How to be a lady? This question has plagued our grandmothers and great-grandmothers, but many of us don’t give this a second thought… until we have a special event to attend, or until we discover that Holly Golightly in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” is exactly who we want to be when we grow up. Well, my darling, if you’re wondering how to be a lady, I can help! I’ve been spending a lot of time being a lady for more than a decade, and I have loads of tips to share… here are 7 tips on how to be a lady.
Don’t get me wrong. Sex is fun, and there’s nothing wrong with experimenting and seeing if the shoe fits before you buy it. But love, don’t sleep around. It’s not lady-like, and it’s not safe besides.
Studies show that women who engage in casual sex are more likely to experience negative emotional consequences such as regret and low self-esteem. Additionally, sleeping around puts you at a higher risk for sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancies. Being a lady means valuing and respecting yourself, and that includes being selective and responsible when it comes to sexual relationships. It's important to prioritize your physical and emotional well-being and not succumb to societal pressures or expectations. Remember, true confidence and self-worth come from within, not from the number of sexual partners you have.
Smoking used to be considered very lady-like and glamorous, but now it’s known to be unhealthy, dangerous, and smelly. If you don’t smoke, don’t start, and if you do smoke, quit. There’s something ladylike about persistence, too!
Are you getting a trend here? Over-doing anything isn’t lady-like, and that includes over-drinking, which may make you less inhibited, and more likely to smoke or sleep around. It also makes you look sloppy, which I’ll talk more about below.
Enjoying a glass of wine or a cocktail can certainly add a touch of elegance to an evening, but know your limits. It’s about savoring the flavor, not chasing a buzz. A real lady stays composed and in control of her actions. Maintaining a sense of decorum isn't just about appearance; it's about respecting yourself and those around you. Remember, a moderate sip can be quite chic—slurring your words, definitely not. When in doubt, opt for a sparkling water, and keep your poise intact.
Ladies aren’t slobs. It’s that simple. Dress neatly and keep your car and your house tidy. I’m not saying you and your house and car have to be spotless, but tidy, not sloppy.
Being a lady is not just about how you dress or present yourself, it's also about your overall appearance and surroundings. Keeping a tidy house and car is not only a sign of respect for yourself, but also for others who may enter your space. This also applies to your personal appearance - make sure your clothes are clean and well-kept, and avoid messy hair or chipped nails. Being organized and put-together is a key aspect of being a lady, and it shows that you have respect for yourself and those around you.
I am a true fan of the f-bomb, but I know it’s not lady-like to curse too much, so I try to save it for when I know it’s perfectly appropriate. Most other times, I use other words, either mild curses or simply other words that aren’t naughty.
Using colorful language can definitely add some spice to a conversation, but it's all about finding that delicate balance. A true lady knows the power of words and wields them with precision. It isn't just about not being vulgar; it's demonstrating that you have an extensive vocabulary at your disposal. When frustration tempts you to let loose a string of expletives, take a deep breath and channel that energy into a more creative and expressive form of communication. It shows self-control, wit, and eloquence—all trademarks of a lady.
Ladies don’t wear pajama pants in public. Ladies don’t wear stained or dirty or ill-fitting clothes in public. Often, ladies wear skirts and dresses, modest clothes that suit their own styles and their figures. Jeans and dress pants are okay, of course, as long as they’re not too snug. Again, think Holly Golightly. What would Holly wear?
Accessorizing is also key to the ensemble. A lady chooses her accessories with thought and intention, opting for elegance rather than ostentation. A tasteful handbag, classic watch, or a simple strand of pearls can speak volumes. Shoes should be clean and appropriate for the occasion – a lady knows that comfort need not be sacrificed for style. When in doubt, less is more; a single statement piece often makes a far greater impact than an array of jewels. Remember, the goal is to complement, not overwhelm your outfit.
Ladies are also very polite. Yes, we have tempers, and it’s appropriate to be angry, but it’s never acceptable to be rude, to anyone, ever. Be polite to everyone, even when they don’t deserve it. This is one way how to be a lady people tend to forget, but it’s so important!
Now that you’ve read my list of how to be a lady, do you feel more lady-like already? Which of these ways to be a lady do you like best? Or is there another tip you’d like to share? Please do!