There is a proverb in Telugu language which is as below.
అన్నం లేకపోయినా, పట్టుబట్ట కడతా అన్నాడట
It translates to someone who doesn't have a morsel to eat but insists on wearing expensive clothes. In short, a person who likes to show off but is disproportionate to his means.
What is the English equivalent proverb or idiom which conveys a similar meaning?
Best Answer
Two idioms in Br English might fit the bill - particularly this one: "A three-bob millionaire" is someone who acts like they have a lot of money while only having a small amount ( three bob = three shillings in pre-decimal British currency); also one of the meanings of the expression 'fur coat and no knickers' is similar - ie someone (usually female) who dresses like a rich person whilst not having the means to buy underwear)