How come pimps are seen in TV and movies as wearing a brightly colored suit with a full brim feathered hat, with gaudy jewelry, and a cane all the time? Did pimps ever dress like that?
Yes. I mean I'm sure some pimps did not and had preferences, but in the 60's-70's most men dressed this way, with bright colors, eccentric jewelry. It was the appearance of being high class, unbeknownst to them yes it made them look silly, but in that world it was a status symbol to have these attributes. The cane was to exaggerate their swagger, such as a king or something. The 70s was a weird time.