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 Or perhaps, outdated notions of femininity?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.
Hello Lucille, it has been a while since I last shared here.
Although I do not go out in public dressed enfemme. At home, I try to be ladylike as much as possible. like sitting up straight with legs together, (not man-spread like males do). Bending down, lowering with the knees. When I am out in public, I observe how women walk, (in high heels), how they sit and watch their general mannerisms.
– Marie
Being a lady is hard work but I’m worth it
I twirl with my hairy unconsciously sometimes when talking to a good looking man..otherwise very ladylike 🙂
Thanks Lucille, you are so helpful as always. I agree very much with everything you suggested (I usually do), except for the “finger length” test. In my case it comes to midway between my knees and groins, so it corresponds for me to a mini skirt length, which is certainly not appropriate for a cross dresser of age 72 (like me). Perhaps it is OK for a young transgender person but not for an aged “lady”. Knee length is a better and definitely more ladylike option for us older ones. Of course, the best guide is always my wonderful wife, who has put my feminine side on a very solid footing.
I have a lady friend that helps me dress and trying to teach me how to carry myself but I always turn out looking like a fat grandmother. Very Frustrating.
Hi girlfriends, I’m Roberta from Italy.
This is a snapshot taken last night during a dinner with CD and Trans friends.
Eventually my hair long enough to get rid of wig and friends told me I look great!
I like to be a classy lady in her 50s and I totally agree with Lucille’s advices.
Maybe the toughest part is controlling the posture and body language.
Hugs from Italy
Very nice I love the bikini
Hi girlfriends, I’m Roberta from Italy.
This is a snapshot taken last night during a dinner with CD and Trans friends.
Eventually my hair long enough to get rid of wig and friends told me I look great!
I like to be a classy lady in her 50s and I totally agree with Lucille’s advices.
Maybe the toughest part is controlling the posture and body language.
Hugs from Italy