Common Quote by Carmen Dell'Orefice
“Fashion matters to the degree that it is, for the sighted person, the first language we speak to each other. We are... "judge" is a very harsh word, but we're taking in and we're evaluating. Who is this person? What do I have in common? Do I respect them? All of that is that unspoken visual impact.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Fashion and Identity, 2015
Appearance serves as an immediate, non‑verbal communication that influences judgments before words are spoken.
In simple terms: Looks are a first, silent language.
Be aware of visual signals you send.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- job interviews
- first meetings
- online dating
- public speaking
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you consciously shape your visual presence?
- What assumptions might you be making about others?
Visual cues can be misread, leading to unfair bias.