fuss and feathers

noun

1. an excessively elaborate or pretentious display; ostentation.

Word History and Origins

Origin of fuss and feathers¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Idioms and Phrases

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]