| As a Personal Stylist I am continually being asked | | | | Selfridges, Harvey Nichols in London and Saks Fifth |
| what to buy now that the credit crunch is biting. | | | | Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman all report drops in sales |
| Despite Gywneth Paltrow and Victoria Beckham's | | | | of 10-15%. All these stores had a booming summer |
| best efforts, super high and heelless shoes such as | | | | due to visitors from the Middle East. Wall Street |
| from Antonio Beradi leave buyers cold. All the stores | | | | Journal reports that 95% of those with an income of |
| have been caught out and they have just not sold. 5" | | | | $1million or more made their last purchase on line. |
| and 6" heels look great in the box but that is most | | | | What about the visceral thrill of shopping? |
| likely where they will stay. | | | | So what is Haute right now? |
| Big bags and bling are out too. Size Zero now looks | | | | The timeless classics are returning. Indulge in some |
| like you can't afford to eat, not an impressive look, | | | | wardrobe styling and make your wardrobe recession |
| and the big bag makes you look even smaller. Bling | | | | proof by choosing great classics, Lanvin, Roland |
| has been replaced with smaller real pieces, it does | | | | Mouret, Balenciaga, Balmain, Chanel are selling like hot |
| not do to flaunt your rocks right now. Jewellery sales | | | | cakes. Classics are also being reworked in Vintage |
| are 25% down in Europe and America. The sales of | | | | Fashion as well, Vintage Academe was launched on |
| men and women's suits are down but casual clothes | | | | 24th Nov an online site to find great vintage classics. |
| are up. | | | | Lipstick, Perfume and Candle sales are also up as |
| The main luxury department stores such as Harrods, | | | | women seek small treats. |