Whether at work or in social settings, no one wants to come off looking like the poor relation. You may not have a huge bank balance, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still come off as someone who has a lot of money. Doing so doesn’t require a lot of effort, it just requires a bit of thought and a change in daily habits. Here are a few suggestions that just might change the way people see you.
1. Dress smart, not flashy.
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to be clad in designer gear from head to toe to seem wealthy. (In fact, you really shouldn’t be — that’s tacky.) Instead, opt for well-fitted, classic pieces that scream sophistication, not price tags. A crisp white shirt, tailored trousers, and clean, polished shoes can go a long way. Remember, elegance is always in fashion.
2. Master the art of occasional name-dropping.
Oh, you haven’t heard of the “Côte d’Azur”? Pity. Casually (and only very occasionally) peppering your conversation with mentions of exotic locations, high-end brands, and gourmet cuisine can lend an air of affluence, even if your most recent trip was to the local grocery store. Obviously, if these things are so far out of your lifestyle that it’s laughable, maybe skip this one — you’ll end up looking silly rather than classy.
3. Cultivate expensive hobbies.
Golfing, yachting, collecting art — these are all activities synonymous with the rich and famous. You don’t actually have to buy a yacht, of course. Just read up on these hobbies, learn the lingo, and you’ll be able to hold your own in any conversation. There are also other rich people pastimes you can take part in without being loaded, like playing tennis, skiing, and drinking wine. Speaking of…
4. Have an opinion on wines.
Nothing says “I have money” like an informed opinion on wines. Learn the difference between a Cabernet and a Merlot, and casually drop a line about the “notes of blackberry and hint of oak” you detected in your wine last night. The fact that it was a $5 bottle from the supermarket? Your secret is safe with me.
5. Be generous.
Wealthy people are often philanthropic. While you don’t need to donate millions, being generous within your means can give off a wealthy vibe. Picking up the tab at a coffee shop or donating to a charity can make you seem like you have money to spare.
6. Make sure you speak well.
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A refined vocabulary and good enunciation can often be associated with the upper crust of society. So, polish your language, darling, and remember to pronounce your Ts and enunciate your vowels. That’s not to say you can’t use the occasional bit of slang or profanity, but minding your Ps and Qs will get you way more respect (and will make people assume, however wrongly, that your bank balance is higher than it is).
7. Carry yourself with confidence.
It’s important to be self-assured and walk around with your head held high. People with money often have a certain nonchalance and confidence. They don’t feel like they have to prove themselves because they have a good handle on their worth. So, chin up, back straight, and walk into every room like you own the place (or could, if you felt like it).
8. Stay informed about current events.
Keeping up with current events and having informed opinions about them can suggest a certain level of sophistication. The latest economic trends, the stock market, world politics—these should be your daily bread and butter. You don’t have to know the ins and outs, but you should have the ability to talk about things intelligently.
9. Use minimalism to your advantage.
Who said wealthy people need to own a lot of stuff? Embrace the minimalist lifestyle, and when people ask why you don’t own much, casually mention that you’re more into “experiences” than “things.” To be honest, this is actually a good approach to life anyway, so it’s even better if you actually believe it.
10. Be unimpressed sometimes.
Remember that scene in “The Devil Wears Prada” when Miranda Priestly dismisses the newest fashion collections with a bored “That’s all”? Channel that energy. Nothing screams “I’ve seen it all before” like a well-timed yawn. Obviously, don’t be arrogant or rude by belittling someone else’s efforts or accomplishments, but don’t automatically act like the most basic things are the most amazing you’ve ever seen.
11. Have an assistant (sort of).
You can’t be expected to remember everything, darling. Use your smartphone’s voice assistant to set reminders, send messages, and more. When people ask, just say, “Oh, I have people for that.” They don’t have to know what you’re really talking about. You could even follow David Tennant’s lead and make up a fake assistant. Gmail is free, that’s all I’m saying.
12. Hang out at high-end places.
Spend your time in upmarket areas. Browse high-end stores (even if you’re just window shopping), work from posh coffee shops, and stroll around luxury neighborhoods. Who knows, you might even find a penny on those ritzy streets! If you’re seen in places frequented by people with money, everyone will assume you’re one of them. (Just make sure you dress the part!)
13. Practice your etiquette.
Knowing your salad fork from your dinner fork can certainly give off an air of refinement. Brush up on your etiquette to impress at any highbrow gathering. Elbows off the table, please! No burping or reaching over people’s plates, either. Show a bit of decorum!
14. Be vague about your job.
When asked about what you do for work, be a little vague. Say things like, “I work in a dynamic industry” or “I’m in between major projects.” The mystery might just make people think you’re a successful entrepreneur. Of course, if you literally sit at home in sweatpants all day, you probably don’t want to exaggerate too much or you might find yourself at a loss when pressed for details.
15. Have a signature accessory.
Whether it’s a faux designer handbag, a stylish watch, or a pair of fashionable sunglasses, having a signature accessory can make you look put-together and chic, hence giving off wealthy vibes. The more non-descript, the better — no need to flash a Louis Vuitton Neverfull. Most people will assume it’s fake, anyway.
16. Attend art galleries and exhibitions.
Rubbing shoulders with the cultured crowd at art galleries and exhibitions can lend you an air of sophistication. Plus, you get to enjoy some beautiful art! Just make sure to read up a bit beforehand so you can drop a few knowledgeable comments.
17. Always be “traveling.”
When people ask you about your plans, always mention that you’re “thinking of traveling soon” or “just got back from a trip.” The destination doesn’t have to be Monaco or St. Barts — even a weekend getaway to a nearby town works! It’s not like they’re going to know the difference.
18. Have impeccable manners.
Politeness and good manners are often associated with high breeding. Be courteous and respectful to everyone you meet, from the CEO to the janitor. Remember, there’s nothing classier than kindness!
19. Keep a clean, organized home.
Your living space says a lot about you. Keep your surroundings clean and well-maintained. A minimalist interior with a few tasteful decorations can give off a sense of understated elegance.
20. Keep the details about your personal life to a minimum.
The wealthy often value their privacy. Avoid oversharing about your personal life or finances. A sense of mystery can make people wonder if you’re secretly loaded!
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