After a 10-year bender of gaudy dreams and godless consumerism, Americans are starting to trade down. They want to reduce their attachments to status symbols, fast-track careers and great expectations of Having It All. Upscale is out; downscale is in. Yuppies are an ancient civilization. Flaunting money is considered gauche: if you’ve got it, please keep it to yourself — or give some away!

“The Simple Life Goodbye to having it all” Time Magazine, April 8, 1991

Yeah… guess that one went the way of plaid shirts and Beanie Babies. — BEN POPKEN

[via Frugal For Life]

Want more consumer news? Visit our parent organization, Consumer Reports, for the latest on scams, recalls, and other consumer issues.