"What is elegance? Soap and water!"

This quote by Cecil Beaton is an amusing take on the idea of sophistication. He suggests that the concept of sophistication is not something that is made complex or pricey, however rather something that is easy and available. He indicates that elegance is not something that is achieved through costly clothing or accessories, however rather through standard hygiene and cleanliness. This quote is a pointer that real beauty is not something that is attained through product ownerships, however rather through taking care of oneself and presenting oneself in a clean and presentable way. It is a suggestion that real sophistication is something that is attainable by anybody, regardless of their financial situation.