READ: What Does Being Classic Even MEAN?
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What Does Being Classic Even MEAN?
When I first started my YouTube channel, I chose the name Classically Abby for a few reasons. I am a classically-trained opera singer. I like classic style. But the most important reason was this: I live a classic life.
But what does classic really mean? Is it just a fashion term used to describe women like Audrey Hepburn or Marilyn Monroe, or is it something more?
Well, being classic is much more than timeless silhouettes.
Today I want to share what being classic really means and how you can live a more classic lifestyle. I believe that being classic is not simply an aesthetic choice, but an opportunity to be our best selves. So let’s break it down.
Embracing femininity. Being a woman is a gift! I truly believe that. Men and women are entirely different, and embracing those differences is what makes relationships so special (and fun!). A classic woman knows this and embraces the things about her that make her different from the opposite sex. She puts on a bit of makeup to emphasize her best features; she makes sure her hair looks clean and styled; she wears clothing that shows off her curves; she mothers her children and encourages her husband to be strong. When women start to behave more like men rather than embracing femininity, we give up the incredible responsibilities of womanhood. Women have control over shaping societies and civilizations through our feminine guidance. We make men better; we raise families and determine how our children enter the world. A classic woman recognizes the power she wields and loves the femininity which informs it.
Prioritizing family, faith, and community. So often when I say this, people assume I mean women must stay in the home and never work. I will head this off at the pass by saying I do not believe that. My mother worked and my father stayed at home, so I am not opposed to women in the workplace. In fact, I often encourage it.
But being classic means knowing where your priorities lie, even if you have a career. You know that your family, faith, and community are most important, and you will never work to the detriment of those things. The feminist lie that career is the only thing that will give women meaning has deprived women of the true fulfillment that raising children, believing in God, and participating in community brings.
A woman can find meaning in her work, of course. But so often we put our own “happiness” over other people’s needs. Being a mother and a wife is about learning to put others before yourself in a way which brings you ultimate fulfillment. And being classic means finding the work/life balance that allows you to keep your priorities in line so you are able to find joy and purpose both at work and at home. (This is true for men, too.)
Being elegant and poised. A classic woman keeps herself clean and presentable; she keeps her home clean; she stands with good posture and a warm smile. These things are not only about appearances - taking care of yourself actually makes you feel better. Mental health and physical care are closely linked and a classic woman does her best to make sure that both are looked after. Rather than taking pride in messiness, glorifying unkemptness, and showing off our problems, being classic means being elegant and poised. For example, we recognize that a public space is shared, so we are cognizant not to impose on those around us. These things stand as an example to our children of how to present themselves with confidence, self-respect, and respect to others.
Always trying to better yourself. The “you do you” mentality is not part of the equation as a classic woman. The idea that you don’t need to change and that everyone should simply accept you as you are is not classic.
Instead, being classic is about constantly trying to improve yourself. A classic woman wants to be better, kinder, more intelligent, and more in control of her time. Being classic is a process, one that requires attention and care. Instead of allowing ourselves to stagnate, classic women say, “I know that with just a bit of effort, I can be better today than I was yesterday.”
If a classic woman knows that she will become stressed if she doesn’t schedule her day, and when she becomes stressed she lashes out, she tries her best to get everything done in a more timely manner, or she will ask for help to make things easier. If a classic woman would like to learn more on a topic before she opines on it, she reads a book. If a classic woman knows that exercise is important to her health, she’ll go for a run or do yoga at home.
The lovely thing about being classic is that it is for every woman at every stage of life. A high school student can already begin living in a classic way; a stay-at-home mother can be classic, as can a woman who has a career outside of the home; a grandmother can continue to be classic and pass on her skills.
And being classic is a lifestyle that is not just aesthetically pleasing. It’s one that every woman can benefit from and aspire to. The standard is a lovely ideal - a woman who is kind and thoughtful, calm and strong, feminine and lovely. By recognizing that it is an ideal to strive for every day, we truly take the first step on our own unique classic journey.
Quote of the Week:
“It isn't what we say or think that defines us, but what we do.” - Jane Austen
Classic Style Inspo
Sometimes a simple wrap dress can be the most flattering thing in your closet. This dress ties at the waist and defines my figure in a subtly attractive way. Finding a wrap dress that you love can make all the difference!
Things I’ve Been Loving: Star Choker
Jacob bought me a nicer version of this necklace last year and I just love it during summertime! It’s dainty and cute and goes with pretty much everything. I’m sharing a more affordable option that looks identical - the only thing to keep in mind is not to get it wet. If you don’t wear it in the pool or shower, this necklace should last through the heat!
Welcome to Classically Abby!
I'm your resident #ConservativeInfluencer, cultural commentator, opera singer, fashionista, makeup artist, and wife with a classic take on the modern world. Follow me on YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter to see how! And together, let's be classic.
*Disclosure: This email may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click on a link and purchase something. Thank you for your support!
I love this so much. Finding your channel and becoming a subscriber here has been like a fresh breath of air. It truly can feel like a island of one depending on the community and circumstance when you are striving to be classic,
lady like,conservative,graceful , have a foundation of faith and thriving from it all,only to have the world tell you that you are wrong or brainwashed. My grandmother and my great grandmother didn’t have great financial means but they were classic. They kept their values,worked hard,loved harder and trusted God with it all. We can pass those things on and carry on the classic and timeless lessons the women like that passed on to us.