Not afraid of hard physical work, knowing how to do makeup, and understanding letter-writing etiquette are qualities that a “lady” should have.
In the past, there were strict rules of etiquette that women had to follow. In modern society, these rules have changed significantly towards being more open and relaxed. However, there are still some small actions that can help you become a true lady.
Do not lean back in the chair.
When sitting at the table, you should sit in the middle of the chair, leaving a gap between your back and the chair. This body position is called the “duchess posture.” You should sit up straight but comfortably, with the distance between your body and the edge of the table equal to the distance between your elbow and wrist.
Not Afraid of Work
A true lady never shirks manual labor. During wartime, duchesses and queens worked as volunteer nurses in hospitals. They went to the hospitals every day and even dressed wounds themselves.
In modern times, gardening can also showcase the elegance of a lady.
Follow Makeup Rules
Heavy eyeshadow and red lipstick are a combination you will never see on the face of a true lady. You can use these beauty products separately to highlight just one feature on your face.
Respect Yourself and Your Time
If guests arrive unannounced, you can allow yourself to greet them in a bathrobe and with hair rollers.
An English woman once had to entertain unexpected visitors who suddenly appeared at her door. When they arrived, she would always wear shoes, a hat, and carry an umbrella. If she was pleased, she would say, “Ah, how lucky, I just got home” If not, she would bluntly say, “Oh, I’m sorry, I have to go out now”
Don’t Put Your Phone on the Table
You shouldn’t place your phone on the table in public places like cafes or restaurants. Doing so shows respect to the person you are talking to and the conversation itself. Additionally, the information on your phone is part of your private life, so it’s better not to let strangers see it.
Don’t Put Your Hands on Your Hips
Posing with hands on hips is rarely seen in a true lady. Of course, we all sometimes find ourselves unable to place our hands elsewhere. But if that happens, it’s best to keep both hands in front of the body, which is more appropriate for social etiquette.
Use Moderate Words of Appreciation
Traditionally, a well-raised woman is expected to show gratitude and express appreciation, but this is not entirely true. Don’t overuse words like “thank you” or “please.” Otherwise, their meaning will lose value, and you might come across as insincere.
Don’t Turn Around If No One Calls Your Name
A polite woman does not turn around when someone shouts “Hey” on the street. This exclamation is a form of indiscriminate calling from strangers to strangers, which is inappropriate according to etiquette.