Here's the thing, we've seen queens who spent tons of money go home within the first few episodes while queens like Crystal, Sharon, and Bob go all the way to the end without spending a lot. Money never hurts, but it won't guarantee you'll do well.Honestly it's fucking disgusting what Ru and Michelle say to these queens about their runway looks when they know exactly what these girls went through to get there.
Even in normal times it's bad, but we're in a fucking pandemic. Most of the girls in this season and likely the next will have gone more than a year without having their regular income, which only adds to the financial strain.
I obviously love this show, but sometimes it's hard dealing with Ru and Michelle's privileged, nasty asses. Tell the girls to save receipts and reimburse them up to $10K for their runway looks, you cheap assholes. It wouldn't completely level the playing field, but it sure as shit would help.
I think queens feel pressure to spend a ton because fashion moments are what get the fanbase talking.