The lipstick index is based on the theory that beauty standards change with the economy. Historically, cosmetic sales increase whenever the economy bottoms out.

Articles have even been written about the correlation between the economy’s strength and which models are in demand. Some female models get heavier during hard times and a recession usually creates a window of opportunity for older, sturdier male models.

One can speculate that tough times require drastic measures. When the purse strings tighten, we prioritise and sometimes a look of vitality and a taste of ostentatious fashion is an escape from the doldrums of reality. The late French fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli said, “In difficult times fashion is always outrageous.”

Is it any wonder that women can’t part with these fashions? Walking through a woman’s wardrobe is the same thing as taking a walk down memory lane. It isn’t just about the decades it represents so much as the stories and sacrifices behind each purchase.

During a recession, the first tendency is to scale down. But don’t purge the past in the process. There are other solutions.

The housing market is temporarily subdued and it’s a little harder to get on the first notch of the property ladder. This has increased the number of people renting homes by 40% in the past 5 years.

Regardless of the height of heels or the rising sales of lipstick, property experts recommend that you continue to spend money on home improvements and rental properties even during a recession. These expenditures aren’t an indulgence so much as a necessity. If you don’t invest in your properties, you run the risk of reducing their value.

When people can’t move, the best option is to make the most of your space. The same applies for rental properties. With almost half of the population vying for rented accommodation, it makes sense to make yours as marketable as possible.

Costly extensions may be out of the question, but consider the benefits of Sliderobes.  Our bespoke storage solutions for bedrooms, kitchens, living areas and offices create space and add value to any property.  And the plus is that you won’t have to purge the nostalgia. It will easily fit into your Sliderobes fitted wardrobe.

The experts are saying that heel height is going down. If that’s a good sign for the economy, make sure your property is ready for anything to happen.