Definition & Meaning of "what you see is what you get"

What is the origin of the proverb "what you see is what you get" and when to use it?

The origin of the proverb "what you see is what you get" is often linked to the world of business and advertising, particularly in the 1960s when it was popularized as a slogan by the cosmetics company Revlon. The saying reflects the idea that things are exactly as they appear, with no hidden qualities or surprises. Over time, it has been used more broadly to suggest that people or situations should be judged based on their outward appearance, as there is no deeper or more complicated reality behind them.