Part 3/6:
The response from her primarily Gen Z audience was swift and strongly critical. Many pointed out that $55,000 annually is insufficient for a full-time position in New York City, especially when considering taxes—roughly $33,000 post-tax—and the high cost of living. Critics argued that the pay was unrealistic and, in effect, exploitative, given the expectations placed on the employee and the nature of the fashion industry, which many already perceive as predatory and exploitative.