about the smell) but if you can get over your anti-secondhand prejudices, you will find the occasional diamond amidst the rough. Think of it not as economic desperation, but as a fashion challenge, and you'll find yourself having a lot of fun, especially if you go with friends. Not only that, but all proceeds go to charity. If you're struggling with your clothing budget, think about those who are struggling to eat and not be evicted from their homes, and you'll have even more reason to give the op shops a go.
Finally, the most cost-effective way of looking hot in a cold economy is to keep yourself well groomed. Ironing your clothes (or at least not leaving them in a heap on the floor) is a must, as is making sure your nail polish isn't chipped and your eyeliner isn't smudged. Keeping your shape is also of utmost importance, as not only will you look hot, but you won't have to buy new clothes in the next size up. A slim, athletic girl dressed in clothes from Target will look more attractive than a fat girl decked out in expensive gear, every single time. Not trying to be harsh here, I'm just not mincing words for the sake of political correctness as that helps no-one. Put simply, healthy is hot, and fat is not.
So there you have it - the definitive guide to looking your best during the global economic crisis. Experts are predicting that this recession isn't going to lift anytime soon, in fact it's more than likely that things are going to get worse before they get better. But don't despair - necessity is the mother of all invention, and this applies to the outfits you wear on a daily basis too. Why not embrace this recession as a chance to show how resourceful you really are?
Looking hot on a budget? No problem.
When it comes to 'recessionista' fashion, it's all about cost-per-wear and focusing on style rather than trends. You can afford to spend a little bit more on items like jeans, handbags, coats, watches and boots, because you'll be getting enough wear out of them to justify a higher price tag. You don't have to go designer, either; there are plenty of stylish and high-quality garments from chain stores like Sportsgirl, Cue and Witchery that come at a fraction of the cost of what you'd spend at Armani or Christian Dior. Make sure that these items fall into the 'classic' category as opposed to the 'trendy' one - it's not investment dressing if you can only wear the item for one season!
And whatever you do, don't be tempted to go for cheap designer knock-offs. Not only will you be supporting criminal organisations by paying for these nasty counterfeits, you will also get a reputation for being a tacky try-hard. DON'T DO IT.
The classic trench: good cost-per-wear
As for adding a bit of trendiness to your classic outfit, make sure you do your research first. You don't want to spend $30 on a skull-and-crossbones scarf only to discover that pirate-themed fashion is so last year (which incidentally, it is). Websites like this one, as well as weekly fashion mags like Grazia, will help you identify between the hot and the not. Also, when it comes to trends, keep your focus on tops and accessories only. This has the double effect of keeping you within your clothing budget, as well as preventing you from looking like a fashion victim. Nothing says victim like too many trends worn at once; you need to mix the looks of the season with your own personal style.
The right accessories will add trendiness to a classic outfit.
A classic recessionista trick is to keep your outfit monochromatic black or white, then use vibrant accessories to add flair. Black and white are never out of fashion, though they're best not worn together in equal amounts, as you end up looking like a waitress. However, a simple black dress worn with red heels can be an absolute head-turner, as can a white dress with a brightly-coloured belt cinched at the waist. The black or white garment creates a backdrop for the metallic, earthy, or bright statement accessory, and the effect is equal parts elegant and trendy.
And if you've never taken up the challenge of op shopping, then now's the perfect time! Places like Vinnies, the Salvos and Red Cross shops certainly have their fair share of junk (and let's not even talk about the smell) but if you can get over your anti-secondhand prejudices, you will find the occasional diamond amidst the rough. Think of it not as economic desperation, but as a fashion challenge, and you'll find yourself having a lot of fun, especially if you go with friends. Not only that, but all proceeds go to charity. If you're struggling with your clothing budget, think about those who are struggling to eat and not be evicted from their homes, and you'll have even more reason to give the op shops a go.
Op shops: vintage finds galore!
Finally, the most cost-effective way of looking hot in a cold economy is to keep yourself well groomed. Ironing your clothes (or at least not leaving them in a heap on the floor) is a must, as is making sure your nail polish isn't chipped and your eyeliner isn't smudged. Keeping your shape is also of utmost importance, as not only will you look hot, but you won't have to buy new clothes in the next size up. A slim, athletic girl dressed in clothes from Target will look more attractive than a fat girl decked out in expensive gear, every single time. Not trying to be harsh here, I'm just not mincing words for the sake of political correctness as that helps no-one. Put simply, healthy is hot, and fat is not.
So there you have it - the definitive guide to looking your best during the global economic crisis. Experts are predicting that this recession isn't going to lift anytime soon, in fact it's more than likely that things are going to get worse before they get better. But don't despair - necessity is the mother of all invention, and this applies to the outfits you wear on a daily basis too. Why not embrace this recession as a chance to show how resourceful you really are?
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