The worldwide financial crisis has hit Moscow hard. Once known as a city of opulence where luxurious SUVs battled for space on designer-boutique lined avenues, Moscow’s prime real estate is increasingly feasible only for discount stores. Profits from luxury goods are expected to plummet by a third this year, and the Stella McCartney and Alexander McQueen storefronts in Moscow are now empty, after only 18 months in business. Still, the fashion show must go on.

And so, Russian Fashion Week occurred last week to little international fanfare.  The event featured 20% fewer designers, but those who did participate pulled out all the stops–check out a full array of photographs of models in flowing, layered, or fitted fabrics at MosNews.com.  Given these dark times, I find myself attracted to tough designs.  My favorite outfit featured ripped leggings with simple silver chains connecting the holes, like some punky spider’s web.  I totally dig the accompanying zebra combat boots–what shoe could be more appropriate in these wild, unpredictable times?

Still, I’m not sure I could pull that look off.  Instead, I opt for Biviel’s BV1627, shown at top.  I love the addition of a  feminine, modest heel.  And since these babies zip up the side, I’ll be able to almost instantly transform into the kind of kick-ass heroine who knows just how to stylishly survive these rough economic times.