In another time, we might be whipping out the plastic to celebrate, but research companies like DYG believe the American consumer is forever changed. No more frivolous purchases. Say goodbye to living large. Adios to Barney’s and Niemen Marcus, hello Big Lots and Target.
It’s now chic to be savvy, smart and thrifty. And as someone who has been labeled as “tight” with the funds, I’m ecstatic that my spend-thrift ways are now recognized as “cool.” So what if I brown-bag it everyday? My insulated lunch container is the equivalent to carrying the latest Coach bag in today’s recession era. Who would have thought I could be a fashionista?
Now I am only human. I splurge. I shop. And I sometimes covet what others have. It’s the American way.
But I do hope we’ve turned a corner as a culture and make a greater effort to save … to be grateful for what we have … and to simplify.
In fact, here are a couple of traditions/trends I hope we can say goodbye to forever …
* Over-the-top birthday parties. Enough with everyone trying to throw the most entertaining, swankiest bash for your toddler, pre-schooler, tween… A birthday cake, some balloons, a basic goody bag (wish we could get rid of these, but doubtful) and let’s call it a day.
* Outfitting our kids in high-end, name brand clothes. Now I have young boys, so this really hasn’t been an issue for us. I could care less, and their only request is to have super heroes present on their attire. But I know some other families – those with girls especially – and it just gets insane with the fashion. Going to play dates and school is not a Red Carpet event. Keep it basic. Embrace hand-me-downs. Invest in a few pieces where it makes sense, but otherwise, go for the cheap.
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Kerry Rivera contributes to Around the Watercooler at Mommy Tracked. She is a real mom from the "O.C." who is the Marketing and Advertising Manager for Toyota.
