Out of Fashion
Original Broadway Cast Lyrics
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I've been walking the street in shoes that kill my feet
Too much make-up, oh, dream like a lady
Now you're a prisoner of some shallow dream
You're out of fashion, your moment's over
And yes, I loved you, oh, but you wore me out
You're out of fashion, so just forget it now
Too much ego makes you ugly, yeah
I've been running away from what I really need
Desperation pushes love away
Now you're a prisoner of your own desire
You're out of fashion, your moment's over
And yes, I loved you, oh, but you wore me out
You're out of fashion, so just forget it now
A living tragedy, parody fits you like a glove
There's enough love in this world for you and me
There's enough love for everyone, you wait and see
There's enough love in this world
So why do we hide what we feel inside?
There's enough love in this world
There's enough love in this world
There's enough love in this world
You're out of fashion, your moment's over
And yes, I loved you, oh, but you wore me out
You're out of fashion, so just forget it now
A living tragedy, parody fits you like a glove
The song "Out of Fashion" from the Original Broadway Cast offers a critique on societal and personal flaws while also presenting hope for change. The lyrics touch on themes of jealousy, ego, and desperation, warning that too much of any of these traits can lead to a downfall. The first verse describes the dangers of jealousy, warning that it can lead to one's own mental demise. The second verse warns against ego, stating that it can make a person physically ugly, and how desperation can drive away love.
The chorus sings about someone who is "out of fashion," having missed their moment and trapped in a shallow dream. The singer acknowledges their love for this person but acknowledges feeling drained by them. The bridge offers a message of hope, stating "there's enough love in this world for you and me," and encouraging people to be honest about their feelings.
Overall, the song encourages self-reflection and growth, while also offering a message of hope and potential for change.
Line by Line Meaning
Too much jealousy will make you crazy
Being overly jealous of others will only cause harm to yourself mentally
I've been walking the street in shoes that kill my feet
I have been enduring physical discomfort just to fit in with current fashion trends
Too much make-up, oh, dream like a lady
Wearing too much make-up and following societal norms of femininity can lead to unrealistic expectations of oneself
Now you're a prisoner of some shallow dream
Following superficial goals has trapped you into a life you don't enjoy
You're out of fashion, your moment's over
You no longer fit in with current societal expectations and trends
And yes, I loved you, oh, but you wore me out
I used to love you, but trying to keep up with your constantly changing desires has exhausted me
You're out of fashion, so just forget it now
Accept that you are not currently trendy, and move on
A living tragedy, parody fits you like a glove
Your life has become a sad joke, and playing a role in this parody fits you too well
Too much ego makes you ugly, yeah
An excess of self-importance can take away from your physical attractiveness
I've been running away from what I really need
I have been avoiding addressing my true desires and needs
Desperation pushes love away
Acting too desperate for love can actually repel those you are trying to attract
Now you're a prisoner of your own desire
You have become trapped by your own unfulfilled wants and needs
There's enough love in this world for you and me
There is an abundance of love in the world available for all to receive
There's enough love for everyone, you wait and see
No need to worry, everyone will find love eventually
So why do we hide what we feel inside?
Why do people feel the need to suppress their true emotions and desires?
You're out of fashion, your moment's over
You no longer fit in with current societal expectations and trends
And yes, I loved you, oh, but you wore me out
I used to love you, but trying to keep up with your constantly changing desires has exhausted me
You're out of fashion, so just forget it now
Accept that you are not currently trendy, and move on
A living tragedy, parody fits you like a glove
Your life has become a sad joke, and playing a role in this parody fits you too well
Lyrics © BMG RIGHTS MANAGEMENT US, LLC
Written by: GEORGE ALAN O'DOWD, JULIUS O'RIORDAN, PAUL KEVIN MASTERSON
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Larry Shaw
I found this on a Broadway World string. It appears to be somewhat of a mystery...
"'I've always taken it to be Little Edie's play on "Not tonight, Josephine" -- a comic catchphrase still common in the 1970s (see link) derived from a popular early-century vaudeville song by that name.
"Not tonight, Josephine" as a catchphrase came to mean something along the lines of "That's not going to happen" -- a sarcastic response to a request to do something you have no desire or intention to do.
As for "Some Like It Hot" -- "Not Tonight, Josephine" was that film's original working title, and the phrase is said with the meaning above by Jerry to Joe in the film as a double-meaning gag (Joe's female identity is "Josephine"). "Not today, Geraldine" is not a quote from the film, but it's definitely possible that Little Edie was combining her references."
bia
can you imagine how much the real edith and edie would LOVE this whole thing
Jackson McKenna
little edie heard there was a broadway musical about grey gardens to work, and the idea thrilled her. she even wished her mother were still alive to see it
Maui Guy
Saw this during the Broadway run. Christine Eberole's finale number "Winter in a Summer Town" had the audience transformed. In tears. I thought then. Tony Award winner.
jlasf
"Revolutionary Costume" got the attention, but "Summer Town" is the killer. Incredibly sad and moving. The perfect combination of acting and singing by Ms. Ebersole.
James Powell
I regret I never saw this amazing musical in person. What a shame it had such a short run. It was brilliant in so many ways.
Catherine Albrecht
Thank you so much for posting this terrific video. The music is stunning. Christine Ebersole is simply sublime; Mary Wilson is perfection.
terry c
I love everything about them two. Sad and sweet at the same time. I'm just finding this play and absolutely loved it. I knew every word from the documentary made by the Maisel brothers. I must have watched the documentary hundreds of times, yes I'm a fan. Bought the books because my life felt more complete. Lois Wright is still alive and even bought her book too.
Jeff Seaman
I saw this on Broadway. Was, and am, absolutely charmed and just a little obsessed with this underrated story and musical. Thank you for posting! Brings back happy memories.
Antonio Antunez
That last exchange between Little Edie and Big Edie underscored by a haunting violin is phenomenal
Dash
After all these decades I am still fascinated by these two strong willed women.