expression
keep up appearances; dress up outwardly despite inner poverty
Proverb meaning that one must maintain a good outward appearance to get along in the world, even if one is struggling or lacking inside.
「内裸でも外錦」というように、世の中を渡るには見栄を張ることも必要だ。
As the saying goes, 'Even if you're naked inside, wear brocade outside' — to get along in the world, you sometimes need to keep up appearances.
A common verb phrase meaning 'to show off' or 'to put on airs'; 内裸でも外錦 is a proverbial expression of the same idea.
A Japanese proverb of uncertain origin; the imagery contrasts inner nakedness with outer finery to convey the importance of outward appearances.