Conspicuous consumption

Conspicuous consumption is a sociological term describing the acquisition of goods and services with the deliberate aim of highlighting one's income or wealth; in other words: the noticeable exhibition of luxury as a means of attaining or maintaining social status.

An example from the Restoration period: Social climber Samuel Pepys, in a fine suit, and his wife, also "extraordinary fine", being both "mighty earnest to go" through town in order to be seen in their lavish coach (Diary: 1669, May 1).