The Times recently gave a try at deciphering the lifestyles of the Chinese middle class. But Chinese netizens, many of whom are either from middle class families or are part of the cohort themselves, don’t seem to agree. They think the Chinese middle class should live a much fancier life.

A picture report that covers a typical day in life of two very different types of professional women living in Beijing and thus reveals their distinct lifestyles and brand preferences.