This reminds me of a post by another Indian student visiting the US. The observation that that person made which stuck with me the most was his realization that rich people dressed in a manner that wasn't very different from folks in other social strata -- it was much harder to tell at a glance how much money someone had. I think this is broadly true.
> This reminds me of a post by another Indian student visiting the US. The observation that that person made which stuck with me the most was his realization that rich people dressed in a manner that wasn't very different from folks in other social strata -- it was much harder to tell at a glance how much money someone had. I think this is broadly true.
The types of items tend to be the same (in some jobs/contexts - suits and formal dress are still worn in various industries/events), but even when so the rich person will buy higher quality versions from designer brands.
For example, at a glance many people will not be able to tell Patagonia from Ozark trail, but the workmanship and price are very different, and somebody in the Patagonia-class will be able to identify it when worn by others.
Another factor is that the cost of higher-end/"luxury" goods outside the US is often much higher outside the US.
In the US, for instance, you can easily buy a Ralph Lauren polo for under $100 (on sale online, at an outlet, etc.). When I decided to buy some RL in Japan a few years ago, a polo that I could have probably found in the US for $75-$100 cost me around $175.
