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Arabia Quote by Dave Barry

“Look, in particular, at the people who, like you, are making average incomes for doing average jobs- bank vice presidents, insurance salesmen, auditors, secretaries of defense- and you'll realie they all dress the same way, essentially the way the mannequins in the Sears menswear department dress…” quote by Dave Barry
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“Look, in particular, at the people who, like you, are making average incomes for doing average jobs- bank vice presidents, insurance salesmen, auditors, secretaries of defense- and you'll realie they all dress the same way, essentially the way the mannequins in the Sears menswear department dress. Now look at the real successes, the people who make a lot more money than you- Elton John, Captain Kangaroo, anybody from Saudi Arabia, Big Bird, and so on. They all dress funny- and they all succeed.”

Dave Barry

About This Quote

People who earn average incomes often dress conventionally, while high earners tend to have distinctive styles, suggesting a link between personal expression and perceived success.

In simple terms: Average earners dress normally; high earners dress uniquely.

Key Takeaway

Express individuality to stand out.

Themes

conformity success appearance

Mood

analytical humorous

Type

observational satirical

When to use this quote

  • job interviews
  • networking events
  • personal branding
  • creative industries
  • social media

Key Concepts

social signaling identity status symbols

Questions to Reflect On

  • Does your attire reflect your ambitions?
  • Can you succeed without a distinctive style?
A Different Perspective

Conformity can also be a strategic choice in certain professions.

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