I still recall my first weekend brunch at a colleague’s family estate in Connecticut. I arrived in a blazer and dress pants, while everyone else was in relaxed jeans and old polo shirts. It was eye-opening. I realized that how people dress reflects their background and social class.
During my finance years, I witnessed the same patterns. Analysists from working-class families often dressed formally for casual lunches, while partners with old money showed up in worn sweaters. These differences aren’t about good or bad—they’re signals of respect shaped by cultural norms.
Dress Codes in Different Classes
Dining Out: For many lower-middle-class families, eating at places like Olive Garden is special. They dress up, viewing it as a treat. In contrast, upper-class families often treat these meals casually, sometimes in jeans and T-shirts.
Travel Attire: Many lower-middle-class families dress sharply when flying, often in business-casual outfits. However, those in first class might board in sweatpants, prioritizing comfort over appearance. Routine travel feels different compared to rare trips, which is why some may choose to look more polished.
New Outfits for Events: Lower-middle-class families often buy new clothes for weddings or parties, signaling effort and respect for the occasion. Upper-class individuals might re-use quality outfits, reflecting a different relationship with clothing.
Accessorizing Events: For special occasions, jewelry becomes significant for lower-middle-class families, distinguishing everyday wear from special items. Many upper-class folks, however, might wear expensive jewelry casually, showing comfort over formality.
Family Photos: Coordinated outfits for family pictures are common in lower-middle-class families. This signifies unity and effort. Upper-class families often opt for a more relaxed look, where individual expression takes precedence.
Daytime Events: Lower-middle-class attendees often dress formally for events like baby showers, while upper-class guests may arrive in sundresses or smart-casual attire, highlighting their more relaxed approach to dressing.
Church Clothes: Growing up, many lower-middle-class children had “church clothes” they wore for important occasions. This demonstrates respect and seriousness. For upper-class families, the line between casual and formal is often blurred, reflecting confidence in their status.
Understanding the Differences
These dress differences stem from deep-rooted cultural beliefs and economic realities. While dressing up can signify honor and effort, the relaxed approach of upper-class families exhibits a different kind of confidence.
Researchers like Dr. Elizabeth Currid-Halkett, an expert on cultural capital, emphasize how these behaviors are tied to social stratification. According to a recent study by the Pew Research Center, 78% of Americans say that how people dress affects their perception of them.
In the end, dressing is about context and values. Next time you choose an outfit, think about what your choice might be communicating. Are you dressing for yourself or for others? These reflections can help navigate various social settings with greater ease.
