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 Or perhaps, outdated notions of femininity?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 I’m very lady like. I’m 72 now and retired and live my life now pretty much 24/7 as a woman. I am accepted as a female I think where ever I go. I try very hard to emulate women I know and see as my role model. Here I am the other day out shopping. I just try to blend in as a feminine woman whether I’m wearing tight jeans or a little black dress.
I think I’m very lady like. I’m 72 now and retired and live my life now pretty much 24/7 as a woman. I am accepted as a female I think where ever I go. I try very hard to emulate women I know and see as my role model. Here I am the other day out shopping. I just try to blend in as a feminine woman whether I’m wearing tight jeans or a little black dress.
Hi Girls. Well I did it. I came out. I told a number of people that I will be transitioning. It was so frightening to do this but it was such a relief. I had shaped my brows and let my hair grow fairly long (for me) and after several people questioned me about these subtle changes I let the cat out of the bag. The shock on the faces of the people I told was a jaw dropping. I got the expected mixed comments and questions. Are you sure? How long have you felt this way? What’s your next step? Are you seeing a therapist? etc. Most were supportive and of course some thought I was crazy. But it’s out!!! And yes I am seeing a therapist. He’s very understanding and is helping to guide me through this new phase of my life. Lucille, thank you and all the girls whose journeys I have been following. You have given me the courage I thought I would never have to move on. Thank you!!! Thank you!!! Thank you!!! I love you all. Teddi
Spot on as usual.
Hi Lucille and girls
I consider myself a very classy and elegant woman, in my opinion is one of the most important factors in pass , I am already 30 months in HRT and thanks God I have a good reaction to the hormones and they change my appearance in ways I never can imagine.
Love joanna ♡
I am a lady three last years. Not ladylike. The last step I’ve made, I refused when I’m in town or city of wearing jeans or pants. Only dresses and skirts. And despite of my absolutely girlish legs I prefer dresses and skirts not less than till knee length. More often in midi and maxi style. And adore the dresses which ladies wore in Jane Austin novels when the dress of every lady was her visit card. And I collect such dresses and love them to wear very much.
My wife is very supportive of me. We even go out together – shopping and lunch, etc. One of the main reasons she has told me is that she respects me as a woman, because I dress classy and not trashy. I never look slutty or over the top makeup. If you want the cis-women in your life to be involved in your life as a woman, then you need to be a woman that the like and respect.
Ladylike is a beautiful word. It says it all. My goal is to become ladylike in every way. It does not mean I cant be sexy or daring. I see so many women presenting themselves in different ways, yet they remain ladylike.