Dianne Uptown Girl in a Downtown World
Looking for tips about how to look and act polished in any setting? Check out the 10 Rules Classy Women Live By.
For women in their 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond, I have created this lifestyle video and post to inspire you to look and feel your best every day.
So, really, she follows these rules every day? Well, no one is perfect, but these tips and ideas represent what I strive to follow and they are my interpretation of how to look and behave. Opinions may vary, but this is my take on it.
This post is all about the 10 Rules Classy Women Live By.
What Does it Mean to Be Classy?
Being classy is not about just “looking expensive,” rather it is “having or showing elegance” [in appearance and behavior], according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary.
Choosing to be classy is a mindset and is nondiscriminatory. A classy persona is not dependent on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, or age.
It is not dependent upon how much money you have, but how you present yourself to the world through choices such as attire, actions, and behavior.
Money and things do not define a person and money does not buy class. A classy appearance and behavior is intentional and requires care and attention to detail.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I will receive a small commission for promoting an item if you purchase through the link I have provided. The items selected in this post are products I have promoted because I like them, and the opinions presented are all my own. For more information, see my blog compensation & disclosure page shown in the header or footer section of this page.
How Classy Women Look
1. She Dresses in Timeless Attire
Classy women wear clothing that is polished and timeless. Wearing neutral colors is the simple, easy way to look elegant and sophisticated.
Choosing natural fibers such as cotton, wool, cashmere, silk and linen is ideal, as these fabrics are typically of higher quality, wear well, breathe and drape beautifully over the body. You can, however, get the look with many other similar fabrics.
A smart, budget-conscious idea to consider is mixing high-end items with good quality, moderately priced pieces to get a classy look without breaking the bank.
It is smart to spend money on pieces that are timeless, make a statement, while saving money on items that are less important.
Get the Look: Black Sleeveless Mock Turtleneck, Black Skinny Jeans, Teddy Blake 11″ Kim Stampatto Purse, Black & Tan Cap Toe Shoes, Gold Omega Bracelet, Pearl Stud Earrings
Get the Look: Long Cream Blazer (similar), Cream Cashmere Turtleneck (similar), Cream Faux Leather Leggings, Tory Burch Cream Belt, Tory Burch Cream Bag (similar), Knee High Pointed Toe Boots
Sophisticated women always wear clothing that fits well and is not too revealing or flashy. She wears clothing that fits her body beautifully, not concerned about the size displayed on the garment label.
Her clothing choices do not expose too much skin and she keeps her breasts and stomach fully covered. Styles may include select pieces that may show her neck, her shoulders, arms, back or her legs.
Designer Pieces
A fashion victim, she is not. While she may wear designer pieces that are meaningful to her, the designer items she chooses are tasteful and labels are subtle.
If you like more color in your life, by all means, wear what makes you feel good. To look classy and polished, ground all of your bright colors and patterns with solid color neutral wardrobe basics. Solid color neutrals are restful to the eyes and showcase the color and patterns you choose to wear.
Get the Look: Sleeveless Snakeskin Blouse (similar), Teddy Blake 11″ Kim Stampatto Purse, Nude Heels, Gold Omega Bracelet, Pearl Stud Earrings
Below, I have shared a sample color palette of solid color neutrals that you may select to ground your bright-colored and patterned outfits.
Note, your neutrals will never be fire engine red, bright orange, sunshine yellow, kelly green, etcetera. You get the point.
Example of Neutrals: Restful to the Eyes
Example of Colors Not Restful to the Eyes
2. She Wears Classic Shoes, Purses & Accessories
While all the tips listed in this blog are relevant for classy looks and behavior, two of the most important factors for appearing classy include your choice of shoes and handbags.
Shoes
Choosing and wearing classic shoe designs, such as pointed-toe heels and flats, are ideal for creating looks that are classy and elegant.
Keeping your shoes polished and well-maintained tells a lot about your level of sophistication and attention to detail.
Regardless of the brand or cost of the shoes you choose to wear, it is how you maintain your shoes tells a lot about who you are.
Handbags
Carrying a beautiful, structured handbag in a stylish color or neutral, with very discreet logos, is a good choice if you wish to look classy.
My latest structured bag is one that Teddy Blake gifted to me recently, and it is the dream!
Beautifully constructed and made in Italy with the finest Italian leather, this bag is the KIM STAMPATTO. It is the 11″ size in camel brown, is sharp looking and goes with everything.
Pure luxury. When wearing this bag, I feel like a million dollars.
This medium-sized bag is the ideal size for wearing as a handbag or a shoulder bag (it also comes with a shoulder strap). Perfect for day or night.
TEDDY BLAKE COUPON CODE FOR YOU!
To add a beautiful Teddy Blake bag to your collection, use coupon code: TBDianne30 for an Extra $30 Off!
Get the Look: Cream Faux Leather Moto Jacket, Black Sleeveless Mock Turtleneck, Black Skinny Jeans, Teddy Blake 11″ Kim Stampatto Purse, Black Heels, Gold Omega Bracelet, Pearl Stud Earrings
Another beautiful bag, similar to one I own, is this one from Tory Burch. It is the Tory Burch Eleanor bag which has simple lines, a classic shape and a subtle logo (black-on-black).
Get the Look: Black Unstructured Blazer (similar), Black Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater (similar), Double Buckle Belt (similar), Cream Faux Leather Leggings, Tory Burch Black Bag (similar)
Jewelry
Simple, elegant jewelry, usually one to three pieces, is ideal if you wish to look sophisticated.
Consider pieces such as a strand of pearls, a simple pendant with a gold or silver chain, or an omega necklace, paired with complementary earrings, bracelet or rings are suitable pieces for displaying that element of sophistication.
If wearing a colorful statement piece of jewelry, be mindful to keep all the rest of your jewelry pieces subtle and minimal.
3. She Has Excellent Personal Hygiene
Women who want to exhibit elegance and sophistication are always neat and clean. Well groomed, she takes good care of her skin, hair, nails and teeth. Her hair style frames her face well, but is not fussy.
She maintains her nails, keeps them at a moderate length and may choose to keep them natural or wear a traditional color polish.
Classy women care about their smile and keep their teeth clean, bright and attractive. There are many options available to get the look you seek, including professional services offered by your dentist.
Makeup
For daytime, classy woman wear natural looking makeup to enhance her beauty. For evening looks, she may wear more dramatic makeup, but she does not wear too much. Sophisticated women wear a light application of perfume that is subtle and alluring.
For a classy look, freshen up your lip color and add a light spritz of perfume before you walk out the door.
Chanel Allure is one of my favorites if you’re looking for a fresh scent to try. I receive compliments almost every time I wear it.
4. She Wears Appropriate Undergarments
Classy women wear undergarments that are typically neutral, but always supportive. Wearing shape ware smooths any lumps and bumps and provides that elegant, polished look to your outfits.
Have fun wearing colorful bras and underwear, just don’t show them to the world.
The key takeaway is, if you want to look put together, keep your bra straps hidden and ensure your panty lines are not showing.
Get the Look: Blue Denim Jacket, Olive-Brown Tank Dress, Teddy Blake 11″ Kim Stampatto Purse, Nude Espadrille Sandals (similar), Gold Omega Necklace, Gold Omega Bracelet, Pearl Stud Earrings
5. She Takes Good Care of Her Physical & Mental Health
A classy woman cares about her appearance. She eats a healthy diet made up mostly of fruits and vegetables, strives to drink enough water each day to keep herself hydrated, exercises at least 30 minutes a day and allows time to get an adequate amount of sleep each night.
Her good habits pay off by giving her a healthy glow and a radiant appearance. She is strong, fit, and vibrant. She carries herself well and looks good in her clothing.
In a world filled with complexity and challenges, she takes time for herself and does the things that bring her joy.
She spends some time alone to think about her goals, values, and aspirations. She may also journal about things she is grateful for, while also thinking through items that currently challenge her.
How Classy Women Act
6. She Acts with Kindness and Respect
A classy woman acts with poise, kindness, and respect with everyone she comes into contact.
Not needy or attention seeking, she makes eye contact and smiles while speaking to others and listens attentively and responds appropriately.
She may offer a helping hand when needed, and she spreads kindness to the world every day.
7. She Is Articulate
Merriam-Webster identifies articulate as, “able to express ideas clearly and effectively in speech or writing…”
This means that a classy woman communicates clearly and concisely.
She has an ample vocabulary, organizes her thoughts and shares her ideas meaningfully, such that people want to listen to her.
8. She Has Good Manners
Classy women consistently use good manners. She shows gratitude and appreciation and always says, “please” and “thank you.”
She does things like holding the door for others; offering a firm handshake and always uses excellent table manners.
Classy women send timely thank-you notes to share their appreciation for kindness shared by others.
9. She Consistently Shows Social Grace
“The ability to fit into polite society and behave properly and with etiquette. Authentic, respectful behavior is social grace,” as defined by YourDictionary.com
For example, a classy woman controls her temper and does not make a scene or behave inappropriately.
If she sees things differently than others, she may politely disagree while maintaining her respectful composure. She knows the power of silence and uses it to her advantage.
She prioritizes good posture and moves about gracefully.
Get the Look: Cream Faux Leather Moto Jacket, Olive-Brown Tank Dress, Teddy Blake 11″ Kim Stampatto Purse, Nude Heels, Gold Omega Necklace, Gold Omega Bracelet, Pearl Stud Earrings
10. She Practices Moderation in All Things
Eat, drink and be merry, but do it in moderation.
Classy women enjoy themselves, but are mindful of keeping their indulgences under control.
Good for our health, our wellbeing and for maintaining social graces, it is important to set boundaries for ourselves. This applies to which ever indulgences you choose to partake in.
If you enjoy your occasional spirit in a social setting, it is wise to limit your servings to one or two glasses of wine, beer or cocktails. This typically ensures that you maintain full control of your behavior and preserve good judgement.
We should approach food consumption and any other indulgences similarly. Enjoy your guilty pleasures in moderation and you will be certain to live your best life.
Want More? Check these out:
- 9 Ways to Style Skinny Jeans with Boots
- How to Accessorize to Look Classy & Look Polished Everyday over 50
- Graphic Tee Outfits, Cool Girl Style | Women over 50
