The 1920s

The beginning of conspicuous consumption

The 1920s saw a rise in prosperity but also a growing wealth gap. Members of the upper and upper middle classes experienced rising wages and many people invested in the stock market. These were the people who were marketed to during this time period. Ads portrayed a very glamorous lifestyle that has become characteristic of the roaring 20s.

Advancements in technology allowed for lower prices for previously luxury items such as automobiles to become affordable for more people. This allowed for more people than ever to participate in consumer culture.