“I see that the fashion wears out more apparel than the man.”
- April 26, 1564 – April 23, 1616
- Born in England
- Playwright, poet, actor
- Wrote many masterpieces such as “Hamlet,” “Romeo and Juliet,” and “Macbeth,” and had a great influence on English literature
Quote
“I see that the fashion wears out more apparel than the man.”
Explanation
This quote from Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night humorously comments on how fashion or trends can have a greater impact on a person’s appearance than the individual themselves. “The fashion wears out more apparel than the man” suggests that the ever-changing nature of fashion leads to clothes being discarded or replaced far more frequently than the person wearing them. In other words, the styles and trends evolve, and the clothing itself becomes out of date or worn out, while the person remains the same, highlighting how fashion can often be more transitory and fleeting than the individual’s true nature.
In modern contexts, this quote speaks to the consumerism and impermanence of the fashion industry, where trends come and go, and people often feel pressured to keep up with the latest styles, even if it means frequently replacing their wardrobe. It can also reflect the idea that appearance is often prioritized over substance, as individuals may invest more in staying fashionable than in maintaining lasting values or qualities.
Ultimately, this quote highlights the superficiality of fashion and how it often leads to constant change, with trends that can wear out or lose their value quickly. It suggests that true worth is not found in outward appearance or the latest fashions, but in the person underneath.