Things Society Considers ‘Classy’ If You’re Rich – But ‘Trashy’ If You’re Poor

Have you ever noticed how society seems to have a double standard when it comes to what is considered “classy” or “trashy” based on your financial status? 

It’s a phenomenon that has been observed for years, but has recently gained attention on social media with a viral Twitter thread asking what’s considered trashy if you’re poor but classy if you’re rich.

According to the thread and various articles, there are several things that are commonly considered “classy” if you’re rich, but “trashy” if you’re poor. 

In the following sections, we will explore 12 things society considers “classy” if you’re rich, but “trashy” if you’re poor.

1. Luxury Vehicles

Luxury vehicles are one of the most obvious status symbols of wealth. The brand of the car you drive can be a significant indicator of your social status. 

If you are rich, you can afford to buy a luxury car from a high-end brand like Mercedes, BMW, or Audi. 

These brands have a reputation for producing high-quality vehicles that are associated with luxury and prestige.

Luxury car brands are often viewed as a symbol of success and status. If you own a luxury car, you are seen as someone who has made it in life. But if you’re poor, it’s a waste of money.

2. Designer Clothing and Accessories

When it comes to fashion, designer clothing and accessories are often seen as a symbol of wealth and status. However, the perception of these items can vary greatly depending on your financial situation.

High-end fashion brands like Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton are often associated with the rich and famous. 

If you’re wealthy, owning a designer handbag or pair of shoes can be seen as a symbol of success and sophistication. But if you’re poor, buying these items can be seen as frivolous and a waste of money.

3. Expensive Wines and Spirits

When it comes to drinking, there are certain types of alcohol that are considered classy if you’re rich, but trashy if you’re poor. 

Expensive wines and spirits are one of those things. If you have a taste for wine or spirits, you know that vintage bottles can be incredibly expensive. 

However, if you’re rich, having a collection of vintage bottles is seen as a sign of sophistication and class. On the other hand, if you’re poor, buying vintage bottles of wine or spirits is seen as a waste of money. 

People might think that you’re trying too hard to impress others, or that you’re simply being frivolous with your money.

4. Traveling to Exotic Locations 

Traveling to exotic destinations is often seen as a sign of sophistication and cultural awareness. If you’re rich, this might translate to luxurious vacations on private islands or exclusive resorts. 

But if you’re poor, traveling to exotic destinations might be seen as frivolous and unnecessary.

However, it’s important to note that experiencing different cultures and ways of life can be enriching and educational, regardless of your income level. 

5. First-Class Experience

Flying first class is often associated with luxury and sophistication. If you’re rich, flying first class might be a regular part of your travel experience. 

But if you’re poor, flying first class might be seen as pretentious or wasteful.

However, it’s important to note that first-class travel can offer a more comfortable and stress-free experience, especially on long-haul flights. 

If you’re on a budget, consider using travel rewards programs or booking flights during off-peak times to upgrade your travel experience without breaking the bank.

6. Investment Strategies

If you’re rich, investing in the stock market, real estate, and other high-risk ventures is often seen as a wise financial decision. 

However, if you’re poor, investing in such ventures is often seen as reckless and foolish. This double standard is due in part to the fact that the wealthy have more money to play with and can afford to take risks. 

Additionally, the wealthy often have access to financial advisors and other resources that can help them make informed investment decisions.

7. Tax Avoidance

Another financial strategy that is often seen as classy if you’re rich but trashy if you’re poor is tax avoidance. 

The wealthy have access to a range of tax loopholes and deductions that can significantly reduce their tax burden. 

However, if you’re poor, attempting to avoid taxes can be seen as immoral or even illegal.

While tax avoidance is not illegal, it is often viewed as unethical by many people. However, the wealthy often view tax avoidance as a smart financial move that allows them to keep more of their hard-earned money.

8. Country Clubs

If you’re rich, you’re often seen as a member of exclusive country clubs where you can enjoy golf, tennis, and other leisure activities. 

Country clubs offer a wide range of amenities such as fine dining, swimming pools, and fitness centers. You can also network with other wealthy individuals and enjoy social events. 

However, if you’re poor, joining a country club is often out of reach due to the high membership fees and exclusivity.

9. Yachting

Yachting is another leisure activity that is considered classy if you’re rich. Owning a yacht is a symbol of wealth and luxury, and it’s often associated with the elite. 

Yachts can be used for cruising, fishing, and hosting parties. They can also be a status symbol, especially if they are large and luxurious. 

However, if you’re poor, owning a yacht is out of reach due to the high cost of purchase and maintenance.

Leisure activities such as yachting are considered classy if you’re rich but trashy if you’re poor. 

10. Art and Collectibles

Attending an art auction can be seen as a classy event if you’re wealthy, but it can be viewed as trashy if you’re poor. 

Art auctions are known for selling artwork at exorbitant prices, and the wealthy are often seen bidding on these pieces. 

However, if you’re not wealthy, attending an art auction can be seen as trying too hard to fit in with the elite.

Also, collecting rare items such as stamps, coins, or vintage cars is often seen as a hobby for the wealthy. If you’re rich, having a rare collection can be seen as a sign of sophistication and class. 

However, if you’re poor, collecting items can be seen as hoarding or being unable to let go of things.

11. Spa Treatments

If you’re rich, going to the spa is considered a luxurious and relaxing activity. You can indulge in massages, facials, and other treatments that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. 

However, if you’re poor, going to the spa is often seen as a waste of money. People might criticize you for spending money on something as frivolous as a massage when you could be using that money to pay bills or buy groceries.

12. Latest Devices

When you’re rich, having the latest technology and gadgets is considered classy. 

Owning the newest smartphone, laptop, or tablet is a status symbol, and it shows that you’re keeping up with the latest trends. 

However, if you’re poor, owning the latest technology is often seen as wasteful spending, and you may be criticized for not spending your money on more important things.

It’s important to note that having the latest devices doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re using them to their full potential. 

Many people buy the latest gadgets simply because they want to be seen as trendy or fashionable, without really understanding how to use them.

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