The Luxe

A series of teenage books set in New York in 1800s, dealing with the machinations of the rich and famous (plus some of their servants).

Provides examples of:

 * Ambition Is Evil: Penelope
 * Brainy Brunette: Diana seems to be the only girl interested in reading in the entire series. Penelope also earns her status as a Brainy Brunette through all her schemes.
 * The Gay Nineties
 * Gorgeous Period Dress: Just look at the front covers!
 * Follow the Leader: These books are basically Gossip Girl set in The Age of Innocence
 * Tropes Are Not Bad
 * The Ingenue: Elizabeth.
 * Lady in Red: Penelope's preferred style of dress.
 * Ladykiller in Love: Henry for Diana
 * Manipulative Bitch: Penelope
 * Spirited Young Lady: Diana.