fuss and feathers

American  

noun

1. an excessively elaborate or pretentious display; ostentation.

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fuss and feathers Idioms  

1. 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]

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Etymology

Origin of fuss and feathers

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

At her first ball, eldest sister Meg borrows a low-cut, sugar-pink dress from a rich friend — a disguise of finery that works until she encounters Laurie, her childhood friend and neighbor, who tells her he hates the dress for its “fuss and feathers.”

From Los Angeles Times

The general was known as “Old Fuss and Feathers” because of his dedication to discipline and pomp.

From Washington Post

The beauty of this sweeping movie lies not only in the acting, though we could save fuss and feathers and give Cumberbatch the Oscar right now.

From US News

The pen of your veteran uncle, my boys, has little of "fuss and feathers," though it may be "rough and ready."

From Project Gutenberg

The beauty of this club," remarked Kitty, as she opened her paint-box and carefully selected a brush, "is that there's no fuss and feathers about it.

From Project Gutenberg