And Allah Most High has said concerning the hypocrites:

“When you see them, their bodies impress you, and when they speak, you listen to their words. They are like propped-up timber.”
[Surah al-Munāfiqūn 4]

And He Most High has said:

“How many generations We destroyed before them who were better in possessions and outward appearance!”
[Surah Maryam 74]

“Possessions” means wealth, such as clothing and the like, while “outward appearance” means how they looked. He thus tells us that those whom He destroyed before them were better in appearance and wealth, so that we may understand that these things avail nothing with Him and carry no weight in His sight.

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

“An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor a white person over a black person, except through piety.”

It is also reported from him in the Sunan collections that he said:

“Simplicity in appearance is part of faith.”

Furthermore, He has forbidden us to wear silk and gold and to use gold and silver vessels—among the most beautiful things in this world. Allah has also forbidden boasting and arrogance, as well as clothing that expresses them, such as letting one’s garments trail.