The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word VENEERS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
V
E
N
E
E
R
S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "appearances" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case appearances = veneers.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does VENEERS mean?
VENEERS noun- A thin decorative covering of fine material (usually wood) applied to coarser wood or other material.
- An attractive appearance that covers or disguises true nature or feelings.
- To apply veneer to.
- To disguise with apparent goodness.