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Think your girlfriend has too many shoes?
You're probably right.
A Time magazine poll of affluent Americans reports that 11 percent of women own more than 50 pairs, and 51 percent say they spend between $101 to $300 a pair.
The average well-heeled American, the survey also shows, longs to drive a Mercedes, wears Ralph Lauren and spent at least $2,000 on jewelry last year.
Men own, on average, 12 pairs of shoes, while women own 27. But guys spend more per pair - about $257 compared to women's $200.
Men also outspend women on jewelry, averaging $1,251 a year versus $1,117. Forty percent of respondents say they've spent $2,000 or more on jewelry for themselves or someone else.
More than one third of women own more than 10 handbags, and Ralph Lauren was voted the most popular brand of clothing among both sexes. Brooks Brothers and Armani came in a close second and third.
Of those surveyed, 26 percent spent between $1,001 and $2,500 on clothes for themselves or others in 2005, while 13 percent spent up to $5,000. Three percent dropped over $10,000.
For big-ticket buys, 22 percent think Mercedes is the "best automotive brand," followed by Lexus (16 percent) and BMW (15 percent).
Time conducted the online survey of 603 adults with a median household income of $206,300 between Jan. 12 and 17. Its annual Style and Design issue hits newsstands tomorrow.
lindsay.powers@nypost.com
Copyright 2004 NYP Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved.
