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Posts with tag recession

Britney's Recession Shopping Spree

Filed under: Style in the News

Stars on a budget! Britney shops at the Gap in London. Photo: WENN.com

Even stars like Britney Spears are becoming price-conscious!

During a stop in London on her "Circus" tour, Daily Mail UK reports that the blonde (and toned) singer did some moderately priced damage at the Gap.

Clad in a coral cotton tank and brown velour pants, Spears looked relaxed as she emerged carrying two full bags from the retailer.

JustJared reports that the 27-year-old performer also dashed into Boots -- "The" drugstore in London -- for some zit cream. She popped into University Outfitters, a cheap and trendy UK retailer, as well.

Despite the heftier exchange rate (currently £1 pound is equal to $1.6 dollars), it looks like Britney is spending her dollars wisely by shopping at affordable stores.

But from the looks of the photo, we hope her purchases include a bra from GapBody!

Blondes Come Out in Droves to Lighten Mood in Latvia

Filed under: Style in the News

Blondes: Saving the world one strand at a time. Photo: Getty

Last weekend, several hundred blondes from all across Latvia descended on the town of Riga, reports Yahoo! News.

The "Legally Blonde" look-alikes -- dressed in pink and white, some with lap dogs in tow -- marched in a local parade attempting to lift the grim mood of the financially depressed country. Leave it to the blondes and their lofty ambitions.

The event was a fundraiser, but luckily, the blondes didn't think they could actually rescue Latvia financially. They did however raise money to support neighborhood playground safety for disabled children.

Continue reading Blondes Come Out in Droves to Lighten Mood in Latvia

Foundation Replaces Lipstick as the Must-Have Beauty Item During This Recession

Filed under: Style in the News, Cosmetics, Polls and Quizzes, Beauty Tips

The correlation between financial recessions and increased cosmetic sales has long been noted by economists and beauty industry watchers -- conventional wisdom is that when faced with financial uncertainty, women turn to little luxuries rather than investing in pricey and trendy items (like handbags).

The cosmetic of choice for recessionistas has traditionally been a tube of red lipstick -- think late 20's, early 30's flapper glam -- because it gives the most transformational color bang for its buck.

But we've all heard that this recession is different than any other, and it turns out that this rhetoric applies to our penny-pinching cosmetic choices as well. The Financial Times reports that this time around women are splurging on foundation rather than lipstick.

We want to know -- What's your must-have recession beauty item?


What's your must-have beauty product?

Continue reading Foundation Replaces Lipstick as the Must-Have Beauty Item During This Recession

Barneys Lays Off 76 Employees

Filed under: Style in the News

Valextra Small Boston Bag in RedFollowing in the footsteps of competitors like Neiman Marcus Inc. and Saks Fifth Avenue, Barneys has begin its first round of layoffs. Yesterday, about 76 out of the 2,400 current jobs at the luxury store were eliminated. It's worth noting, however, that 30 out of the 76 cuts were already vacant.

Continue reading Barneys Lays Off 76 Employees

Kevan Hall and Product Placement at LA Fashion Week

Filed under: Runway Trends, Fashion Week

Molly Sims wearing Kevan Hall's Dial cranberry body wash dressIt's no secret that this year's fashion season is struggling against a super weak economy. You had to know something was wrong when designers like Vera Wang and Betsey Johnson dropped out of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, and then FW teamed up with McDonald's to promote McCafe. At LA Fashion Week, one of Kevan Hall's designs featured freeze-dried cranberries to promote Dial's new cranberry body wash.

Continue reading Kevan Hall and Product Placement at LA Fashion Week

James Bond's Quantum of Solace Sunglasses Finally Arrive

Filed under: Accessories, Celebrities with Style, Get the Look

limited edition Quantum of Solace Bond shades by Tom FordJust in time for the welcome arrival of springtime sunshine, and of course, the March 23rd Quantum of Solace DVD release -- you gotta love convenient marketing tie-ins -- the limited edition Tom Ford 007 shades Daniel Craig sported throughout the flick are now on sale. As it goes with most of Bond's attire, if you want to look like a secret agent for spring break, you're going to have to pony up like you've got an MI6 expense account.

Continue reading James Bond's Quantum of Solace Sunglasses Finally Arrive

Cheap is the New Chic

Filed under: Runway Trends

You don't need us to remind you of this, but the economy is awful. It seems that the effects have finally trickled down (or rather up) to even those of us fortunate enough to have disposable income. Consumer psychologist Kit Yarrow explains it this way to CNN:

Continue reading Cheap is the New Chic

Sarah Jessica Parker Talks Recession Shopping

Filed under: Celebrities with Style

Sarah Jessica ParkerWe know, thanks to Ice T, that even celebrities are cutting back a bit in this time of economic uncertainty. But to true followers of fashion, there's just one question begging to be answered: What would Carrie Bradshaw do? Fortunately, SJP has the answer.

Continue reading Sarah Jessica Parker Talks Recession Shopping

Saks CEO - Discounts Are a "One Time" Thing

Filed under: Accessories, Clothing

Remember those halcyon days when Saks Fifth Avenue had delicious designer merchandise at 70% off? Wasn't that just lovely? Well, snap out of it, because it's not happening again.

Continue reading Saks CEO - Discounts Are a "One Time" Thing

New York City's Free Store

Filed under: Events: On the Scene, Style in the News, Interviews

We're all strapped for cash, so when we heard a "Free Store" had opened downtown, we were there! A Free Store? How could this be? What kind of stuff would they have? We headed down there to take some photos and see how it all worked -- and walked away with our very own free item. What we found was far from junk!

Free Store New York

    The Free Store doesn't look like much from the outside; just a hole-in-the-wall at 99 Nassau Street. The close proximity to both Ground Zero and Wall Street is no mistake -- the area is affordable and poignant.

    Rachel Been/StyleList

    The Free Store creators, Athena Robles and Anna Stein, welcomed us into the shop for a quick chat before the doors opened and masses of New Yorkers flooded in. "The items are free for us," they said, "we replenish through donations." Their rule is "If you find something you like and you think you need it, feel free to take it."

    Rachel Been/StyleList

    Athena Robles talked about how the store was actually about a year and a half in the making. They received a $9,000 grant from Grants for Arts in Public Spaces, and then the recession hit. "The recession was actually kind of a good thing for us," said Robles.

    Rachel Been/StyleList

    Once the doors were opened, New Yorkers who had been waiting for up to two hours to get in poured inside the Free Store. No one could move. It was like a sale at Bloomingdales, only people were saying "do you have any laptops?" "Any dvd players?" Robles and Stein smiled and shook their heads. "Not yet."

    Rachel Been/StyleList

    Originally, they were worried they might run out of stuff to give away at the free store, but Robles said "After day two, we weren't worried. People showed up with bags of stuff." The store has been open since February 22nd, and will remain open through March 22nd. "We don't make any money from this," said Robles, "it's an art project. We think this is a creative way for people to use their resources."

    Rachel Been/StyleList

    Every item had a "I'M FREE" tag on it, which we thought was cute. The store was full of the same sort of things you might find at Goodwill -- and everyone knows you can find crazy awesome stuff at Goodwill.

    Rachel Been/StyleList

    These chic, rocker-style t-shirts were among the first items to go. There were stacks of clothes to rifle through, but at first, it was almost too crowded to do so!

    Rachel Been/StyleList

    All kinds of people loaded up on all kinds of loot, from "we don't know if it's real, sorry" jewelry to a hot pink book called "Sex Tips." Free!

    Rachel Been/StyleList

    Because this is an art project, fellow artists from Robles' and Stein's network were among the first to donate goods. We saw lots of art supplies, like this snowflake, and some jewelry that looked like it may have been made just to donate.

    Rachel Been/StyleList

    This man made off with a yellow blanket. He looked like it was just what he needed -- and that's what this project is all about!

    Rachel Been/StyleList







20 Best Drugstore Beauty Buys

    Save money and still be as adorable as ever, thanks to this honest feedback from your fellow shoppers. Read their beauty product reviews to find budget-friendly buys from Neutrogena, Olay, L'Oreal and more! (Note: Ratings at time of publication.)

    Total Beauty

    20. Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes, $8.09

    Avg. rating: 9
    Why it's great: "I used to only use eye makeup remover but realized that my cleanser, Cetaphil, is just too gentle to remove all of my foundation, blush, etc. I bought these wipes to do a 'once over' before cleansing and I will never be without them again! I was pleasantly surprised at how well they removed stubborn eye makeup -- even my waterproof mascara!" -- Tangerine3, TotalBeauty.com member

    Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.

    Total Beauty

    19. Olay Regenerist Thermal Contour and Lift, $29.99

    Avg. rating: 9*
    Why it's great: "Short of an expensive spa treatment, this product cannot be beat. It's easy to use (you can apply this treatment in the shower or bath, or over the sink); it is not time consuming; and the results are phenomenal! ... It left my skin instantly firmer, more supple [and] wonderfully hydrated, and [took] care of some tiny wrinkles that, at 36, I might have had to squint to see." -- lsmith, TotalBeauty.com member

    Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.

    Total Beauty

    18. Maybelline New York Full 'N Soft Washable Mascara, $5.99

    Avg. rating: 9.1*
    Why it's great: "I've spent top dollar on mascaras -- but I keep coming back to this. It doesn't clump, it goes on smooth, it builds and lengthens, and it stays all day without irritating my eyes or flaking off. Perfect! Several color choices -- perfect price!" -- BlackberryAddict, TotalBeauty.com member

    Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.

    Total Beauty

    17. Conair ION Shine Ceramic Turbo 1875 Watts Dryer, $32.99

    Avg. rating: 9.1*
    Why it's great: "I have used a zillion different hair dryers and this one is the best. It leaves my rather coarse, very curly, unruly hair shiny and smooth. And it costs considerably less than what I have paid for other dryers!" -- CSMark, TotalBeauty.com member

    Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.

    Total Beauty

    16. Revlon ColorStay Makeup with Softplex, $11.69

    Avg. rating: 9.1*
    Why it's great: "I try many foundations looking for one with a good price that looks natural and has staying power. This is the best yet. I used the one for oily/normal skin. Very good foundation and stays looking good for an entire day." -- mgbaloo, TotalBeauty.com member

    Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.

    Total Beauty

    15. Wet n Wild Ultimate Expressions Eyeshadow Palette, $4.99

    Avg. rating: 9.1*
    Why it's great: "I like the combos in these little sets. They are super cheap and much better quality than they look. I would like a 'brights' palette from them because all the choices they have now are very natural. If you're looking for a good neutral everyday office/school look, you'll have some good options here." -- corizotti, TotalBeauty.com member

    Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.

    Total Beauty

    14. Suave Professionals Sleek Shampoo, $2.99

    Avg. rating: 9.2*
    Why it's great: "I ONLY use this shampoo on my hair. I have tried numerous other products, just to find that I paid a lot of money unnecessarily. I lighten my hair but with shampoo, my hair isn't as dry and straw-like. And the price is very affordable." -- MarieMatthews, TotalBeauty.com member

    Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.

    Total Beauty

    13. Herbal Essences Color-Me-Happy Conditioner for Color-Treated Hair, $7.49

    Avg. rating: 9.2*
    Why it's great: "It's not heavy like a lot of thick conditioners are. It rinses clean and doesn't make my hair feel heavy or greasy. And the smell is amazing. Very subtle but very delicious. My hair shines and has way less frizzies. I'd use this product even if my hair wasn't colored." -- Chicka, TotalBeauty.com member

    Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.

    Total Beauty

    12. Jane Lipkick Rich Color, $4.49

    Avg. rating: 9.3*
    Why it's great: "I have tried expensive lipsticks that could not come close to Jane lipstick it has staying power and great colors. The bonus is for the price of one of the more costly brands I can get 4-5 Jane lipsticks." -- mistressfaerie, TotalBeauty.com member

    Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.

    Total Beauty

Recession Takes a Bite Out of Puma

Filed under: Stores We Love, Style in the News

Geeky pair of Puma high topsWe're struggling to make sense out of this one. Earlier this week, Puma sportswear announced that its net-earnings in the 4th quarter were down 78.8%. Ouch. That surprises us because: a.) dude, we freakin' love Puma's geeky shoes, and b.) labels on the mid-lower end seem to be the only ones doing any business these days. Apparently, any brand that hasn't hammered out a distribution deal with Wal-Mart is totally screwed.

Continue reading Recession Takes a Bite Out of Puma

Ex Bankers Now Hawking Recycled Sandals - Greensoul Shoes

Filed under: Shoes, Green Fashion

One of Greensoul Shoes' Recycled sandalsWhile most of us aren't super pleased with the economy right now, one team of former investment bankers are viewing the financial collapse as a chance to start an eco-friendly footwear company with a heart of gold. Greensoul Shoes, co-founded by a former Bear Sterns banker, takes materials recovered from landfills by locals in Southeast Asia and constructs sandals to sell to the developed world. For each pair you buy, GreenSoul will donate a pair to a needy someone in the developing world.

Continue reading Ex Bankers Now Hawking Recycled Sandals - Greensoul Shoes

Lots More Cheap Bob Marley Apparel - Coming Soon

Filed under: Style in the News, Clothing

Bob Marley Tee featuring Jamaican flagAmidst a whirlwind of unheralded buy-outs and mergers in the retail world, one firm appears to have finally snatched up an asset with actual value. In a deal between the Marley family in NYC and Hilco Consumer Capital, a private equity group, the Bob Marley brand (we're using the term loosely) is about to achieve a new level of exploitation. The firm will be licensing the reggae legend's image and trademarks to a range of products from apparel to videogames.

Continue reading Lots More Cheap Bob Marley Apparel - Coming Soon

Italian Luxury Sunglasses Makers See Dark Times Ahead

Filed under: Accessories, Style in the News

man wearing dark aviatorsWhile only a few months ago it was easy to look at the luxury market with rose colored lenses, the outlook for two of Italy's top sunglasses is now starting to get a bit dark -- sunglasses at night dark, even. Both based in fashion-centric Northern Italy, Luxottica and Safilo produce some of the world's most popular and expensive eyewear for brands like Ray Ban, Prada, and Ferragamo. Ever since hard times have descended upon the fashion market, both companies have been really struggling to make ends meet.

Continue reading Italian Luxury Sunglasses Makers See Dark Times Ahead

How to Pop When You Can't Shop - Tip of the Day!

Filed under: Style Tip of the Day

CAmeron diazMany fashionistas we know who stay on top of trends by shopping religiously are really feeling the recession right now. So how does one look fashionable without stepping foot into a store? It's easy!

Continue reading How to Pop When You Can't Shop - Tip of the Day!

How You Voted

    Threesome or topless?
    More than 3/4 of you think the CK campaign 'Threesome' campaign was more risque than Wrangler's topless models. Get the full story here.

    Inzemove and Fred & Farid

    Do these ads belong in the U.S.?
    StyleList readers were nearly evenly divided on this, with 52% thinking that they should run in the States, and 48% finding them inappropriate. Get the full story here.

    Inzemove and Fred & Farid

    Curly or Straight?
    While 30% of you think she's so beautiful that her hair doesn't even matter, 49% of you prefer her curls. Get the full story here.

    Kevin Winter, Getty Images | Jon Furniss, WireImage

    Offensive or artistic?
    Just over 50% of StyleList readers said they weren't offended by this shirt, but didn't know if it was totally appropriate to wear in public. Unfortunately, that wasn't the opinion in Dubai. Get the full story here.

    Photo: eBay

    ebay

    Strapless dresses on 13-year-olds
    StyleList readers think strapless dresses should be saved for older girls -- 41% of you think the look is too mature. Get the full story here.

    Getty Images

    Is Megan the new Angelina?
    Half of you think Megan needs to get her own identity and quit copying Angie, but more than a quarter said Jolie doesn't stand a chance against this Fox. Get the full story here.

    Getty Images

    Did Calvin Klein respond to public's outcry?
    The controversial "threesome" billboard in Soho has been replaced with this one, but 51% of you believe it was just to keep people talking about the brand, not because CK caved. Get the full story here.

    Rachel Been, AOL

    Calvin Klein's Racy Ad
    Is it art or practically pornography? About 40% of StyleList readers found this billboard obscene. Get the full story.

    Maggie Coughlan, AOL

    Palin's Pedi
    Do you think Sarah Palin's funky pedicure was appropriate? If so, you're in good company -- 68% of you said it was fun and fabulous. Get the full story.

    Getty Images

    Bright, Light, or Dark as Night?
    How do you like your toenails painted? Over half of StyleList readers prefer their piggies with bright, perky polish. Get the full story.

    Getty Images

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