fuss and feathers

fuss and feathers

Unnecessary embellishments or pomp. Oh please, don't throw me a dinner party—who needs that kind of fuss and feathers?
See also: and, feather, fuss
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

fuss and feathers

Rur. fancy addictions that are overdone or troublesome. A truly elegant dress doesn't have a lot of fuss and feathers. They ruined a nice room with all that fuss and feathers.
See also: and, feather, fuss
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.

fuss and feathers

Needless commotion and display, as in There was so much fuss and feathers over the award ceremony that I decided not to attend . This expression probably survives because of its appealing alliteration. [Mid-1800s]
See also: and, feather, fuss
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
See also:
  • make a fuss about (someone or something)
  • make about
  • make a fuss
  • big stink
  • make a fuss of/over somebody/something
  • make a fuss over (someone or something)
  • kick up a fuss
  • kick up a fuss, row, etc.
  • make a fuss of (someone or something)
  • great cry and little wool
References in classic literature
I think she would get a glance of approval, though, from people who like sense and simplicity rather than fuss and feathers. Revolve, my Hebe, and let me refresh my eyes by the sight of you."
Eight Cousins
Then it was that the Madness of Manhattan, the frenzy of Fuss and Feathers, the Bacillus of Brag, the Provincial Plague of Pose seized upon Towers Chandler.
The Four Million
General Winfield Scott, known as "Old Fuss and Feathers" because of his elegant uniforms, began a final push to take Mexico City
War With Mexico
The nickname "Old Fuss and Feathers" was coined by soldiers to characterize the vain and pompous Gen.
1841: Sports; social issues and crime; folkways; fashion; holidays