Recession + Chic = Recessionista

The newest buzzwords on the street are “recessionista” and “recession chic”.

Just last night at the Simon Duncan Benefit fashion show for Praxis House, I heard this term used at least 8 times.  For some, it’s a word used when describing the watching of one’s budget, buying fewer clothes, or waiting for sales, for others it’s being used as a justification by some to describing why they wore a pair of dirty pair of Crocs with a Carolina Herrera skirtsuit. (I saw this with my own eyes and had heartburn and bad dreams all night.)

Perhaps we should look at what being a recessionista really means.  Given last nights clearly misuse of the word and blatant bad choice in pairing items together in the name of recession chic, I think we need clearer definition.

Mary Hall, IBM marketing manager and Queen Recessionista, says, “It is more lighthearted to say ‘I am the Recessionista, and I don’t really go for that,’ instead of saying ‘I can’t afford that or I don’t want to spend the money,”  So, right from the Queens mouth, it really comes down to a lover of fashion that is being hit hard in the wallet during these unfashionable economic times, but still wants to remain fashionable and ahead of the fashion curve.

So what can one do to keep ahead during these times?  Here are a few solutions that you may want to consider that will surely define  you as the “Ultimate Recessionista”.

1. The element of style piece.  Perhaps this season, find that one article of clothing that is a sure element of style, meaning that one jacket, dress, shoe or accessory that will remain in style for years to come.  If you do this season after season, you will look fashionably recession proof year after year.
2. E-bay.  Search on e-bay for those “it pieces”.  If you’re not familiar of how to shop on e-bay, it may seem daunting at first, but trust me it’s easy!  I have found mountains of couture from e-bay at pennies on the dollar.
3. Consignment shops.  Sure the item was worn by one other person, but realistically, those shoes or dress you’re wearing was probably tried on by another person before you bought them.  Also you tend to forget that someone else wore that new jacket when you get it at a rock bottom price.
4. Search for designers that are designing for target, H&M, Walmart, etc.  Did you know that Norma Kamali has her own line at Walmart?  Or that comme des Garcons have a line at H&M?  Brilliant wouldn’t you say?

So you see, it’s actually fashionable to be a conscience shopper because in these trying times, one truly has to live within their means and according to reason, but also according to fashion and style.  –Good luck!