Haute Couture no more?

I guess you're right; the world of haute couture is pretty insane. Known for the uuber-sequined glitzy ballgowns, impractically huge collars and even shoulder pads, (and basically everything that can't be worn to a normal day job), haute couture is that species and little dose of weirdness that makes the fashion industry cool.......really cool.

Reports by Reuters shows us that as fashion week unfolds, we see how the economy really has taken a toll on the world of fashion. The runway of French designer Christian Lacroix was pretty dang depressing as we now have to realize that "even the world's most extravagant fashion scene [haute couture] to face economic reality."

We hear about businesses 'kicking the bucket' often, but not in the fashion world. That's a no-no. And for a poufy dress and everything amazing-tycoon like Lacroix to be placing his fashion house under creditor protection is a big deal.  Dior, (another biggie fashion brand), Cheif Executive Sydney Toledano simply states that fashion isn't about survival of the fittest or richest, it's all about cooperation between designers and managers.

Lacroix is sheduled to put on a mini-show with roughly 20 models and a simple 200 guests. And what have we learned, class? The fashion industry will never die...it will only remain with the best of the best.

How has the economy hurt the things that YOU love? Any budget cuts at school? Is your wallet a lil' thin?

(pictures! Top Right: Lacroix and design. Bottom Left: 3 more designs, Fashion Week)