It’s been a long recession and a longer recovery marked by a somber mood among consumers. Fashion has reflected that mood over the last year or more through the use of equally somber colors and simple prints. Now that the recession is ended and there are signs of better times coming, fashion designers are beginning to reintroduce color and prints that are bright and sassy.The fashion industry has struggled through the recession because people can postpone buying new clothes for the most part. The only exceptions are practical clothing for work or school like uniforms and t-shirts. Now the recession is ending and consumers are getting more confident and so is the fashion industry. New styles being introduced that reflect a growing economic optimism by adding color and frills to what have been dark and sedate styles.
So what will you find on the department store racks? You will find skirts full of colors and prints like paisleys and flowers. There may be exotic geometric designs and even animal prints. Many of these styles can be perfectly matched with printed t-shirts to create delightful outfits that reflect the emergence of a new and better economy. Many shoppers are happy to see more lively prints and colors appearing because they are tired of the browns and grays that have been used in fashion for so many months.
Though the fashion houses like Proenza Schouler are selling $350 tie-dye t-shirts, you don’t have to spend that much in order to create the same fashion style. A simple t-shirt in a bright color matched with colorful skirts or slacks can make anyone look as if they stepped off a runway. It’s not cost but style that works. If you have been wearing the dull recession colors, it is time to let colors replace the dark in your wardrobe even during the winter. In other words, it’s time to have a little fun.
© Image by Maarten Uilenbroek, www.sxc.hu/