I looooove when I've had coworkers who drink everyday question my designer items. "I don't spend hundreds at the bar a week and have no kids" usually shuts people up really quick, isn't going to make you friends but I don't want those friends anyway😂
My husband got a present to me - Chanel flap bag , and literally two months later I got diagnosed with late stage cancer and a true hell on earth began to happen for me. So I had no chance to wear it still. I’m still alive and hoping I will wear it soon, but moral of the story is this: you never know what other peoples life is like , even if the wear luxury items, so don’t judge! And other moral - life is like a box of chocolate, you never know what you gonna get. So ENJOY IT NOW! ✌🏻
This happens to men too. I remember a few years ago one of my bosses commented on our interns quite extensive Hermes tie collection (it turned out to be his dads, but people still clocked a 20 year old wearing thousands of pounds of clothes). It worked out in 2 ways (which I can’t see happening to a woman)- some of our peers were jealous or sucked up to him as they knew his family were wealthy, but our boss picked him to go to client presentations as he was “smartly dressed” -effectively fast tracking him to promotion and a very lucrative role. It’s so frustrating a handbag can be seen so negatively but men’s clothes can be seen as a positive.
@@DTHalcyoneI would buy these things preloved only. You can safe 90%+ and have really great rare collections… plus no one wears ties as much as in the past nowadays
My first job, I was really into fashion, but I didn't have money for luxury items. I carried a few Coach, Rebecca Minkoff, and Kate Spade bags, and got dumb judgmental comments about them being expensive anyway. It wasn't a nice place to work in general in terms of people. I ignored everyone and used whatever I wanted. My current job - my Long Champ tote is the cheapest "fashion" bag anyone brings in (aside from people who just don't care about these kinds of items at all). No one even bats an eye at a Celine tote or a classic flap in our office. We have people dressing in anything from Kohl's to Hermes, they all get treated the same. And it's great. Can't imagine going back to a place where people endlessly gossip about others.
I sort of had a similar experience too. Me and most of my family members don't come from privilege backgrounds but, they think Kate Spade, Coach and Forever21 are expensive brands lol. I can tell they think I'm trying to pretend to "look rich." The fact they think only rich people can look groomed, polished and well-dressed is just absurd and ignorant. You don't need a lot of money to look well-dressed, you just need to have a sense of style. There are so many wealthy people with zero sense of style! 😂
I honestly don't own any tote from a premium luxury Brand buy I love my longchamp and I think it is the most expensive bag in the office & I don't care about People talking about me 'cuz I really would like to flex anytime I could. I work, Im not married, no Kids no debts..I Just get a designer thing every birthday and I'm not gonna feel guilty 😅
I completely agree with you Sophie. Years ago I sold many items in my closet to buy a Chanel bag. Something I had been dreaming about for years. A family member went on and on about how terrible it was that I bought the bag because I could have fed the poor with that money. Meanwhile that family member buys a new car every year.
I get so angry when people say ‘is that real ?’ , because they can’t quite believe that i own it! You never know how people have afforded their luxury goods , but when people assume you CAN’T afford it, it’s almost worse than them realising that you can 🙈
In my opinion people are still going to find ways to be jealous. Even if you aren't wearing designer and expensive stuff people can still be jealous of the fact that you still look good and polished while wearing cheaper stuff.
That is absolutely true. I've had people I knew well and thought were friends get jealous of me simply for having a business even when I was struggling (and they knew it) instead of supporting me! It hurt at the time to see that sort of reaction from people who I thought were friends. I made sure to send them updates of my successes.
@@conniegerardi9845 Yes this is so true! You might as well please yourself because there's no pleasing some people. I was even told to not wear lipstick because some feminist felt threatened. Bizarre.
@@deborahcurtis1385That person wasn't a feminist; they were just being an arshole. Wearing lipstick or makeup in general doesn't make someone less than. That person was insecure & wanted to knock you down because they thought you were only attractive with makeup on & needed to pick on something to make it an issue. I hope they were told it was a ridiculous request & that person was reprimanded for wasting company time.
I’ve had 2 terrible experiences at the same place of employment. 1) My 15 year old car could not be salvaged so I purchased a new car and by the end of the day, someone had keyed my brand new car. 2) I had bought a beautiful Coach purse at lunch and could not keep it in the hot car. When I got home and unpacked it, someone had clearly rummaged the bag and scratched the leather. Learned my lesson with those jealous low class women.
It is imperative to be discreet in any workplace. Years ago, I worked with a girl where her wedding photos showed that she had an engagement ring like Princess Diana. She had never worn it at work and she had never brought it in to show us. She was right.
When we had team lunch, they talked about their wives shopping. My boss said, “ Thank God, my wife doesn’t like designer bags”. I just laughed. They saw me with the vintage LVs. I stopped changing bags every week. I’ll do that every 2 months. Less stir up. But I spotted one young colleague with a Loewe Barcelona bag. So, at least I am not alone.
I worked at one place and my manager was a man and he commented on my Michael Kors bag. He said out loud "oh that's a pricey bag". I was like dude, it's like $100 and it's not expensive whatsoever. Like are you kidding me?! But I realized it's coming from a person who had no sense of fashion or trends. It's really ridiculous!
I'm so glad you're talking about the elephant in the room. When I returned to Toronto after working on Wall Street, I was told by an Executive Search partner that I shouldn't wear my Cartier Tank with diamonds on interviews. She told me in a kind way, as a reminder that Canada is a different culture than NYC. One of my female colleagues from NYC switches out her large engagement ring for a smaller one when she travels to Toronto for work. In NYC, it's a good thing to be seen to be doing well. In Canada, we have tall poppy syndrome.
@@seagreen2034 Yah, I was surprised as well. Born & raised in Canada I thought I understood the culture, but I'd been away for many years. Canada is very different than the US even though we share a continent.
Canadian here too. My husband and I after 8 years of marriage are finally in a position to become homeowners and we’re terrified to put anything online as in our business we work with many volunteers, so if we show anything nice we’ve worked incredibly hard for, we’re immediately judged :( I’ve been in situations where I’d get nasty comments on my Kate Spade. It can be ugly :(
I still remember the first thing one of my accounting professors said to our class, before covering any content of the course, was a detailed explanation of what kind of car we should be driving as accountants. Too old of a car and it shows the client that you’re bad with money, and too nice of a car makes them think you are overcharging them. Apparently you should be driving a midrange sedan in professional settings 🤷♀️🤷♀️
My boss took out my tiny YSL card holder out of my bag and said: I think we have to re-discuss your pay if you can afford this. (Half jokingly). It was disturbing
I'm an attorney in Chicago and I've worked in different offices from high end to high street lol and what I found is there are just people who are intrinsically stylish ... they look put together because they have great hair and understand make up and dress their figure in tailored clothes and they have a handbag from target ... then you have the hot mess express who has a Chanel so .. no one hates the Chanel lady because she's a joke but everyone gossips about target bag
I never wear or carry designer to work. Learned my lesson once when I took my LV Speedy. My boss said, "I think I'm paying you too much". Since then I'm done.
Glad my office is the kind of place where when one of my team members carries a new bag we all ask about it and are interested in. Working in Hong Kong, designer goods are very common here so there is less judgement.
Yes in hk there are definitely more people carrying their designer bags to work. It is taken as a positive and I feel it's less judgey even if you were. Ofc not everyone wears one to work, but it's so generally prevalent no one really bats an eyelid.
Here's my comeback to "you must like looking expensive: Yes! I do. And I see you don't". No one knows me here, but if you did, you would know I would ABSOLUTELY say that. I've learnt in life that when someone wants to purposefully make you feel uncomfortable for no reason other than jealousy, put it back on them.
I love how you pointed out that everyone has their “thing”! It’s so true! You can buy anything, but you can’t buy everything. Also, my Longchamp tote is the best $150 I believe I’ve ever spent on a bag! I use it everywhere from the office to the beach because it’s so easy to care for!
I am so very lucky to work in an environment where my co workers love to see my ‘outfit’ of the day. They also love to see my handbags. Your comment that EVERYONE has something is so spot on. Anytime I am ‘mocked’ for spending money on bags/fashion, that has always been my comeback. Cars, horse, houses etc. It’s a real shame that just because it’s A handbag, somehow that doesn’t justify ( nor qualify) for legit spending .. of MY hard earned money. 😮
If there's one most important lesson that I've learnt with the years is to stand up for myself. I worked hard, I made some money, I bought some things I liked and I use them! I just couldn't care less for anyone else's envy. I can be compassionate if someone is somehow disadvantaged in life or fallen on hard times, but I have little care for a colleague's or family member's snarky remark. I chose how to manage my finances and my lifestyle to afford me the stuff that I've got; not like I'm in debt because of my items. If someone pays me a backhanded compliment, I'll receive it as if it's genuine and move on.
My sisters judge me for my love for designer bags. They said I was trying to keep up with my inlaws who love designer things like me. I’ve been dreaming of designers bags ever since I was in 7th grade, and now that I can afford them of course it’s what I collect. I told my husband how it hurt my feelings because my bags makes me so happy, being able to finally have them using my own money and they cant be happy for me. My husband laughs at my situation and tells me they’re just jealous (they used to borrow my bags when I lived with my mom). So my husband is annoyingly flashy when we meet up with them. 😂 I kid you not they don’t acknowledge any of it but they stare.
Where I work, it is ok to wear designer stuff cos majority of the people don’t recognise luxury brands nor pay very much attention to fashion. There’s a lady co-worker who wears her Chanel flap everyday but is constantly fearful that someone might steal it from her desk, which I find amusing. However, having a boss who gets jealous of your luxury bags and passes you over for a promotion for that reason is absolutely appalling. It’s a sign to get the hell out.
I have such a similar story! I had my LV wallet inside my non designer bag at work and a coworker noticed it, made a comment "oh how many meals did you skip to pay for that ridiculously priced wallet?" In front of other coworkers, who laughed!! I never lived it down 😢
I work at a bank and I must say it’s very common to see luxury handbags at work. I even had a department manager display her LV VIP gifts in her office. She still remains a well loved rising star within the company and no one is particularly upset over what other people own. There are other problems and office politics in my company, but I don’t think personal wealth is something management worry about.
I do take my venerable Coach bag to work. I've had the bag since purchasing it when I was 18 years old (I'm 66 now). It's still in great condition. I do have a locker at work, and that's where I put my bag. Many people have seen it over the years, and some were envious of me for having it. If no locker was available, the bag stayed at home. (Jan Griffiths).
I carry an Hermès, Prada or Jil Sander bag every day. I don't own any others, except for a few cotton totes. I wear Prada, Jil Sander, Yohji Yamamoto etc. every day because I don't have any other clothes. I have never experienced any negativity because of it. Perhaps because I'm a man - women are usually judged more harshly.
It's very sad not to be able to enjoy your life as you want, so wear your beautiful things anywhere you wish and let them burst from jealousy. They should mind their own business not others. So, enjoy and feel free to express yourself.
Good point. No matter how friendly the work environment seems to be, never forget that it is a place of competition. Choosing an appearance that is a bit muted most of the time is beneficial. The jobs where a flashy appearance is a good thing are more of an exception.
Sophie, some time during the pandemic, I stopped watching almost all luxury videos, although I was bingeing them before. All the price markups and the depressing economy, and that Balenciaga fiasco made it not so fun anymore. You are the only one I remained consistently subscribed to. Thank you so much for continuing to share with us and talk about things. I always look forward to your videos each week so much.❤
Office I go to is a big IT company in London. Mostly everyone wears Hermès, Rolex, Cartier as normal. Many of them are men in my office who sometimes I over heard them talk about rare watches and luxury holidays ☺️
I wore Coach Tabby Pillow bag to the office last week and my boss asked me if that is Chanel because of the C on the clasp. The irony is that I wore for a month before that Chanel 19 and nobody noticed it is Chanel :D I think that one can wear designer bags to the office, but it heavily depends on the working environment. I work in an engineering office and I work with guys only and there have never been rude comments, some of them even asked me advice on what bag to buy for their wives. They notice my bags, but never comment rudely or ask me how much they cost. But for business meetings with clients and business trips (also due to the security reasons) I never bring any designer bag with me. So I think they can be worn to the office, but that depends on people one work with.
My boss encouraged me to buy a Birkin touch then we went out to celebrate it. So it's not always true! Celebrate the people who support you if you find them!
This is so true! I had to stop wearing my wedding bands and engagement ring to the office. I actually had someone keep pushing to try on my rings to the point I felt super uncomfortable. I use a simple band now and when I’m not in the office I use my bands.
I have the luck to work in my own studio so I set my own rules,but whenever I have clients to meet I always dress expensive(showing off a few brands while still looking classy obv).I do this because even though I am a professional,people always try to lower my prices and ask for sales while presenting myself like that they know I’m not cheap nor do I compromise for my prices.Either you collaborate according to my terms or not at all if you can’t afford me. Also I see a ton of my colleagues being treated like slaves from clients just because they don’t know how to present themselves,as ugly as it may sound looking expensive is a way to get respected in society nowadays so we better invest on that.
This is so true, hence why I don’t wear my luxury bags to work (with the exception of maybe my Goyard tote). You’re 100% right about this!! I’d especially never wear my Chanel bags. People talk & gossip & I know it could impact the way I’m perceived.
Thanks for Sharing Sophie. However I work in Banking and people come into work dressed like it's New York Fashion week. Everybody (most people) are dressed to the tee every day. Every Prada, Chanel, LV, you name the handbag, they have it, you name the clothes they are wearing it. You will actually be looked down at if you come in looking shabby. and cheap.
I agree. I stopped taking my luxury items to the office because I don't need that negative attention. I honestly like fashion. I enjoy hunting down bargains, and buying things I can use for a long time, and leave for my children when I leave this world. I don't do it to show off or feel better than anyone else. But people don't see it that way, and they lust what others have. Even if they don't care about fashion, or how they dress. They just focus on your luxury items. It's truly sad.
I work in South East Asia where it is expected that if you earn more, you dress like it, or drive cars like it, or buy houses like it. In my workplace, we have subordinates doing financially better than the boss because of personal side businesses and this is respected because hard work is respected. Your advice is spot on in terms of examining culture in a workplace. Great video, as always. :)
I'd like to add Bally as another option for bags that dont shout designer but are of excellent quality. It's sad to me that you can't wear your engagement ring to work- that is where I would draw the line!
I would have never in a million years would have thought this to be true but it is! My dad always used to warn, hey don’t take that new car to work, don’t wear that nice bag to work!! Even the fact that I didn’t have children has gotten me passed up , I’ve heard off record that I didn’t need it! She doesn’t have kids she can do that… and if you think you are protected by hr… le sigh Former proud military vet 😢😂😂
So true. 100% agree. Sometimes it's even worse with family and friends than with colleagues. How many times did I wear an outfit/dress and heard 'how much' ? I'm staying away from those people
This is very good guidance, especially if you are starting off in the workplace. No matter your personal attitude on it, it will always be judged and you don't need to lose easy points. It's sad but true. Personally I find Celine bags to be the sweet spot for work, no logo, and people who aren't into bags don't usually recognize them.
This is so true. I used to work In education management whenever I treated myself to an expensive item eyebrowsraised and slightly sarcastic comments made! Now I run my own ltd company, I am usually careful not to turn up at client meetings in pricey buys however, with the wet weather I've been grabbing my latest Burberry runway piece ... and yes we are back to raised eyebrows & comments. Do we really need to hide our belongings ...the world is crazy! 😢
You are right Sophie, everyone has their thing. However we judge on material items. I never used to be into designer items but feel good with a bit of a logo. I bought some Chanel perfume today and felt good. I felt like Marilyn Monroe 😅
Frankly, I don’t give a 💩 what other people think about me. I work my ass off and I deserve everything I have. I bring over my $10,000 Hermes bag to work anytime I want. And bring my LV, Chanel all the time. People make comments about it but never bad ones. They know me well enough to not make some nasty comments or I will definitely wouldn’t tolerate any nasty remarks.
Love your videos, Sophie. I have had comments made on a Tory Burch wallet on chain and an Everlane tote bag. So crazy, because this person has two homes, a residential and weekend lake home. I love to see people with their designer items. Designer items make me feel like I am in a Fairy Tale, and that is a beautiful thing. 😀
Delighted to see you post. I was literally talking about this but travel with my mom. My mother loves travel, she isn’t into going the pub, concerts, clothes etc. Anyway she literally had to lie about what she did on her time off because unless it’s Spain or Portugal type beach holiday or a city break in Europe, she always get odd comments from these 2 ladies she works with. We went to Switzerland once & someone said “shure we have lakes in Ireland and isn’t it fierce expensive there” (read it in a country Irish accent to pick up the passive aggression lol)
Videos like this show how common things like this happen and people wonder why people love working from home. We really don’t want to be bothered with other people sometimes
Thanks Sophie. I’m a professor at a diverse US college. Many of my students are low income. I am not comfortable using my luxury brand accessories at work. I use a Madewell tote, a brand under J. Crew- the leather quality is amazing and the bags are incredibly light like Goyard totes. To each their own.
Years ago I wear my branded name bags to office, and I noticed the jealousy. The way they saying things, or their look (roll their eyes with someone when I walk by), etc… Then, I stopped wearing them. I wear all my luxury outside of work. My social media (facebook, Instagram) are in private. No one from work. When they asked to be friends on FB or IG, I told them, “sorry, my FB is very boring. I don’t post anything”.
My family didn’t used to understand my love of luxury handbags. That is until I sold one of my older Chanel bags and told them how much profit I made on it. Now they are all in favour of them.
Yes, I agree with what you say. Definitely speak up for yourself regarding friends and family. You can't choose your family, but you do choose your friends, and if your friends are giving you grief for doing what you love, it might be time to reconsider certain relationships. I finally have solid friends in my life who appreciate how much I've grown since they first knew me, and it's so life-affirming. That's how you know someone's a keeper!
Oh you want to talk about all this jealousy well I was working at a minimum wage telemarketing job in 2004 and it was a Friday and everyone was ordering food and it was time for me to pay when I pulled out my Louis Vuitton wallet the boss yelled out that I could pay for everyone's food although he was joking I was fired the next month for unbeknownst reasons
It's unfortunately so true. When I was working in Japan, where designer items are commonplace, I would go to work with my LV and Chanel totes and I had coworkers (non-Japanese) who would make snide comments about it. I also had 2 former friends who just decided they had a problem with me solely because I was buying designer items while they were struggling to pay bills, as if their finances were my problem. With my current work place in the US, I decided to tone it down a lot to avoid comments, gossip and questions, and I kind of looked at the range of brands people who worked there had and decided to not bring stuff that was flashier, so I use contemporary designers like Coach and Kate Spade at work like everyone else and no one says anything. Once someone asked me about my Gucci loafers which have no branding on them and I accidently slipped out that they were Gucci and I regret it deeply, because now I'm the girl with the Gucci shoes. I also travel internationally a lot which few people at work do, so I try to keep that low key too. I also learned you have to be careful about showing pics in first or business class on flights. Or I just lie and say I was upgraded for free when I actually paid for that ticket. I've even just told people I found some super great deal on a flight, or made up some reason I had to go besides just leisure when I know they are going to be nosey about it. Its a shame that we can't share things that make us happy with people and have to lie just to avoid immature drama. I think besides just plain jealousy, people at work know or have an idea how much you make so it starts gossip about how you can afford something on that salary when its none of anyone's business. I don't have to work, but I like my job and I want to work. But I learned the hard way it's better to look like you are there because you NEED the job and the money. My Dad always drove beater cars and wore plain clothes with no logos and he would say how it was better to "look understated", and it took me until my 30s to understand what he meant.
When I worked in an office setting they would expect you to look chic, wearing Blazers and all, wearing a full face of MakeUp and a black leather tote but Armani and such things were reserved for the boss and his son and wife. With the money they paid us we couldn't have bought designer goods anyway.😂 At the hospital it is even worse. You cannot take anything of value there because it will be stolen or ruined.😂 You'll basically never go wrong with a big Longchamp canvas tote.
You are correct in your assessment of the jealous nature of too many people. Unfortunately, families are the worst at the judging, put downs, and rude comments. One thing I have found, and you pointed out, is that you can get fantastic quality without paying designer prices. I always carry handbags and wear shoes made in Italy. It is possible to buy without a logo, but very fine quality. I take good care of my clothes and accessories so they last decades! Fast Fasion does not exist in my world but classic fashion does! I am older so I remember what these high end logos cost 20 years ago, it is shocking at today's prices for low quality. You do a great service by being real. I enjoy your videos and your candor.❤️❤️
Hi Sophie, I have heard it all my life from family,acquaintances,and couple bosses. Luxury can make you an easy target for the bullies.I like to wear Barbour,as you know more about the brand than many people in US. Barbour is classic, understated and classy, I 'm outside alot and Ohio weather is temperamental, rain,ice,snow ect. So I try to be discreet but owe no one the right to judge me, it's rude but it still happens.The older you get you can read these people a mile away. I have someone in my family that says things like my priorities aren't in line??? or anyone can buy what she has??? Best thing to do is smile and walk away. The only other thing you can say if someone is truly rude ask them why is this so important to you? ❤ lots of lov to you and David and bunnies.😊
You are so right. Everyone has a thing. I work in a city and my job requires me to be 'trendy and expensive' looking. I was hired for my taste. I do find it annoying when people come up to me and say 'you must be rich' its literally what someone that is not says. I could care less what people think about what i wear or what i have. All i can say is work hard and you can have it too. No one is stopping you.
Hi Sophie ❤just a few days ago I was called materialistic for liking & buying designer brands…. I’m not like that at all but if these people think off me being materialistic that’s their problem as you said life is very short I lost my son just a little 4 year’s ago….life is hard and sometimes unbearable so if these little things puts a smile on my face even for a little while, I’m all for it & so true it all boils down to jealousy ❤❤
Hello my friend, may I say how terribly sorry I am to hear about your son, and I hope you’re ok. I can’t begin to imagine how hard that must be xx Yes I do agree with you, for those of us that are into luxury, it can put a smile on your face :) It’s upsetting when others judge us on that, especially when they don’t take a moment to judge their own spending!! Hugs xx
Many years ago I brought my chanel jumbo to work and I heard a gossip from a senior manager that I buy fakes. Kinda sad that just because my salary isn't as high as hers hence my bag should be a fake. She probably didn't think that I do not have as much financial debts (car & kids) as her and I'm probably a better saver! Now, I choose not to be bothered by colleagues gossips - they can say whatever they like. I do me!
Your sentiments are all too true. I have personally made the grave mistake of wearing my designer goods to work... unfortunately, I paid the price professionally. Moving forward and upward, I know better, now.
The worst is having a boss who makes a ton of money, criticizing how their much poorer employee dresses. Side note, that’s really shitty that someone would criticize someone else’s engagement ring. Maybe someone’s bf saved 4 a long time for that. And even if not, so what…
I had no idea that some people didn't wear their engagement ring. What's the point then if you can't wear it everywhere? 😢 this is not an issue in Europe as there is no expensive engagement ring culture...
It really depends on the type of company you are working for and even the city, people in London tend to not even blink an eye for designer. Also if most of your colleagues are male / tech folks they do not know much about brands nor anything so, they will rarely comment on your looks 😆 My worst colleague was a female workmate which was obsessed with commenting on my looks, designer or non-designer, always triple-checking. It's a sad personality type we need to deal with sometimes x
You are so lovely Sophie. So honest and down to earth. You are the most ernest RUclips blogger ever!!!! Most of the others are incredibly narcissistic your vlogs are so refreshing always xxx
Agreed. Often it is more subtle, not direct. Suggestion, try going with high quality locally made or new designer or even non-branded bespoke - but not internationally known labels.
This ALWAYS happens to me and it’s so frustrating!!! I’m a person who grew up having nice things and take care of everything I own. So to me wearing my jewelry, handbags, nice clothes/shoes is just my everyday normal. I don’t brag, talk about things I have, act like I’m better than anyone, etc…I honestly just do me. I’ve worn designer stuff to work and I get comments and I’ve worn just a regular t-shirt/hoodie, jeans/sweatpants just regular clothes nothing fancy and STILL get comments on what I’m wearing with people saying “oh new shoes, oh you have a different purse everyday”, etc…and it’s to the point where I’ve addressed the issue and told people it’s really old, I just take care of my stuff and I’ve asked people respectfully to please not comment on me because it’s rude and makes me feel uncomfortable. It got to a point where I stopped carrying my purse to work and just brought a paper grocery bag with just my wallet, snacks, phone, stuff I needed for the day at work so I wouldn’t have to hear the comments. I work just like them and I NEVER comment on anything someone else has because it’s none of my business and I’m just not that type of person. As a woman I should be able to bring my purse to work with me and not have to hear comments. I LITERALLY can’t win🤷🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️.
Agree, the workplace is not the setting to show off one's high end purchases, just human nature, with only one exception, if everyone else can afford luxury. My second point is the occasion on which the designer item is worn, for example I do not wear my expensive bags to the supermarket or when drawing outdoors with charcoal. These I wear for other types of outings where I feel I can and ought to be well clad.
Hi Sophie, I definitely agree with you on this subject and thanks for bringing this out in the open. Unfortunately we have to deal with those "green with envy" type people About 2 years ago, I lost my cousin to brain cancer and when I went to her service, it was raining so badly. I was not in the mood to be a fashionista so I grabbed my Louis Vuitton canvas bag and Louis Vuitton boots because of the rain. A jealous cousin was way out of line and said "what is that? McM?" This was not the time to be looking at who was wearing what! What is wrong with people? I also have an Aunt that counts everyone's money and if she sees something that interests her, she will ask me what I paid for it! I do want to add though that I feel you should wear your beautiful diamond engagement ring! I have a rather large diamond and I do wear it. I find most people will just compliment. Enjoy your lovely things because life is too short to put them in a drawer. xoxox Karen
Dear Karen, I am so terribly sorry to hear about the loss of your cousin. I hope you’re ok, loss is awful :( That’s very upsetting that you had to deal with such comments too. As you say, it certainly wasn’t the time or the place. Hugs xx
My handbags are not like yours. Mine are Michael Kors, coach,Dooney & Bourke ,Kate, spade ,a couple Italian bags. I’ve retired ,but when I worked sometimes I change my handbag twice a week .I had a girl that every time I come in with a Handbag she would get on her computer and look up the price, Yep, so I decided to change handbags every day, lol My supervisor was a woman but lucky my big boss was alway a man.
Hello Sophie, you shouldn’t stop wearing your engagement ring, it’s meant to be worn and if people are jealous that’s on them for sure. I love ur engagement ring it’s beautiful xx
Hi Sophie, I am retired now, but Incan totally relate to this topic. With me, it was, “well, you don’t have kids.” Also, I got many comments regarding my ring. I continued to wear it though. Btw, pear girl too. 😊 Some good bags for winter, rainy days are MZ Wallace and Tumi. Thanks for this video.
OK at first I thought: body shape comment and then I was nah...wrong type and anyway who makes those comments anyway. Then I thought typo? But pear shaped diamond? They used to be called tear drop. Yes beautiful shape!@@anttoronto3202
Very much agreed! Every job I’ve had I gauge what people wear. It is smart? Smart casual , formal? I feel that in some office spaces luxury goods work (recruitment especially!) but some environments it makes people feel “you don’t need to money”. It’s wrong but people do judge on what you wear
Some professions encourage you to wear designer items. When I worked in executive recruiting, it was a plus to wear designer items because we were working with c suite (ceo, coo, etc.) fortune 500 clients and it conveyed our recruiters’ success at placing candidates.
“Never look like you’re doing better than the boss.” Your boss knows exactly how much you make so she knows you’re not doing better. Also, what if you are the boss? Comments usually come from junior people who have no control over your raises and advancement.
You are right Sophie. People are jealous and see that you have enough money and do not need a promotion, so they skip you completely. Wear your bag all the other times you go out. People will try to bring you down if they see you are "trying to be uppity."
It's a sad and nasty thing. I work in the hospital so it's not a practical thing to have designer to work but I would definitely not wear designer to work.
I am lucky. I work with nurses and they love showing off their luxury goods. Meetings are sparkling with diamonds and Cartier Love bracelets. They work hard so they earned the right.
Maybe the best bag to wear to work is a cheap but well made bag from Walmart. Target, or any other chain store, especially if there is no way to lock it up and keep it safe during the work day. If I worked in a place without lockers that's the type I would use. (Jan Griffiths).
I have a red Karl Lagerfeld Ikon tote bag and it’s absolutely gorgeous but very understated. Great quality so this is a brand I would definitely recommend. I have also used a Kate Spade bag in the past, and my current is one of the Marc Jacobs The Tote Bag. I find it’s just special enough to enjoy but not so flashy that you get this kind of reaction.
I once went on a job interview in a nice suit (not designer), and the interviewer said that I dressed so well that they likely couldn’t afford to hire me. I did not get the job. That was 25 years ago at an ad agency which tends to be low paying and it always stuck with me. Most of my career has been spent working at high paying law firms though where everyone is paid well so it hasn’t been an issue wearing designer items. Although I’m still mindful of perception with my subordinates so don’t carry around my flashier Chanel and Bvlgari bags and choose lowkey Tod’s for work since no one in the US really knows the brand. Great topic!
I have reached the point in my life where I don't care what people think. I'll wear my old tee and sweatpants with an LV to the kids school. My life is completely casual (I work from home) but I adore lux bags.
I looooove when I've had coworkers who drink everyday question my designer items. "I don't spend hundreds at the bar a week and have no kids" usually shuts people up really quick, isn't going to make you friends but I don't want those friends anyway😂
YESSS
Way to go, have shi* thrown at you, throw shi* back 😂
Omg best response!
Yeah I don’t drink so I always say that to them and that shuts them up
My husband got a present to me - Chanel flap bag , and literally two months later I got diagnosed with late stage cancer and a true hell on earth began to happen for me. So I had no chance to wear it still. I’m still alive and hoping I will wear it soon, but moral of the story is this: you never know what other peoples life is like , even if the wear luxury items, so don’t judge! And other moral - life is like a box of chocolate, you never know what you gonna get. So ENJOY IT NOW! ✌🏻
So sorry to hear that! I hope you get to wear and enjoy your Chanel flap. 💕
Sorry to hear
@@fillifelle thank you 😊 that’s kind of you.
@@Hyliea thank you , that’s kind of you.
Your Chanel flap is there because you need it later. Get well.
This happens to men too. I remember a few years ago one of my bosses commented on our interns quite extensive Hermes tie collection (it turned out to be his dads, but people still clocked a 20 year old wearing thousands of pounds of clothes). It worked out in 2 ways (which I can’t see happening to a woman)- some of our peers were jealous or sucked up to him as they knew his family were wealthy, but our boss picked him to go to client presentations as he was “smartly dressed” -effectively fast tracking him to promotion and a very lucrative role. It’s so frustrating a handbag can be seen so negatively but men’s clothes can be seen as a positive.
Love this, I buy my husband Hermes ties, he isnt into clothes and has no idea ;)
@@DTHalcyoneI would buy these things preloved only. You can safe 90%+ and have really great rare collections… plus no one wears ties as much as in the past nowadays
My first job, I was really into fashion, but I didn't have money for luxury items. I carried a few Coach, Rebecca Minkoff, and Kate Spade bags, and got dumb judgmental comments about them being expensive anyway. It wasn't a nice place to work in general in terms of people. I ignored everyone and used whatever I wanted. My current job - my Long Champ tote is the cheapest "fashion" bag anyone brings in (aside from people who just don't care about these kinds of items at all). No one even bats an eye at a Celine tote or a classic flap in our office. We have people dressing in anything from Kohl's to Hermes, they all get treated the same. And it's great. Can't imagine going back to a place where people endlessly gossip about others.
I sort of had a similar experience too. Me and most of my family members don't come from privilege backgrounds but, they think Kate Spade, Coach and Forever21 are expensive brands lol. I can tell they think I'm trying to pretend to "look rich." The fact they think only rich people can look groomed, polished and well-dressed is just absurd and ignorant. You don't need a lot of money to look well-dressed, you just need to have a sense of style. There are so many wealthy people with zero sense of style! 😂
I honestly don't own any tote from a premium luxury Brand buy I love my longchamp and I think it is the most expensive bag in the office & I don't care about People talking about me 'cuz I really would like to flex anytime I could. I work, Im not married, no Kids no debts..I Just get a designer thing every birthday and I'm not gonna feel guilty 😅
"The world is not driven by greed, it is driven by envy"
Charlie Munger
Yes but it’s also driven by greed.
@@victoriamather2267 Agreed.
I completely agree with you Sophie. Years ago I sold many items in my closet to buy a Chanel bag. Something I had been dreaming about for years. A family member went on and on about how terrible it was that I bought the bag because I could have fed the poor with that money. Meanwhile that family member buys a new car every year.
Whoever that person is wanna ur 💴
I get so angry when people say ‘is that real ?’ , because they can’t quite believe that i own it! You never know how people have afforded their luxury goods , but when people assume you CAN’T afford it, it’s almost worse than them realising that you can 🙈
That's happened to me.
In my opinion people are still going to find ways to be jealous. Even if you aren't wearing designer and expensive stuff people can still be jealous of the fact that you still look good and polished while wearing cheaper stuff.
Unfortunately so true!!!
That is absolutely true. I've had people I knew well and thought were friends get jealous of me simply for having a business even when I was struggling (and they knew it) instead of supporting me! It hurt at the time to see that sort of reaction from people who I thought were friends. I made sure to send them updates of my successes.
@@conniegerardi9845 Yes this is so true! You might as well please yourself because there's no pleasing some people. I was even told to not wear lipstick because some feminist felt threatened. Bizarre.
@@deborahcurtis1385 that's really odd. I consider myself a feminist, and would love to see women wearing lipstick.
@@deborahcurtis1385That person wasn't a feminist; they were just being an arshole. Wearing lipstick or makeup in general doesn't make someone less than. That person was insecure & wanted to knock you down because they thought you were only attractive with makeup on & needed to pick on something to make it an issue. I hope they were told it was a ridiculous request & that person was reprimanded for wasting company time.
If you’re working in an office where senior leadership won’t give you a promotion because of the handbag you’re wearing…please quit.
Very true
Amen
Who would work at a place like that.
They won’t tell you it’s because of the handbag. It will all be very subtle
I actually did!
I’ve had 2 terrible experiences at the same place of employment. 1) My 15 year old car could not be salvaged so I purchased a new car and by the end of the day, someone had keyed my brand new car. 2) I had bought a beautiful Coach purse at lunch and could not keep it in the hot car. When I got home and unpacked it, someone had clearly rummaged the bag and scratched the leather. Learned my lesson with those jealous low class women.
It is imperative to be discreet in any workplace.
Years ago, I worked with a girl where her wedding photos showed that she had an engagement ring like Princess Diana. She had never worn it at work and she had never brought it in to show us. She was right.
When we had team lunch, they talked about their wives shopping. My boss said, “ Thank God, my wife doesn’t like designer bags”. I just laughed. They saw me with the vintage LVs. I stopped changing bags every week. I’ll do that every 2 months. Less stir up. But I spotted one young colleague with a Loewe Barcelona bag. So, at least I am not alone.
I worked at one place and my manager was a man and he commented on my Michael Kors bag. He said out loud "oh that's a pricey bag". I was like dude, it's like $100 and it's not expensive whatsoever. Like are you kidding me?! But I realized it's coming from a person who had no sense of fashion or trends. It's really ridiculous!
I'm so glad you're talking about the elephant in the room. When I returned to Toronto after working on Wall Street, I was told by an Executive Search partner that I shouldn't wear my Cartier Tank with diamonds on interviews. She told me in a kind way, as a reminder that Canada is a different culture than NYC. One of my female colleagues from NYC switches out her large engagement ring for a smaller one when she travels to Toronto for work. In NYC, it's a good thing to be seen to be doing well. In Canada, we have tall poppy syndrome.
Really? I was in Toronto last summer and saw lots of designer bags & luxury cars. Maybe the in-office environment is different?
@@seagreen2034 Yah, I was surprised as well. Born & raised in Canada I thought I understood the culture, but I'd been away for many years. Canada is very different than the US even though we share a continent.
Canadian here too. My husband and I after 8 years of marriage are finally in a position to become homeowners and we’re terrified to put anything online as in our business we work with many volunteers, so if we show anything nice we’ve worked incredibly hard for, we’re immediately judged :(
I’ve been in situations where I’d get nasty comments on my Kate Spade. It can be ugly :(
I still remember the first thing one of my accounting professors said to our class, before covering any content of the course, was a detailed explanation of what kind of car we should be driving as accountants. Too old of a car and it shows the client that you’re bad with money, and too nice of a car makes them think you are overcharging them. Apparently you should be driving a midrange sedan in professional settings 🤷♀️🤷♀️
My boss took out my tiny YSL card holder out of my bag and said: I think we have to re-discuss your pay if you can afford this. (Half jokingly). It was disturbing
It’s sad how this happens in so many corporate spaces. 😕
I'm an attorney in Chicago and I've worked in different offices from high end to high street lol and what I found is there are just people who are intrinsically stylish ... they look put together because they have great hair and understand make up and dress their figure in tailored clothes and they have a handbag from target ... then you have the hot mess express who has a Chanel so .. no one hates the Chanel lady because she's a joke but everyone gossips about target bag
I never wear or carry designer to work. Learned my lesson once when I took my LV Speedy. My boss said, "I think I'm paying you too much". Since then I'm done.
!!!!
Glad my office is the kind of place where when one of my team members carries a new bag we all ask about it and are interested in. Working in Hong Kong, designer goods are very common here so there is less judgement.
Yes in hk there are definitely more people carrying their designer bags to work. It is taken as a positive and I feel it's less judgey even if you were. Ofc not everyone wears one to work, but it's so generally prevalent no one really bats an eyelid.
Here's my comeback to "you must like looking expensive: Yes! I do. And I see you don't". No one knows me here, but if you did, you would know I would ABSOLUTELY say that. I've learnt in life that when someone wants to purposefully make you feel uncomfortable for no reason other than jealousy, put it back on them.
Haha. That’s a great comeback. “And you don’t.” :)
Well said.
Difficult at work because you have to have an easy going relationship with them. You're making problems for yourself by inciting jealousy
Sounds like a shortcut to hostility at the workplace. I'd honestly rather just be low-key. It's really not that much of an imposition.
@@elysejosephs7302How exactly does one ‘incite jealousy’?
I love how you pointed out that everyone has their “thing”! It’s so true! You can buy anything, but you can’t buy everything.
Also, my Longchamp tote is the best $150 I believe I’ve ever spent on a bag! I use it everywhere from the office to the beach because it’s so easy to care for!
I am so very lucky to work in an environment where my co workers love to see my ‘outfit’ of the day. They also love to see my handbags. Your comment that EVERYONE has something is so spot on. Anytime I am ‘mocked’ for spending money on bags/fashion, that has always been my comeback. Cars, horse, houses etc. It’s a real shame that just because it’s A handbag, somehow that doesn’t justify ( nor qualify) for legit spending .. of MY hard earned money. 😮
If there's one most important lesson that I've learnt with the years is to stand up for myself. I worked hard, I made some money, I bought some things I liked and I use them! I just couldn't care less for anyone else's envy. I can be compassionate if someone is somehow disadvantaged in life or fallen on hard times, but I have little care for a colleague's or family member's snarky remark. I chose how to manage my finances and my lifestyle to afford me the stuff that I've got; not like I'm in debt because of my items. If someone pays me a backhanded compliment, I'll receive it as if it's genuine and move on.
My sisters judge me for my love for designer bags. They said I was trying to keep up with my inlaws who love designer things like me. I’ve been dreaming of designers bags ever since I was in 7th grade, and now that I can afford them of course it’s what I collect. I told my husband how it hurt my feelings because my bags makes me so happy, being able to finally have them using my own money and they cant be happy for me. My husband laughs at my situation and tells me they’re just jealous (they used to borrow my bags when I lived with my mom). So my husband is annoyingly flashy when we meet up with them. 😂 I kid you not they don’t acknowledge any of it but they stare.
Where I work, it is ok to wear designer stuff cos majority of the people don’t recognise luxury brands nor pay very much attention to fashion. There’s a lady co-worker who wears her Chanel flap everyday but is constantly fearful that someone might steal it from her desk, which I find amusing. However, having a boss who gets jealous of your luxury bags and passes you over for a promotion for that reason is absolutely appalling. It’s a sign to get the hell out.
I have such a similar story! I had my LV wallet inside my non designer bag at work and a coworker noticed it, made a comment "oh how many meals did you skip to pay for that ridiculously priced wallet?" In front of other coworkers, who laughed!! I never lived it down 😢
I’m sorry this was said to you, it’s never nice xx
As a young professional in the office with labels, I appreciate this video because it’s so true and something I have def been thinking about.
I work at a bank and I must say it’s very common to see luxury handbags at work. I even had a department manager display her LV VIP gifts in her office. She still remains a well loved rising star within the company and no one is particularly upset over what other people own. There are other problems and office politics in my company, but I don’t think personal wealth is something management worry about.
I do take my venerable Coach bag to work. I've had the bag since purchasing it when I was 18 years old (I'm 66 now). It's still in great condition. I do have a locker at work, and that's where I put my bag. Many people have seen it over the years, and some were envious of me for having it. If no locker was available, the bag stayed at home. (Jan Griffiths).
I carry an Hermès, Prada or Jil Sander bag every day. I don't own any others, except for a few cotton totes. I wear Prada, Jil Sander, Yohji Yamamoto etc. every day because I don't have any other clothes.
I have never experienced any negativity because of it. Perhaps because I'm a man - women are usually judged more harshly.
It's very sad not to be able to enjoy your life as you want, so wear your beautiful things anywhere you wish and let them burst from jealousy. They should mind their own business not others. So, enjoy and feel free to express yourself.
So true, you spend loads of money on your items to be scared to use worrying about what others may think , that’s ridiculous
Good point. No matter how friendly the work environment seems to be, never forget that it is a place of competition. Choosing an appearance that is a bit muted most of the time is beneficial. The jobs where a flashy appearance is a good thing are more of an exception.
Sophie, some time during the pandemic, I stopped watching almost all luxury videos, although I was bingeing them before. All the price markups and the depressing economy, and that Balenciaga fiasco made it not so fun anymore. You are the only one I remained consistently subscribed to. Thank you so much for continuing to share with us and talk about things. I always look forward to your videos each week so much.❤
Office I go to is a big IT company in London. Mostly everyone wears Hermès, Rolex, Cartier as normal. Many of them are men in my office who sometimes I over heard them talk about rare watches and luxury holidays ☺️
I wore Coach Tabby Pillow bag to the office last week and my boss asked me if that is Chanel because of the C on the clasp. The irony is that I wore for a month before that Chanel 19 and nobody noticed it is Chanel :D
I think that one can wear designer bags to the office, but it heavily depends on the working environment. I work in an engineering office and I work with guys only and there have never been rude comments, some of them even asked me advice on what bag to buy for their wives. They notice my bags, but never comment rudely or ask me how much they cost. But for business meetings with clients and business trips (also due to the security reasons) I never bring any designer bag with me. So I think they can be worn to the office, but that depends on people one work with.
My boss encouraged me to buy a Birkin touch then we went out to celebrate it. So it's not always true! Celebrate the people who support you if you find them!
This is so true! I had to stop wearing my wedding bands and engagement ring to the office. I actually had someone keep pushing to try on my rings to the point I felt super uncomfortable. I use a simple band now and when I’m not in the office I use my bands.
I have the luck to work in my own studio so I set my own rules,but whenever I have clients to meet I always dress expensive(showing off a few brands while still looking classy obv).I do this because even though I am a professional,people always try to lower my prices and ask for sales while presenting myself like that they know I’m not cheap nor do I compromise for my prices.Either you collaborate according to my terms or not at all if you can’t afford me.
Also I see a ton of my colleagues being treated like slaves from clients just because they don’t know how to present themselves,as ugly as it may sound looking expensive is a way to get respected in society nowadays so we better invest on that.
This is so true, hence why I don’t wear my luxury bags to work (with the exception of maybe my Goyard tote). You’re 100% right about this!! I’d especially never wear my Chanel bags. People talk & gossip & I know it could impact the way I’m perceived.
Thanks for Sharing Sophie. However I work in Banking and people come into work dressed like it's New York Fashion week. Everybody (most people) are dressed to the tee every day. Every Prada, Chanel, LV, you name the handbag, they have it, you name the clothes they are wearing it. You will actually be looked down at if you come in looking shabby. and cheap.
I agree. I stopped taking my luxury items to the office because I don't need that negative attention. I honestly like fashion. I enjoy hunting down bargains, and buying things I can use for a long time, and leave for my children when I leave this world. I don't do it to show off or feel better than anyone else. But people don't see it that way, and they lust what others have. Even if they don't care about fashion, or how they dress. They just focus on your luxury items. It's truly sad.
I work in South East Asia where it is expected that if you earn more, you dress like it, or drive cars like it, or buy houses like it. In my workplace, we have subordinates doing financially better than the boss because of personal side businesses and this is respected because hard work is respected. Your advice is spot on in terms of examining culture in a workplace. Great video, as always. :)
I'd like to add Bally as another option for bags that dont shout designer but are of excellent quality. It's sad to me that you can't wear your engagement ring to work- that is where I would draw the line!
I would have never in a million years would have thought this to be true but it is! My dad always used to warn, hey don’t take that new car to work, don’t wear that nice bag to work!! Even the fact that I didn’t have children has gotten me passed up , I’ve heard off record that I didn’t need it! She doesn’t have kids she can do that… and if you think you are protected by hr… le sigh
Former proud military vet 😢😂😂
So true. 100% agree. Sometimes it's even worse with family and friends than with colleagues. How many times did I wear an outfit/dress and heard 'how much' ? I'm staying away from those people
This is very good guidance, especially if you are starting off in the workplace. No matter your personal attitude on it, it will always be judged and you don't need to lose easy points. It's sad but true. Personally I find Celine bags to be the sweet spot for work, no logo, and people who aren't into bags don't usually recognize them.
This is so true. I used to work In education management whenever I treated myself to an expensive item eyebrowsraised and slightly sarcastic comments made! Now I run my own ltd company, I am usually careful not to turn up at client meetings in pricey buys however, with the wet weather I've been grabbing my latest Burberry runway piece ... and yes we are back to raised eyebrows & comments. Do we really need to hide our belongings ...the world is crazy! 😢
You are right Sophie, everyone has their thing. However we judge on material items. I never used to be into designer items but feel good with a bit of a logo. I bought some Chanel perfume today and felt good. I felt like Marilyn Monroe 😅
Frankly, I don’t give a 💩 what other people think about me. I work my ass off and I deserve everything I have. I bring over my $10,000 Hermes bag to work anytime I want. And bring my LV, Chanel all the time. People make comments about it but never bad ones. They know me well enough to not make some nasty comments or I will definitely wouldn’t tolerate any nasty remarks.
Love your videos, Sophie. I have had comments made on a Tory Burch wallet on chain and an Everlane tote bag. So crazy, because this person has two homes, a residential and weekend lake home. I love to see people with their designer items. Designer items make me feel like I am in a Fairy Tale, and that is a beautiful thing. 😀
Delighted to see you post. I was literally talking about this but travel with my mom. My mother loves travel, she isn’t into going the pub, concerts, clothes etc. Anyway she literally had to lie about what she did on her time off because unless it’s Spain or Portugal type beach holiday or a city break in Europe, she always get odd comments from these 2 ladies she works with. We went to Switzerland once & someone said “shure we have lakes in Ireland and isn’t it fierce expensive there” (read it in a country Irish accent to pick up the passive aggression lol)
Shine like a star, wear your bag with confidence where you want, don’t dull your shine for anyone! ❤
Videos like this show how common things like this happen and people wonder why people love working from home. We really don’t want to be bothered with other people sometimes
Thanks Sophie. I’m a professor at a diverse US college. Many of my students are low income. I am not comfortable using my luxury brand accessories at work. I use a Madewell tote, a brand under J. Crew- the leather quality is amazing and the bags are incredibly light like Goyard totes. To each their own.
Unfortunately this is so true. Envy is a killer. Sadly this happens even amongst family and friends.
Years ago I wear my branded name bags to office, and I noticed the jealousy. The way they saying things, or their look (roll their eyes with someone when I walk by), etc… Then, I stopped wearing them. I wear all my luxury outside of work.
My social media (facebook, Instagram) are in private. No one from work. When they asked to be friends on FB or IG, I told them, “sorry, my FB is very boring. I don’t post anything”.
I always wear things that don’t have logos to work and no one questions it. I wear a simple watch that’s under the radar.
My thoughts about it: Don't dim your light because of other jealous people, they are not worth it. If they get triggered, their problem not yours.
My family didn’t used to understand my love of luxury handbags. That is until I sold one of my older Chanel bags and told them how much profit I made on it. Now they are all in favour of them.
Exactly! Well said Sophie! It’s nobody’s business how you spend your money, each of us has our own things we’re passionate about!
Yes, I agree with what you say. Definitely speak up for yourself regarding friends and family. You can't choose your family, but you do choose your friends, and if your friends are giving you grief for doing what you love, it might be time to reconsider certain relationships.
I finally have solid friends in my life who appreciate how much I've grown since they first knew me, and it's so life-affirming. That's how you know someone's a keeper!
Oh you want to talk about all this jealousy well I was working at a minimum wage telemarketing job in 2004 and it was a Friday and everyone was ordering food and it was time for me to pay when I pulled out my Louis Vuitton wallet the boss yelled out that I could pay for everyone's food although he was joking I was fired the next month for unbeknownst reasons
That’s crazy
It's unfortunately so true. When I was working in Japan, where designer items are commonplace, I would go to work with my LV and Chanel totes and I had coworkers (non-Japanese) who would make snide comments about it. I also had 2 former friends who just decided they had a problem with me solely because I was buying designer items while they were struggling to pay bills, as if their finances were my problem. With my current work place in the US, I decided to tone it down a lot to avoid comments, gossip and questions, and I kind of looked at the range of brands people who worked there had and decided to not bring stuff that was flashier, so I use contemporary designers like Coach and Kate Spade at work like everyone else and no one says anything. Once someone asked me about my Gucci loafers which have no branding on them and I accidently slipped out that they were Gucci and I regret it deeply, because now I'm the girl with the Gucci shoes. I also travel internationally a lot which few people at work do, so I try to keep that low key too. I also learned you have to be careful about showing pics in first or business class on flights. Or I just lie and say I was upgraded for free when I actually paid for that ticket. I've even just told people I found some super great deal on a flight, or made up some reason I had to go besides just leisure when I know they are going to be nosey about it. Its a shame that we can't share things that make us happy with people and have to lie just to avoid immature drama. I think besides just plain jealousy, people at work know or have an idea how much you make so it starts gossip about how you can afford something on that salary when its none of anyone's business. I don't have to work, but I like my job and I want to work. But I learned the hard way it's better to look like you are there because you NEED the job and the money. My Dad always drove beater cars and wore plain clothes with no logos and he would say how it was better to "look understated", and it took me until my 30s to understand what he meant.
When I worked in an office setting they would expect you to look chic, wearing Blazers and all, wearing a full face of MakeUp and a black leather tote but Armani and such things were reserved for the boss and his son and wife. With the money they paid us we couldn't have bought designer goods anyway.😂
At the hospital it is even worse. You cannot take anything of value there because it will be stolen or ruined.😂 You'll basically never go wrong with a big Longchamp canvas tote.
You are correct in your assessment of the jealous nature of too many people. Unfortunately, families are the worst at the judging, put downs, and rude comments. One thing I have found, and you pointed out, is that you can get fantastic quality without paying designer prices. I always carry handbags and wear shoes made in Italy. It is possible to buy without a logo, but very fine quality. I take good care of my clothes and accessories so they last decades! Fast Fasion does not exist in my world but classic fashion does! I am older so I remember what these high end logos cost 20 years ago, it is shocking at today's prices for low quality. You do a great service by being real. I enjoy your videos and your candor.❤️❤️
Hi Sophie, I have heard it all my life from family,acquaintances,and couple bosses. Luxury can make you an easy target for the bullies.I like to wear Barbour,as you know more about the brand than many people in US. Barbour is classic, understated and classy, I 'm outside alot and Ohio weather is temperamental, rain,ice,snow ect. So I try to be discreet but owe no one the right to judge me, it's rude but it still happens.The older you get you can read these people a mile away. I have someone in my family that says things like my priorities aren't in line??? or anyone can buy what she has??? Best thing to do is smile and walk away. The only other thing you can say if someone is truly rude ask them why is this so important to you? ❤ lots of lov to you and David and bunnies.😊
You are so right. Everyone has a thing. I work in a city and my job requires me to be 'trendy and expensive' looking. I was hired for my taste. I do find it annoying when people come up to me and say 'you must be rich' its literally what someone that is not says. I could care less what people think about what i wear or what i have. All i can say is work hard and you can have it too. No one is stopping you.
Hi Sophie ❤just a few days ago I was called materialistic for liking & buying designer brands…. I’m not like that at all but if these people think off me being materialistic that’s their problem as you said life is very short I lost my son just a little 4 year’s ago….life is hard and sometimes unbearable so if these little things puts a smile on my face even for a little while, I’m all for it & so true it all boils down to jealousy ❤❤
Hello my friend, may I say how terribly sorry I am to hear about your son, and I hope you’re ok. I can’t begin to imagine how hard that must be xx
Yes I do agree with you, for those of us that are into luxury, it can put a smile on your face :)
It’s upsetting when others judge us on that, especially when they don’t take a moment to judge their own spending!! Hugs xx
Many years ago I brought my chanel jumbo to work and I heard a gossip from a senior manager that I buy fakes. Kinda sad that just because my salary isn't as high as hers hence my bag should be a fake. She probably didn't think that I do not have as much financial debts (car & kids) as her and I'm probably a better saver! Now, I choose not to be bothered by colleagues gossips - they can say whatever they like. I do me!
Your sentiments are all too true. I have personally made the grave mistake of wearing my designer goods to work... unfortunately, I paid the price professionally. Moving forward and upward, I know better, now.
I’m glad you said this. It’s nice to have these discussions on RUclips
The worst is having a boss who makes a ton of money, criticizing how their much poorer employee dresses. Side note, that’s really shitty that someone would criticize someone else’s engagement ring. Maybe someone’s bf saved 4 a long time for that. And even if not, so what…
I had no idea that some people didn't wear their engagement ring. What's the point then if you can't wear it everywhere? 😢 this is not an issue in Europe as there is no expensive engagement ring culture...
It really depends on the type of company you are working for and even the city, people in London tend to not even blink an eye for designer. Also if most of your colleagues are male / tech folks they do not know much about brands nor anything so, they will rarely comment on your looks 😆
My worst colleague was a female workmate which was obsessed with commenting on my looks, designer or non-designer, always triple-checking. It's a sad personality type we need to deal with sometimes x
I think Aspinal of London is perfect for the office. Discreet yet elegant.
You are so lovely Sophie. So honest and down to earth. You are the most ernest RUclips blogger ever!!!! Most of the others are incredibly narcissistic your vlogs are so refreshing always xxx
Agreed. Often it is more subtle, not direct. Suggestion, try going with high quality locally made or new designer or even non-branded bespoke - but not internationally known labels.
This ALWAYS happens to me and it’s so frustrating!!! I’m a person who grew up having nice things and take care of everything I own. So to me wearing my jewelry, handbags, nice clothes/shoes is just my everyday normal. I don’t brag, talk about things I have, act like I’m better than anyone, etc…I honestly just do me. I’ve worn designer stuff to work and I get comments and I’ve worn just a regular t-shirt/hoodie, jeans/sweatpants just regular clothes nothing fancy and STILL get comments on what I’m wearing with people saying “oh new shoes, oh you have a different purse everyday”, etc…and it’s to the point where I’ve addressed the issue and told people it’s really old, I just take care of my stuff and I’ve asked people respectfully to please not comment on me because it’s rude and makes me feel uncomfortable. It got to a point where I stopped carrying my purse to work and just brought a paper grocery bag with just my wallet, snacks, phone, stuff I needed for the day at work so I wouldn’t have to hear the comments. I work just like them and I NEVER comment on anything someone else has because it’s none of my business and I’m just not that type of person. As a woman I should be able to bring my purse to work with me and not have to hear comments. I LITERALLY can’t win🤷🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️.
Don’t come in with that Gucci sandwich paper bag!! 😂
Agree, the workplace is not the setting to show off one's high end purchases, just human nature, with only one exception, if everyone else can afford luxury. My second point is the occasion on which the designer item is worn, for example I do not wear my expensive bags to the supermarket or when drawing outdoors with charcoal. These I wear for other types of outings where I feel I can and ought to be well clad.
Hi Sophie, I definitely agree with you on this subject and thanks for bringing this out in the open. Unfortunately we have to deal with those "green with envy" type people About 2 years ago, I lost my cousin to brain cancer and when I went to her service, it was raining so badly. I was not in the mood to be a fashionista so I grabbed my Louis Vuitton canvas bag and Louis Vuitton boots because of the rain. A jealous cousin was way out of line and said "what is that? McM?" This was not the time to be looking at who was wearing what! What is wrong with people? I also have an Aunt that counts everyone's money and if she sees something that interests her, she will ask me what I paid for it! I do want to add though that I feel you should wear your beautiful diamond engagement ring! I have a rather large diamond and I do wear it. I find most people will just compliment. Enjoy your lovely things because life is too short to put them in a drawer. xoxox Karen
Dear Karen, I am so terribly sorry to hear about the loss of your cousin. I hope you’re ok, loss is awful :(
That’s very upsetting that you had to deal with such comments too. As you say, it certainly wasn’t the time or the place. Hugs xx
My handbags are not like yours. Mine are Michael Kors, coach,Dooney & Bourke ,Kate, spade ,a couple Italian bags. I’ve retired ,but when I worked sometimes I change my handbag twice a week .I had a girl that every time I come in with a Handbag she would get on her computer and look up the price, Yep, so I decided to change handbags every day, lol
My supervisor was a woman but lucky my big boss was alway a man.
What a silly goose of a coworker you had. I hope you have now nice people around you showing you love and respect.
@@ApricusInaros I do, Thank you do much
Hello Sophie, you shouldn’t stop wearing your engagement ring, it’s meant to be worn and if people are jealous that’s on them for sure. I love ur engagement ring it’s beautiful xx
Sophie you are correct. Everyone has their thing! Enjoy it😊
Hi Sophie,
I am retired now, but Incan totally relate to this topic. With me, it was, “well, you don’t have kids.” Also, I got many comments regarding my ring. I continued to wear it though. Btw, pear girl too. 😊
Some good bags for winter, rainy days are MZ Wallace and Tumi.
Thanks for this video.
you meant pearl girl?
@@deborahcurtis1385 no, pear shaped diamond. Sophie’s is pear shape. Love pearls too though. 😊😊
OK at first I thought: body shape comment and then I was nah...wrong type and anyway who makes those comments anyway. Then I thought typo? But pear shaped diamond? They used to be called tear drop. Yes beautiful shape!@@anttoronto3202
Very much agreed! Every job I’ve had I gauge what people wear. It is smart? Smart casual , formal? I feel that in some office spaces luxury goods work (recruitment especially!) but some environments it makes people feel “you don’t need to money”. It’s wrong but people do judge on what you wear
Some professions encourage you to wear designer items. When I worked in executive recruiting, it was a plus to wear designer items because we were working with c suite (ceo, coo, etc.) fortune 500 clients and it conveyed our recruiters’ success at placing candidates.
So true. People can be odd. I agree, if you look more successful than the boss you already lose.
“Never look like you’re doing better than the boss.” Your boss knows exactly how much you make so she knows you’re not doing better. Also, what if you are the boss? Comments usually come from junior people who have no control over your raises and advancement.
You are right Sophie. People are jealous and see that you have enough money and do not need a promotion, so they skip you completely. Wear your bag all the other times you go out. People will try to bring you down if they see you are "trying to be uppity."
I've experienced *jealousy from someone when I was 21 years old. Due to that I've been antisocial for some years 😥
These same ppl seem to forget you can thrift designer items in good condition at heavily discounted prices also
It's a sad and nasty thing. I work in the hospital so it's not a practical thing to have designer to work but I would definitely not wear designer to work.
I am lucky. I work with nurses and they love showing off their luxury goods. Meetings are sparkling with diamonds and Cartier Love bracelets. They work hard so they earned the right.
Maybe the best bag to wear to work is a cheap but well made bag from Walmart. Target, or any other chain store, especially if there is no way to lock it up and keep it safe during the work day. If I worked in a place without lockers that's the type I would use. (Jan Griffiths).
That’s so sad you can’t even wear your own ring!! 💎💍
I have a red Karl Lagerfeld Ikon tote bag and it’s absolutely gorgeous but very understated. Great quality so this is a brand I would definitely recommend. I have also used a Kate Spade bag in the past, and my current is one of the Marc Jacobs The Tote Bag. I find it’s just special enough to enjoy but not so flashy that you get this kind of reaction.
I once went on a job interview in a nice suit (not designer), and the interviewer said that I dressed so well that they likely couldn’t afford to hire me. I did not get the job. That was 25 years ago at an ad agency which tends to be low paying and it always stuck with me. Most of my career has been spent working at high paying law firms though where everyone is paid well so it hasn’t been an issue wearing designer items. Although I’m still mindful of perception with my subordinates so don’t carry around my flashier Chanel and Bvlgari bags and choose lowkey Tod’s for work since no one in the US really knows the brand. Great topic!
I have reached the point in my life where I don't care what people think. I'll wear my old tee and sweatpants with an LV to the kids school. My life is completely casual (I work from home) but I adore lux bags.
Really recommend the coach swinger bag- simple, classic and with absolutely no logos ❤
Aspinal was worn by the Queen too 😂😂😂😂