Coco Chanel, French couturier, Paris, circa 1936.
Chanel was a proponent of wearing fake jewels as much or more than expensive, authentic baubles, famously stating, “It’s disgusting to walk around with millions around the neck because one happens to be rich.” She became known for piling on strands of pearls and chains as part of a self-styled uniform, making costume jewelry just as covetous as fine jewelry.