I think you can make intelligent choices, based on a range of factors, in a knowing way. Even when marketing and advertising is in play. At the other end people can be persuaded to wear a codpiece and hang a couple of marshmallows from it's base, because all the smart people in Paris are doing that this season.
For me the key is the application of critical thought, and making knowing choices. If you don't unilaterally apply it, you are a thicko predisposed to being misled by misinformation. Whether that is in the form of marketing, advertising, propaganda, or being sold clothes, or taught to appreciate 'art'.
But that might be because I'm just an unregulated philistine, with no visual or group/uniform sensibility.
