Everywhere you look these days you see stories about how to survive in times of economic uncertainty. They often go like this: A family lives on tuna fish, crackers and bruised lettuce for one week — no iPhone, no driving the Range Rover for seven whole days! Even Vogue is in on the trend. A recent story about how to “be chic without breaking the bank” offered the kind of critical information we all need right now: “Inspired finds for under $500.” (Jigsaw boots, $460 — let’s hunker down!)

This is old news to me. Over the past few years, while working on writing projects, my income has at times hovered near the poverty line. And yet I live in an affluent neighbourhood. I wear designer clothes. I eat well. More important, my hair looks good. How do I maintain the appearance of being well-off when things couldn’t be further from the truth? It takes ingenuity, willpower — and lots of black.

Does this top look familiar?

Yes, I wore it Monday. Thursday, too. You see, I’m just following fashionable French women who choose quality over quantity and who wear the same pieces over and over. As Vogue editors might put it, “The key is understatement.” This means simple lines, no prints, neutral colours — and black. It doesn’t show olive-oil stains and if you wear black clothes people soon forget them — unless they are made of vinyl.

The “just one

accessory” rule

Even wealthy women mix designer pieces with Zara and Joe Fresh; they think it’s “fun.” And a wise and stylish friend claims that even if you wear a Gap T-shirt and jeans, all you need is one designer accessory: handbag, shoes or watch. (Until I own a good watch, I go without — or wear my great aunt’s 1940s model. It works perfectly, when I remember to wind it.)

Vintage tip

When wearing hand-me-down vintage accessories and jewellery, I try to think of them as “signature pieces” versus “I can’t afford new ones and, no, I don’t smell anything musty, do you?”

Maintenance

My four-year-old Lululemon pieces still look new and infrequent washing (much of it by hand, no dryers) is the reason. While I’m at my local pricey produce store, I’m wearing the same brand as women who live in million-dollar homes. PS, I’ll pass on that $12 pint of berries.

Does this top look familiar? (Part 2)

“You’re invited to …” Oh God, I’ve got nothing to wear. Truly. But I do have a fashionable friend who loans me designer pieces — and gives me her cast-offs, too. Tip: While wearing clothes on loan, do not drink red wine, stand near smokers, pet large dogs or lie down on wet grass.

Tips for being discreet

When complimented on a friend’s designer dress, merely smile and say, “Thank you!” When someone says, “I like your sunglasses!” resist the urge to offer, “Joe Fresh! Fourteen bucks!” Note: On the subject of discretion, never write about how you have no money. (Unless you need the money.)