Signs of people who fake lifestyles to impress those around them

In today’s social media-driven world, the pressure to project an image of wealth and success can lead some individuals to create a façade of affluence.

These pretenses are often carefully curated to impress others, but they might not always reflect reality.

Here are eight common things people tend to show off when they are faking an expensive lifestyle:

1. Designer labels

One of the most visible signs of feigned wealth is the ostentatious display of designer labels.

Individuals might flaunt counterfeit designer goods, ranging from handbags to clothing and accessories, to project an image of high-end taste and high financial status.

2. Luxury cars

Leasing or renting luxury cars for weekends or special events is another way people pretend to live a lavish lifestyle.

By showing up in a high-end vehicle, they aim to associate themselves with the prestige that comes with owning such an asset, even if it’s just temporary.

3. Exotic vacations

Posting old travel photos or using stock images to fake vacations to exotic destinations is a tactic used to suggest a globe-trotting lifestyle.

These individuals might share these images on social media to evoke envy and admiration from their audience.

Costco Travel offers vacation packages to destinations like Tahiti.IM_photo/Shutterstock Business Insider USA

4. Fine dining

Some might frequently post photos from high-end restaurants or set up scenes that imply they are dining at expensive establishments.

This can be as simple as taking a picture outside a famous restaurant without actually dining there.

5. Expensive hobbies

Claiming to engage in costly hobbies like golfing at exclusive clubs or sailing on yachts are common ways to feign a highbrow lifestyle.

These activities are associated with wealth and leisure, making them perfect for constructing a wealthy persona.

6. Opulent home decor

Sharing images of luxurious home interiors—often not their own—or staging certain areas of their homes to appear decadent is another method used.

This can involve elaborate setups that are temporary but designed to impress viewers during a video call or a social media post.

Example of minimalistic home decor.John Keeble/Getty Images Business Insider USA

7. VIP treatment

Name-dropping celebrities or flaunting access to exclusive events and VIP treatment can also be indicative of pretending to lead a high-end life.

This might include posts from behind the scenes at prestigious events or photos suggesting close relationships with well-known personalities.

8. High-end gadgets

Flashing the latest gadgets, whether they're the newest smartphones, high-tech watches, or other luxury electronics, can also be a sign of pretending wealth.

These items are often perceived as status symbols, indicating not just technological savvy but also financial capability.