Spending on phones, gaming and TVs continues even as confidence hits a four-year low.

With sales down and traffic fading, the new CEO faces a long climb -- even as retailer ups spending on design, stores and tech.

Resale's popularity continues to surge with high-end shoppers, led by brands like Coach, Ferragamo and Pucci.

As consumer anxiety climbs, authenticity and self-reliance aren't just brand values -- they're coping strategies.