8 lifestyle choices middle class people make that rich people find tacky

When you see a millionaire in a dollar store, you know they’ve got a different perspective. When you watch a wealthy person cringe at a home décor item, you know there’s something more to the story.

Yes, the world of lifestyle choices and social classes is as varied as it can get.

Now, it’s not always about the price tag or brand names. In fact, it’s often about taste, style, and understanding the subtle nuances of luxury versus extravagance.

I’ve noticed that certain habits or choices of middle-class folks can sometimes make the well-heeled among us raise an eyebrow or two. And I’m here to share 8 of those lifestyle choices that rich people might find… well, tacky.

1) Overloading on brand logos

Fashion tells a story.

When you walk out the door, your outfit is essentially a silent conversation you’re having with everyone who sees you. It’s a unique way of expressing who you are and what you’re all about.

Now, for some, this conversation screams “Look at me! I can afford designer things!” They’re decked out head-to-toe in brand logos, thinking it adds to their style quotient.

But here’s the thing – wealthy people often find this kind of display… tacky.

Why?

Well, it’s not because they’re against designer brands or high-quality clothing. On the contrary, they appreciate good quality and impeccable style. However, they tend to lean towards subtle branding or even no visible branding at all.

In their eyes, style should speak for itself without the need for a logo to do the talking.

2) Going overboard with home décor

I remember when I first moved into my own place, the excitement to decorate was beyond measure. I wanted it to look cozy, stylish, and yes – a little bit fancy.

So, I did what I thought was best: filled every corner with something. A vase here, a painting there, a cute knick-knack on that shelf. I thought it was the epitome of a stylish home.

It wasn’t until I visited a wealthy friend’s minimalist and tastefully decorated home that I realized less could indeed be more.

Her home was simple, yet it exuded elegance and sophistication. It wasn’t cluttered with a million little things, but carefully curated with meaningful and aesthetically pleasing items.

Rich people often find overdoing home décor tacky because it can appear chaotic and impersonal. They prefer a cleaner, more organized space that reflects their personality rather than the latest trends in the home décor catalog.

It was an eye-opener for me. I learned that true style isn’t about filling spaces, but creating an atmosphere.

3) Overspending on cars

When it comes to cars, many middle-class folks believe that the pricier and flashier the vehicle, the better. It’s seen as a status symbol, a sign of success.

Interestingly, a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology discovered that people who are more interested in high-status goods are more likely to be narcissistic and less likely to be involved in their community.

On the flip side, wealthy individuals often see the value in a reliable, comfortable car that gets them from point A to point B. They’re less concerned with the brand or model and more concerned with functionality and durability.

Keep in mind not to judge a book by its cover, and it’s essential not to judge a car by its logo or price tag. The true value lies in the experience it provides, not the status it supposedly confers.

4) Chasing after sales

We all love a good deal, don’t we? The thrill of finding a bargain, that sense of victory when you snag something for less than its original price – it’s exhilarating.

Middle-class people often make a beeline for sales racks or wait for the big discount days to make their purchases. But to the wealthy, this might seem a bit tacky.

Because rich people understand that quality matters more than quantity. They’d rather invest in something durable and high-quality at full price than buy a bunch of cheaper items on sale that might not last as long.

Remember the importance of quality over quantity in friendships, hobbies, and even food – the same principle applies to shopping. It’s not about how much you can get; it’s about the value that each item brings.

5) Overwhelming use of credit cards

I remember the first time I got a credit card. It felt like I had been handed a magic tool that could make my dreams come true. I could buy what I wanted, when I wanted – it was liberating.

But, as with all magic, there’s a catch. Every time I swiped that card, I was essentially borrowing money that I would have to pay back. And sometimes, with interest.

While middle-class people often rely heavily on credit cards for purchases, the wealthy find this practice quite tacky.

From what I’ve seen, wealthy individuals prefer to use cash or debit cards for their transactions. They understand that credit cards should be used sparingly and wisely – only when necessary.

They see the value in living within their means and not creating unnecessary debt.

It’s not about the instant gratification that credit cards provide, but about smart financial decisions and living within our means.

6) Skipping vacations for work

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to get caught up in the grind. Many middle-class individuals often forgo vacations or time-off to earn that extra bit or climb up the corporate ladder. They believe that constantly working is the key to wealth.

Surprisingly, rich people find this approach rather tacky.

Most wealthy folks understand the importance of balance. They believe in working hard but also in taking time off to recharge, refresh and reconnect with their loved ones.

They see vacations not as a luxury, but as a necessity for maintaining mental health and overall well-being.

A well-rounded life isn’t just about work; it’s about experiences, relationships, and personal growth.

7) Investing in fast fashion

Fast fashion – the trend of cheap, disposable clothing that changes as quickly as the seasons – is something that the middle class often leans towards. It’s an easy way to keep up with the latest styles without breaking the bank.

But to the wealthy, this practice can seem rather tacky.

Rich people usually invest in classic, timeless pieces that are well-crafted and durable. They believe in supporting sustainable fashion, understanding that quality should always prevail over quantity.

Think about sustainability and the importance of reducing waste, our clothing choices can also reflect these values. It’s not only about looking good, but also about being responsible consumers and caring for our planet.

8) Living beyond their means

This is perhaps the most significant lifestyle choice that middle-class people make which the wealthy find tacky: living beyond their means.

Whether it’s buying a house they can’t afford, driving a car that’s out of their budget, or maintaining a lifestyle that’s stretching them thin – wealthy people find this practice not just tacky, but also financially irresponsible.

Rich individuals understand the importance of living within their means. They believe in spending wisely, saving diligently, and investing strategically to build and maintain wealth.

The value of money and the importance of living within one’s means is not about keeping up with the Joneses; it’s about creating a financially stable and fulfilling life that aligns with your income and priorities.

Final thoughts

If you’ve come this far in the journey of understanding lifestyle choices and perceptions, you’ve perhaps realized that wealth isn’t just about the size of your bank account.

It’s about a mindset, a way of life that values quality over quantity, simplicity over extravagance, and sustainability over wastefulness.

And it’s not just about what rich people find tacky. It’s about making choices that align with your financial realities and long-term goals.

Sure, the wealthy may cringe at certain lifestyle choices. But at the end of the day, it’s not their opinion that matters most – it’s yours. It’s about how you choose to spend your hard-earned money, how you decide to live your life, and the values you have.

Because no matter how much money we have, it’s our choices that define us – not our bank balance.

Think about it.