As President John Adams' wife and a significant figure in early American history, Abigail Adams was astute in observing the subtleties of social life. She recognized that although some elements of decor or fashion may be considered superfluous extravagances, or what she referred to as "frippery," they are crucial for blending in with society and preserving harmony with others.

Consider a bird attempting to blend in with its flock by altering its feathers to resemble those of its peers. Similar to how a bird must modify its appearance, people frequently have to change how they look to conform to social standards. These minor behavioral or clothing changes, as Abigail Adams realized, have a deeper function of promoting acceptance and integration in communities.

Adams' understanding of human nature and social norms is evident in her insight. She was an expert in the art of diplomacy and understood that a proper appearance can lead to connections and influence, both of which were vital in her time when social status was a major factor in politics.

Adams is essentially saying that although it may be preferable to be completely authentic without considering outside norms, there are instances when it's vital to change one's appearance in order to show others respect and understanding. As people navigate a variety of social settings where first impressions and appearances can have long-lasting effects on relationships and opportunities, this concept is still relevant today.