Novelist and art historian Anita Brookner once defined ‘lifestyle’ as something which implied that everything you own was bought at exactly the same time, about five years ago at most.
In the age of the status update, we are encouraged to buy objects and experiences that make us appear tasteful and attractive. The lifestyle fantasy is a construct that sells not only furniture and cars but also identities (Yummy mummies, DINKS, metrosexuals). You project your status on Facebook and Instagram by showing the world what you are eating, who you know and where you are.
