Branded

The day we started snipping off the price tags from our clothes and accessories, was the day the brand name rage began. Cause there had to be another way of showing off what you've bought and for how much, without appearing distasteful. And what better way than a display of universally recognized symbols, representing just that.
A t-shirt that costs a grand, will triple in value by the addition of a tick mark sign. And this is true even if the sign itself is forged. The buyer is willing to be fooled, as long as everybody else will be as well.
Nonchalant extravagance has become the keyword.. people go to great lengths to be noticed as carefree spenders. The branding must appear effortless, almost accidental; that's the psychology behind credit cards being cooler than paying cash..you don't want to be seen counting your money. Looks cheap.
There is an iPhone app for sale, that, to me, defines the spending/branding culture of the world today. It's called 'I Am Rich' and it sells for 999$. Its a small glowing red icon, which if you touch, pops up the legend - I am rich enough to buy this app. Thats it.