Credit Crunch Shopping

Credit crunch, credit crunch… I don’t know about you but I have stopped watching the evening news and buying the paper along with my morning coffee… it’s all too repetitive and somewhat scary! There’s credit crunch lunch, credit crunch cars and you’ve guessed it, there’s credit crunch shopping!

With the current economic slow down I find that my clients are increasingly concerned about how they are spending their hard-earned cash. They’ve taken a good hard look at their finances and all unnecessary fripperies are being culled. Not only that but they are also increasingly aware of fair trade products and want to know where their clothes are coming from, who’s making them and whether or not they’ll be added to a scrap heap after a few washes because they’ve fallen apart or the dyes have faded.

With all the wonderful new clothes hitting the high street and the long awaited opening of Cabot Circus what’s a girl to do with her tighter budget? Take it from a Stylist, you can still look great this season and pay the mortgage! You just have to follow a few simple rules.

Credit Crunch Shopping is not quite the same as investment buying but it runs along the same principle. Buy clothes that will last and that work with your existing wardrobe. You don’t have to follow a trend right down to the last accessory. It’s about looking in your wardrobe and digging out those faithful black trousers that have seen you through the cold winters and updating them with a few key accessories… and this season is perfect for that!

Although colours for the coming Autumn are rather muted (to suit the current economic climate, some have wondered) the season is full of wonderful items that when teamed with last year’s coat, jacket or tops, will immediately bring them up to date and ready for Autumn 08.

Black patent is making a comeback after it’s rapturous reception last year. Update last season’s black patent shoes with a matching handbag or invest in the new pointier wedges… Think detail – buckles, straps and height!

If you only buy one thing this season, have a look at a new coat. Let’s face it, it’s the perfect weather for wrapping up warm and if you start early you’ll have the pick of all the new ranges.

Big necklaces and jewellery are also a key look for the season and that plain black jumper will look fantastic with some bold and bright jewels at the neckline. If you’re feeling naughty what about picking up an oversize clutch in a matching jewel shade. There are going to be hundreds to choose from and they’re fab for taking an outfit from day to night.

If you’re looking at your casual wardrobe, think about teaming three bold bangles with one of the new ruffled tartan blouses (available in every price range) and a pair of the fab new shoe boots to give your favourite jeans look a bit of a boost.

You really don’t need to spend the earth to look good this season. All the big designers are very aware that people aren’t going to be shelling out for the big lux items as they might have done last season. If you’re looking for a treat have a peek at their smaller secondary labels for some trend inspired hints of luxury with a smaller price tag. And remember, if you need help spending wisely, there’s always a helpful stylist out there to guide you along! www.parlance.co.uk