The beautiful people syndrome says that good looking, well-dressed people who smile a lot get the fastest treatment in busy venues. How has that worked out in your experience?

I don't know how frequent special treatment is, but I do have an anecdotal tidbit.

To test if pretty women get better service, especially at clothing boutiques, an actress put on a costume to look obese.  Her favorite store acted like she was invisible.  So how widespread is it?  I don't know.  She sure shocked the managers when she revealed herself!  I hope there's one less place that does that.

I don't think I agree...... I have been the patient one and got wonderful treatment AFTER waiting my turn from the beautiful person. I have been the irate "ugly" person and got icky service. I have been the patient kind one who got treated like poop just because of the car I drove.... Ended up getting a free meal when the manager realized it was NOT me! Lol ! In other words I think it's about attitude more then looks ...... I hope! Lol!

Dear Didge,

Well I just have to say "bless them" to all the beautiful people, and I am glad it is working out for them to get all this fast treatment in busy venues...and I will keep bumbling along in my own way...

Every busy venue I have been to had a line and your place in line got you your service at whatever speed. The only exception to that, that I am aware of, would be high end nightclubs in large metropolitan areas. Back in the day Studio 54 was notorious for that. You either had to be an A list celebrity or looked like one. I personally have never cared to go any place like that. I just assume go someplace that had smart and interesting people instead.

I am old, have uncontrollable hair, I wear whatever is comfortable and clean when I get up in the morning. I probably do not look like anyone worthy of any special treatment.  (I am OK with that).

When I open my mouth and the "Slightly Posh" "Horribly English" voice comes out, everything changes.

It even used to be like that in the US.

Develop an English accent everyone - it opens doors!

Thanks, Didge.

I've wondered all my life why I always receive preferential treatment in such situations.

My wife called me while I was working and said to meet her at Smith's furniture store on the way home. I was filthy from working on a foundation that day and she was wearing overalls and not looking like a fashion statement. When we walked in, we got a lot of stares from the sales people but not a one would wait on us, they just sort of shuffled away. After about 20 minutes, an older gentleman asked if we needed any help and we nodded. He spent the next hour with us while we bought a complete living room set and an entire dining room set, that would seat 14 people. We spent about $10k, BUT, it turns out that the older gentleman was the owner of the store and he announced over the intercom that he was refunding to us a certain percentage that normally would go to the salesperson as commission.

Don't judge a book by it's cover has served me well over the years.