Choices in daily life, from the terminology used for meals to the type of doorbell installed, can signal an individual's social class, according to former royal butler Julius F Smith. Smith, founder of Regal Afternoon Tea, outlined 12 subtle signs that he believes differentiate between the middle and upper classes in an interview with the Daily Mail.

Dining Habits and Terminology

Smith suggests that the language used for evening meals offers a clue. For the upper class, this meal is referred to as "supper" and is typically served at 8 p.m., concluding with a traditional English "pudding" such as trifle. In contrast, middle-class households may call this meal "dinner," prefer a 7 p.m. timing, and opt for a French or Italian-inspired "dessert."

Material Possessions

Indications of class can also be found in material possessions. Cutlery, for instance, might be passed down through generations in upper-class families, with specific knives and forks for different foods. Middle-class individuals, according to Smith, might favor sets from retailers like John Lewis, perhaps with multi-colored pieces. The preference for tea service also differs, with the upper class exclusively using teacups and saucers, while the middle class may opt for bone china.

When it comes to domestic help, an upper-class household might have a long-serving housekeeper who is considered part of the family. A middle-class household, by comparison, might employ a single cleaner who stays for a shorter duration.

Luggage choices also serve as markers. Upper-class individuals might use brands like Globetrotter or rely on leather hand-me-downs. Designer luggage from brands such as Louis Vuitton or Gucci is seen as more characteristic of the middle class.

The choice of doorbell also distinguishes between classes. The upper class may have a traditional bell that rings in the kitchen and hallway, while the middle class might favor a Ring doorbell for tracking deliveries.

Leisure and Transportation

Leisure activities and modes of transportation are further indicators. Upper-class preferences include shooting in the winter and horse racing in the summer, and they might drive understated vehicles like a VW Golf with high mileage or a green Range Rover. Middle-class individuals are more likely to favor football, potentially with a season ticket, and prefer cars that are faster, shinier, and more expensive. Car colors can also be telling, with silver being a common choice for a runaround VW Golf among the upper class, while the middle class might opt for more eye-catching colors.

Other Subtle Clues

Even preferences for classical music stations like Radio 3 or Classic FM are associated with the upper class, while streaming services like Spotify or Apple Music are more common for the middle class. Smith also noted that the upper class might avoid peas, deeming them common and difficult to eat, while the middle class might prefer "petit pois."