Colour Yourself Out of the Recession

As we meander our way through the recession (or is it now a recovery?) and wonder whether there will be a double dip, it's interesting to note that fashion designers have hit the catwalks with bold bright colours and patterns. When the chips are down, the world needs fun, strength and vibrancy in its clothes.

Even black has taken as big a back seat as it ever can in the UK. Grey, black's softer, subtler more feminine cousin, has filled the shops.

When we consider all the doom and gloom, it's no surprise that the most dominant colour over the last couple of seasons in the shops has been purple. Not only does it traditionally represent wealth and power but it also conjours up exotic floral images. And surely we are all up for a bit of these in our lives when we feel that the reality is humdrum and financially insecure. Greens of all sorts from soft Autumny moss right through to the really vibrant grass and limes are all over the place, providing a sense of restfulness, sending us soothing and cheerful messages as well as health giving vibes. And there are strong, powerful reds which also speak of love, comfort and warmth. And so it goes on: Lots of bright colours combined in strong blocks or wild, oversized patterns. Colour is not being used subtly or delicately but is right there in our face, encouraging us to push through the adversity, stand tall and not to take stick from anyone.