By Justine Carmine
Lifestyles Editor
Chanel, Coach, Gucci, Burberry, Dolce and Gabbana: These are all household names that we are accustomed to hearing in our everyday conversation. How is it that these designers have found a place in blue-collar life? Our generation is becoming obsessed with high-end designers at a high-end price. Why the fascination at something so frivolous as a hand bag or pair of sunglasses?
Part of the problem is technology. As sophomore Amy Lynn Cullen said, “We depend on technology too much. If we didn’t have technology then society would become dysfunctional.” We are constantly bombarded with shows on television such as VH1’s The Fabulous Life of…., TLC’s What Not to Wear, and reality shows that feature celebrities with nothing but the nicest things. Young girls who watch these shows are manipulated into thinking that if they have the latest Dolce and Gabbana bag, then they too, can be like their favorite celebrity.
But how do these young girls afford $400 designer bags? Another part of the problem is the parents. With the age of parents becoming younger and younger, they feel like their kids deserve the best as well, especially with designers providing new clothing lines for children. Designers such as Burberry and Versace are the newest designers to have a specific children’s line. Actress Katie Holmes was the first celebrity to dress her daughter in the new Burberry line. Parents today see that and feel the pressure that if they dress their children in Burberry or Versace, then their child will be loved and adored.
Another problem is that the parents give in way too easily. There might also be peer pressure at school. No one wants to be the only kid who doesn’t have the latest gadget. Kids are harsh to each other, so if they see another child without the latest contraption then it begins to affect their self-esteem.
The next problem is self-esteem. “People equate materials with self-esteem,” said Agnes Cardoni, a professor in the English Department. “You’re okay just as you are without the stuff.” Many people who buy compulsively have problems with depression or anxiety. In reality, they don’t need the stuff. Things just provide temporary happiness. Will a Gucci bag bring back your ex-boyfriend or will a pair of Micheal Kors sunglasses help you pass a class that you’re failing? Sure, it makes you feel a little better at the time, but what’s going to happen when your sunglasses or purse isn’t in season or out of style? You’re going to be right back where you started.
With culture as it is today there’s so much pressure to purchase only the best. Plus, with the outrageous prices, it’s really a waste of resources. It’s okay to treat yourself to a designer dud every once in a while, but think of what you can do with the extra money if you didn’t spend it on a single item. You can pay off your accumulating student loans or go on vacation with the money you save. So next time you see the latest Coach purse or wallet think: is it really worth the price?