Fascinating article from the Wall St. Journal about the changing shopping behaviors of affluent consumers.  Similar patterns that occur in the mass market are appearing in the affluent... coupon use, sale sensitivity, trading down, buying less and reduced brand awareness.  This trend is significant for many retailers and, interestingly, also for the deal guys (Groupon, Living Social et al).

Signs of this are already showing up with the new found emphasis on travel deals, high end spa packages and the success of sites like Gilt.

Now please excuse me while I throw on my Gucci sandals and run my Bentley over the the car wash... I have a  coupon!