someone could seem very successful because they have nice clothes

If I value social status, I will comb my hair before I go shopping. And I will wear decent clothes. I;ve found that I get better customer service if I am dressed well. Therefore shop assistants are more likely to treat customers who appear to have higher social status. the homeless look doesn’t cut it. I know. I’ve tried it.
People make judgements based on your appearance, whether you like it or not.