Recession Session: Maintaining Your Suave

As a designer, I understand how challenging it is to get people to spend money, especially during these hard economc times. The Suave man is in fact, a luxurious man. In or out of a recession, he’s looking for clothes that are functional, fashionable, durable and versatile. “…Something that can last more than a season, more than a trend” says Milan Vukmirovic, the editor, photographer, retailer and Trussardi 1911 designer.

Out of these hard times, Jean Scheidnes, writer for WWD Menswear describes this new age of shoppers as a “deeply anxious, slightly diminished and thriftier fashion flock.” I agree 100 percent. The economic crisis hasn't stopped people from shopping; instead, they’re starting to reinvent the way they spend. Thrift shops and online shopping, where one can immediately shop around for the most convenient prices, have become more popular than ever. People are starting to invest more and more in what I call ‘Timepieces,’ things that will survive beyond current trends both style and quality wise.

Former merchant Micheal Bastian says “If something speaks to a guy, and he feels he’s going to wear the hell out of it and gets his money’s worth from it, that to me is real luxury-time and money well spent.” and that my fellow Suave Men, is some good advice.

I’ve been researching places to find luxury items for more reasonable prices. I mean a designer has got to eat! You may have seen one of them pop their advertisements here and there but they actually have really good stuff for even better prices. Ideeli.com, launched in June 2007, is one of the fastest growing retailers in the U.S. With more than 5 million members and more than 1,000 brand partners, Ideeli has pioneered a new way to shop. Another site founded by Amazon.com called MYHABIT, is a private fashion sale site offering up to 60% off handpicked selections from designer and boutique brands.

Note: Some of these items and sales are for limited times. At these prices, items sell out quickly. Check out these sites and tell me what you think in a comment.