Social relations are complex, particularly as increased global productivite democratizes formerly luxury, exclusive goods. By: Christina Gayton In The Theory of the Leisure Class, Thorstein Veblen claimed “our apparel is always in evidence and affords an indication of our pecuniary standing to all observers at the first glance.” Historically, the elite would visualize their status through clothing by wearing elaborate garments with rare decorations (i.e. gold, diamonds) and delicate materials that were easy to stain or tear (i.e. white, silk). However, today, resources like gold and silk are much easier to come across and take care of among nearly all economic classes. Thus, dressing with wealth has become more complex in the modern day, and several fashion trends have emerged as a result. Luxe Normcore Luxe Normcore combines simple with high end. By pairing cheap, casual clothes like ripped jeans and t-shirts with luxury items like balenciaga shoes, wealthy individuals are able to make a statement: “Wearing incredibly expensive shoes is no big deal for me.” Designer handbags and other accessories that would normally be …