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Art Quote by Oscar Wilde

“Fashion rests upon folly. Art rests upon law. Fashion is ephemeral. Art is eternal. Indeed what is a fashion really? A fashion is merely a form of ugliness so absolutely unbearable that we have to alter it every six months! It is quite clear that were it beautiful and rational we would not alter…” quote by Oscar Wilde
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“Fashion rests upon folly. Art rests upon law. Fashion is ephemeral. Art is eternal. Indeed what is a fashion really? A fashion is merely a form of ugliness so absolutely unbearable that we have to alter it every six months! It is quite clear that were it beautiful and rational we would not alter anything that combined those two rare qualities. And wherever dress has been so, it has remained unchanged in law and principle for many hundred years.”

Oscar Wilde

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Decay of Lying, 1891

Fashion is fleeting and driven by absurdity; art endures through timeless principles.

In simple terms: Fashion changes fast; art lasts.

Key Takeaway

Value lasting beauty over fleeting trends.

Themes

beauty transience art

Mood

critical analytical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • wardrobe choices
  • design trends
  • art appreciation
  • personal style

Key Concepts

aesthetics cultural critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • What timeless principles can guide your style?
  • How do you balance novelty with quality?
A Different Perspective

Fashion can also be thoughtful, not just ugly.

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