It has become evident that the wealthy have appropriated and commercialized certain trends and activities once cherished by lower-income communities. This phenomenon often leads to a significant shift in perception, cost, and accessibility. Let’s explore 15 things the wealthy have influenced and how it has affected their popularity and value.
Farmer’s Market Produce
Before organic and locally sourced food became a trend among the wealthy, those on a tight budget often frequented farmer’s markets. These markets offered fresh and affordable produce for families struggling to make ends meet. However, as this type of food gained popularity among the rich, prices skyrocketed, making it difficult for low-income individuals to access them.
Thrift Store Clothing
Thrift stores used to be the go-to place for those needing budget-friendly clothing options. But with the rise of “vintage” and sustainable fashion trends among the rich, thrift store finds have become highly coveted and overpriced. A user on Reddit shared their frustration, stating, “I used to be able to find great deals at thrift stores, but now everything is picked over and priced too high.”
Affordable Housing
With the increasing demand for luxury housing and the gentrification of low-income neighborhoods, affordable housing options have become scarce. Many poor people are pushed out of their homes and communities as wealthy individuals move in and drive up property values.
Public Transportation
Before ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft became popular, public transportation was often the only option for those without a car or unable to afford expensive taxi rides. Who would have thought taking the bus or subway would signify financial struggle? The rise of ride-sharing has also led to increased traffic and pollution in urban areas.
Camping
Camping was a simple and inexpensive way for families to enjoy the outdoors. However, with the rise of “glamping” and luxury camping options, camping costs have increased significantly. A Reddit user shares their frustration, saying, “I used to love camping with my family, but now it’s so expensive with all these fancy glamping options.”
Traditional Poor People Food
Certain foods like beans, rice, and ramen were once staples for those on a tight budget. These meals were simple, filling, and affordable until they gained popularity among health-conscious and vegetarian/vegan communities. They are now marketed as trendy and expensive alternatives, making it difficult for poor people to access them.
Owning a Farm
Previously, owning a small farm or homestead was a way for families to be self-sufficient and have affordable food options. However, as wealthy individuals started buying land and turning it into expensive hobby farms, owning a farm has become out of reach for many low-income individuals.
Theatre and Opera
Attending a theatre or opera performance used to be an accessible form of entertainment for all, with affordable ticket prices and occasional free shows. Sadly, these events became popular among the wealthy, and prices increased drastically, making it difficult for poor people to attend.
Arts and Crafts
Without breaking the bank, you could afford to buy unique and handmade items at arts and crafts fairs. Sadly, not anymore. The rich have caught on to the trend and are now selling their overpriced versions, pricing out those who once enjoyed supporting local artists. Also, the demand for these crafts by the rich has led many artists to raise their prices and make more profit.
Natural Remedies
Before the rise of expensive supplements and alternative medicine practices among the wealthy, low-income individuals often relied upon natural remedies. However, these products’ increased demand and prices have made them unaffordable for many who once relied on them.
Lobsters
Lobsters were peasant food often served to inmates and used as plant fertilizer. Almost everyone could afford them, but the price skyrocketed when the rich started loving them for no reason. They have become an exclusive and expensive delicacy, leaving poor people with only a distant memory of enjoying delicious lobster dishes.
Seeing a Football Match
Football is now a multi-million dollar industry, and ticket prices are out of reach for the average person. It used to be a simple and affordable pastime, with families gathering together to cheer on their favorite teams. But now, mosyly the wealthy can afford to attend matches in luxury boxes or VIP seats.
Simple Mexican Foods Like Tacos and Burritos
Tacos and burritos were once cheap and delicious street food, but with the rise of trendy Mexican restaurants serving “authentic” cuisine at high prices, these simple dishes have become unaffordable for many low-income individuals. A Reddit user shared their frustration, saying, “I used to love grabbing a few tacos from a food truck on my way home from work, but now I can’t afford to eat there anymore.”
Source
What was loved by poor people until rich people ruined it?
byu/hpbojoe inAskReddit
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