The $20 Hack Celebs Are Using to Look Rich Online

In the age of filters, facades, and flexing for the ‘gram, looking wealthy online has practically become a marketing strategy. But what if we told you that some of the biggest celebrities — yes, A-listers and viral stars alike — are using a $20 trick to polish their image and keep the luxury illusion alive?

Welcome to the world of “rich aesthetics on a budget.” Whether it’s for a selfie, a product launch, or just daily content, celebs know how to use simple hacks to appear high-end. And this latest trend isn’t about designer clothes or rented Lambos. It’s something you can actually copy without maxing out your card.

The Hack: Renting the Rich Life

Here’s the tea: More and more celebrities (and influencers) are renting luxury lifestyle props for content — and it’s not what you think. We’re not just talking about private jets or sports cars (though that happens too). The hottest low-budget flex right now is:

$20/hour access to luxury spaces, furniture, or setups — purely for content creation.

That means:
• Renting a lavish Airbnb room just for one shoot
• Booking a luxury co-working space or hotel lobby for Instagram Reels
• Borrowing high-end tableware or bags for flatlays and product promos

It’s all about setting the scene.

And yes — some do it through connections. But more often than not, they’re simply using affordable rental platforms and influencer-specific services to “borrow the lifestyle.”

The Visuals Make the Value

Why does this work so well? Because social media — especially platforms like Instagram and TikTok — is a visual-first game. People make snap judgments about status and success based on:
• What you’re wearing
• Where you are
• What’s in the background

So if your backdrop looks like a $2,000/night penthouse and your lighting screams editorial shoot, people assume you’re living large — even if you only spent $20 and 45 minutes there.

In fact, we broke down how celebs leverage appearances into power in our post The Digital Hustle Behind the Fame: What Celebs Really Do for Extra Millions. Image = income.

But Wait — Isn’t That Fake?

Here’s where it gets spicy. Some fans feel duped when they find out their favorite influencer’s lifestyle isn’t all real. But in the world of branding, this isn’t deception — it’s strategy.

As one creator explained:

“You don’t question actors for using sets and costumes. This is the same thing. My feed is my stage.”

The key is intent. If a celeb uses the setup to sell a lifestyle, that’s one thing. If they’re honest about being creative with their content space, most followers respect the hustle.

How Regular People Are Using the Hack Too

Here’s the kicker — you don’t need to be a celebrity to tap into this trend.

Platforms like:
• Peerspace (rent creative spaces by the hour)
• Airbnb Luxe (book photogenic stays)
• StyleLend or Tulerie (rent high-end fashion pieces)
• Even local hotel lobbies or showrooms

…are being used by regular content creators, small biz owners, and side hustlers to level up their content game.

We recently spotlighted more on this trend in No Degree, No Problem: These Viral Hustles Pay Big in 2025 — where renting the vibe is now part of the playbook.

🎤 The FameFortuneBuzz Take:

In 2025, perception sells. If you can look polished, luxury-aligned, and trustworthy online — people are more likely to follow, engage, and even buy from you. And with just $20 and some planning, you can stage your content like the pros.

Whether it’s a celeb trying to keep their brand sharp or a side hustler pushing their products, the message is the same:

“Don’t fake it to make it. Frame it to make it.”

And for that? You don’t need a mansion — you just need a good angle.

Editor’s Note: This post is for informational purposes only. Individual results may vary, and we do not guarantee earnings from the methods mentioned.