What’s hot in the fashion industry often reflects what’s happening in society at large, and this year we’re seeing a return to menswear in women’s clothing. I came across an article in USA Today magazine this past weekend about this trend and immediately thought of Pluto moving into Capricorn.

To quote Catherine Chow, co-founder of Tobi.com:  “In these serious and uncertain times, we’re looking for some structure . . . to convey power and confidence.” She is referring the general economic climate, with stocks plunging, home foreclosures spiking, and the big rise in the cost of fuel, all signs of change and turmoil.

For the woman wearing masculine-inspired clothing designs, the idea is to project an image of being in control, the one in charge. What is more Capricorn than that? Capricorn is strongly associated with executives and others at the top end of the ladder of success and with a conservative pinstriped image. With many women in the work force looking to move up the ladder, choosing to project the right image is very important – Capricorn all the way.

We may see the atmosphere lighten up some this summer when Pluto moves back into Sagittarius, but this is not likely to last much past Pluto’s return to Capricorn late in the year. I for one would be delighted to see the last of low-cut jeans and high cut T-shirts, the oh-so-causal look that Pluto in Sagittarius blessed us with.

It will be very interesting to see what the fashionistas will have for us when the 2009 designer collections hit the runways later this year. As a group they seem to have a sense of the prevailing atmosphere. More cuffed trousers à la Katherine Hepburn, classy men’s vests with bow ties, and high-heeled oxfords anyone?

posted by Neith . . .