Classy

Definition of Classy: admirably skillful and graceful (Merriam-Webster, n.d.)

Think of the word classy, and what do you think of it? Perhaps Audrey Hepburn, Princess Diana, Melania Trump? Or maybe you think of your grandmother, a favorite teacher, or a close friend? Classiness is not limited to a few famous figures but can be found in everyday people.

The ladies I've mentioned were chosen with respect, as they have each embodied a unique form of classiness. In today's world, the term 'classy' is often misunderstood and mistakenly associated with social status. While the word's origins may have been tied to a perception of a higher class, its meaning has evolved. Today, it represents skill, grace, and elegance, as described by Merriam-Webster.

A misconception that individuals often associate with classiness is someone with a high status or someone who comes from money. Let me emphasize this: You do not need to be of a high social class or come from money to be classy. No amount of money or social class in this world can embody classiness. Being classy comes from within and reflects in our actions and behavior towards others. When I asked whom you may think of as classy earlier, some might have thought of a celebrity or someone personal you know. Whoever you thought of, take a second to ask yourself if you took away their status in life, money, and associations, would they still be classy? As I mentioned earlier, Hepburn, Princess Diana, and Trump, although successful and holding high statuses in their respective ways, each of these women have exemplified humility and kindness to a level of class that only comes from within themselves and all the money in the world they might have could not have possibly bought them. Someone you may know personally has exemplified humility and kindness... these are traits of classiness!

There are some differences and similarities between being classy and being cordial. Cordial embodies being polite and putting others first. Similarly, a classy individual's behavior tends to be courteous and puts others first; however, being classy also refers to how someone speaks, dresses, and portrays themselves. Here is another misconception of being classy: "Classy is snobby." Unfortunately, because of the earlier misconception that money and high social status are considered classy, some individuals may feel that embodying classiness is associated with snobbiness. That is a stereotype, my dear friends. Do not let someone tell you you are snobby for exemplifying classiness. This mentality often causes women and men to let themselves go and put on a selfish mentality where they do not think twice before they speak or behave and only live for themselves. This is pride. Make sure to distinguish the two.

Through patience and determination, anyone can be classy and be themselves! Everything takes practice and application. There are many ways to be classy. Some include behavior patterns, etiquette, mannerisms, prudence, modesty, and kindness. Classiness is something to embody anywhere you go and will help you travel the world with elegance and grace.