Having taste doesn’t mean buying the most expensive bottle of wine or wearing brand names splashed across your chest.
In reality, true class and refinement is much more understated and not braggy in the slightest. If you’ve ever wondered how your taste stacks up to the rest of the population, here are some signs you have plenty of it, no flashing the cash needed.
1. You know how to pair food and drink.
Whether it’s knowing which wine complements a certain cheese or which beer works best with spicy food, you’ve mastered the art of pairing. It’s not about fancy ingredients, but understanding flavours and how they work together. Bonus points if you can do this at a casual barbecue without coming across as a food snob.
2. You appreciate timeless style over trends.
Trends come and go, but you gravitate toward pieces that stand the test of time. Classic cuts, neutral tones, and high-quality fabrics make up your wardrobe, and it shows. Refined taste is knowing when to say no to the “hot pink leopard print” trend—unless it genuinely speaks to your soul, of course.
3. You choose quality over quantity.
Source: Unsplash Whether it’s a well-made pair of shoes or a carefully curated bookshelf, you value the long-lasting over the disposable. Refined taste means investing in items that bring you joy for years, rather than cluttering your life with fleeting purchases. You’re the friend who says, “Why buy ten cheap things when one good one will do?”
4. Your home feels effortlessly cosy and stylish.
Even if you don’t own expensive furniture, your home feels like a sanctuary. You know how to mix textures, layer lighting, and add just the right touch of decor to make a space inviting. Guests always ask, “Where did you get this?”—and you love casually replying, “Oh, I found it at a flea market.”
5. You have a knack for finding hidden gems.
From thrift stores to farmers’ markets, you seem to have a radar for unique, high-quality finds. While other people are overwhelmed by the clutter, you zero in on the perfect vintage jacket or artisan loaf of bread. You make treasure hunting look effortless, and your finds always have a story.
6. You’re a pro at creating the perfect playlist.
Source: Unsplash Music lovers trust you to set the mood, whether it’s a dinner party or a road trip. Your playlists strike the perfect balance between classic favourites and fresh discoveries, making everyone wonder how you do it. Refined taste means knowing when to add that obscure indie song without losing the crowd.
7. You have an eye for presentation.
It doesn’t matter whether it’s a simple salad or a birthday gift—everything you touch looks like it was thoughtfully prepared. You’re the kind of person who instinctively knows how to arrange a cheese board that’s as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious. Presentation isn’t everything, but you make it look like it is.
8. You value craftsmanship.
Whether it’s handmade pottery or bespoke furniture, you appreciate the skill and artistry that go into creating something unique. Refined taste isn’t about having the most expensive items but recognising the care and effort behind well-made things. Artisans are your heroes, and their work has a place of honour in your life.
9. You know when to splurge (and when not to).
You don’t need a lot of money to have refined taste; you just need to know where it’s worth spending. You’ll happily splurge on good coffee or a timeless coat but won’t waste a penny on overpriced trends. Your sense of value is your superpower, and it keeps you grounded and stylish at the same time.
10. You appreciate a good story.
Whether it’s the history behind an antique vase or the journey of a small-batch chocolate maker, you love items with meaning. You’re drawn to things that have depth and character, and it shows in the way you talk about them. A refined eye sees value in the narrative, not just the price tag.
11. You know how to curate your space.
From the art on your walls to the books on your shelves, everything in your home feels intentional. It’s not about having expensive taste—it’s about knowing what resonates with you and creating a space that reflects your personality. Your style feels uniquely yours, and it’s always a pleasure to step into your world.
12. You can spot fake enthusiasm a mile away.
Refined taste extends to people, too. You have a radar for authenticity and are drawn to genuine connections rather than flashy displays of charm. Whether it’s spotting someone’s genuine interest or cutting through a sales pitch, you value honesty over showmanship every time.
13. You enjoy exploring new cuisines.
Trying foods from different cultures isn’t just a hobby for you—it’s a joy. From street tacos to fine sushi, you appreciate the flavours and traditions behind every dish. Refined taste means embracing the unknown and discovering the beauty in diversity, one meal at a time.
14. You love subtle luxuries.
It’s not about grand displays of wealth but finding joy in the little things—a great-smelling candle, a perfectly brewed cup of tea, or soft linen sheets. You don’t need a mansion to enjoy life’s finer moments; your appreciation for simple, quality experiences is what makes your taste so refined.
15. You know what you like—and you own it.
Refined taste isn’t about impressing everyone; it’s about having confidence in your preferences. Whether it’s your love of indie films, your go-to jazz playlist, or your favourite local bakery, you celebrate your unique perspective without apology. True refinement is knowing yourself and sticking to what feels authentic.
