Tags on is a colloquial expression used to describe the act of leaving a label or sticker attached to an item, typically clothing, after its purchase. The term "tags on" signifies that the price tag, brand tag, or barcode sticker has not been removed, indicating that the item has not been worn or used, and is in its original condition as purchased from a store.
This phrase is commonly used in fashion and retail contexts, where it is important for customers to prove that they have not used or worn a product in order to claim a refund or exchange. Leaving the tags on ensures that the item remains in its original state and can still be identified and verified by store personnel.
The practice of intentionally keeping the tags on can also serve as a status symbol or sign of affluence, as it indicates that the individual is purchasing and owning expensive or luxury items. In some cases, people may choose to flaunt their new belongings temporarily with tags attached before deciding to remove them.
"Tags on" can also be used metaphorically to describe the act of leaving a mark or label on a person or an object to signify a specific characteristic or attribute. For example, one might say "She has a 'smart' tag on her" to imply that a person is highly intelligent or knowledgeable about a particular subject.