The influence of the recession has been seen even on the catwalk this year, with ripped stockings, distressed denim and military costumes that hark back to wartime rationing all prevalent themes for the season. Here’s how to make a statement in recession chic this winter without looking like you’ve raided the local car boot sale.

Chunky knits: We’re all being urged to save money and carbon by piling on extra jumpers, and Winter 2009s chucky knitwear theme plays to this demand. Keep it current by branching out in bright colours and choosing open weaves for an alluring flash of bare skin.

Long boots: Knee boots have been popular since last winter, but this season takes things a step further. Think slinky leather and suede numbers that reach up to mid-thigh, teemed with daringly short skirts and plenty of lacing. High boots add a much-needed touch of glam to the recessionista theme.

Rips and tears: It’s so 1980s, isn’t it? Nevertheless, torn tights, denim and stockings are back with a vengeance, appearing both on the catwalk and in high street stores. The key here is to accessorise – matching laddered tights with a patent black purse screams neo-grunge with a hint of rock chick glam. 

One-shouldered dresses: The key to pulling off this trend is to twin asymmetric shoulder-lines with bare arms – the ‘I couldn’t afford the other sleeve’ look is so turn of the decade. The high street is your friend here, with shops like New Look offering plenty of one-shouldered dresses at recession-friendly prices in store and online. Wear them simply with minimal accessorising for best effect. 

Capes and cloaks: If the one-shouldered trend has left you enthused but chilly, then why not embrace another of this season’s key themes – the 2009 cape? Not only will a cape put you at the cutting edge of fashion, it will also disguise a multitude of body sins and keep you toasty warm underneath.

Leather: Yes, really. And we’re not talking just trousers and jackets – any form of leather clothing, from skin-tight tops to Angelina Jolie-style dresses are on trend this winter. If you’re no cat woman then wear this trend subtly, choosing tops or dresses with leather decoration as acknowledgement to the style.