In with the Lipstick, Out with the Louboutins

Though it may be stating the obvious, in hard times most people cannot afford to purchase superfluous items with a large price tag. Women with a bit of money to spend usually are the ones buying said items, on things like jewelry or a pair of pricey shoes. During this looming economic crisis, the sales at major department stores and boutiques are slipping, causing job cuts and credit problems.

All is not lost, apparently. After being the girl that stands in front of the wardrobers, admiring the dresses and clothes I cannot afford, and walking out with a measly tube of lip gloss, it makes me feel a little better knowing I am not the only one participating in such activities. There is a term, thought up by the Chairman of Estee Lauder, Leonard Lauder that explains this behavior.

The “Lipstick Effect” happens during times of economic recession. It explains that women tend to purchase affordable items, like lipstick or nail polish, rather than the more expensive things in order to boost their spirits a bit.

Historians claim the same thing happened in the 1930s during the Great Depression, where a tube of red lipstick seemed to make the world a brighter place. The term, however, came about shortly after September 11th. According to the Chicago Tribune and ACNielsen data, the sales of color cosmetics–including lipstick and eye shadow–are up 4.4 percent.

Men, who tend not be such fans of cosmetics or lipstick, are using their lipstick budget towards double cheeseburgers and fries. Fast food chains seem to be one of the only businesses in America to see an increase of profit this year.

With the lipstick effect seemingly in full force, at least cosmetics counters can continue their business. That, and the slight pop of color on a woman’s lips might brighten someone’s day amidst that dreaded R word.