what do “recessionista” and Us Weekly have in common?

Here’s a phrase you have heard bandied about a lot recently -- in fashion circles and beyond: “Recessionista.” Defined by Wiktionary as a noun derived from a blend of “recession” and “fashionista” (plural recessionistas),

1. A person who is able to stick to a tight budget while still managing to dress stylishly.

As Kathryn Finney, author of How to Be a Budget Fashionista says, “Frugalness is the new black.”

Indeed.

But did you know that Us Weekly coined the term, “recessionista”? And furthermore, they beat many others to the punch by Trademarking it over a year ago. Those who are using “recessionista” for the title of their blog, in their advertising campaign, or anywhere in print may expect to receive a Cease and Desist letter. Simple as that. In fact, I had to submit a copy of this post to Us Weekly’s legal department for approval to publish this post. I explained that I did not want to use the term, but merely write about the etymology.

Incidentally, if you are thinking about using “chiconomics” for your own self-aggrandizement, think again. Chiconomics belongs to Us as well.