Skirting Economic Issues

CRUNCHY NUGGETS:  In past blog posts, we’ve talked about real-world economic indicators.  When sales go up, the economy is not doing so well — like sales of lipstick and nail polish, for example.  I just read today about another unusual, yet very female-centric economic indicator: hemlines.  Apparently, the higher the hemline, the better the economy.  This index originated way, way back in the 1920s, with the premise that shorter skirts meant more money to purchase silk stockings.  Therefore, women were more likely to want to show their legs during better economic times.

To see if this is still true, a Hemline Index study was conducted by Business Insider, based on the latest trends seen during NYC Fashion Week, just this past week.  They chose the 25 most influential designers based on artistic influence and most commercially viable companies (i.e., most likely to have their designs go to the masses ala Target and other partnerships).  The results?  80% of the designers from Fashion Week included in the index, indeed, had shorter hemline lengths than a year ago.  Interesting considering how stockings no longer play a role in whether or not women want to show more leg.  Now, keep in mind that others have taken a look at this same index, and have concluded that there is a three to four year delay between the rise and fall of the skirt versus the economy.  That said, we’re not talking micro mini just yet.  And it may also explain last year’s summer trend of maxi skirts and dresses.

So whether you believe it or not, it’s an interesting thought in taking a consumer “pulse check.”  And p.s. As a woman older than forty, good economy shmonomy.  My hemlines will be staying age-appropriate, thank you.  TASTY TREND:  Recession Obsession; Recession Rebound