Credit Crunch Chic….

By Aime Kewley

These are trying times for fashionistas everywhere. We’ve all been credit crunched, it would seem, and are in the grip of the fallout from pre-seasons spending up wildly on spur of the moment pieces which now seem more than a little passé. So, what’s a recession hit style maven to do?

Winter fashion is always tricky, notwithstanding the fact that 99% of outfits are shrouded by a coat (Tip: make it a stylish one. A cocoon coat in a neutral tone should see you right this winter, and keep you snug to boot.) Of course, winter means layers, by dint of which, means more clothes, and ultimately, more to buy. However, a few crafty purchases, carefully edited and selected, can turn your winter look around, even on a budget.

Elicit the use of a few good friends and go on a charity shop spree. Don’t be shy, now is not the time for wallflowers. Get stuck in and search for classic pieces-anything in cashmere will keep you warm as well as looking supercute. Men’s v-neck jumpers look sublime belted at the waist, with a cute little peter pan collar underneath. Add a skinny tie and harem trousers (wear tights underneath if you feel the chill) and work a very kicky and very now androgynous look. Well, if it’s good enough for Chanel…

Skinny jeans are always in fashion…is there anyone who doesn’t own a pair? Funk them up royally for evening…distress them using bleach and a cheese grater (tried and tested) or visit your local haberdashery for studs and rivets. Just a few scattered around a pocket adds a gorgeous little something to otherwise jaded denims, for practically zero pence. The same applies to jackets…changing the buttons works wonders (pick up embossed brass ones from your haberdashery to add a very now military-esque feel). Also whilst you’re there, grab a couple of shoulder pads to channel pure Balmainia.

If you can, refresh your accessories for winter: a statement bag, a fancy belt or killer boots can lift your look entirely and breathe new life into pieces you’ve had for aeons. Key pieces like gauntlets (long leather gloves) may seem unwearable but pop them on under your charity shop cashmere, push up those sleeves, and hello catwalk.

Lace is also a huge hit for AW09/10, and is so easy to work into your look: try sewing (or fabric gluing, if you are a liability with a needle, like me) a strip of black lace around the collar of a plain white tee, or, if creativity just isn’t your bag, tie a piece around your head and tuck the ends in for a super stylish headband. Simples!

Fashion is so permeable…catwalk looks filter down and become diluted and sometimes lost on the high street. Go back to the roots of style, essentially, choose what you like, wear it your way. Use resources around you to create a look that’s all your own. Be bold, be brave, be beautiful, and work it!