I am older, 62, and I was raised to always be kind, respectful and polite to everyone. To their credit, the vast majority young people I know are like that, too. I have run into the occasional very disrespectful teenager, but in general, I don’t think polite behavior has disappeared. Online it’s different, anonymity allows people to act cruelly and outrageously with impunity. I do dress up more than most people in my community, who only wear black or gray gym clothes. I have also always dressed modestly, from simple preference, my cleavage belongs to me, not the guys at work or on the street.
My advice, as a 62-year old, to younger women is not to wait to wear your authentic elegant style, just to conform with what others are wearing. I wish everyone to feel as liberated to wear beautiful things as I was, but that didn’t happen until my 50s. I always loved classic and elegant, high-quality clothes and accessories, and the 10-15 or so years when I forced myself to conform to the local Boho style was the worst style period of my life and a huge waste of money. That style never really felt like me, then I finally allowed myself to go back to the classic, dressier styles that I love. Unfortunately, I discovered that I could no longer find the same quality in the classic blazers, etc. that I had purged. I had been forced into “early retirement” because of a disability and that threw my whole life into confusion, including what to wear without my career. If or when you declutter, focus on fast-fashion, synthetic items, keep the best quality ones. Then gradually, add high-quality items, starting with those you need the most, for me it was a white silk shirt and silk knit long-sleeved top. I highly recommend the silk skirts from Quince, they’re perfect and only $60 US (no affiliation to any brand). Nothing feels as great on bare legs as a silk skirt. Lily Silk is great, too, I wear their classic solid or patterned silk dresses, shirts and knits for daily wear, even at home (no kids, pets at the moment, or messy chores).
This is beautiful advice, thank you for sharing! I'm 42 and I also came to this realisation whilst in lockdown actually. Now, I wear the clothes I love and feel great in. When people ask, "where are you off out to?" I just smile and say "why not?!" Saving things for "best" is a time I was finding didn't come, now ithink that every day is an occasion, being alive is the occasion! Every day we are healthy and free to choose as we please is a special occasion, so wear the beautiful clothes, look elegant if that's your style, enjoy looking and feeling good for yourself! Sending you lots of love and happiness for the new year 🎉😘💋❤
Hi Kimberly! Just bought a Quince midi skirt after you mentioned it, looks lovely💜and seasonless, wear with boots or with sandals on beach in summer, being the coastal grandmother I am. Thx for the mention. I love Lily Silk and recently added about 6 silk blouses to my “woman of a certain age” wardrobe
I finally came into my style in my 40s & it is classic elegant. When I was younger I wore elements of this but was unconscious of my personal style, how to style myself and quality clothing. Now I see how I conformed yet was still clueless, if that makes sense. Thank God I found my way and have no concern what others think! I am so happy & confident now & styling myself has become so easy & stress free!
I agree with you, I am 67 and just after I was 50 decided to change mine wardrobe to Classix. That suits me the best and it goes with everything. I just have a minimal classic wardrobe and that’s plenty for me. I often get ask where are you going?? I guess it’s because I’m dressed nice. I laugh and say just here at home.
I always, always get multiple compliments on my “dressed up outfits”. A few snide remarks might come my way now and then, but what do I care? I feel beautiful and comfortable in my nice clothes, that’s why I wear them. My skirts and dresses have always just been “me”, jeans, gym clothes and sweatshirts aren’t. I don’t believe that all that tight, sweaty, polyester gymwear that most people wear is really as comfortable as my silk skirts and silk, linen or cotton knit tops or shirts, I need breathable, non-irritating, hypoallergenic-fiber clothing. There is a kind of prejudice against dressing well, don’t let it affect you! As more of us dress better, the norm will adjust upward, too. It certainly can’t fall much lower!
Hi Mariana!! I love this video and I appreciate your channel so much. as a 26-year-old when it comes to dressing up, I draw a lot of inspiration from Audrey Hepburn and Ralph Lauren's 90s fashion campaigns because I love that timeless elegance. There are times I would feel out of place because what's popular now, especially in my community is the "baddie aesthetic". I'd occasionally get weird stares and comments but every so often I'd get compliments on how different and classy I look. What I've actually come to realise is that there are people out there who do appreciate that classy sophisticated look but are afraid of trying that look because they don't want to be judged by others or they believe it's so unattainable for them. Thank you for making this video to remind us that we should have the courage to stand out and not feel pressured to blend in with the crowd. There is nothing wrong with being different, Different is good.
Hi Mathu! I’m so glad you enjoyed it. And I agree so much with your point about how some people long to have that more elegant look, how they admire it from afar, but feel it’s not for them or maybe even like they’re not “worthy” of it. But when I look at pictures from the past and see that everyone dressed better, independent of social status, it becomes clear that it’s usually a fear of standing out too much. To that I say: let’s renormalize looking lovely and gracious and chic! As a society we’ve managed to make baddie (😒) a trend, so I’m absolutely confident we can push that pendulum to the other direction. Thanks for the super insightful comment ;)
Agreed on all points. I would add to be on time (early to most events), do not speak badly about people, and keep negative or opposing comments to yourself while in conversation. Keeping opposing comments to yourself shows acceptance & respect. What most people really want is to be accepted & respected,no matter the type of relationship.
Yes!!! Not speaking badly about people is such an elegant, confident power move. Is so easy to fall into the temptation of making snarky comments just to make conversation and feel part of a group. Great point Tennille!
This was so good. To your point about not being able to afford things that we think will make ourselves or spaces more elegant, I would say cleanliness is next to godliness as the saying goes. I knew an older woman who did not have the most modern furnishings, carpet, appliances, etc, but her house was so clean and clutter free that I found her to be elegant and classy, and it made me want to be the same way. It stuns me when I walk into someone’s home that is not just messy but filthy. I don’t know how people are able to function at a higher level when their surroundings are in shambles. Soap and elbow grease don’t cost much.
There are some challenges to being your best elegant self, but we must all find ways to get around them, and overcome them. Maybe someone has small toddlers, or slobs as roomates who play loud music, or no money, or a sick spouse whom they care for. I’ve learned through the many years, to look after yourself first, physically, mentally, spiritually. Do one elegant thing daily, listen to Chopin, do your nails, read about a French painter, yes, wear your lovely silk skirt, go to Church, etc. Make a point to add beauty to your life, because we’re important, and that’s the only way to live, with beauty and elegance. Happy New Year 🎊
I 100% agree! My background is very unusual. My parents were well-educated, cultured, British immigrants. But, I grew up in rural Canada, so I was surrounded by quite poor, uneducated people. With those two juxtapositions influencing me, I recognize a type of uncomplicated classiness and etiquette that is ALL about things like: ✔️a very clean, uncluttered home ✔️a very simple, whole food diet and eating slowly and mindfully ✔️a simple, classic wardrobe that is clean, mended, and unwrinkled (even if it is a pair of jeans and a white t-shirt). ✔️behaviour and conversation that is kind, considerate, generous, and selfless. ✔️good hygiene including bathing every day, trimmed clean nails, no body odour, clean teeth, brushed hair ✔️an overall calmness and drama-free life ♥️🇨🇦
@@amandazplace5663 I love this. I, myself immigrated at a young age and noticed different habits of living here in Canada. It is very North American but also you'll see higher standards in more central parts of the city.
I love the topic of little things that make life more beautiful and elegant, in this society who has lost all etiquette and such. Thx for this topic, looking forward to more videos on this subject.
Wow! Honestly what a fantastic video and right at the beginning of a new year. 🌺 Such a great reminder for us all. In a world of Kim Kardashians be a 👸🏻 Kate Middleton! 🎉 Elegance is timeless. You hit the nail on the head regarding kindness and culture as well. Definitely recommend bookmarking this video and watching it throughout the year from time to time. 🙏 thank you! Looking forward to more of your content this year! Monique
To acquire a more cultured outlook: read, study, and go to cultural events, museums, etc. If you possibly can, get your college degree, even MS degree, it’s worth the sacrifices for the way it opens your mind to the world and teaches critical thinking. I delayed marriage, children and making any decent money until I finished my six years of college (I worked at least half-time throughout college, including every vacation, however short). It was so worth it, even financially, my starting salary was higher than my father’s, upon his retiring from teaching. I recommend that every Western woman take at least, Western Civilization (three courses), Art History (“) and History of Architecture, and math through trigonometry. Plus, single women who want to meet their mate often do so at university, I did. Reading is the most important thing of all!
Agreed. I think it's important to have some arts cultural appreciation or even better, to learn yourself, whether it be dance, figure skating, art history, interior design, any kind of painting classes, classical music education etc.
Simply, honour thyself! Your content here was divine and so significantly on point. Moving to Europe in a few months which is being opposed and criticized by those in my close circle; however, I remain steadfast and undeterred by the noise and so appreciate your inspiring me to be my authentic self, to be encouraged to immerse in another culture, language and to elevate and enjoy the gifts that a new life offers, all while being kind, thoughtful of others. Stay elegant, amazing and flourish in 2023, and years beyond…
You are so right about being kind. No matter what, if you are kind and respectful to everyone you will ALWAYS look elegant. This is so important and is worth developing until it becomes an unconscious habit. Be yourself, but above all, be kind and thoughtful.
You are so right and I have shared with all my close friends as we have waited many years for the elegant styles and ettiquette to come back...I am 84! Seems like history is repeating in fashion and culture.
Hopefully they’ll come back with a vengeance 😝 thank you so much for watching, Byrute! Let me know about your tips for elegance, because I suspect you have some true gems to share.
I love everything you said! Your presentation was just spot on! And, your manner is so friendly and lovely--nothing pretentious about it all! Always enjoy watching your videos! Please keep it up for 2023!!!
If one practices the points you mentioned with a smile and friendliness,. it's less likely to be seen as pretentious or as oneupmanship, and more likely to be seen as confident and classy. Happy New Year, Mariana!
Hello Mariana, it's so nice to see a younger woman talking about having a Standard of living that involves more classical values. Having good manners, basic knowledge of culture, a minimal dress code and a basic use of etiquette. Speaking of naked ladies, just because you have it, it doesn't mean you have to flaunt it ! And I don't just mean Kardashians. I can't imagine Aretha Franklin or even Carol King having to strip on stage to be acknowledged as a great singer. THANK YOU for posting.
Exactly! Something went really wrong when we decided that to feel empowered, women have to show as much skin and be as sexualized as possible. It’s a male chauvinist’s dream wrapped in bad feminist packaging 😞
I agree with you! Sadly the younger generation is losing the sense of etiquette and manners. Starting with how they dress of course. I notice younger men just don’t value chivalry as much. They can barely even look people in the eye or speak on the phone. We must keep the high standards indeed. Loved your video and your message. Happy New Year! 🎉
True Isa… sad, but true. I just think everyone is very confused about who they are and who they think they’re supposed to be. For instance, if being a gentleman is in any way associated with a more traditional male role, boys will do the opposite so they’re not seen and toxic or old-fashioned. It’s bonkers!
Happy New Year Mariana!! I totally agree with all of your points! You hit the nail on the head!! I love dressing well. As the saying goes, it shows respect for yourself and for others! Doing my part to raise the bar!! Also, the older I get I wear what I want and like and don't care one bit about what others say or think!! So much fun!! All the best to you and your viewers in 2023!!!
Happy new year! May all your resolutions come true and thanks for encouraging the world to lead more elegant lives! For me, striving for elegance means the strive for sophistication and this requires self-cultivation. Ergo, this means to me that one has self-respect and it is very much linked to living a dignified life. I agree that our postmodern 'anything goes' culture has unfortunately confused liberty with libertinage thinking that we are freer than ever but losing dignity in the process... One thing I will strive to do besides all of your tips is to leave the kitchen clean before going to bed and set the breakfast table for the next day. This not easy, but a useful exercize to improve one's disciplin, which is an essential quality to reach elegance!
Wonderful words Zsuzsanna! Dignified is the word I was looking for during the video and it just didn’t come to mind. Wishing you a wonderful 2023, filled of delicious breakfasts at the table you’ve beautifully set the night before 😉
I really enjoy all of your videos and appreciate your advice! Even at 56, it's refreshing to hear a new take on the way we present ourselves to the world and show respect for others.
Great points! I'm so glad I found your channel. An elegant self-expression is a journey that I feel begins with recognizing my eternal worthiness rooted in the fact that I am made of love, from love, and for love. And in that love, we become so influential affecting all those around us.
I love this video! I heartily agree with all five of your points. If you (meaning anyone) try different cultural venues you will find what you like and what you dislike and thencontinue enjoying what you have found appeals to you, that just expands a person's personal growth. I also find that people do not dress up often enough and slovenly clothes have become acceptable. I think dressing up is nice and shows that you respect yourself and I don't really care what people think about it. Just think of the source of that criticism. Being kind and polite is always fashionable! I abhor bad manners and again, think of the source of people who don't care about manners .Another thing that I believe is important is good language and grammar. It's not to act superior, it's that speaking clearly and correctly makes for better communication. You are such a pleasure to watch! Thank you!
Happy New Year to you 🎉 As a 56 year old/young woman who has always loved a classic look - I truly appreciate this video. Just discovered your channel & absolutely love it. ✨
I like these very much and they need to be said. We should not apologise for wanting to bring harmony and beauty into our daily lives. I feel like a dinosaur when I say I prefer quiet jazz to raucous pop music. Walking down any British high street these days is enough to bring on depression, for the majority of people have surrendered to cotton jersey i.e. hoodies, sweatshirts, joggers, trainers, black padded jackets and the dead hand of denim. In summer, it's teeshirts and more denim. How do you maintain your aspiration to be classic and elegant and somehow not stand out as a fashion alien in this sea of drabness? There must be an art in it! Perhaps it needs a video, Mariana? Thank you so much for your always interesting content.
Hi Milou! Oh, I feel like an alien a lot of the time, especially in Milan where people my age like a more fashion-forward, edgy style (who knew being into classics would be so countercultural, right?). But I just don’t feel like myself dressing like that. I’ve always been inspired by more traditional beauty, and whenever I feel a little flat, all it takes is listening to good music (you mentioned jazz… Bill Evans immediately elevates my spirits!), a good lecture, looking at beautiful paintings online or watching a movie from Hollywood’s golden age to inspire me to search for that same type pf beauty in my own life.
@@MarianaZelenjukYes I do find inspiration in all the things you mention (and I like Bill Evans). I also find inspiration in vintage fashion magazines from the 1950s. They knew how to dress to enhance and flatter the female form. I would recommend anyone to view Emi's Vintage You Tube channel. She wears vintage clothes beautifully so that they never look like fancy dress costumes.. She generally wears her hair off the collar - adding to her clean and elegant look. She also has a lovely personality and manner.
@@Ingrid0410 I lived in Milan for a year about 25 years ago and it was so inspiring to see the way Italian women always made an effort to look good - La Bella Figura.
Brilliant! So great to hear these things being said. Thank you for this extremely necessary public announcement. Everyone needs to hear it or be reminded of it. Happy New Year!
Feliz Ano Novo, Mariana! Adorei o seu vídeo, porque é uma excelente reflexão neste recomeço. Procurar ter uma aparência cuidada é, em primeiro lugar, um sinal de respeito por si própria e pelos outros. Além do mais, penso que devemos sempre ambicionar evoluir, aumentar o nosso conhecimento, refinar o nosso gosto. Não ter todo o dinheiro ou os meios necessários ao alcance, pode até ser um belo desafio à criatividade, como tão bem costuma demonstrar nos seus vídeos. Concordo que ter boas maneiras não só nos torna melhores, como pode tornar tudo mais leve ao nosso redor. A elegância de que fala é uma coisa intemporal. É normal que não seja apetecível para muitos, num momento dominado por modas rápidas e passageiras. Esta tentativa de evolução é um trabalho para toda a vida e, no final, certamente irá tornar-nos mais felizes connosco e com os outros. Um beijinho 😘
Querida Mafalda, feliz ano novo! Espero que esse novo 2023 traga muita alegria, saúde e prosperidade para você e toda a sua família. E obrigada por sempre deixar os comentários mais gentis, encorajadores e inteligentes nos vídeos. 😉
It's all about an appreciation for beauty and elevation of life and spirit. Those that criticize are those that need to fit in to whatever trending culture is prevalent at any given moment and have no self identity. Which is a sure sign of insecurity and a need to feel superior. I believe they secretly long for beauty and elegance but don't want to be different and maybe are just a little bit intimidated.
Hi Mariana, I like your style very much, I’m Audrey Hepburn’s huge fun as well, many people call me grandma, old fashioned, pasee because of my style, but I really don’t care about that. I have a question about working in fashion, would you tell me please what type of skill or education do I have to have to work in fashion company? I’m mother of 2 adorable daughters and I quit my job before giving birth them. I moved in LA from Europe and maybe you know companies connected with Europe. Thanks.
I need to stop being too nice. Do not let other people treat you like a doormat. This is obviously the extreme case of people-pleasing. I also have discovered that my reticence and shyness came never from me being a nice human being instead it originated from anxiety and conditioning.
Hi Denise! That’s such an insightful comment. I too from time to time, in order to be polite, find it difficult to set boundaries. It’s all about knowing how to command respect without being aggressive, which I’m still not great at, but is one of my main goals for this year. Let me know if you have any tips ☺️
@@MarianaZelenjuk and they are so difficult to play! I’m a professional violinist and playing overtures it’s like „I’m done with this” and after that you still have to play entire opera. That’s why they are only produced in major cities. Such a difficult music to play, sing and listen 😂🤪😊
I am older, 62, and I was raised to always be kind, respectful and polite to everyone. To their credit, the vast majority young people I know are like that, too. I have run into the occasional very disrespectful teenager, but in general, I don’t think polite behavior has disappeared. Online it’s different, anonymity allows people to act cruelly and outrageously with impunity. I do dress up more than most people in my community, who only wear black or gray gym clothes. I have also always dressed modestly, from simple preference, my cleavage belongs to me, not the guys at work or on the street.
My advice, as a 62-year old, to younger women is not to wait to wear your authentic elegant style, just to conform with what others are wearing. I wish everyone to feel as liberated to wear beautiful things as I was, but that didn’t happen until my 50s. I always loved classic and elegant, high-quality clothes and accessories, and the 10-15 or so years when I forced myself to conform to the local Boho style was the worst style period of my life and a huge waste of money. That style never really felt like me, then I finally allowed myself to go back to the classic, dressier styles that I love. Unfortunately, I discovered that I could no longer find the same quality in the classic blazers, etc. that I had purged. I had been forced into “early retirement” because of a disability and that threw my whole life into confusion, including what to wear without my career. If or when you declutter, focus on fast-fashion, synthetic items, keep the best quality ones. Then gradually, add high-quality items, starting with those you need the most, for me it was a white silk shirt and silk knit long-sleeved top. I highly recommend the silk skirts from Quince, they’re perfect and only $60 US (no affiliation to any brand). Nothing feels as great on bare legs as a silk skirt. Lily Silk is great, too, I wear their classic solid or patterned silk dresses, shirts and knits for daily wear, even at home (no kids, pets at the moment, or messy chores).
This is beautiful advice, thank you for sharing! I'm 42 and I also came to this realisation whilst in lockdown actually. Now, I wear the clothes I love and feel great in. When people ask, "where are you off out to?" I just smile and say "why not?!" Saving things for "best" is a time I was finding didn't come, now ithink that every day is an occasion, being alive is the occasion! Every day we are healthy and free to choose as we please is a special occasion, so wear the beautiful clothes, look elegant if that's your style, enjoy looking and feeling good for yourself! Sending you lots of love and happiness for the new year 🎉😘💋❤
Hi Kimberly! Just bought a Quince midi skirt after you mentioned it, looks lovely💜and seasonless, wear with boots or with sandals on beach in summer, being the coastal grandmother I am. Thx for the mention. I love Lily Silk and recently added about 6 silk blouses to my “woman of a certain age” wardrobe
I finally came into my style in my 40s & it is classic elegant. When I was younger I wore elements of this but was unconscious of my personal style, how to style myself and quality clothing. Now I see how I conformed yet was still clueless, if that makes sense. Thank God I found my way and have no concern what others think! I am so happy & confident now & styling myself has become so easy & stress free!
I agree with you, I am 67 and just after I was 50 decided to change mine wardrobe to Classix. That suits me the best and it goes with everything. I just have a minimal classic wardrobe and that’s plenty for me. I often get ask where are you going?? I guess it’s because I’m dressed nice. I laugh and say just here at home.
I always, always get multiple compliments on my “dressed up outfits”. A few snide remarks might come my way now and then, but what do I care? I feel beautiful and comfortable in my nice clothes, that’s why I wear them. My skirts and dresses have always just been “me”, jeans, gym clothes and sweatshirts aren’t. I don’t believe that all that tight, sweaty, polyester gymwear that most people wear is really as comfortable as my silk skirts and silk, linen or cotton knit tops or shirts, I need breathable, non-irritating, hypoallergenic-fiber clothing. There is a kind of prejudice against dressing well, don’t let it affect you! As more of us dress better, the norm will adjust upward, too. It certainly can’t fall much lower!
Omg, just had this discussion with family members. You are right on point, i agree.
Hi Mariana!! I love this video and I appreciate your channel so much. as a 26-year-old when it comes to dressing up, I draw a lot of inspiration from Audrey Hepburn and Ralph Lauren's 90s fashion campaigns because I love that timeless elegance. There are times I would feel out of place because what's popular now, especially in my community is the "baddie aesthetic". I'd occasionally get weird stares and comments but every so often I'd get compliments on how different and classy I look. What I've actually come to realise is that there are people out there who do appreciate that classy sophisticated look but are afraid of trying that look because they don't want to be judged by others or they believe it's so unattainable for them. Thank you for making this video to remind us that we should have the courage to stand out and not feel pressured to blend in with the crowd. There is nothing wrong with being different, Different is good.
Hi Mathu! I’m so glad you enjoyed it. And I agree so much with your point about how some people long to have that more elegant look, how they admire it from afar, but feel it’s not for them or maybe even like they’re not “worthy” of it. But when I look at pictures from the past and see that everyone dressed better, independent of social status, it becomes clear that it’s usually a fear of standing out too much. To that I say: let’s renormalize looking lovely and gracious and chic! As a society we’ve managed to make baddie (😒) a trend, so I’m absolutely confident we can push that pendulum to the other direction. Thanks for the super insightful comment ;)
Agreed on all points. I would add to be on time (early to most events), do not speak badly about people, and keep negative or opposing comments to yourself while in conversation. Keeping opposing comments to yourself shows acceptance & respect. What most people really want is to be accepted & respected,no matter the type of relationship.
Yes!!! Not speaking badly about people is such an elegant, confident power move. Is so easy to fall into the temptation of making snarky comments just to make conversation and feel part of a group. Great point Tennille!
Well said and also if people ever hear you speak badly about someone they realize you might talk about them as well. Mind your manners. ❤️❤️
This was so good. To your point about not being able to afford things that we think will make ourselves or spaces more elegant, I would say cleanliness is next to godliness as the saying goes. I knew an older woman who did not have the most modern furnishings, carpet, appliances, etc, but her house was so clean and clutter free that I found her to be elegant and classy, and it made me want to be the same way. It stuns me when I walk into someone’s home that is not just messy but filthy. I don’t know how people are able to function at a higher level when their surroundings are in shambles. Soap and elbow grease don’t cost much.
There are some challenges to being your best elegant self, but we must all find ways to get around them, and overcome them. Maybe someone has small toddlers, or slobs as roomates who play loud music, or no money, or a sick spouse whom they care for. I’ve learned through the many years, to look after yourself first, physically, mentally, spiritually. Do one elegant thing daily, listen to Chopin, do your nails, read about a French painter, yes, wear your lovely silk skirt, go to Church, etc. Make a point to add beauty to your life, because we’re important, and that’s the only way to live, with beauty and elegance. Happy New Year 🎊
I 100% agree! My background is very unusual. My parents were well-educated, cultured, British immigrants. But, I grew up in rural Canada, so I was surrounded by quite poor, uneducated people. With those two juxtapositions influencing me, I recognize a type of uncomplicated classiness and etiquette that is ALL about things like:
✔️a very clean, uncluttered home
✔️a very simple, whole food diet and eating slowly and mindfully
✔️a simple, classic wardrobe that is clean, mended, and unwrinkled (even if it is a pair of jeans and a white t-shirt).
✔️behaviour and conversation that is kind, considerate, generous, and selfless.
✔️good hygiene including bathing every day, trimmed clean nails, no body odour, clean teeth, brushed hair
✔️an overall calmness and drama-free life
♥️🇨🇦
@@Ingrid0410 well said! Wishing you happiness and health for the new year 😘💋❤
@@amandazplace5663 I love this. I, myself immigrated at a young age and noticed different habits of living here in Canada. It is very North American but also you'll see higher standards in more central parts of the city.
I like that you don't only talk about how to dress but also about kindness and culture: the secret to true elegance in my opinion.
All your points are on point. I really believe that people think being rude is cute
Right? As if it’s something to strive for… so crazy!
I'm 18 years old I watch your videos everyday to learn how to be elegant Thanks to you I found my own style ❤
1, 2, 3, 4 & 5...I'm here for them all, but especially tip number 1.....YES PLEASE!! ❤❤
Wishing everyone on this channel an Elegant 2023!!!
Happy New Year to you too Sherry! May 2023 be the best yet 😉
I love the topic of little things that make life more beautiful and elegant, in this society who has lost all etiquette and such. Thx for this topic, looking forward to more videos on this subject.
I’m so happy everytime a new video of yours comes up.
You are such a blessing to UA-cam. ☺️🌸🌸🌸
Thank you Claudia! I’m so glad you enjoy them 😊
Wow! Honestly what a fantastic video and right at the beginning of a new year. 🌺 Such a great reminder for us all. In a world of Kim Kardashians be a 👸🏻 Kate Middleton! 🎉 Elegance is timeless. You hit the nail on the head regarding kindness and culture as well. Definitely recommend bookmarking this video and watching it throughout the year from time to time. 🙏 thank you! Looking forward to more of your content this year! Monique
Oh, thank you Monique! And happy New Year to you and your family 😊
To acquire a more cultured outlook: read, study, and go to cultural events, museums, etc. If you possibly can, get your college degree, even MS degree, it’s worth the sacrifices for the way it opens your mind to the world and teaches critical thinking. I delayed marriage, children and making any decent money until I finished my six years of college (I worked at least half-time throughout college, including every vacation, however short). It was so worth it, even financially, my starting salary was higher than my father’s, upon his retiring from teaching. I recommend that every Western woman take at least, Western Civilization (three courses), Art History (“) and History of Architecture, and math through trigonometry. Plus, single women who want to meet their mate often do so at university, I did. Reading is the most important thing of all!
Agreed. I think it's important to have some arts cultural appreciation or even better, to learn yourself, whether it be dance, figure skating, art history, interior design, any kind of painting classes, classical music education etc.
Simply, honour thyself! Your content here was divine and so significantly on point. Moving to Europe in a few months which is being opposed and criticized by those in my close circle; however, I remain steadfast and undeterred by the noise and so appreciate your inspiring me to be my authentic self, to be encouraged to immerse in another culture, language and to elevate and enjoy the gifts that a new life offers, all while being kind, thoughtful of others. Stay elegant, amazing and flourish in 2023, and years beyond…
You are so right about being kind. No matter what, if you are kind and respectful to everyone you will ALWAYS look elegant. This is so important and is worth developing until it becomes an unconscious habit. Be yourself, but above all, be kind and thoughtful.
You are so right and I have shared with all my close friends as we have waited many years for the elegant styles and ettiquette to come back...I am 84! Seems like history is repeating in fashion and culture.
Hopefully they’ll come back with a vengeance 😝 thank you so much for watching, Byrute! Let me know about your tips for elegance, because I suspect you have some true gems to share.
I love everything you said! Your presentation was just spot on! And, your manner is so friendly and lovely--nothing pretentious about it all! Always enjoy watching your videos! Please keep it up for 2023!!!
“Open your ears, open your heart…” 🥰
Kindness and patience are my two jobs right now. Tolerance is currently on my menu. Thank you for sharing yourself on these videos.
I really appreciated these topics! Happy new year!
If one practices the points you mentioned with a smile and friendliness,. it's less likely to be seen as pretentious or as oneupmanship, and more likely to be seen as confident and classy. Happy New Year, Mariana!
So true Sue! Very good point!
You look great!
Thank you Agnieszka 😊
Happy 2023 Mariana ❤ Thank you for this video!!!!! Agree with everything, fabulous!!!!!!!!!!!
Happy New Year Ellie! 🥳
Awesome video! What a fantastic start to the new year! Thank you!
Happy New Year, Sally, and thank you for watching 😉
I agree with you, it’s called being educated! Thank you for sharing! I wish you the best for the New Year Mariana! 🤗😍
you're so right! Happy new year 🥂
Happy New Year Karin! 🍾
Hello Mariana, it's so nice to see a younger woman talking about having a Standard of living that involves more classical values. Having good manners, basic knowledge of culture, a minimal dress code and a basic use of etiquette.
Speaking of naked ladies, just because you have it, it doesn't mean you have to flaunt it ! And I don't just mean Kardashians. I can't imagine Aretha Franklin or even Carol King having to strip on stage to be acknowledged as a great singer. THANK YOU for posting.
Exactly! Something went really wrong when we decided that to feel empowered, women have to show as much skin and be as sexualized as possible. It’s a male chauvinist’s dream wrapped in bad feminist packaging 😞
I agree with you! Sadly the younger generation is losing the sense of etiquette and manners. Starting with how they dress of course. I notice younger men just don’t value chivalry as much. They can barely even look people in the eye or speak on the phone. We must keep the high standards indeed. Loved your video and your message. Happy New Year! 🎉
True Isa… sad, but true. I just think everyone is very confused about who they are and who they think they’re supposed to be. For instance, if being a gentleman is in any way associated with a more traditional male role, boys will do the opposite so they’re not seen and toxic or old-fashioned. It’s bonkers!
I agree with you completely 🇺🇸
Happy New Year Mariana!! I totally agree with all of your points! You hit the nail on the head!! I love dressing well. As the saying goes, it shows respect for yourself and for others! Doing my part to raise the bar!! Also, the older I get I wear what I want and like and don't care one bit about what others say or think!! So much fun!! All the best to you and your viewers in 2023!!!
Happy New Year Celia! And thank you for your comments. They’re always lovely 😊
Yes!!!! Let's make manners cooler than cop out culture!
Happy new year! May all your resolutions come true and thanks for encouraging the world to lead more elegant lives! For me, striving for elegance means the strive for sophistication and this requires self-cultivation. Ergo, this means to me that one has self-respect and it is very much linked to living a dignified life. I agree that our postmodern 'anything goes' culture has unfortunately confused liberty with libertinage thinking that we are freer than ever but losing dignity in the process...
One thing I will strive to do besides all of your tips is to leave the kitchen clean before going to bed and set the breakfast table for the next day. This not easy, but a useful exercize to improve one's disciplin, which is an essential quality to reach elegance!
Wonderful words Zsuzsanna! Dignified is the word I was looking for during the video and it just didn’t come to mind.
Wishing you a wonderful 2023, filled of delicious breakfasts at the table you’ve beautifully set the night before 😉
Kindness is very elegant,,
I really enjoy all of your videos and appreciate your advice! Even at 56, it's refreshing to hear a new take on the way we present ourselves to the world and show respect for others.
Great points! I'm so glad I found your channel. An elegant self-expression is a journey that I feel begins with recognizing my eternal worthiness rooted in the fact that I am made of love, from love, and for love. And in that love, we become so influential affecting all those around us.
Lovely words, A!
I fully agree with you Mariana. Keep up with what you are doing so beautifully. Thank you so much for all your wonderful and inspiring videos. ❤❤❤❤❤❤
Lovely chatear and much needed.
I love this video! I heartily agree with all five of your points. If you (meaning anyone) try different cultural venues you will find what you like and what you dislike and thencontinue enjoying what you have found appeals to you, that just expands a person's personal growth. I also find that people do not dress up often enough and slovenly clothes have become acceptable. I think dressing up is nice and shows that you respect yourself and I don't really care what people think about it. Just think of the source of that criticism. Being kind and polite is always fashionable! I abhor bad manners and again, think of the source of people who don't care about manners .Another thing that I believe is important is good language and grammar. It's not to act superior, it's that speaking clearly and correctly makes for better communication. You are such a pleasure to watch! Thank you!
Happy new year 🎉 agree with all 5 tips. I’m taking on board no3 as one of my personal goals for 2023 🙏🏽
Happy New Year Anesa! Hope you have a fabulous 2023 ahead of you 😊
New subbie here. I think you're marvellous and all of your points are spot on!
Hi Lisa! Welcome! Let me know what you’d like to see on the channel, ok? And happy 2023!
Happy New Year to you 🎉 As a 56 year old/young woman who has always loved a classic look - I truly appreciate this video.
Just discovered your channel & absolutely love it. ✨
Happy New Year!!! And thank you for watching 😉
You're delightful Marianne, thank you ❤
Happy New Year🎉🎉! ❤❤
Happy New Year Meg! Hope this 2023 brings you a lot of joy, happiness and health 😉
Well said!
I like these very much and they need to be said. We should not apologise for wanting to bring harmony and beauty into our daily lives. I feel like a dinosaur when I say I prefer quiet jazz to raucous pop music. Walking down any British high street these days is enough to bring on depression, for the majority of people have surrendered to cotton jersey i.e. hoodies, sweatshirts, joggers, trainers, black padded jackets and the dead hand of denim. In summer, it's teeshirts and more denim. How do you maintain your aspiration to be classic and elegant and somehow not stand out as a fashion alien in this sea of drabness? There must be an art in it! Perhaps it needs a video, Mariana?
Thank you so much for your always interesting content.
Hi Milou! Oh, I feel like an alien a lot of the time, especially in Milan where people my age like a more fashion-forward, edgy style (who knew being into classics would be so countercultural, right?). But I just don’t feel like myself dressing like that. I’ve always been inspired by more traditional beauty, and whenever I feel a little flat, all it takes is listening to good music (you mentioned jazz… Bill Evans immediately elevates my spirits!), a good lecture, looking at beautiful paintings online or watching a movie from Hollywood’s golden age to inspire me to search for that same type pf beauty in my own life.
Living in Milan surely helps where there is art and beauty all around 💜
@@MarianaZelenjukYes I do find inspiration in all the things you mention (and I like Bill Evans). I also find inspiration in vintage fashion magazines from the 1950s. They knew how to dress to enhance and flatter the female form. I would recommend anyone to view Emi's Vintage You Tube channel. She wears vintage clothes beautifully so that they never look like fancy dress costumes.. She generally wears her hair off the collar - adding to her clean and elegant look. She also has a lovely personality and manner.
@@Ingrid0410 I lived in Milan for a year about 25 years ago and it was so inspiring to see the way Italian women always made an effort to look good - La Bella Figura.
Feliz ano Novo Mariana!
Feliz Ano Novo!!!
Brilliant! So great to hear these things being said. Thank you for this extremely necessary public announcement. Everyone needs to hear it or be reminded of it. Happy New Year!
Feliz Ano Novo, Mariana! Adorei o seu vídeo, porque é uma excelente reflexão neste recomeço. Procurar ter uma aparência cuidada é, em primeiro lugar, um sinal de respeito por si própria e pelos outros. Além do mais, penso que devemos sempre ambicionar evoluir, aumentar o nosso conhecimento, refinar o nosso gosto. Não ter todo o dinheiro ou os meios necessários ao alcance, pode até ser um belo desafio à criatividade, como tão bem costuma demonstrar nos seus vídeos. Concordo que ter boas maneiras não só nos torna melhores, como pode tornar tudo mais leve ao nosso redor. A elegância de que fala é uma coisa intemporal. É normal que não seja apetecível para muitos, num momento dominado por modas rápidas e passageiras. Esta tentativa de evolução é um trabalho para toda a vida e, no final, certamente irá tornar-nos mais felizes connosco e com os outros. Um beijinho 😘
Querida Mafalda, feliz ano novo! Espero que esse novo 2023 traga muita alegria, saúde e prosperidade para você e toda a sua família. E obrigada por sempre deixar os comentários mais gentis, encorajadores e inteligentes nos vídeos. 😉
It's all about an appreciation for beauty and elevation of life and spirit. Those that criticize are those that need to fit in to whatever trending culture is prevalent at any given moment and have no self identity. Which is a sure sign of insecurity and a need to feel superior. I believe they secretly long for beauty and elegance but don't want to be different and maybe are just a little bit intimidated.
There are a few interviews on UA-cam with the elegant Carolina Herrera which would be a great accompaniment to your video.
Love your lipstick! Color? Brand?
Try to listen to Mozart, it is just beautiful and happy!
Yes! 🤩
Hi Mariana, I like your style very much, I’m Audrey Hepburn’s huge fun as well, many people call me grandma, old fashioned, pasee because of my style, but I really don’t care about that.
I have a question about working in fashion, would you tell me please what type of skill or education do I have to have to work in fashion company? I’m mother of 2 adorable daughters and I quit my job before giving birth them. I moved in LA from Europe and maybe you know companies connected with Europe.
Thanks.
I need a top like this but I can’t find one 😢
Mine is from Zara, but I know Banana Republic, J. Crew and Mango have very similar ones 😉
If in UK, House of Bruar has reasonably priced 2 ply cashmere in a huge range of colours :)
I need to stop being too nice. Do not let other people treat you like a doormat. This is obviously the extreme case of people-pleasing. I also have discovered that my reticence and shyness came never from me being a nice human being instead it originated from anxiety and conditioning.
Hi Denise! That’s such an insightful comment. I too from time to time, in order to be polite, find it difficult to set boundaries. It’s all about knowing how to command respect without being aggressive, which I’m still not great at, but is one of my main goals for this year. Let me know if you have any tips ☺️
I even HAVE to say “please” and “thank you” to Alexa …I can’t bear being rude 🙈
Me too!!!!!
Focus on your health 😊
The most important resolution!
Haha, Wagner operas are never ending. Every time a character dies it still continues to sing the longest arias
They never stop 😂
@@MarianaZelenjuk and they are so difficult to play! I’m a professional violinist and playing overtures it’s like „I’m done with this” and after that you still have to play entire opera. That’s why they are only produced in major cities. Such a difficult music to play, sing and listen 😂🤪😊
Thank you👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼