I wonder if most people who appear to be concerned with status are actually worried about belonging. They seem to be playing a zero-sum game with their peers, but they really just want to be secure within that group and not at the margins or in the out-group. I've certainly known people who want to be recognized for their expensive car or clothes, but I think most people just want to fit in and they've been convinced that what they wear or drive is an important part of that.