Recession can revive individual style
We're all well aware of the negativity and doom and gloom that comes with the current economic turmoil, but at last it seems that it might have one positive effect - a return to individual style.
Much-acclaimed session stylist Malcolm Edwards has predicted that after two decades of 'playing it safe', dedicated following of fashion and the cult of the celebrity will go out the window and women will learn to make the most of who they are.
"In these hard times, freedom, self-expression and having fun with the way you look is even more important," says Malcolm.
"The world has been obsessed with celebrities, but personal style and being brave is coming through. Maybe women will stop chasing what they're not and start embracing what they are."
Malcolm's theory is strongly backed up by history that saw post-war women drawing seams on their tights and letting their creativity flow; while the recession-hit 80s were when creativity was at its highest and fashion was anarchic, extreme and brave.
While being different has been regarded as slightly abnormal during the last two decades of decadence, Malcolm believes we have already seen evidence of a new way of thinking at London Fashion Week.
"The main story for autumn/winter is Wayward Ladies," he adds. "It's about strong, confident women, not being shy with accessories and being themselves. Hair is more of an accessory and it's no longer about sexy hair."
The shows that truly epitomised the Wayward Ladies message were Marc Jacobs, Vivienne Westwood and Luella, where hair quite simply rocked and there was a strong, rebellious, unruly feel to it.
"These designers march to their own drum and throw out different inspirational looks all the time," Malcolm explans.
So it seems the future may not be flourishing financially, but creatively, we could be in for a treat. Get ready for a liberating, wild and bold movement - and as Malcolm says, "Pile on the product, get the pins in and get rockin!"
Hair at London Fashion Week
