Sunday, June 3, 2012

How Southern Belles Get What They Want ... And You Can, Too!


How Southern Belles Get What They Want ... And You Can, Too!


When you think of Southern belles, colorful characters like Scarlett O'Hara likely come to mind immediately! But a true Southern belle doesn't pout, use bad language, or throw hissy fits. She aims to be a lady--always--and is recognized as such by everyone.

Because of their lovely manners and gentle ways, Southern belles are often able to get what they want from life ... and this, of course, includes those attractive Southern gentlemen!!! Keep in mind that being a Southern belle  does require some thought, practice, and preparation.

If you'd like to learn more about Southern belles, pick up a copy of Dancing Naked in Dixie ... and read on for more "insider" details:

1. CHARM - A true Southern belle has a charm that radiates whenever she enters the room. Her genuine smile and sweet southern drawl will turn anyone's head.

2. GENEROSITY - A true Southern belle volunteers for organizations without a second thought. She is active in her community and also through her children's schools. She takes on projects that no one else will consider. This is her second nature.

3. MANNNERS - A true Southern belle knows to put her napkin in her lap and to say "ma'am" and "sir". She says "excuse me" when she accidentally bumps into someone and "thank you" for gifts and compliments.

4. DRESS - A true southern belle knows how to dress appropriately. She knows not to wear revealing clothing in public and knows how to dress seductively in private.   (This is a photo of Mobile, Alabama's Azalea Trail Maids on the steps of my house during our annual street party in May. Aren't they precious??)



5. ENTERTAINING - A true Southern belle always has a pitcher of iced tea prepared for her family as well as unexpected guests. She can cook fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and biscuits. She has her mother's peach cobbler recipe tucked away in a safe place.

6. EDUCATED - A true southern belle knows the importance of education. She will finish high school, even if it is public education, and pursue further education at a public or private college or university. She will use the knowledge she has acquired in a career that brings personal satisfaction as well as honor to her family.

7. FRIENDS - A true Southern belle showers friends with kindness and affection and expects nothing in return. She will do everything she can to ensure their happiness and well being. She leans on them for support and expects them to do the same with her.

8. FAMILY - A true Southern belle cares about family traditions. It is important to have her mother's china or her grandmother's wedding band to hand down to her own family.

9. INDEPENDENT - A Southern belle is the kind of girl who knows full well that she can open a door for herself or even pull out her chair but prefers for a gentleman to do it because it demonstrates a sense of respect with a little bit of royalty thrown in.

10. FLIRTATIOUS - Southern belles appreciate the subtle hint of flirting. She may use her wiles to get what she wants, but always in a transparent, good-willed, innocent way.


What do you think? Any tips or tricks you'd like to add?    xx, Lauren




Smart, Sassy Fiction with a Southern Twist

4 comments:

Catherine Lee said...

Hi Lauren! These are all the best qualities of a true Southern belle. I'd also add--don't cross one. They remember EVERYTHING! LOL. I love the show Hart of Dixie. When I read your list, I think of Lemon (one of the starring Blue Belles).

catherinelee100 at gmail dot com

romancefan said...

I love these descriptions of a true Southern belle!!!

Anonymous said...

Catherine! You are so right! LOVE HART OF DIXIE!!!

xx, Lauren

Anonymous said...

Thank you Romance Fan :)