FASHIONABLE POVERTY

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23115, 13 August 1938, Page 4 (Supplement)

FASHIONABLE POVERTY

MAKING THE MOST OF IT "Well, who isn't poor?" asks tho inimitable Marjorie Hillis in her latest book "Orchids, on Your Budget." Her earlier "Live Alone and Like It" has become a standard work for tliosc v ho do. Tho new book embroiders the themo and demonstrates the only way to achieve those indispensable luxuries on a limited income. She does for the woman-on-her-own what Gasson does for the business man —not only gives inspiration but actually confides the whole secret of getting the most out of this business of being alive. She reveals with a confiding candour that everyone is hard up—everyone except perhaps a few millionaires—all the rest of us have to contrive whether it means giving up the third limousine or giving up butter with our meals. So why stow because you haven t enough money? Money for what? A house like the Smiths, orchids on your budget, or a new evening wrap? To be ashamed of a lack of wealth is as dated as a hobble skirt. It's smart to be poor and live in a converted garage so don t be tiresome and talk poverty; all that matters is that you should have the right attitude and realise that whatever your lot, it's merely a challenge to your resourcefulness. The chapter "Please Dress" will leave many a woman without a rag to her back but face to face with the cold reality that to assemble a smart wardrobe " she must spend something—money, time or taste. Marjorie H ill is scores because she has an uncanny understanding of feminine weakness. However, this is a book whose popularity will at least prove that women can stand the truth. "Orchids on Your Budget," by Marjorie Hillis. (Duckworth.)