Economic crisis - Vogue to the rescue

Vogue Australia's April 2009 issue is fashion on a budget. If one of the most high end magazines is featuring a pull out mini-mag on high street chic and are saving money themselves by reproducing the cover photo from a Vogue Japan cover, you know things are tight. 

But the mini-mag's art direction and styling is still very vogue and makes me want to get back out there shopping. Kirstie Clements is to be commended for doing a take on realistically priced fashion when half the world has lost their jobs. Although I must say it was a bit sad that she chose to appear on Today Tonight - the shameless 'current affairs program', giving styling advice to the pedestrian audience that watches that show (don't ask how I happened to see it!).

American Apparel are the new inventors

The crew at American Apparel have been twisting and unravelling into new inventors with the creation of the Circle Scarf. The Scarf is one piece of fabric that can be used to create twelve different looks. From $65 and in several block shades and a tie die finish, this is the most recession proof piece you need this Autumn.

Capsule Collection - Matthew Williamson for H&M

Matthew Williamson's capsule collection for H&M will arrive in UK stores on April 23. By the time the launch riot is finished and pieces hit ebay it will cost as much as a piece from his usual RTW collection would cost.

The quality of diffusion lines and capsule collections can be hit and miss - Matthew William's line for Debenhams looked tacky, Oasis' use of Liberty fabrics didn't take long to be in bargain bins but Alice McCall's recent collection for Topshop was of high quality and Richard Nicoll's pastel tailored pieces were merchandised within the premium Boutique section of the store.

What can Australian girls look forward to on our high streets?

Sportsgirl is currently stocking Elke Kramer's jewellery and accessories range which is influenced by Mexico and the store will also feature Romance Was Borne's new range which according to creator Luke Sales, is ''a bit of a circus and clown theme'', in store 16 March.

Eyes will be peeled for more collaborations.

Blondes go Top Deck

What is with the new trend with blondes asking their hairdresser to emphasise their roots -surely this is the antithesis of being a bottle blonde? Cameron Diaz first sported the look at the Oscars (above), Pip Edwards (Stylist) has a dramatic take on the look and now Kate Moss has turned up to the Chanel A/W '09 show with a heavy blonde tint showing her dark roots and the underside of her hair dyed a chocolate brown.

According to frockwriter, Pip Edwards's hairstylist achieved her look using balayage and has seen her look copied around Sydney nightclubs like the Ivy. I'd hate to see this look the morning after a night out, only the uber hot could pull that off.