The higher up you go, the more mistakes you are allowed. Right… — Fred Astaire | Printable Wall Art

“The higher up you go, the more mistakes you are allowed. Right at the top, if you make enough of them, it's considered to be your style.”

Words by Fred Astaire (1899-1987) — American dancer and actor.

About this quote

This wry observation suggests that established experts are judged by a different standard than beginners. When a newcomer makes a mistake, it is seen as a flaw, but when a famous master repeats the same error, it is celebrated as an intentional artistic choice. Astaire highlights how status transforms simple blunders into a recognised personal style, offering a humorous look at prestige in creative fields.

This quote is widely attributed to the celebrated American dancer and actor Fred Astaire. Known for his legendary work ethic and rigorous rehearsal routine, Astaire offered a humorous, sharp perspective on artistic mastery and reputation.

People often hang this print in a home studio or office to bring humour and relief to creative work.

What you get

An instant digital download. Choose your design and size at checkout — 18 typographic designs and 8 print sizes are available for this quote.

• Print-ready PDF with fully embedded vector type — sharp at any scale
• Exact trim size, no cropping required
• Print at home, at a local print shop, or upload to an online printer
• Instant download — no physical item is shipped

Sizes available

5" x 7" · 8" x 10" · 11" x 14" · 12" x 16" · 16" x 20" · 18" x 24" · 24" x 36" · A4 (21 x 29.7 cm)

Designs available

Atelier Serif · Quiet Garamond · Studio Left · Gallery Rule · Midnight Serif · Editorial Left Serif · Modern Sans Calm · Letterpress Caps · Poster Condensed · Manuscript Italic · Asymmetric Left · Minimal Unsigned · Charcoal Sans · Gallery Frame · Soft Serif Right · Statement Serif · Tracked Caps Unsigned · Editorial Justified

Digital product. Colours may vary slightly between screens and printers. Frames and props are not included.