Notes from Miss Money Penny

Steal Miranda's Style in Herve Leger Red Bandage Dress!

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 03:40:00 GMT

Get your hands on the Hottest 'IT' dress in town. As seen on Miranda Kerr recently, it is clearly a celebrity fave and showing no signs of fatigue and every sign of becoming an iconic classic! Here's Miranda in it...and a whole raft of celebs showing off their Herve Leger stylin'.

This can be yours! For $400 less than retail. It's Brand New With Tags and just listed! Love it? Want it? Buy it now!

BUY: Herver Leger Lipstick Bandage Dress BNWT XS

$900.00

Herve Leger, Any favorites?

The Experts in Cool - What Cool Hunter predicts for accessories this season

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:02:00 GMT

Cool Fashion from the Expert in Cool. Cool Hunter looks at the 'king of bling' Matthew Williamson's flashy jewels as an upcoming trend for fashion accessories. Loving the basketball size bling bracelets! B.L. Harper reports...

Matthew Williamson was called 'the king of bling' by the Sydney Morning Herald for a reason.

Since his London debut in 1996, one thing has remained constant: Williamson's models will sparkle. His 2003 spring collection saw gold-sequined blouses and brocade jackets, while the fall of 2005 line had shiny velvets and satins and the fall of 2006 featured shimmering gold and silver jumpers, to name a few.

The trend continued most recently during February's New York Fashion Week. Williamson paraded his traditional flashy jewel-hued mini minis and doll-sized dresses - but this year there was also a noticeable smattering of fashions to file under - the bigger the better. Models processed down the runway in gaping shorts and trousers that were paper-bag-synched at the waist, as well as tent-sized sparkly muumuus and necklaces boasting fist-sized shell pendants. The most innovative of these enormous fashions could be credited to the pioneering of jewellery designer Scott Wilson.

Wilson and Williamson are both decorated alumni from the UK's finest art institutions. Wilson studied jewellery design at Middlesex Polytechnic and millinery at the Royal College of Art while Williamson began his career at star-spangled Central St. Martins. Both designers earned coveted fashion positions early in their careers. Immediately after graduation Williamson began working for Marni, while Wilson earned employment with Karl Lagerfeld as an undergrad. Williamson eventually went on to launch his own successful eponymous line. On the other hand, Wilson has garnered much of his renown through his collaborative efforts with showstoppers Burberry, Rifat Ozbek and Hussein Chalayan in particular ï¿½ though he continues to maintain his own jewellery line. As Wilson explained to the International Herald Tribune, 'One-off pieces are the ultimate expression of my work, but they can be very time-consuming.'

In their collaboration, Wilson clearly embraced Williamson's predilection for shine with his jewelled bracelets, which are evocative of bedazzled bocce balls. The enormous bangles were seen on the lanky limbs of Hilary Rochas and Maryna Linchuk during Matthew Williamson's parade of jewel-colored frocks at New York Fashion Week in February. According to Fashion Wire Daily, Wilson's 'sequined bracelets [were] a deft accessory addition to a collection that underlined how British designers stint showing in America has helped him mature into a producer of highly wearable, yet always hip, clothes.'

The funky though undeniably glamorous bracelets have most recently been spotted cuffing the delicate wrists of Mischa Barton on the cover of UK Elle. The bracelets are custom-made, and available to the most audacious of luxury collectors for a mere $900 each. Contact the creator himself at (TK Scott Wilson's email address). By L. Harper
www.coolhunter.com

Chanel Shade Parade - very cool!

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 04:38:00 GMT

Sarah Jessica Parker add sparkle to the Melbourne Spring racing Carnival!

Sat, 24 Sep 2011 06:51:00 GMT

SEX and the City' star Sarah Jessica Parker will bring a big dose of Fifth Ave glamour to the Spring Racing Carnival.

The fashion plate best known as Carrie Bradshaw in the hit show was yesterday confirmed for Oaks Day at Flemington on November 3 as a guest of Crown, the Herald Sun reported.

Parker, who will be in Melbourne promoting her new film I Don't Know How She Does It, will be a guest at the track in the exclusive Crown marquee in the Elms enclosure.

"We are delighted to be welcoming Sarah Jessica Parker to Melbourne," Crown's general manager of public relations, Ann Peacock, said last night.

"Not only is she a highly respected award-winning actress and producer, she is also a wife, mother to three children, fashion designer and perfumer.

"Ms Parker is a ubiquitous New York fashion icon and her attendance at the Crown Oaks Day, traditionally ladies' day, will add to the international cache of the day."

Parker, 46, is one of the world's most influential fashion trendsetters, revered for her quirky, daring style.

Parker is the biggest name announced for the Melbourne Cup Carnival.

Also expected at Flemington during Cup Week are Shane Warne and Liz Hurley, tipped to be Cup Day guests in the Birdcage, and Hollywood diva Joan Collins, who has been confirmed for the Swisse marquee on Oaks Day.

Downton Abbey star Michelle Dockery has been approached to attend Derby Day as a guest of Channel 7, while former tennis pin-up Anna Kournikova is believed to have been invited to the Emirates marquee.

Tour de France winner Cadel Evans and Melbourne Victory recruit Harry Kewell are also expected to attended marquees during Cup Week.

Parker will walk the red carpet for the Australian premiere of her movie in Melbourne.

and just for a bit of fun check out http://sarahjessicaparkerlookslikeahorse.com/

To get Carrie's Style check out our Brand New With Tags, Just Slipped On, and Vintage Designer Dresses, Shoes and Accessories here

Miss Money Penny Hearts Styled by Sally's Buy Nothing New sentiment

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT

Buy Nothing New Month

by Styled by Sally on Wednesday, September 21, 2011 at 5:12pm

Buy Nothing New Month is a national campaign promoted during October to encourage conscientious consumption, through a more thoughtful, less wasteful approach to shopping.

Buy Nothing New Month aims to extend the life of existing goods, maximise the value of existing stuff while promoting recycled, free-cycled, up-cycled, second hand, swishing (see below) and sustainable alternatives to buying new that are better for you, your wallet and the planet.

I was approached by The Brotherhood of St Laurence in Melbourne to get on board not only as a possible ambassador, but to provide style advice to one of its stores on Fashion Friday.

I was more than happy to provide FREE styling on Fashion Friday- an event being held on 30th September at Hunter Gatherer stores around Melbourne. I'll be at the city store between 12.30- 2pm, which you can find in the Royal Arcade, between the Burke St Mall and Little Collins St.

As for being an ambassador, that took a little more thinking. The initial thought of going an entire month without buying a single (new) thing, was pretty scary!! But then I thought about it and realised that if I'm going to talk the talk, I best walk the walk.

So I am pledging that for the entire month of October, I will not buy anything new. I'm actually starting to get pretty excited about it. Excited about putting my existing pieces to better use, coming up with new ways to wear my existing pieces (something I teach my clients to do every day) and creating new outfits using what's already hanging in my wardrobe. Who knows, I may even head to an op-shop or two!!

Whilst I am looking forward to partaking in Buy Nothing New Month, and I respect others who choose to do the same, I still have to make my living, which for the most part is taking other people shopping.

But unlike my typical spending habits, most of my clients spend very little on themselves, and rarely shop. So shopping once or twice a year for key items to see you through a season or two, in my opinion, is also a conscious consumer choice.

If you'd like to join me, you too can make your pledge at http://www.buynothingnew.com.au/

And whilst you're there, check out the "how to buy nothing new' page for an explanation of all the terms.

Personally, I'm a big fan of free-cycling.. I'd love you to share yours on my Facebook Page.

Sally x

I'm making the pledge, what about you?

Get The Look with Miss Money Penny - Bomber Jacket Celebrity Style

Sun, 07 Aug 2011 06:41:00 GMT

The Trans-seasonal Bomber Jacket

Loving some of the fab new leather bomber jackets hitting Miss Money Penny's Designer Re-Sale Emporium this month. Long a celebrity fave the bomber is the perfect trans-seasonal piece to take you through a cold cold winter and into spring with style. Pop over a floral dress with tights, team with jeans and you can dress any outfit up or down. Here's how some celeb do it well. We have snaffled a few high qulaity great designer jackets to get his look - for a fraction of the retail price. Check out some of them below and also under the Coats and Jackets section of the online store.

Bisonte Black Leather Bomber Jacket 10

$150.00

Bisonte Leather Jacket 10 BRAND NEW!

$250.00

Calvin Klein Jeans Leather Jacket M

$89.00

For more fab coats and jackets, jeans and Just In pre-owned Designer Fashion finds click here.

In Style Women Of Style Awards 12th May

Sun, 15 May 2011 06:03:00 GMT

Last Wednesday evening I was lucky enough to be a aprt of the In-Style Women of Style Awards in Sydney. Not through any merit of my own I might add! My dear friend, the stunning and stylish Eliza Brown was a nominee in the Lifestyle category and asked me along to be her handbag and moral support.

The night was extraordinary and somewhat overwhelming with the calibre of stylish and successful women all in one place. To say i was star struck is an understatement.

Eliza and I spent a good portion of the evening agape at our style icons like Sass & Bide, Colette Dinnigan (looking great withOUT a fringe), Kristy Hinze - stun with trillionaire husband Jim in tow 9quite handsome actually), Gail Elliot (Little Joe and one of the original 80s Supermodels), Natalie Bloom, Erika Heynatz (amazing!) and so, so so many more.

A highlight for me was talking with In Style ed Kerrie McCallum who gave Miss Money Penny a mention in In Style early in the peice in the fashion pages and purchased a Chloe jacket from the site. big thrill for her to remember that (she still wears the jacket), and seen quite excited to meet my alter ego Miss Money Penny.

Eliza was a worthy and gracious nominee and whilst she did not win her category I believe she is the most stylish woman I know - for a number of reasons I won't go into on a blog!

Anyway, as we have always claimed to concur with Yves Saint Laurent, "fFshions fade, style is eternal". Check outn the pics and blog from the Instyle site below or link to http://www.instylemag.com.au/Article/Star-Style/Behind-The-Scenes/The-stars-party-at-Women-of-Style

Behind The Scenes

The stars party at Women of Style

When it comes to hosting glamorous events and attracting stylish crowds, InStyle doesn't miss a beat. And last night's Women of Style Awards captivated an A-list crowd, with high-profile celebrities, fashion designers and industry insiders gracing the red carpet.

VIP guests included fabulous host of the evening Jessica Rowe; international model Kristy Hinze and her husband Jim Clark; Gracie and Miranda Otto also attended and took out awards – Gracie won the InStyle and Audi Style Scholarship, and sister Miranda was recognised for her work in Arts/Culture.

Jodi Gordon wore a stunning silver number by British fashion house, Burberry. Home and Away star Tessa James wore a classic Herve Leger body-con LBD, while fellow co-star Jessica Tovey was red-hot in a custom-made Ginger & Smart dress. The Morning Show's Larry Edmur and Kylie Gilles were red-carpet ready as were TV presenters Samantha Armytage, Sally Obermeder and Natarsha Belling. MTV star Ruby Rose also rocked in a black-and-white look by Toni Maticevski.

Australian fashion royalty were also out in force – Collette Dinnigan, Kirrily Johnson, Gail Elliot, Alexandra and Genevieve Smart, Jan Logan, Bianca Spender, Nicola Finetti, Leona Edmiston, Lisa Ho all noted.

Camilla Freeman-Topper was on-trend in a Marni top, teamed with Lanvin shoes and acid-bright pants by her own label, Camilla and Marc. Sarah-Jane Clarke and Heidi Middleton packed a punch in clashing prints and bright pieces from their own collection. And swimwear designer Jodhi Mears and shoe designer Terry Biviano wore classic black ensembles.

Here are a few of our behind-the-scenes party pics at InStyle's night of nights.

(InStyle and Audi Women of Style VIP guests enjoyed Belvedere cocktails, Laurent Perrier Champagne, Tim Adams Wines and Stella Artois beer)

VIDEO: InStyle & Audi Women of Style Awards
The InStyle and Audi Women of Style Awards celebrates women who are trailblazers in their industry. InStyle recognises style is more than just what you wear. See this year's winners receive their awards and watch all the action from InStyle's night of nights here…

Creating new meaning to 'Recycled Fashion'!

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 09:53:00 GMT

Designer Makes Fairytale Dress From Recycled Children's Books

by Kimberley Mok, Montreal, Canada

Photos: Ryan Novelline

Think children's books are only suitable for tots to read (or chew) on? Well, they've finally gone from cute to glam with Boston-based designer Ryan Novelline's gorgeous gown, made entirely from pages taken from discarded children's books. Check out how this fairytale dress was created from start to finish:

Fittingly enough, the 22,000 square-inch skirt uses illustrations culled from Golden Books' classic line of kids' books and is sewn with gold metallic thread. That's a lot of pages!

I've always loved the beautiful golden spines on Golden Books and apparently, Novelline feels the same, crafting the bodice completely out of golden book spines.

Though it isn't something you'd wear on a regular basis, this is still a sweet dress (even getting a nod from fashion bigwig Tommy Hilfiger) and shows that even a mundane item like a book can be re-imagined in a fresh way.

Now that's What I call 'Recycled Fashion!'

WIN TICKETS TO SYDNEY FASHION WEEKEND WITH MISS MONEY PENNY!

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 00:19:00 GMT

Win Tickets to Sydney Fashion Weekend!

Sydney Fashion Lovers - WIN TICKETS to Fashion Weekend!!

Brace yourself for the designer shopping event of the year! Fashion Weekend is back 12 - 15 May at Moore Park. Shop from over 120 fabulous brands including Fleur Wood, Shakuhachi, PeepToe, Ginger & Smart, Hussy, Bec & Bridge, Lovable, Nicola Finetti, Wayne Cooper, Cohen et Sabine and Natasha (to name just a few) all selling their collections at amazing discounts of up to 70% off. Catch up on the season's hottest trends on the Catwalk and indulge in some serious beauty pampering. It's the ultimate girls day out!

Miss Money Penny has 5 Double Passes to Give Away (Valid for any session from Fri-Sun - not valid for opening night).

Simply Refer A Friend to subscribe to Miss Money Penny for your chance to win! The people with the most referrals Win! Competition will be drawnFriday 6th May and winners advised by email.

For more info and to book visit www.fashionweekend.com.au <http://www.fashionweekend.com.au/

Miss Money Penny's Favourite Designer Picks of the week

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 10:58:00 GMT

Think Second-hand shopping is not for you? Read On

As the cooler weather comes and daylight savings fades designer fashion lovers around Australia are taking stock of their wardrobes, rationalizing wardrobe space and buying and selling some amazing designer fashion. 'Champagne tastes on a beer budget' femmes are cleverly reaping the fruits of the 'Fashed Up but Cash Poor' socialites and fashionistas as Autumn wardrobe reconciliations are in full swing.

Just last week a favourite seller of Miss Money Penny's (who just so happens to be a fashion stylist) decided that more than 3 Louis Vuitton handbags were enough and more wardrobe space was required to house the latest Gucci. Paydirt for the Vuitton devotee with no Designer store budget to speak of. What we have here is a 'win win' situation as the seller wants to find a decent home for her adored Speedy and the buyer has been hunting for one that won't cost an arm and a leg.

Similar too Louboutin Lovers who wouldn't in a pink fit consider actually purchasing a pair of $1200 shoes - dreams can come true if you are in the right place (Miss Money Penny natch) at the right time - timing is everything! But it's brutal out there and you have to keep a look out as they can be wrenched from your hot little hands (or mouse) in a jiffy.

And for those who love designer clothing and shoes but haven't got their heads around the fact that all second-hand or pre-loved fashion can be other than grotty, go to Miss Money Penny's 'Brand New' section. This little treasure trove houses the regret purchases that just didn't get returned to Net-A-Porter in time or lost the receipt or just took too long to return. Stuff of pure fantasy where you can find amazing treasures like brand new with tags designer handbags - never used or worn for tens rather than thousands of dollars.

Anyway, enough about me, let's talk about you...what do you think of me? Who is your fave designer? Can you find anything here yet? Stay tuned...

BRAND NEW WITH TAGS
CATALOGUE

FAB COATS & JACKETS

LOVE louis vuitton?

DESIGNER SHOES YOUR BAG?

TTFN,

MMP

Why Fake Designer when you can own it?

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 03:33:00 GMT

Why Fake It?

Hi Miss,

Always dreamed of owning the real deal in premium designer brands? Been to those stores and looked longingly in the window at Prada, Gucci, Chanel, Louis Vuitton only to realise that lustable jackets/shoe/bag costs more than your last holiday?

Luckily Miss Money Penny has some well heeled friends who shop European, US and Australian designers and re-fresh their wardrobes regularly. They only buyer the best designs, cuts and fabrics which means for MMP buyers, they get high quality fashion that is unlikely to date. It looks and feels premium - because it is!

So browse by your favourite designer, size or product type to see what luxury goods could be your to show off this season.

But remember - First In, Best Dressed - there's usually only one!

MMP x

Just Reduced!

GUCCI Waterfall Front Fine Leather Jacket 10

GUCCIGUCCI Waterfall Front Fine Leather Jacket. Fine Calfskin Leather. Gold Gucci Tag at Back Neck. As New ( worn 2x ) As New ( worn 2x ) Purchased 5 months ago in Europe for $4000.00


Price		$600.00

Here's some of our Fave Just In Shoes & Accessories this week...

The Row - Did you know?

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 10:57:00 GMT

Some gorgeously fab sunglasses were listed on Miss Money Penny last week by a savvy fashionista who purchased them OS. Those in the know know The Row is the uber hip high-end fashion line created by Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen. Long fans of the vintage look and second-hand designer fashion poster girls, MKAA have developed their own distinct shabby chic style and this triggered the idea for The Row, which they launched in 2007 with the idea of creating a perfect T-shirt. Since then, the line has evolved into eveningwear, outerwear, knits, men’s wear and sunglasses, and they have since also launched the contemporary Elizabeth and James line and the junior and tween Olsenboye line at J.C. Penney.

: “The Row consists mainly of expensive knit T-shirts with fancy French seams, and a few minimalist separates, like a well-cut blazer and a tight, banded miniskirt in the style of Hervé Léger. Conspicuous flash is in the fur coats, which are oversize, luscious, but still somewhat plain. Unlike with their licensed collections, Mary-Kate and Ashley are hugely involved with the Row’s design process from start to finish, working in close tandem with a designer. The palette is as minimal as the collection: black, white, cream, gray, the occasional shot of red, and the label itself, a small, easy-to-miss gold chain embossed THE ROW. It’s like the Olsens themselves in its simultaneous desire to be both noticed and hidden.” - NYMAG

The Row has a huge celebrity following thanks to famous mates and you can check out their lookbook below;

Buy The Row!

To get your hands on a piece of the celebrity gear we have found one only pair of the Spring Collection sunnies normally RRPing at $420.00 - Designer Miss Money Penny steal at $200!

The Row collaboration with Linda Farrow spring collection. Gold-toned metal frame cat eye sunglasses with plastic tortoise shell rimless bridge and brown gradient lenses. In Dark Tortoise Shell. Made in Japan. RRP$420.00 Buy Me

Miss Money Penny Preloved Fave's of the Week

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 03:15:00 GMT

Had a great tour of the shops at Chadstone last weekend (after looking for a carpark for 35 minutes - not kidding!). There are some fabulous looks out there for summer but i couldn't get over how expensive designer clothing is getting! Even Country Road is charging like a red bull for simple summer frocks. The other thing that struck me was there is sooo much junk out there. Bag fabrics, badly made merchandise - and it will probably end up as landfill next season.

Felt holier than thou when I left to go compare prices and shop on my own site for well made designer labels with high quality fabrics. Not only could Miss Money Penny match the designer fashions in the stores, much of what I've seen lately isn't even availavle there so buyers are getting fabulous pieces no-one has seen (or will be wearing at the Xmas parties). Better still, we are also getting quite a lot of sold out hot items you just can't find anywhere - like the Zimmerman frock below.

Not only that but, I feel less ill about the amount of fashion being consumed when I know we are at least doing our bit to recycle and some goreous designed fashion won't end up in the rag bag next season with the piles of rubbish made in China.

Stand outs for me were;

White Blazers - White hot!

A divine Gucci was listed a few weeks ago and went in minutes - I know why - they are so smart and stylish for summer and look fab thrown ovewr a paior of skinny jeans for smart casual vibe (think Elle at the airport). We have a few coming - many brand new with tags and otherwise in pristine condition. Our picks below but all coats and jackets can be viewed here

Seduce White Blazer 12 -$60.00

Country Road Beige Summer Jacket 8

Celine White Double-Breasted Jacket 12 -$85.00

Celine White Blazer 10 -$150.00

Farage -$150.00

Party Frocks

Went into Myer's designer fashion section and could not believe how much stuff there was!! Was thrilled the see the EXACT same Karen Millen London evening gown we have listed on Miss Money Penny on a rack. When i flipped the price tag over it said $595!! I checked back on the site and we have one (it is pre-loved but only ever worn once) for $150! WOW!

Karen Millen England Evening Gown 10

$150.00

It's still available so if you are a Size 10 snap this up and flit around at your next Xmas party looking smug and posh!

This Zimmerman Frock - Just Listed is from current season Summer 2010 range.

This is an absolutely stunning creation is in pristine condition and has never been worn. It is a strapless design, with extensive boning around the bodice (so that a bra is not essential). The silk is then tailored to float down the front of the dress in a very flattering style. The dress is 100% silk and is made from a unique pastel print. It has the most luxurious feel to it! Marked as size 0 (would best fit Aus 8-small 10). The dress is knee length and has several slim panels cut out at the back of the dress to show off some glimpses of skin. This dress is truly sensational and was an instant sell-out in shops nationwide- you will not be disappointed! RRP$390!
Yours to flit around at your next Xmas party...if you are quick!

Zimmermann BNWT 2010 Summer Range Dress 8-10

$150.00

Fabulous Designer Sandals

There is a lot of flimsy footwear out there is baaad quality imitation leather. It certainly pays in the longer terms (and in cost per wear) to buy a decent pair. We love these for night and day;

Stuart Weitzman BNIB Satin Leather Thongs -$150.00
Currently for sale in the store at chadstone for $495!

Andrea Joen NIB Themba Stud Gladiator Heel 36 -$200.00

Printemps - Mixed feather Sandal 36 -$125.00

ENZO ANGIOLINI Pink Bow Open Toe Heels 6 -$40.00

Morena Gabbrielli Sandals 39 -$90.00

MOSCHINO NEW HEELS 40 -$220.00$190.00

Tribu Wedge 38 -$40.00

Designer Accessories

Loving that Miss Money Penny can bring the most amazing and fabulous brands into every girl's hands. We have some HOT designer sunnies coming in now and then and they should be snapped up as they are so expensive in store and are difficult to find at times.

We like these;

The Row -$200.00

Karen Walker Eye Wear -$250.00

Odyssey BRAND NEW Aviator Sunglasses -$95.00

Persol Italy Sunglasses -$100.00

So be sure to keep an eye out for new things coming in each week. You can subscribe to our newsletter and be informed weekly on just ion things or go onto twitter or facebook for daily bites.

Designer Resale Emporium

Miss Money Penny Designer Crush - Camilla & Marc

Sun, 14 Nov 2010 04:33:00 GMT

camilla & marc - the look

camilla and marc’s signature look of luxe fabrications, clean tailoring and modern silhouettes is the result of a collaboration between brother-sister team Camilla Freeman-Topper and Marc Freeman. Since its debut at Australian Fashion Week in 2003, camilla and marc has been a runway regular and has grown from one of Australia’s most exciting young labels to an international favorite.

camilla & marc now sell Internationally on IT site ww.net-a-porter.com with pieces listing for around $550+. For those with champagne tastes on a beer budget keep checking Miss Money Penny's consignment store as we get some amazing current season stock for a fraction of this price. You just need to be quick enough to grab it!

Like this;

Camilla and Marc One Sleeve Mini Dress 12

Designer		Camilla and Marc
Size		12
Colour		Black / Silver
Condition		Excellent (but see notes)
Price		$375.00
Product Availability		1

Camilla and Marc Stunning one shoulder long sleeve mini dress. Classic black with military style metal embellishment along the neckline. This dress is edgy and cool and makes for perfect after dark glam. Purchased for $550.00

To be on the list to hear about new lsitings first subscribe to our newsletter here

Designer Resale Emporium

Thift is back in Vogue!

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 04:27:00 GMT

Smart and frugal shoppers, conscientious consumption and stealth shopping are the talk of the trend gurus and Miss Money Penny delivers to the designer fashion part of the equation against qulality designer fashions at realistic GFC prices.

The Sydney Morning Herald reported way back in 2009;

"AFTER decades of conspicuous and unbridled consumption, Australians are rediscovering their inner miser and arming themselves against temptation. Their weapons of choice? Shopping lists, coupons and fewer trips to stores.

A third of Australians intend to start using coupons, visit value-based stores such as Aldi, use websites to track down the best price on items and take fewer shopping trips to cut down on impulse buying, according to the results of a survey conducted on behalf of the Herald by research firm The Leading Edge (TLE).

The sentiment of "same for more" is increasing, TLE concluded, which cannot be good news for most brands. "People will be happy to trade-off on brands in areas such as household staples," the managing director of The Leading Edge, Karen Phillips, said. "The basics, where no one will ever see the brand, that's where we'll see brands suffering."

All this is part of what the managing director of brand consultancy Landor Associates, Nick Foley, described as "value seeking"; a trend which, he said, is gathering pace. Value seeking is rife, not just in suburban Australia but also in the richer enclaves of Sydney and Melbourne where prestige brands used to be a daily indulgence. "If you are lucky enough to be in the market for a prestige car, you can get 20 to 30 per cent off compared to a year ago," Mr Foley said.

"Now more than ever there's going to be a feeling of, 'I don't want to pay full price'."

Another factor at play is the desire to appear frugal. "Like we saw in the last recession in the '80s, even if you've got money right now, you don't really want to be showing it off," Mr Foley said, a sentiment with which Ms Phillips agreed. "The whole tone of overconsumption and flashing cash is distasteful," she said.

Trendspotters in the US have coined a phrase for the way affluent individuals, embarrassed about flaunting their wealth, are shopping in secret: stealth shopping.

The shift to conscientious consumption has been brewing for years. Commentators agree that issues of sustainability and environmental degradation were already leading Australians to question their habit of overconsumption. Once the economy picks up, however, Ms Phillips believes Australians are likely to return to their old habits. "There's certainly a portion of the population - younger families mostly - that have been raised on a culture of overconsumption, and I think it will take more than a couple of years of an economic downturn to permanently change their consumption habits."

The director of Heartbeat Trends, Neer Korn, on the other hand, thinks smart shoppers are here to stay. The shift to smart shopping has evolved over the past decade, he said, and the global financial crisis has merely made it "more acute". "It's linked to the sense that now you can't trust anyone," he said. "Consumers are confronted with too many choices and marketers make so many claims, it's hard for people to know what to believe and who to trust."

Australians are researching their shopping options, online and through catalogues, as a means to beat the system, Mr Korn said.

"They [consumers] are much more hunters than gatherers … there's a sense of us against them. This is not so much to do with the economy; it's about feeling you are smarter."

www.FABSUGAR Australia (http://www.fabsugar.com.au) similarly picked up on celebrities cutting through with a clever point of difference on the fashion red carpets.

"Drew Barrymore recently hit the Nylon denim issue red carpet in a $25 vintage thrift-store find. The glomesh printed dress boasts a cut-out back and balloon-style sleeves, cleverly displaying both new-season and retro trends. Drew teamed her budget look with YSL heels and oversized gold hoop earrings. I'm really impressed by her frugalista styling here; not only has she chosen something original, but it's a style of a dress which flatters her figure and could easily be from a current designer collection.

And last on the ABC's 7.30 report, Business Editor Greg Hoy reported on "The Thrift Trend" in response to rising interest rates quoting,

JENNIFER CROMARTY, AUSTRALIAN RETAILERS ASSOCIATION: We did do a consumer survey of 1,000 consumers which did talk about the thrift trend.

"I would think it is actually just a general sentiment of what's happening in the global economy. The retailers have been struggling for some time because consumers, even though we've got good employment, people might feel that they have some discretionary income but they're worried about the threat of interest rates."

For more read on the ABC's story read here;

http://www.abc.net.au/7.30/content/2010/s3055352.htm

The moral of the story? If you are reading this page you are on trend. You are already being frugal but not skimping on quality and well made designer fashion that lasts. You have a keen eye for good value buys and know that you have to be in the right place at the right time to hunt down and gather the best pre-loved and designer fashion going arouind - without needing to sell the farm.

TTFN

MMP