Fashion Trends in the Time of Recession

With glimpses of fall fashion trickling into stores, it's become apparent that we're not going to be pulling out of the recession this season. Affluence is out. Want to purchase a jacket in a luxe brocade? You'll find them in funky neons rather than sophisticated jewel-tones, colours specifically chosen to degrade the luxury of the item, mocking the affluence originally intended for it.

Leggings returned full-force this year after disappearing following a heydey in the early 90s, perhaps because they're cheap and can be worn as a substitute for pants. (Not -- please -- not that they should be substituted for pants, or that they look good on anyone when worn this way -- just that they can be.) Goodbye, tweed trousers. Who needs to streamline her legs when unemployment has forced her to be more thrifty at the grocery store? Grab those leggings to show off those slimmer thighs!

Gladiator sandals, too, were all the rage this summer. Warrior footwear. No delicate, thin straps to highlight petal-pink pedicures were seen this season. I saw toenails in bright neons, deep greens, sea blues -- nothing flirty and carefree. Summer's shades were all about making bold statements, they were about being seen, making yourself stand out (which, incedentally, you need to do in a big way to get a job in today's market). But you also need to protect yourself -- hence the studs and grommets, the knee-high cages certain sandal styles formed around the legs. Sky-high heels, too, were all the rage this summer. Height equals power. You're sure to be noticed when you're towering above all the other women at the party. Two-inch kitten heels? Forget it. There's no place for demure or understated right now. Flats are permissible because they're so functional. You can move in flats. No one wants to hinder movement in a recession.

Trying to decide between sandals or boots for the transitional weather of September and October? Fall's most fashionable footwear will make your decision a little easier. You can enjoy a wide array of high-heeled boots with open toes and cut out heels. With no pointed toes to scuff or dent, your shoes will last a little longer, saving you money in the long run. (Just be sure to wear socks when it gets a little colder).

Department stores are also stocked with a preponderance of plaid. Although these styles are more fitted than their 90s-era counterparts, the patterns recall days of Goodwill shopping and wearing that shirt till it literally falls apart. Good thing distressed denim is back, too. Now you don't have to scrap your jeans when they get holes. You can even buy jeans that already have holes in them, but I think these are just out on the racks to let people know that it's okay to wear this style again. (Really, who's dumb enough to buy clothes with holes in it?)

And if health care doesn't get reformed, we might see burlap make an appearance just in time for spring!