The wealthy Victorian socialites who set every trend

Mary Leiter, the Chicago heiress who became Vicereine of India, turned American department-store fortune into imperial ceremony with astonishing polish. As Lady Curzon, she wore gowns, jewels, and court dress designed to make hierarchy sparkle under chandeliers. Her famous peacock dress became one of the great fashion statements of the age. She understood the image at full imperial scale. If influence required embroidery, diamonds, and political staging, Mary came fully equipped.