Ten years before its time, a fashion is indecent; ten years after, it is hideous; but a century after, it is romantic.
Interpretation
Fashion is often misunderstood in its own time, with perceptions changing dramatically across generations.
James Laver's quote highlights the evolving nature of fashion and how societal perceptions are influenced by the passage of time. He suggests that what is deemed unacceptable or unattractive in the current moment can be viewed as romantic and appealing in the distant future, illustrating the subjective and often cyclical nature of aesthetic values in art and culture.
In practice
Use this quote to illustrate how fashion trends return over time when discussing a new collection.
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The violinist is that peculiarly human phenomenon distilled to a rare potency---half tiger,half poet.
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