Lets assume I have an annual income of $300,000 and little debt. Why should I spend $50 on a "high end" toaster when I can spend $9 on a regular, no frills toaster and get the same toast out of it?
My buying the $9 toaster is not a reflection of my economic situation, but a reflection of my mental ability. I am smart enough to not waste the extra $40.
people with $300K incomes don't buy $9 chinese toasters, they buy $150 ones made in england from williams-sonoma that last a lifetime.
Good thing you aren't married to a wife like mine who MUST have everything match her decor. cheap wal-mart toasters just won't do around here, because their main funtion isn't making toast, they must make a statement instead.