The document discusses the concept of conspicuous consumption and the theory of the leisure class. It describes how upper classes in feudal societies were exempt from work and how leisure became a mark of social status and wealth. Conspicuous displays of wealth through consumption of valuable goods and leisure activities were used to demonstrate status and maintain esteem. King Louis XIV of France furthered this culture of conspicuous consumption at Versailles to consolidate his power and influence fashion across Europe.

1. CONSPICUOUS CONSUMPTION AND THE THEORY OF THE LEISURE CLASS OR WHY ALLIGATORS ARE “TACKY”

2. NO REASON EXCEPT I LIKED IT

5. SPORT FOR THE LEISURED SOCIETY (Note White)

6. OR PLAY IT ON HORSE-BACK (Amateur of course), or play when working people cannot.

9. WHAT CAN THE WIFE DO WHICH IS HARD WORK, VOLUNTARY, DOES NOT INVOLVE MAKING MONEY?

11. AS FOR SUNBLOCK DARLING!!

16. Concentration on extravagance at home would eventually lead to a neglect of the French Navy: Wolfe at Quebec (Sept. 1859)

27. 17th Century England Wild, Violent and Free

29. AND MANNERED SOCIETY

33. YOU CAN SEE BY MY CLOTHES THAT I AM SOBER AND TO BE TRUSTED. AM I WEALTHY? JUST LOOK AT MY WIFE, DO YOU THINK SHE COULD WORK IN THAT DRESS OR EVEN PUT IT ON WITHOUT A MAID?

37. IRONICAL CONSIDERING FRENCH DISTAIN FOR ENGLISH SOCIETY 1814

40. Fashion Dictates

41. AND FASHION MOVES ON

42. AND ON 1880

43. WORTH GOWNS

50. Some Points

51. OF COURSE IT IS ALL DIFFERENT NOW!!!!!

52. CONSPICUOUS CONSUMPTION AND THE THEORY OF THE LEISURE CLASS OR WHY ALLIGATORS ARE “TACKY”