The Vanderbilt family has, over several generations, been viewed as the pinnacle of the American upper class. The daughter of Cornelius Vanderbilt II (himself a grandson of the first Cornelius), Gladys also grew up at The Breakers, which she eventually inherited, keeping an apartment there until the end of her life. Gladys Vanderbilt wearing her tiara at the wedding of the last Emperor of Austria, Charles, to Empress Zita. Gladys Vanderbilt's tiara. A major Cartier customer, Gladys Vanderbilt also owned a charming lighter, a pocket clock, a watch, and other beautiful objects created by the iconic jeweler.