Ever wonder what screams "I'm upper class?" A Reddit thread explored this question and the answers paint a vivid picture of how wealth is displayed – or, in some cases, quietly lived. From understated habits to jaw-dropping displays of affluence, Reddit users shared stories that reveal what truly sets the upper class apart. Here's a look at some of the responses:
1. When Price Tags Are an Afterthought
One Reddit user who works at a private school shared that students often leave behind pricey items like gaming systems, Apple Watches and designer clothes at the end of the school year. These high-end items, which would be valuable to most, are casually abandoned, highlighting a level of indifference that only comes with wealth.
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2. Old Money vs. New Money: It's All About the Attitude
A clear theme in the thread was the difference between "new rich" and "old rich." Those who have grown up with money often see expensive items as just things, while newer members of the wealthy class might feel the need to show off. "If you're actually rich, that $400 purse is just a purse," noted one commenter. The difference? Those truly wealthy don't need to flaunt it; for them, luxury is a given, not a status symbol.
3. Family Legacies and Historical Estates
Living on an estate granted to your family by Queen Mary? That's old money right there. Some users mentioned growing up around people whose families owned estates, newspapers and even professional sports teams. For these families, wealth isn't just about money but also about history and legacy.
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4. The Privilege of Connections
Connections were another standout feature. One Redditor who attended a private school in a developing country noted that his classmates' parents had ties to ambassadors and other high-ranking officials. When these families traveled, they didn't just book a car service – they were picked up by a caravan of black Suburbans at the airport.
5. Casual Excess
The wealthy often engage in casual excess that seems surreal to most. One user recounted working for someone who replaced perfectly fine $100,000 floors with new ones, just because they could. Another shared a story of a $2.4 million oceanfront house that was torn down, foundation and all, to build a new $3.5 million mansion. It's not just about having a nice home; it's about constantly upgrading, even when there's no real need.
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6. The Butler's Pantry: A Subtle Wealth Indicator
Ever heard of a butler's pantry? If you have one, you're probably doing well. It's an extra kitchen, often used for storing fancy dinnerware or preparing meals behind the scenes. It's a luxury most people wouldn't consider including in their homes, but for some, it's just another room.
7. Owning and Naming Public Spaces
Some families have their names on buildings, plazas, or parks – symbols of influence that last generations. As one Reddit user described, classmates' families owned everything from airlines to media outlets, showing that real power often goes hand in hand with wealth.
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8. "We Live Comfortably"
Interestingly, many of the truly wealthy avoid saying they are rich. Instead, they describe their situation with understated phrases like "We live comfortably." The irony is that this modesty can sometimes be the biggest clue; you don't need to say it out loud when you have real wealth.
9. Unusual Luxuries: From Flying in Big Macs to Private Stadiums
Sometimes, wealth shows up in ways you wouldn't expect. One Redditor described how a classmate's family flew in Big Macs from Miami because there were no McDonald's in their country. Another noted that their school's soccer finals were held in the national stadium – a perk that money alone can't usually buy.
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10. Luxury Redefined: Tailored Clothes and Yachts on a Tuesday
For the ultrarich, wealth is about bespoke clothes – custom-tailored suits instead of off-the-rack designer labels. And while many might spend weekends dreaming of a boat day, the truly affluent are already out on the water on a random Tuesday, enjoying their yacht as if it's just another day.
The Subtle Art of Being Wealthy
Whether having a butler's pantry, tearing down multimillion-dollar homes, or casually spending thousands on a weekend getaway, these stories reflect that true wealth often hides in plain sight. It's not just about the money but how it's woven into everyday life.
For the upper class, luxury isn't loud – it's a quiet confidence, a series of decisions made without thinking twice. And sometimes, it's just knowing you could, even if you don't feel the need to show it.
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