She Strengthens

The Realistic Portrayal of Money in The Bold Type

Breaking Away from Unrealistic Expectations

The Bold Type, Freeform’s popular series, has captivated audiences with its authentic depiction of women navigating the magazine industry. Unlike its predecessors, such as Sex and the City and The Devil Wears Prada, The Bold Type tackles the harsh realities of journalism, including the financial struggles many face.

Sutton’s Financial Struggles

Sutton, the aspiring fashion designer and Scarlet magazine assistant, embodies the relatable financial struggles of many young professionals. Her dilemma in season one, where she must choose between a low-paying fashion job and a high-paying advertising gig, is a common conundrum many writers face. Sutton’s decision to negotiate her perks to make up for the loss of wages showcases a valuable lesson in balancing life expenses.

A Realistic Take on Living Expenses

The show’s portrayal of living arrangements is also refreshingly realistic. Jane and Sutton share a small apartment in Greenpoint, with Sutton sleeping on a bed in the living room to reduce costs. This setup is a far cry from the lavish apartments often depicted in TV shows and movies.

Financial Challenges and Relatable Scenarios

In season three, Sutton faces additional financial challenges, including sacrificing her savings to help her mother and opting out of buying a new sewing machine. These scenarios are all too familiar for many viewers, who can relate to dealing with unexpected financial setbacks.

Jane’s Freelance Struggles

Jane’s experience with freelancing is also depicted in a realistic light. Without a steady income, she’s forced to be frugal, eating small meals and waiting for payment for her freelance pieces. Her struggle to afford a procedure to freeze her eggs, and her subsequent fight to change her insurance policy, adds another layer of authenticity to the show.

Kat’s Financial Privilege

Kat, on the other hand, represents the 14% of millennials in New York City who receive financial assistance from their parents. While her situation may not be relatable to all viewers, it’s a realistic portrayal of the financial support some individuals receive.

Where The Bold Type Falls Short

While The Bold Type excels in its portrayal of money, it’s not without its flaws. The characters’ impeccable fashion sense, despite their financial struggles, is unrealistic. Additionally, Kat’s financial privilege is exaggerated, making it seem as though she doesn’t pay any bills.

A Refreshing Take on Money

Despite its imperfections, The Bold Type has successfully tackled the often-misrepresented topic of money in journalism. Its relatable characters and realistic scenarios have left viewers pleasantly surprised, making it a standout in the world of TV shows.