The out-of-control consumer

Ms. Yamamoto says she has long adored pink and wanted to dress in feminine clothes, but felt shy about her plump figure. After losing about 33 pounds in recent years, she got hooked on Diamante's tight-waisted dresses adorned with huge rose patterns, and estimates she may be spending $2,000 or $3,000 a month. Her husband, an architect who loves Europe, pays for most of her purchases. Her parents, who live nearby, send the couple food so they have more money for Ms. Yamamoto's shopping sprees.

"I figure it's OK as long as what I'm buying is pretty," she says.

(In a Wall Street Journal article on Japan's latest fashion trend)

Yeesh... if you live in the first world and your clothing purchasing habits leave you unable to afford your own food, that might be a hint that you're out of control.

Talk about enabling behaviour by the parents...