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- What Does Elegance Mean?
What does Elegance mean to you? Some say it’s how you sit and what you wear. Others argue it’s more.
As a dedicated researcher with a profound interest in words and their historical context, I invite you to delve into the fascinating history of the word 'elegance.'
The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) is widely acknowledged as the most complete historical record of the English language ever assembled. It traces the earliest use of the word 'elegance' back to the early 1500s, shedding light on its rich history as a word borrowed from French. Here is how the OED defines the word Elegance:
Elegance:
with reference to appearance, movement, etc.: grace or simple beauty, combined with good taste; freedom from awkwardness, coarseness, or clumsiness…
with reference to social conduct: refined propriety, pleasing decorousness, graciousness.
Put simply:
Elegance: the quality of being graceful and stylish in appearance or manner; style.
After 28 years of observation, research and study, I have two key observations I would like to bring to your attention.
Elegance is more than just doing. Elegance is about being.
There is an extrinsic aspect of Elegance, and there is an intrinsic. More people focus on the extrinsic and how to do-do-do. Eventually, they become overwhelmed with the “rules” and give up. In reality, those who are truly elegant—are elegant. They are informed yet not bound by rules. They simply are, or, they are becoming from the inside out.
Allow me now to leave you with my definition of Elegance. This is what I believe Elegance means:
Elegance is first a mindset, then a commitment to grace, loveliness, beauty, simplicity, propriety and tastefulness in a way that is meaningful to you and those around you.
Here at the School of Elegance, the guidance I provide you leans first toward the intrinsic over the extrinsic. Why? Life may happen, and challenges may come. In the end, you’ll be equipped from the inside to navigate life with a meaningful definition of elegance you can consistently embrace. Until the next post, embrace Elegance.
Warmly,
Lady VJ, Founder & Publisher, SchoolofElegance.com
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