I think that discussion is fascinating, Mike and Lew and all. I really appreciate hearing other people's observations on this topic.
I think there is definitely (sadly) the consumerism, get-things-for-cheep-cheep thing going on, but I also think that as more people become aware of the sadness of sweat shops and child labour and environmental and social impacts of the clothing industry, there is a movement, if only a small one as yet, towards people sewing their own things. It would be marvelous to see this grow!
That said, I must hone my own skills - so far I have not progressed much past The Rectangle. ;-)