It is all that anyone can talk about. The economy is down. The economy has plummeted. The economy is at it's lowest in years. Who really wants to be apart of that? Not me, not any of us. So how do we rise above it? How do we show that our economical status remains unaffected by the repression we are all denying partial participation in? 

Fashion. Oh yes, fashion. When the going gets rough, buy the fancy at a discounted price. For instance, gaudy jewelry is on the rise. Who said rhinestones were fake? Just because you're not playing bocci ball and sipping champagne with the big boys doesn't mean you can't look rich. Bigger is better (not like that hasn't always been a trend). Expensive chain necklaces (an unconscious symbolism of the balance between repression and wealth, possibly) are key. A rise in pearls is beginning as well. They don't have to be real - they will just have to look it. Make them exotic (think red), make them black, make them pink, or keep them pearly white. 

 Also coming into play are the prints of the privileged. Argyle and plaid are on the rise in a big way (again). Run with the sweater vests and plaid skirts. Make that button down look sassy with a key-dangle chain necklace (key to the money safe, that is). Ruffles in a shirt are so in, the ruffles are getting fluffier. Pair with it with a creased plaid skirt. Fake it 'til you make it, baby.