You certainly don't need us to tell you the economy is in the tank, just flick on the TV (if you haven't sold it) or the radio (if you haven't sold it) or your Internet Access Appliance (you have one, or you wouldn't be reading this). The forecast is Gloom, with patches of Doom, followed by Eventual Clearing, but we're not sure when.
Meaning that just as things got tough, many of us had to cut back or even stop Retail Therapy altogether! At Restless Style, we feel your pain. We've had to cut back on business trips, lunches, spa treatments, wardrobe allowances and even town cars! We're doing more with less, too.
At times like this, it's crucial we all look our best - for our own mental health as well as that of those who rely on us to bring color, sophistication and glamour into their otherwise gray, dreary lives. So buck up Sister, our resident Style Guru, George Kotsiopoulos has some lifesaving tips that are guaranteed to raise your spirits without raising your credit card balance (much, or even at all).
Take it Downtown
Most medium or large cities have a variety of ethnic neighborhoods with shops featuring imported goods at incredible prices. Check out your local Indian neighborhood for stunning saris to wear as a wrap or cover up teamed with inexpensive Indian jewelry for a bohemian-chic look. Try Chinatown for embroidered ballet flats to run around for day or a sexy cheongsam dress for a romantic evening out (or in).
Check the web
If you live in a small town, the internet is the place to find stunning, inexpensive ethnic imports you won't find at your local Dress Den - start by searching "Indian Imports" and go from there. And don't forget Ebay - it's great for amazing deals on fabulous costume jewelry - perfect for dressing up your summer wardrobe. Start by searching "jewelry lots" and take it from there.
Shoe Win
Dying for those Alexander McQueen sandals but can't bring yourself to part with the cash? Check the web before you despair (or splurge). Supersites like Zappos stock everything from Vittorio Ricci to Chuck Taylor - most at prices well below regular retail.
Pull Yourself Together
From Paris to Peoria, everyone is showing belts this season - and there's no better way to give a smart, tailored look to last summer's oversized T-shirts, cotton sweaters and flowing dresses than a smartly-cinched waist strap. Best of all, really good ones are everywhere, and priced for every budget. Definitely this summer's wardrobe piece with a thousand uses.
Cross-dress for Less
Menswear looks were all over the runways for Fall '09, but what's best about this trend is that if you have the following; a boyfriend, husband, father or brother, getting this look is free! Simply go to aforementioned male's closet or drawer and select from a wide range of items already in stock. One hot look: pair a man's dress shirt with skirts, shorts, or pants. Roll the sleeves up, pop the collar, and cinch it at the waist. Or, if you really want to go all out, check local thrift stores for a suit you can have tailored. It worked for Marlene Dietrich, it will work for you.
Chopping Spree
Give the clothes you don't use new life by giving them a chop! Turn pants into shorts or a long dress into a fun summer mini. It's also a great way to extend the life of long pants kids outgrow quickly. Cut it yourself, or, for a more tailored, finished look, take them to your local tailor.
Swap Meet
Here's a way to have fun and freshen your wardrobe at the same time; invite your friends over for a pre-summer Swap Party where everyone can exchange clothes over cocktails. You may be tired of that yellow linen pencil skirt, but one of your friends may covet it almost as much as you covet that crisp cotton blouse she can't stand to look at anymore. Everybody leaves happy (and no lighter in the wallet).
When it comes to style, the lean times are where the rubber meets the road. You can have all the resources in the world and still be a mess in a dress. True Fashionistas know that while money helps, real style is the result of courage, creativity and resourcefulness. Here's to a simmeringly stylish summer!
XXGeorge