Meaning of "Shoplifting Clothes" by Paul Simon

The lyrics of "Shoplifting Clothes" by Paul Simon seem to satirize the consumerism and materialism that often surrounds the fashion industry. The clerks in the store push expensive and ostentatious items onto the customers, emphasizing the need to keep up with trends and look a certain way in order to gain approval or admiration from others. The repetition of the phrase "Well I believe it's that time of year when I shop for clothes" highlights the societal pressure to constantly update one's wardrobe and spend money on material possessions. The song seems to critique the idea that clothing and appearance can determine one's worth or value, and highlights the superficial nature of consumer culture.