Style of Our Times

It has been said that current fashion is a reflection of the state of the economy.

So if bad ass shoes and leather leggings are becoming this season's staples, what does this say about our times? That we are in a state of rebellion and sadomasochism? Studs and spikes on dizzyingly high heels, escapist elements on chunky platforms, I mean really, who can actually walk five paces in these without cringing a bit? Are we punishing ourselves for consuming more than we should have? For being greedy and for thinking that growth has infinite limits?

On the brighter side of things, let's talk about skintight skin against skin...It sure can keep our legs warm when it chilly out. And they just look so tough and bad ass, like nothing can beat us down. But when leather leggings such as this one (which I happen to love love love by the way) from The Row is priced at $1700, it just begs the question, "Can somebody at this time actually afford these?"



It's hard to say how the downturn in the markets have affected the truly affluent who can afford such luxuries, rumor has it that there are homes in Beverly Hills and precious art collections being off loaded as we speak, but I suppose they are the least of our worries. I mean, their losses will probably just force them to re-visit their plans of renovating their summer home in the Hamptons while the rest of us are at a standstill, waiting for aftershocks across the worldwide financial markets, and hoping against hope that the buck stops here, while praying for the dust to settle soon.

It's a bit annoying that this gloom and doom scenario has been brought upon us. But in a good way, it has given all of us perspective. In fact, fashion magazines and websites have adroitly led its readers to invest in the classics and to spend on pieces that will last beyond this season, whereas in much happier times, it was all about "ditch this and buy what's now!".

From an economic and social studies point of view, it is interesting to see how one industry affects another, and how each sector of society reacts towards precarious situations like now. But it is high time we learn our lesson, and we can start with our attitude towards shopping - whether it be for clothes, shoes or homes.

If you don't love it, don't buy it! If it doesn't fit right, forget it! And best of all, if you can't afford it, don't put it on credit! In the most simple terms, when people buy without planning on/or the capacity of paying, and when banks keep lending without due diligence, that's when trouble starts!