A fop of fashion is the mercer's friend, the tailor's fool, and his own foe

A fop of fashion is the mercer's friend, the tailor's fool, and his own foe

Johann Kaspar Lavater was a Swiss poet, philosopher, and theologian who was known for his keen observations on human nature and character. One of his famous quotes, “A fop of fashion is the mercer's friend, the tailor's fool, and his own foe,” speaks to the idea that those who are overly concerned with their outward appearance and following the latest trends in fashion may ultimately be harming themselves.