https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Mon, 18 May 2026 11:05:48 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips/page/2#post-811020 Mon, 07 Jan 2013 19:31:03 +0000 Mo 811020@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oh, Janet, I have been guilty of 'saving' my good clothes forever. I need to really try and get out of that mindset. They go out of fashion before they wear out lol!</p> <p>Interesting, Claudia! I know that when it's time to give out loans, the banks seem to want to give it to those who don't need the money so badly, as opposed to those in dire straits.</p> <p>Denise, I agree that many people are certain % tippers unless the service is exceptional in either direction, good or bad. We tip basically 20% and even when service is poor it's very hard to leave nothing. Honestly, in FL we had a horrible experience and left like 50 cents or something, so they would know we didn't forget, but that we did not approve of the service. But we have only done so a couple times in the 11 years we have been going out to eat together.<br /> It is always either performance based, or attitude, for us - never what they wear or smell like or whatever lol!<br /> And, big bummer on those who stiff you assuming you are part owner </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips/page/2#post-810659 Mon, 07 Jan 2013 13:15:30 +0000 Claudia 810659@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>The topic of tipping is fascinating and I agree that it says as much about the tipper as the one being tipped.</p> <p>I have never worked in an industry where I received tips as part of my compensation, but early on in the corporate world, right out of school, I noticed something I didn't expect -- and continued to observe over the years. Those that came across as having money/security (whether it was a suspected trust fund or generous parents; a spouse with good income; lottery winner, etc.) were treated better, got away with more, and paid more than those that worked just as hard or harder but obviously needed the money (cheaper clothes, car, haircut; single parent; unemployed or disabled spouse). It appeared to me that those who look like they needed the job/money more were perceived as more vulnerable and therefore could be treated less fairly than those who had more perceived options. This came as a surprise to me as a young adult, because in my mind it should be the opposite, which is to offer more to those more vulnerable or with greater need, especially if they've earned it. I guess this is why the corporate world is called "dog eat dog" or "the rat race."</p> <p>Anyway, my gut reaction to Mo's question, based on my experience in the corporate world was that she'd get better tips in her TR jeans from those who actually knew what they cost or thought subconsciously that she looked "expensive," looking like she didn't really need their money -- she'd have a perceived higher value. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips/page/2#post-810595 Mon, 07 Jan 2013 08:10:20 +0000 CocoLion 810595@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It's taken me a while to chime in. First I had to read the Freakonomics article which Runnerchick linked to, plus all of the comments!</p> <p>In a nutshell, I am completely in agreement that there are 10% tippers, 15%ers, and 20%ers as discussed in the above article. What you get, assuming the service was good (timely, accurate, friendly, drinks refilled and check processed quickly) in my experience has less to do with your service provided and more to do with the person who's tipping you.</p> <p>Since my mother and brother are the owners of the restaurant where I work, people often think I am also an owner (which I am not). This results in fewer or no tips from time to time, even though my parties say "everything was great!" So that gets in my way more than if I'm wearing my True Religion jeans (which I often do). The only person over the past 3 years to ever notice I am wearing TRs was one of my gay co-workers. And, as Janet says, if they want to punish me and tip less because of that, then they are usually the type who will find something wrong with my service as a way to feel ok about poor tipping. For example, people will sometimes not want to engage with me at all, i.e. respond when I ask them "how's your day going?" or something like that. Because then they connect with me and feel worse about not tipping. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips/page/2#post-810235 Sun, 06 Jan 2013 19:38:53 +0000 Janet 810235@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Late to this discussion, but I am generally a generous tipper, and I take only the service (attentiveness, friendliness, etc) of the server into account. I have never taken notice if whether a server is wearing something "expensive." Anyone who withholds a tip for that reason, even though the service is good, is cheap and going to find *some* reason to hold back, IMHO.</p> <p>Now, wearing your good jeans to work is a whole other debate.<br /> I tend to "save" my good jeans. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips/page/2#post-810225 Sun, 06 Jan 2013 19:22:08 +0000 nicoleb 810225@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I was a server and bartender for 3 years and i wouldn't wear my nice clothes just because i always ended up a mess! I don't think it would effect your tip though. The average person won't notice your pants or know where they came from. </p> <p>Funny you talked about servers mentioning kids to get more $. I had several girls tell me to cover my book with photos of my son to get better tips. </p> <p>And then once when i did mention my son (which came up naturally in conversation) a customer asked me a question and then said, "I'm always curious about children having children in the school system." Which took me a minute to get. Apparently she thought i was much younger than i was and thought i had my son when i was in high school (i didn't. I had him at 22.)? A lot of assumptions on her part and kind of rude to say to someone? o.O People are fun. </p> <p>Sorry i took this kind of OT! I just love talking about "in the biz" times lol. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips/page/2#post-810207 Sun, 06 Jan 2013 18:39:17 +0000 Mo 810207@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ha! Gaylene, you get that going would you? :)<br /> I've yet to wear them but if and when I do I will pay attention to tip percentage, and if it affects what women vs. men tip. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips/page/2#post-810130 Sun, 06 Jan 2013 16:02:13 +0000 lori l 810130@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I haven't read all of the replies, so i hope i'm not repeating.<br /> If my server was dressed really well, i'd think she was quite successful at her job! How you chose to spend your $ is your own business. How well you treat me as a customer is what i care about. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips/page/2#post-808183 Fri, 04 Jan 2013 00:22:16 +0000 Gaylene 808183@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Hmm, I think this question deserves a research grant so that it can be properly investigated. How about I apply for the grant--making sure it can cover the cost of accommodations and lift tickets in Tahoe for me, and a wardrobe of jeans that run the gamut from inexpensive to $$$$ for you, and we give this topic the serious attention it deserves.</p> <p>I'm game for it if you are, Mo. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips/page/2#post-808178 Fri, 04 Jan 2013 00:16:04 +0000 moira 808178@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I appreciate anyone in the service industry looking like they want to be there and are proud of their job.<br /> Someone who is proud of their appearance will get a better tip from me because I appreciate the effort, as the customer. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips/page/2#post-808067 Thu, 03 Jan 2013 22:19:00 +0000 Twiddles 808067@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>As many have said it is the service which counts...however as someone pointed out, we do send signals to our brains relating price to brand and affordability. I would have asked myself "I wonder how can she afford those jeans?" and if she can afford those jeans then I don't have to tip much. It is like arriving at work in a Porsche and your customers see you getting out the car. I don't think they would tip much compared to if you got out of a beaten up VW Beetle. Whom are we to judge, you could have got the Porsche for a good deal, or it was left to you by your Grandad...but as humans we do judge, assume and perceive things. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips/page/2#post-807888 Thu, 03 Jan 2013 19:46:53 +0000 Mo 807888@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>interesting . . . I felt much like Rachlou, that it would be a subconscious thing. I did not end up wearing them, mostly due to the BF's request should I ruin my one good pair of jeans.<br /> I wore my grey skinny cargo cords. But I pulled on them all night, as they are now half a size or so too big I did get even more comments from my fellow servers on my purple Dansko Veda's. I explained they are made by the professional clog people and I could see their eyes brighten up lol.<br /> As an aside, I am finding the close fit tees awkward after embracing drapier fits this last year. I wonder if I can order a looser tee or two.<br /> Terrible, pic, I know . . . but grey on grey with a black cable zip up cardi for the cold. Black apron once I got to work. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips#post-807876 Thu, 03 Jan 2013 19:32:36 +0000 Isabel 807876@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I know that I am late with the answer, but mine would be absolutely not affect my tipping on bit. Unless the wait person is the owner. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips#post-807874 Thu, 03 Jan 2013 19:30:52 +0000 rachylou 807874@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>On a related subject, I once worked at a place - we're talking baking now - and would wear my Marc Jacobs tees. They were tissue thin, sleeveless, and really quite ideal for hellish kitchen heat. I don't think anyone spotted them for being Marc Jacobs, but I got a lot of *comments*. Unpleasant.</p> <p>People tip for the quality of service, but the perception of quality depends on how they feel about you. And how they feel about you depends to some degree on your clothes and if they match their idea of appropriate. If you make enough for fancy clothes - ok, you were nice, but why weren't you nicer?</p> <p>The bankers' dress code, you know, expressly forbids the wearing of Rolex watches. No one wants to come in and see you spending their money on frippery. People want you to be careful and conservative with their money. It's subconscious.</p> <p>Anyways, so did you wear them? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips#post-807588 Thu, 03 Jan 2013 13:09:24 +0000 Anonymous 807588@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>They look fabulous, get them out and wear them. That's one way to bring down their CPW, and most jeans are sturdy stuff so I doubt you'll ruin them. If anything you'll get better tips because they look fantastic. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips#post-807520 Thu, 03 Jan 2013 08:22:28 +0000 rute 807520@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I notice my server clothes too but I like to see them well put together and presentable and not poorly dressed!<br /> I guess that would not affect the tips.<br /> I LOVE those jeans on you! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips#post-807451 Thu, 03 Jan 2013 04:20:26 +0000 annagybe 807451@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Makes me grateful my brief foray into food service was uniformed. Wear the jeans. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips#post-807447 Thu, 03 Jan 2013 04:16:26 +0000 crazyone 807447@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I honestly don't think most people would notice your jean brand, or even know if they did notice. So I doubt it will affect your tips in any negative way. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips#post-807361 Thu, 03 Jan 2013 03:11:47 +0000 Freckles 807361@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>We went out to lunch today and while I couldn't tell you what our server wore I can tell you that she was well groomed, clean, friendly, accomodating to the grr one dictator person in the party and gave EXCELLENT service. She was tipped on her service but I appreciated all the other parts as well.</p> <p>Wear the jeans if you wish Mo, they look great on you. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips#post-807342 Thu, 03 Jan 2013 02:38:22 +0000 velvetychocolate 807342@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Late to chime in, but I would never tip less if I somehow happened to notice that someone's jeans were a more expensive brand. I don't think I'd really notice this, but if I did - how would I know whether the jeans were a gift, patiently saved-up for, or bought at a great discount, and further - what difference does it make anyway? </p> <p>Actually, come to think of it - I don't notice brands all that much at all. I notice style, beautiful fit or what have you, but brands/price don't really resonate with me. </p> <p>That being said, I *do* notice when someone goes the extra mile and provides stellar service and I tend to tip more in those cases. </p> <p>So don't worry that wearing your nicer jeans will somehow make people think twice about their tips - I don't think this will happen. If anything - you'll feel better and as a result you might do a better job - thereby increasing your tips. Just a thought. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips#post-807299 Thu, 03 Jan 2013 01:45:54 +0000 RunnerChick 807299@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I tend to tip the same amount (20%) unless the service is egregiously poor or outrageously excellent. It's really not dependent at all on the clothes of the server, but on the fact that I have worked in the service industry and I know what servers are usually paid. It's always a plus to encounter a server who's pleasant, charming, and helpful...regardless of how they're dressed. As IK said, go out and be fabulous! </p> <p>BTW, speaking of tipping, I just came across this blog post on the freakanomics blog: <a href="http://www.freakonomics.com/tag/tipping/" rel="nofollow">http://www.freakonomics.com/tag/tipping/</a><br /> Interesting, huh? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips#post-807297 Thu, 03 Jan 2013 01:39:13 +0000 Girl X 807297@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I just voted Yay - meaning, wear them! But if Yay actually means 'yes fancy jeans might negatively affect your tips' then I should change my vote to Nay - because I can't imagine they would have any negative impact. Actually, I can't imagine tipping based on how much or how little the perceived need was, and really the idea of that seems pretty creepy to me. If my server looks great, then I get to enjoy their outfit, which adds to my overall enjoyment, which means better tips! Wear the damn jeans!!! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips#post-807216 Thu, 03 Jan 2013 00:35:02 +0000 Suz 807216@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It certainly wouldn't make me tip any less. On the contrary, a server who looks great is a credit to the place she works and I am likely to tip her well. But I would worry about wrecking them without an apron. So it would depend on the rest of the uniform and the shift. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips#post-807212 Thu, 03 Jan 2013 00:31:32 +0000 rachylou 807212@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think, actually, they would effect your tips. People think the thoughts that their brains tell them to think. And brains make a lot of snap judgements. </p> <p>Be an interesting experiment to run, though. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips#post-807168 Wed, 02 Jan 2013 23:46:28 +0000 Rose 807168@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I concur with those who say that most people probably won't notice or recognize your clothes, and that - if anything - looking nicer means looking more professional and tip-worthy. </p> <p>Unless there are logos or bling in the question, I usually perceive expensive/well-made clothing as "she looks great" rather than "she looks like she paid a lot for that." </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips#post-807165 Wed, 02 Jan 2013 23:44:19 +0000 ironkurtin 807165@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>No, I don't tip based on jeans. Go out and be fabulous! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips#post-807163 Wed, 02 Jan 2013 23:42:26 +0000 lyn* 807163@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ditto w/ Deborah; I only tip based on the service and not whether or not someone appears to need it. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips#post-807154 Wed, 02 Jan 2013 23:32:30 +0000 Deborah 807154@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Tipping is not the custom here but we do tip from time to time and it is ALWAYS based on the service we receive. We have never made a decision based on if we think the person 'needs' the tip, it is purely a response to excellent service. What you are wearing would not influence my decision at all. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips#post-807143 Wed, 02 Jan 2013 23:20:45 +0000 rae 807143@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I don't think it would affect your tips much if at all. Like the ladies said, most people aren't likely to know the brand or even pay attention. Plus, even if they did notice, they wouldn't know if you bought them full price, on sale, after saving for months, off ebay, from a friend or whatnot. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips#post-807135 Wed, 02 Jan 2013 23:14:26 +0000 morethanbeige 807135@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I don't think it would affect the tip either, Mo. You look fab (and therefore probably feel fab) and I think this would make people want to tip more.</p> <p>I think the tips are more about friendliness and service. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/expensive-jeans-as-uniform---would-it-affect-my-tips#post-806961 Wed, 02 Jan 2013 20:53:24 +0000 Mo 806961@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Okay, thanks for reassuring me! I do worry about rips/stains and so that's why I don't wear them to work. It's laundry time! I may be able to wear my grey skinny cords . . . but it's good to know if I have to wear these it's not likely to affect my income </p>