Skip to content

Bird Quote by George Washington

“Do not conceive that fine Clothes make fine Men, any more than fine feathers make fine Birds. A plain genteel dress is more admired and obtains more credit than lace and embroidery in the Eyes of the judicious and sensible.” quote by George Washington
Download Open image
“Do not conceive that fine Clothes make fine Men, any more than fine feathers make fine Birds. A plain genteel dress is more admired and obtains more credit than lace and embroidery in the Eyes of the judicious and sensible.”

George Washington

About This Quote

He asserts that fine clothing does not make a fine person; simple attire is more respectable than ornate dress.

In simple terms: Fine clothes don’t equal fine character.

Key Takeaway

Value substance over appearance.

Themes

humility appearance character

Mood

thoughtful practical

Type

ethical social

When to use this quote

  • job interviews
  • social events
  • leadership roles

Key Concepts

social perception fashion ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does attire affect first impressions?
  • When is modesty appropriate?
A Different Perspective

May ignore cultural significance of dress.

3.1 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by George Washington

Explore all 801 George Washington quotes

More Bird quotes

Browse all 4,802 Bird quotes