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ENTER THE RECESSIONISTA

Being frugal is in fashion.

By Isha Andaya
There comes a time when you have to admit that you don't really need that designer bag (you wanted one in every color), or those gorgeous heels (they don't really go with anything, but they're so–sigh–fab!), or even that luxe lipstick (so long, designer pucker).

Ladies, the global economic woes may have you keeping that wallet tightly sealed, but don't give up on your stylish ways just yet! As everyone reels from the worldwide effects of the recession, we've been seeing the Filipina fashionista relocating from the world's designer capitals to local designer ateliers, department stores, and favorite ukay haunts. Emerging as the bright spot in all this gloom and doom is she who has been dubbed the Recessionista.

Once regarded as the figure who cried “recession” at the financial markets, the recessionista is now the hottest buzzword in the fashion world, often uttered alongside the terms “shop your closet” and “frugal chic.” Known as the ever-stylish and über smart shopper, this new breed of fashionista is finding creative ways of looking fabulous on a budget.

"Fashion is meant to inspire, spark creativity, and encourage individuality. With the economic downturn, the world of fashion has been put to a challenge," says stylist Jenni Epperson. In these penny-pinching days when a high-priced wardrobe might be deemed insensitive, recessionistas have learned to curb their shopping splurges while remaining stylish. They shop their closets (or sometimes that of others), cutting their spending by delving into their own wardrobes, to come up with chic combinations and runway-inspired outfits They keep an eye and ear out for sales, but they also know when to invest in that designer piece that can last forever. Recessionistas are experts at mixing high-end, high street, and vintage pieces for a deceptively luxe look.

More and more people are also looking to the local fashion industry to thrive in these troubled times. As model Mia Ayesa shares, "Maybe this is a window of opportunity for the Philippines as a powerhouse of ideas, to shine. I like to keep optimistic." Designer Rajo Laurel definitely agrees. "If the world is going up in smoke, Manila and the rest of our lovely islands will survive like we always have-in stunning colors!"

So if you're still worrying about having to tighten that belt you're wearing instead of snapping up that cute new one at the store, then it's time to wise up and learn all about being a recessionista. Fashion mavens now have the money smarts to go with their natural style, so we asked Manila's foremost models, stylists, designers, and fashion insiders to share more of their own tips when it comes to being recession chic. This is one Trendspotting segment you wouldn't want to miss, so click on, recessionista!


-Bernice Bautista, Editorial Assistant
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