What do you think of when you hear the word “ladylike?” Beauty, poise, and class? Or perhaps, outdated notions of femininity?
To me, being ladylike means being classy, gracious, and elegant. No matter what your idea of femininity might be, I’m sure we can agree that these are great traits to have.
If you’re a crossdresser or a transgender woman who wants to be perceived as a lady, there are a few things you should steer clear of.
Read on to discover 5 common mistakes that can detract from your ladylike image.
Mistake #1: Showing Too Much Skin
Being ladylike definitely doesn’t mean being a buttoned-up prude. However, good taste goes a long way when presenting yourself as a woman.
It can be tricky to know how much is too much, so here are some simple guidelines to keep in mind:
- Show off one part of your body and keep the rest covered. A little mystery is sexy, so show off your legs, breasts, or back – just not all at once.
- Flaunt the right amount of cleavage. A good rule of thumb is to reveal 20%-40% of your bust. This gives you sex appeal, while keeping it classy.
- Try the finger length test. To determine the proper skirt length, stand up straight and put your arms to your side. If your fingertips fall past the hem of your skirt, it’s too short.
Mistake #2: Not Minding Your Manners
Good manners and etiquette are dying arts in today’s world. Saying “please” and “thank you” are simple ways to elevate your ladylike status.
The rules of etiquette can be a bit more confusing. To learn more, check out my blog post on 6 modern etiquette tips for your male to female transformation.
Mistake #3: Being Sloppy With Your Grooming
Grooming can make or break your feminine image. In fact, studies show that grooming has more of an impact on your attractiveness than the physical features you were born with.
Are your grooming habits up to par? If this area needs work, be sure to see my article on 5 feminine grooming habits not to ignore.
Mistake #4: Losing Control
One of the most important qualities of a lady (and of any respectable human being) is self control – especially when you’re out in public.
In other words, no diva acts, angry outbursts, or public displays of drunkenness. It seems obvious, but if celebrity tabloids are any indication, it’s not.
Mistake #5: Poor Posture Or Body Language
Finally, don’t forget that your posture and body language communicate more about you than anything you say. Here are some major no-nos:
- Slouching
- Biting your nails or playing with your hair
- Not making eye contact
- Crossing your arms
For an even more comprehensive list, review these 27 male to female body language mistakes to avoid.
Do you aspire to be ladylike?
So what do you think of the term “ladylike,” anyway? Do you find it outdated and offensive towards women? Or a feminine quality worth aspiring to?
As always, I’d love to hear from you in the comments below!
Love,
Lucille
P.S. If you liked these tips, you’ll love my FREE 3-part Male to Female Transformation Mini Course.
I think women as a whole should follow these simple guidelines! It’s helping me a lot!
Hi Lucille, on the weekend I feminised myself and shaved my chest and genital area and leg hair. This time I used a ladies Silk Effects Plus ™ razor. (Much better than men’s razors. After shaving I applied Aloe Vera moisturising lotion all over my body. (a must do after shaving). I had NO razor burn/drag and no rash thus far. Leaving my skin silky smooth. My legs look so good in pantyhose. Thank you for supporting us.
What about M-F voice and feminine vocabulary? I haven’t seen anything about that.
I agree with most of the comment’s of being ladylike
I always carry myself in a ladylike way when I’m out shopping or dining
I dress accordingly to the places that I’m going to be going to.
I look like a young lady and enjoy being accepted as one
I’ve only been outed once in all the times I’ve been out.
It was a very stressed out young mother with three little children who told me that I didn’t look like a girl.
I looked at her and as calmly as I could I told her that she was wrong.
Her face softened and she apoligized to me.
I said thank you and stepped away from her as quickly as I could leaving her wondering if I was or wasn’t really a girl
Staying ladylike and acting as much as I can to be ladylike I’ve never been questioned since that one time.
I’ve got a photo ID with my name and address on it and I even flew to Las Vegas and went through the TSA.line at the airport dressed as a woman and wasn’t questioned by the TSA people who worked there
I flew first class and was treated first class on the plane by a lovely attendent who addressed me as ma’am when she spoke to me
Etiquette in action: Please watch The Princess Diaries with Julie Andrews and Anne Hathaway. It is etiquette lessons in an entertaining movie.
Lucille,
I agree with your 5 tips to avoid. I try to be as ladylike as possible at all times, dress nicely and be respectful to everyone. I believe we should treat everyone as we would like to be treated. Embracing my female side has made me a much more compassionate human being. Really look foward to the day I can live full time as a woman 🙂
Love Ya,
Kristin
When I dress should I keep my legs togather or cross them which is more Appropriate
Ladylike = everything I want to be. So, yes it is positive!