Credit Crunch et all

Okay I'll be the first to admit it, the Credit Crunch is getting to me. Even though I haven't been investing in the sub-prime market (or any other market for that matter, well, maybe the store market lol), I still have to count the pennies.

So I stayed away from the shops and focused on optimizing my existing wardrobe (I know I need to wear some items a few times more) and increasing the turnaround time on the period taken to use my entire wardrobe. Of course, this hasn't been helped by the fact that I am staying below the radar and keeping my head down so I haven't been out much.

And as if things couldn't get any worse, all summer European banks have been folding up left right and centre, jobs are on the chopping block, mortgages are a no-go, and credit is a red bull to be avoided (I hope I am trying to convey a subtle message here).

So where's the fashion message here? Here it comes:

Revisit your entire wardrobe and make it work for you not vice versa. With the key trends for this Autumn/Winter season staying the same as last autumn/winter, this shouldn't be a problem (except if your entire wardrobe is more than two seasons old). Deep purples and black coloured clothing are still as strong as they were last year so it's all jolly to go. Short dresses, tights, leggings, and the ankle boots are still fashion statements rocking the streets and there's no season without the knee-length boots if that is what you prefer.

Go Bargain hunting. I revisited my old hunting ground H&M to see if I could shop on my budget and it felt nice to be able to pick essential winter pieces within my price range. Lots of online stores are still offering sale items even though the high street equivalent don't have any sales racks out.

Do a bit of updating with key pieces. You can buy key items which give a whole new meaning to your wardrobe like an all-in-one sweater which can be worn over any thing or a pair of boots that work with dresses, skirts, or trousers. You have to be creative and think outside the box to decide what look you want to be sporting all winter and find the key items that help you bag it.

If you were affected by the Lehman Brothers collapse this week, I would have to warn you to stay off the credit and get on the dole if you are eligible after all, that's what public welfare systems exist for. On the other hand, you might wanna trade in your expensive duds on eBay and live according to your current means. Whatever the case, I sympathise with those who lost their jobs and are left out on the street without any warning.

The Credit crunch isn't showing any sign of abating and oil prices are still rising through the roof, fashion isn't getting any cheaper but we all have to get wiser in achieving fashionable looks and style.

Watch this space........