Bethenny Frankel Dresses Up to Shop at Chanel After Being Denied Entry
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Bethenny Frankel was determined to shop at a Chanel store in Chicago after being turned away before.
In a post on Instagram on Wednesday, May 22, Frankel shared her feelings of frustration and disappointment towards the luxury store. She felt they were being "elitist" for not allowing her to shop without an appointment, even though she was just in a "sweaty T-shirt."
The next day, Frankel decided to give it another try. This time, she made sure to dress to impress, wearing a stunning black pearl-adorned mini dress and carrying a chic bag from the fashion house.
Frankel mentioned in the video on Thursday, May 23, that she was going to Chanel dressed in a different outfit compared to the day before. She jokingly said, "If they let me in because of how I look, Christmas is canceled."
When Frankel arrived at the Chanel store, she was pleasantly surprised to be quickly allowed inside by the security guards. She noted the contrast in her experience from the previous day.
On Wednesday, Frankel arrived at the store without glam, rocking an oversized shirt and carrying a water bottle and a bag of popcorn.
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Bethenny Frankel shared a post on her social media account. In the post, she mentioned that when she tried to enter a store, a security guard barely opened the door and asked if she had an appointment. Frankel replied that she did not have an appointment, and as a result, she was rejected from entering the store.
“To be treated like you’re an interloper … I didn’t realize we were not allowed to walk into stores anymore,” she said.
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Bethenny Frankel shared a post on her Instagram account. In the caption, she mentioned that crime rates are currently very high and emphasized the importance of security. She also mentioned that she could easily ask one of her salespeople to add her to a list, but that wasn't the main point she wanted to make. She explained that she had just landed from a flight, wearing a sweaty t-shirt and not looking glamorous or wealthy.
She went on to say that there are many ways to communicate a message, and the approach used in this case was rude, elitist, and exclusive, which is unacceptable. She emphasized the importance of first impressions in business, stating that no one should ever feel inferior, especially when dealing with a high-end brand that profits greatly from its customers. She praised Chanel for its timeless and elegant pieces, but also stressed the importance of treating customers from all walks of life with kindness and respect.
Editor's P/S:
Bethenny Frankel's experience highlights the ongoing debate surrounding exclusivity in luxury retail. While stores have a right to protect their inventory and clientele, the manner in which they do so should not be discriminatory. Frankel's initial treatment, being turned away due to her casual attire, raises concerns about elitism and the perception that only a certain type of customer is welcome.
Frankel's subsequent successful entry into the store, after dressing more formally, further emphasizes this issue. It suggests that her appearance, rather than her status as a potential customer, determined her access. This sends a problematic message, implying that value is based on superficial factors. Ultimately, luxury brands should strive to foster an inclusive and welcoming environment for all customers, regardless of their appearance or background.