Beyond Opulence: The Allure of Simplicity in the Wardrobes of the Super-Wealthy
The peculiar choice of simple clothing by individuals with immense wealth has likely caught your attention. In our investigation, we delve into the reasons behind why affluent individuals opt for unassuming attire.
The Legacy of Thorstein Weblen
According to 'The Economist,' Dr. Carolyn Mair, the author of the book 'Fashion Psychology,' discussed the preference for modest clothing among the wealthy in an interview with BBC. The roots of this phenomenon can be traced back to Thorstein Weblen's concept of 'Conspicuous Consumption' in his 1899 book, 'The Theory of the Leisure Class.'
Weblen noted that individuals saturated with wealth do not feel the need to prove any status, leading them to prefer simplicity in their attire, unlike those who seek to gain status and reputation through ostentatious dressing.
In other words, as 'The Economist' suggests, if you are accustomed to having money, there's no need to flaunt it.
Communicating Power through Style
Dr. Mair emphasizes that the message you wish to convey through your style plays a pivotal role. Our style reflects our allegiance to social groups and distinguishes us from others. Similar to any language, if you're not fluent in it, you're likely to miss nuances, misunderstand, or at least misinterpret it. This concept underlies the idea of hidden wealth.
Quality Over Flashiness
Vanessa Friedman, the chief fashion critic at The New York Times, asserts that the quality of clothing, dependent on fabric material and sharp lines rather than exaggerated logos and designs, is crucial. Being at the top of the food chain means not being accountable to anyone, and this includes dressing to impress others. By opting for understated attire, the world perceives them as having achieved the highest success, and wealthy individuals are aware that they need not prove themselves.
Breaking Free from Social Norms
The significant point here is that billionaires need not worry about conforming to societal norms. Individuals with the financial means to live indefinitely may feel liberated from adhering to traditional fashion rules.
Understanding the value of money could also lead billionaires to adopt a simple style. While indulging in designer clothes and jewelry can be satisfying occasionally, many affluent individuals believe spending a fortune on untouched garments in their wardrobes is unnecessary.
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