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Does the suit make the man? How much clothing really counts

“The dress does not make a monk,” says a popular saying, but is it really so? The debate has lasted for centuries and lends itself to different interpretations, not only regarding the way in which the person presents himself aesthetically to the world but also as a reflection on the deep meaning of life.

One thing is certain. The clothing tells a lot about us: is not the monk identifiable with simplicity and immediacy in his role precisely because of what he wears?

In this article you will find an interpretation of this popular maxim so famous: we go back together to its history and meaning, then dwell on the importance of clothing in today’s era.

The origin of the saying

“The dress does not make the monk” is one of the most famous Italian proverbs and has a rather uncertain origin. The hypotheses are different and one of the most popular is that which wants it of Latin derivation, to be exact from the maxim “Cucullus non facit monachum”, translated as “the hood does not make the monk”.

In this context, the saying is linked to the fact that in the Middle Ages monks were used to receive food and accommodation thanks to the clothes they wore. At the same time, they were not the only ones to wear the tunic: indeed, in some cases thieves and robbers wore it to deceive their victims! From here would derive the Latin proverb.

We find a reference to the fact that the dress does not do monk also in another sentence attributed to Saint Anselm: “non tonsura monachu, sed virtus animi”. It means, basically, that “it is not the shearing to do the monk, but the virtue of the soul”. As in the previous case, although with different words, the same concept is expressed.

The proverb as we know it today is instead mentioned in official way by none other than Alessandro Manzoni in his most famous work – “The betrothed”, precisely – for the precise inside of the chapter n.° nineteen, within the dialogue between the Count and the Provincial Father, where the latter defends Fra Cristoforo and the “glory of the habit”.

The meaning of the saying “The dress does not make the monk”

But what is the meaning of the proverb “the dress does not make the monk”? As well explained in the previous paragraph, where we tried to trace its origins, the popular saying wants to emphasize that not always what appears is what it is.

It warns, basically, that the appearance often deceives: therefore there is no confidence in the evaluation of the external aspect alone when making their own considerations. In the case of a monk, it is not enough to wear a gown for the individual to be considered such: it is better not to draw hasty conclusions.

The value of how you dress

Opinions are divided when referring to this well-known popular saying: there is who agrees, and who does not. Who is right? The question is in itself rather complex, as it happens in many maxims that have taken their cue in past times and which are more than ever current.

To say that the dress makes the monk leads to put the emphasis on the appearance. Denying it, at the same time, tends to diminish the value of the image in the contemporary era, as if this did not influence the judgment of the person, which is not so.

The way one dresses is of no marginal value. This is shown by several scientific studies, which tell of how the first impression is often lasting and difficult to change. Therefore, analyzing what the individual on whom the gaze falls can get an idea about his way of being, his job, who he is. In turn, the person, choosing certain garments rather than others, communicates a lot of himself. The dress is therefore the monk.

Image advice: when communication is changing from what you wear

Image consulting is a valuable support for communicating something about yourself that is authentic, truthful, corresponding to the message you want to give to others. It is not just about choosing clothes that look good and are well: it seems essential that the person feels comfortable when he puts himself in the external context.

It recites a phrase attributed to Oscar Wilde – one who apparently knew”, that “there is never a second chance to make a good impression”. Here, then, the dress makes the monk: it must be representative of the personality of the individual, in line with the occasion, able to present the best version that can offer of itself .

The definition of clothes, accessories, even make-up colors is a tool in every sense, useful for the person to express themselves at 360°, allowing them to give an immediate good impression and, not least, to feel good in their own shoes.

Would you like to find a style that is just yours and allows you to express your personality at 360°? Contact me and benefit from a personalised advice service.