It has been difficult deciding on what to wear in past months.  The rain, the cold, the stubborn weather pattern, etc., has certainly put a damper on enjoying all the fun, light clothing that we so look forward to wearing after a long winter.  Regardless of what is fashionable, or what we would like to wear, we have had no choice but to continue sporting the heavy sweaters and jackets of winter.  Without a doubt, the temperatures and the current economic conditions have put added strain on our mood and state of mind.  We've all been cooped up inside for far too long.  If you have not been affected, you are one of the lucky few, and I would love to know your secret!

That being said, the search is on for what will make us feel better.  Shopping for the purpose of lifting one's mood is referred to as "Retail Therapy".  It temporarily takes the mind off of what is troubling and fills a void inside.  I've done it and it really works.  Unfortunately, continued or excessive retail therapy strains the budget and that defeats the purpose.  So, how to find the happy medium?

I have noticed a growing trend since this past fall into present.  Customers are much more price-conscious, for obvious reasons. They are being more selective in what they buy, and, as a result, jewelry and accessories are flying out the door because they want to get something small for themselves (instant therapy) or buy a gift for a friend, without spending a lot of money. And, it works!

Retail therapy during a recession requires being as conservative with your clothes as you are with your money. Take advantage of the hand that has been dealt.  This is the time to conserve gas, eliminate waste, and spend time instead of money. 

Recycling is now fashionable, whether it be paper, plastic or clothing.   Why not reinvent some of the classic pieces in your wardrobe with something new?  Remember a prior SSW suggestion...there are no rules, wear what you like and what makes you feel good.  Jewelry and accessories add spice to an ordinary outfit, they can be worn much more than some articles of clothing, and the possibilities are endless.  And, oh yeah... they always fit.  (Another thing about a long, cold winter with comfort food, my clothes have shrunk.)

There are endless combinations of stones, metals, color and design incorporated into pieces of varying price points.  Jewelry design by local artists has also exploded.  Why go out and spend money when you can explore your creative talents and make the perfect piece yourself? Bead stores are popping up in various locations offering classes in jewelry making if you are so inclined. Therefore it is easy to find something for any style, taste and budget.

When it comes to jewelry, there are as many choices as there are personalities. Choices include chunky or delicate necklaces, beaded or cuff bracelets, "bling" or chandelier earrings to name a few.  Some popular materials include turquoise, mother-of-pearl, abalone shell, crystal and sea glass.  Hand-made, embellished belts are still going strong and are works of art in themselves.  Great choices can be found at small, local boutiques or larger chain stores, wherever you are comfortable. As the summer continues, look for art festivals and fairs offering different and unique pieces. Whether it be made with semi-precious or man-made stones and materials, the designs are fun, timeless and the perfect pick-me-up to brighten a cloudy day.  It's not about the money you spend on an item, it's about how you choose to wear it, that you love it, and that it makes you smile!

The sun will come out shining and the economy will grow stronger eventually.  It always does.  Until then, treat yourself, or a friend, to a little something special.

By Kathleen Sullivan

Kathleen Sullivan, a self proclaimed lifelong lover of clothes, lives in Marshfield and works as the manager and buyer for The Clothes Line in Scituate.  With several years experience in retail, Kathleen applies a sharp fashion sense to help women of all sizes, shapes, and attitudes discover their own personal style.