It seems that the days of conspicuous consumption have gone by the wayside. Even for those not affected by the economic recession (who would that be?), it’s just not as fashionable to spend money as it once was, nor as pleasurable. In fact, it can be downright shameful.

Consulting powerhouse Bain & Company calls it “shoppers guilt” in their recently released “Luxury Goods Worldwide Market” annual study. In short, our guilt about spending in this negative economy is having a negative effect on the economy.

The Wall Street Journal recently surveyed the landscape and noted how many luxury retailers are rethinking their strategies for selling high-end products this year. A consistent theme emerged among many, that purchases tied to a cause seemed to be an effective way for retailers to overcome the guilt barrier.

The benefits of a cause marketing promotion are numerous; helping worthy causes, fostering corporate social responsibility, broadening brand exposure and awareness, and increasing sales for the companies who support these campaigns. But here’s another genuinely valuable reason to support cause marketing – it’s good for the economy!

The good news is that shopping to support a cause has never been easier. Cause marketing campaigns abound in retailers nationwide. Get yourself or a loved one a great piece of jewelry this holiday season while supporting children’s charities through the Jewelers for Children program in jewelry retailers nationwide. Retailers such as Williams Sonoma, Brooks Brothers and Target can help take away some of your shopping guilt by making your purchase count towards saving lives through St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital’s Thanks & Giving campaign.  And while you’re out changing the world one guilt-free purchase at a time, stop in at the Cheesecake Factory and reward yourself with a piece of “Stefanie’s Ultimate Red Velvet Cake Cheesecake™” to benefit Feeding America.

Because what we should all really feel guilty about is feeling guilty about shopping. It’s not doing anyone any good, especially our economy. So go out there and shop…conspicuously! And do someone some good while you’re at it – yourself, a cause you care about, and our economy – all at the same time. How’s that for guilt-free shopping?