Society, civilized society at least, is never very ready to believe anything to the detriment of those who are both rich and fascinating. It feels instinctively that manners are of more importance than morals, and, in its opinion, the highest respectability is of much less value than the possession of a good chef.

In all unimportant matters, style, not sincerity, is the essential. In all important matters, style, not sincerity, is the essential.

It was the passions about whose origin we deceived ourselves that tyrannized most strongly over us.

Taking sides is the beginning of sincerity, and earnestness follows shortly afterwards, and the human being becomes a bore.

Give me the luxuries and I can dispense with the necessities.

Irony is wasted on the stupid

She behaves as if she was beautiful. Most American women do. It is the secret of their charm.