With the economic outlook in Japan getting downright gloomy, how is it that sales of Cosme Decorte’s $160 Moisture Liposome and the almost $1,300 (no, that’s not a typo) Crème Synergique facial cream—from the highest-end line under Shiseido’s luxe Cle de Peau brand—were up 150 percent and 110 percent, respectively, over forecast figures for October-November ’08?
The hypothesis: With consumers feeling at the whim of overwhelming global forces, they may be willing to spend more on discretionary things that give them a sense of control over something closer to home—in this case, their beauty.
I will still buy my moisturizer—over 100,- Euro a jar. Even though it is expensive—that is the one luxury that I still treat myself to. I know it works and don’t want to start experimenting. I would rather save in other areas.
I agree. I will continue to cough up the money for needlessly expensive curly hair products and $130 for cuts by curl experts in Soho. Curly hair is unpredictable as it is and my products bring some kind of stability to my beauty regimen. I’ll spend less on other beauty products where price doesn’t really make a difference in quality. Though the world seems to be on the brink of disaster, at least I can count on my hair looking its best.
i do think that as we go into the possible bleakest times, we tend to be kinder to ourselves and people around. it’s a kind of coping mechanism, ultimately when the world is at its worst, we want to feel the best.
Thanks for the comments. I like the idea of, “being kinder to ourselves and people around”, as a coping mechanism in bad times. And the comments about satbility and control (”I know it works and don’t want to start experimenting”; “at least I can count on my hair looking its best”)are interesting. As a relatively naive guy, this raises a question for me, though. It seems that in this recession, fashion and other beauty-related items seem to be taking a hit; women may not be cutting back on “beauty care” items (facial creams and hair products), but do seem to be for “beauty accessory” items (clothes, bag, shoes, colour make-up, etc.)For women out there, is this the case for you, and if so, why; what’s the difference? The other question it brings up for me: I wonder what the equivalent to the expensive face cream is for men?