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There's good news all around in today's lipstick level, both at the high and low ends. Predictably, Wal-Mart is doing incredibly well, but according to the IHT, it's actually exceeding expectations. Also doing well: niche teen stores like Hot Topic. Apparently the desire for zebra-print leggings remains high even during times of struggle.
Also in the black? YSL. According to Miles Socha at Women's Wear Daily, YSL has become profitable by emphasizing store sell-through rather than loading up boutiques with merchandise. The company is led by Valerie Hermann, a "driven but fun-loving" CEO. Part of the reason that YSL is doing well seems to be their increased brand visibility. Socha notes, "YSL is ranked number-one within Gucci Group in terms of editorial credits, prorated versus advertising investments."
Keeping your brand solid is something that Nespresso, the "upmarket coffee capsule" from Nestle has done quite well. They've built their entire marketing campaign around George Clooney. But that's not all! Advertising analyst Jim Boulton tells the BBC:
The marketing material [for Nespresso] at every touch point is polished and has data capture at its heart. ... Consumers are automatically enrolled in a loyalty programme, and receive a regular glossy magazine that re-enforces the notion that consumers are members of an exclusive club.
I guess everyone wants to join a club that involves fantasizing about waking up next to George Clooney. Thanks to the Cloon and his upscale caffeinated beverages, today's lipstick level is a 70.
Earlier: Introducing the Lipstick Level: A Recessionometer
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This is the very last thing I'm gonna say about Palin's down-parka-to-Escada makeover when I'm supposed to be doing real work, but can I get a show of hands from everybody who thinks looking good is a problem? Me neither; this jacket in particular I could really go for. Only weeks ago, fresh off the news that my 401(k) was histoire, I made quite a frivolous clothing purchase in euros, for heaven's sake; even the Parisian salesdude couldn't believe it. And as someone who in my first year out of grad school spent a cool third of her annual income on an Yves Saint Laurent cocktail dress I wore twice, I have no rocks to throw on this one and am with June in SP's corner.
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