The top fashion buzzwords during the current time of economic hardship are Chiconomics and Michelle Obama, or so says the Global Language Monitor.

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"The fashion world is affected by the global economic meltdown like everyone else this year and are reflected in this season's buzzwords like Chiconomics and Recessionist," said Millie Payack, the monitor's fashion correspondent. "Another significant influence is, of course, First Lady Michele Obama, who is subject of vast Internet and Blogosphere buzz."

The monitor released a list of 30 buzzwords timed for New York Fashion Week. While many of the buzz words have a timeless quality, like Gladiator, Recessionista at No. 6 seems geared to the downturn.

Chiconomics is defined as the drive to be chic remaining strong even in hard times.

Some other buzz words may have new connotations. Metallic, this year, is more about copper and pewter than silver and gold.