Etiquette requires the presumption of good until the contrary is proved.
The fault of bad taste is usually in over-dressing. Quality not effect, is the standard to seek for.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Bad taste often comes from trying too hard to impress with excessive adornment. It's more important to focus on quality than on appearance.
In this quote, Emily Post highlights that the true essence of taste lies in simplicity and quality, rather than in ostentatiousness or extravagance. She suggests that over-dressing or overdoing one's appearance can lead to a lack of authenticity and personal style, and emphasizes the importance of seeking high-quality items that reflect one's true taste and character rather than merely trying to create a striking visual effect.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used during a fashion seminar to emphasize the importance of quality over quantity.
More from Emily Post
All quotes βIf you are hurt, whether in mind or body, don't nurse your bruises. Get up, and light-heartedly, courageously, good-temperedly, get ready for the next encounter.
To make a pleasant and friendly impression is not alone good manners, but equally good business.
An overdose of praise is like 10 lumps of sugar in coffee; only a very few people can swallow it.
Any child can be taught to be beautifully behaved with no effort greater than quiet patience and perseverance, whereas to break bad habits once they are acquired is a Herculean task.
Courtesy demands that you, when you are a guest, shall show neither annoyance nor disappointment--no matter what happens.
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