CLASSY
We may think or assume that the word
“classy” just evolved with the new generation. Some people have developed this
super ego just because they think they are classy, other people have suffered a
low esteem because they think they aren’t classy. Some school of thought think
classy people are materialistic people; some think classy people are arrogant
people, while still some others think a truly religious person should not be
classy.
Classy could be defined in some ways depending on
individual’s perspective. First let me clarify that “classy”
has absolutely nothing to do with pride and has nothing to do with worldliness
or being materialistic. Classy can be defined in some different ways based
on individuals perception or understanding. Encarta dictionary defines classy as “very stylish and elegant”; another dictionary
defines it as “stylish and sophisticated”. I’d say classy has no
comprehensive definition. For me classy means “grace and elegance”. If asked to
define it I would say, a Classy person is a person whose life and character
shows self respect, dignity, elegance, sophistication and style.
Now let me correct some fallacies about it. Being
classy has absolutely nothing/nada/zit to do with: wealth, beauty, fame,
achievements, educational background e.t.c. Being class is projecting what you
have within you onto the outside. Being classy is not in the “what” but in the
“how.” It’s how you act, how you carry yourself, how you express yourself and
how you live your life that determines class.
A few people who don’t have class are
able to develop that quality and become truly classy. Doing this requires
reflecting on your own self, recognizing those qualities that you are missing
which would make you classier and working on all the necessary areas to build
that attractive flair of class and sophistication.
One might ask why bother to be classy. There is a popular quote which
says “dress the way you want to be addressed”. When you know your worth and you
project yourself with finesse and decorum then you are classy. Two ladies could
be given the same piece of cloth with equal value it doesn’t mean everyone
would appreciate the cloth on the two of them equally. What makes the different
is the manner each lady wears the cloth. Being classy encompasses a lot.
However, here are some fundamental qualities you must possess as a classy
person.
Looking good is good business. Whether you agree with me or not, it is essential for everyone to look
good. Remember without saying a word your looks already defines you. Always
dress in a clean and presentable way, never wear anything you feel
uncomfortable in. It is important to remember that modesty is key to earning
the respect of others. Am not saying you should follow the latest fashion trends
neither am not saying appreciating fashion or buying clothing you find
attractive is wrong. Remember following temporary, mediocre fashion trends and
fads certainly does not add to being classy. Define your own style and most
importantly stay in control. The clothing you wear should enhance your
personality, not create or alter it. Define your own style.
Treat people right. Classy
people leave their environments in a condition at least as good as they found
them. Classy people don’t look down on other people no matter their position or
status. And when others do favors for them, while stuck-up or spoiled people
assume it's only to be expected and ignore others' assistance, truly classy
people are quick to notice and to express their gratitude and their
appreciation. Never hesitate to say thank you to people even if they were just
doing their jobs.
Be open to personal development. Do not berate yourself, but be receptive to constructive change.
In our world, change is constant. Be a positive and flexible part of it
and show others the way as well. Face life rather than burying your head in the
sand and others will know instinctively that you are someone whose opinion
counts.
Educate yourself. Sometimes
we think education is limited to what we learn in an institution. How wrong we
are. To be classy you need to have a broad knowledge on a lot of things, “real
life” education, wit, sense of humour e.t.c. There is no way around it, perceived
class has little weight and value if the person behind it has no interesting
thoughts, opinions, views or observations. Being classy requires an ability to
share, challenge ideas and be an engaging company.
Demeanour and Manners. I would say this applies more to
women. A classy woman is in touch with her
femininity. Her mission in life is not in challenging men and competing with
men whenever possible; rather she enjoys her femininity without feeling ashamed
of it, and is proud to be a woman. She recognizes the differences between men
and women in psychology, physiology and sexuality and accepts those differences
as the laws of nature. However, this does not stop her from being ambitions or
aiming for the peck of whatever sector of life she finds herself. A classy man
does not treat a woman as an inferior gender rather he shows her the love and
respect due to her and he understands she also plays a significant role in the
society.
Classy means Elegance. Elegance is the manner in which a person carries himself or
herself in just about every situation. Elegance is in your voice, movement/body
language, manner of speech, the way you stand or sit, and response to
other people around you. Some of these traits, such as voice, and a walk – are
part of our nature, while other elements of elegance, such as our interpersonal
skills are strongly linked to our upbringing. Other qualities are
acquired through habit or from friends and not all of them can
be altered. However, when it comes to elegance and class, there is no such
thing as small and insignificant because class is a sum of many elements of
one’s personality, behaviour, and actions, some of which are more obvious than
others, but all of which are essential for the “total package” to be considered
elegant and classy.
Good Hygiene. Class
cannot coexist with dirt, bad smell and unappealing habits such as burping,
spitting in public and the likes. The most beautiful woman would lose much
of her sex appeal when she farts, wipes her nose with her sleeve,
keeps snots in her nose, sits
carelessly, allows her under garment to show. Same thing applies to a man who
farts in public, talks loudly with food in his mouth, wipes his hands on his
clothes after washing them, doesn’t wash up after taking a leak . . . and the
list goes on.
Importance of Subtlety. This is one of the most important
qualities and distinguishing characteristic of class. To be classy, you must
be subtle in many areas of your life. Subtlety implies a degree of
moderation, lack of flamboyance, lack of impulse to attract attention, and
generally not trying too hard. A subtle woman has style but she doesn’t look
like a designer model; she dresses sexy but does not look trashy like a
typical stripper when going out; she puts such a small amount of
perfume and make-up that one can barely tell that she has any; she talks just
enough but certainly not too much and tends to be on a quite side;
her laughter is pleasant to hear but not too loud; she hardly ever swears; and
her voice is soft and sensual. A classy woman will usually come across as
“low-key” in a social situation. This is not to say that she is shy or lacking
confidence. On the contrary, her confidence puts her at ease and relieves her
of any desire or need to validate herself to her company.
Being classy clearly requires work in
these and many more avenues of one’s personality.
As you read this, am sure you must have smiled,
clicked your tongue or even pause to take a quick look at yourself and asked
yourself if you are classy. If you are, keep it up, if you came up short all
you need is a little work, but if you aren't….well there is yet still hope for
you.
Cheers.
