Skip to content

Fashion Quote by David Foster Wallace

“had numerous pairs of dress chinos and blue blazers and Topsiders, and a smile that looked as though someone had plugged him in.” quote by David Foster Wallace
Download Open image
““had numerous pairs of dress chinos and blue blazers and Topsiders, and a smile that looked as though someone had plugged him in.””

David Foster Wallace

About This Quote

Source Short Story: “The Depressed Person”, 1994

The description paints a vivid, slightly absurd portrait of a well‑dressed, smiling man.

In simple terms: A sharply dressed man with a forced smile.

Key Takeaway

Notice how appearance can mask inner reality.

Themes

appearance irony identity

Mood

observational wry

Type

literary humorous

When to use this quote

  • social gatherings
  • first impressions
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

social façade self‑presentation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does the smile conceal?
  • How does attire affect perception?
A Different Perspective

The humor may downplay deeper loneliness.

2.6 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by David Foster Wallace

Explore all 999 David Foster Wallace quotes

More Fashion quotes

Browse all 19,830 Fashion quotes