Recessionista. It’s a term constantly thrown around in lady mags and on beauty blogs, and it refers to any budget-savvy lady who knows how to look her best even when her cash flow is a little low. If you’re curtailing your spending, trying at-home beauty treatments instead of going out to a spa or salon, or looking for affordable alternatives to pricey statement items (like those beautiful Balmain sandals mentioned below), then congrats! You’re a recessionista. Somewhat surprisingly, even women who can afford to keep themselves in new clothes are taking part in the frugal fun. Case in point: First Lady Michelle Obama, who apparently loves “shopping her closet.” That’s right - Mrs. O has been spotted out and about in pieces that she’s already worn before! In public! On more than one occasion! For instance, check out Michelle rocking her floral-print Etro blouse on the
Obamas’ European sojourn in April, left, and then again at a
D.C. event for working families just one month later. She also keeps going back to the Tracy Feith dress she wore to the National Prayer Service after Barack’s inauguration back in January, sporting it again in New York for the United States Mission to the U.N. I love how she doesn’t run out and buy a brand new outfit every time she has an important event on the horizon; instead, she relies on some staple pieces and figures out new ways to jazz them out. If you’re ready to start shopping your closet, here are a few tips:
- Start by building a good, solid base of flattering basics for your wardrobe. This doesn’t have to mean all-black or neutrals; look at Michelle’s predilection for colorful florals! The key is to only buy pieces you really love and that fit you well
- Experiment with accessories. Mrs. O definitely knows the power of an eye-catching belt or a fancy brooch to revitalize and reinvent an outfit
- Layering is your friend. Not only will you be more comfortable, no matter the temperature, you’ll also breathe new life into your favorites when you toss on a cardigan or scarf on top or a T-shirt or camisole underneath
- Never apologize for wearing the same thing twice! Own it, have confidence, and the compliments will follow
