The Choosy Beggar

In the wake of the steepest markdowns in years, the International Herald Tribune asks whether big-brands can ever again charge full-price for luxury goods. The answer? No one knows, but experts are observing a fundamental shift in the way consumers value products. [IHT]

“The longer [the recession] lasts, the better [consumers] will feel about a more permanently frugal and wholesome lifestyle,” one industry type tells the paper. “This may last an entire generation,” … “like the period after World War II,” the IHT adds.

“We haven’t seen a fundamental change in human condition but a shift in social conditions and human psychology,” another analyst notes. “There is a much greater examination of what constitutes value and authenticity. People are buying with wisdom. And the big trend is guilt. Shopping is social, it is part of a trend. And people now want guilt-free shopping.”

The Beggar abides.

Forgot to get the ladies in your life something nice for Valentine’s Day? They’ll forget all about it when they hear about how you braved the blood-thirsty crowds at Fortunoff’s liquidation sale to bring home some belated bling. The ugly business begins today at 20 locations along the Eastern seaboard. [Crain’s via Racked]

Fortunoff – 681 5th Ave – 212-758-6660‎ – Map
Fortunoff – 3 W 57th St‎ – 212-292-8800‎ – Map

Thursday through Tuesday, Skunkfunk is taking 50% off its regrettably-named athletic hippy gear.

Skunkfunk – 181 Orchard St between Houston & Stanton – 646-478-7785 – Closed Monday – Map

At the request of some anxious readers, we’re just coming back from a spot check at the Barneys Warehouse Sale. No need to get riled up, fellas, no further reductions since our last visit on Monday.

***Update: As of Thursday after, sportswear has been reduced to 40% off, according to one loyal reader.***