A recent anecdote from a renowned Chinese author about a shopping trip with friends to a luxury boutique highlighted how quickly staff identified the wealthiest person in the group. When asked, the staff member pointed to a "sense of ease" as the key differentiator.

While this observation might seem subjective, experts confirm that identifying potential customers is a real skill. The luxury retail industry trains its employees to be astute observers of behavior. They can often distinguish between casual browsers and genuine buyers within seconds, based on subtle cues.

Illustrative photo: Buzzfeed

Illustrative photo: Buzzfeed

Here are six signs that differentiate the affluent from the average shopper:

Price checking: Truly wealthy individuals rarely check the price tag first. They examine the item – its stitching, weight, how it catches the light – before considering the cost. Checking the price first signals that cost, not quality, is the primary concern.

Excessive photography: Snapping photos of logos and merchandise for social media might seem like documenting the experience. To sales staff, it suggests creating a moment rather than a genuine interest in purchasing.

Overly cautious handling: The average shopper treats a $3,000 bag like fragile glass, moving gingerly and displaying anxiety. Wealthy customers comfortably place a $5,000 bag on a chair, handling cashmere as casually as cotton.

Announcing intentions: "I'm just looking!" is a common refrain from those who feel the need to explain their presence. The truly wealthy don't offer explanations. They exude a sense of belonging.

Gravitating towards sales: Even without a specific purchase in mind, the pull towards the sale rack is a telltale sign. This attraction suggests a focus on accessing luxury within a budget. Genuine buyers explore the entire store, choosing based on desire, not discounts.

Body language: A closed-off posture, shoulders drawn in, minimizing physical presence – these signal a desire to avoid attention. The affluent, however, tend to occupy space more freely. They sit on furniture, spread belongings on counters, and move with an air of confidence.

However, psychologists emphasize that these signals only hold weight if you give them weight. True luxury is not caring what the sales staff thinks. Browsing and admiring are perfectly acceptable, and no one has the right to judge. Sometimes, the greatest power is realizing you don't need anything they're selling.

Bao Nhien (According to HK01/Vegoutmag)