Style File: Hello, Dolly!

I’ve had Hello, Dolly! on the brain ever since Barbra’s birthday a couple of weeks ago. The thing is, once Barbra gets stuck in my head, she is going to live there for quite sometime. For those that know me, it will come as no surprise that Dolly Levi is a personal hero of mine. And, to be honest, I think there are quite a few lessons about being a strong, independent belle that the matchmaker from New York can teach us. So here goes…

Dolly-Levi-hello-dolly-1969

 

Know what you’re good at, and work with it.

Dolly Levi: Arranger of furniture & daffodils.

Dolly Levi: Social introductions arranged in an atmosphere of elegance & refinement.

Dolly Levi: Twenty-eight and three-quarter year old store clerks taught to dance.

Dolly Levi: Expert mandolin instructions arranged. 

 

Style File: Hello, Dolly! 1969

 

When in doubt, put on your Sunday clothes.

 

Style File: Hello, Dolly! 1969

 

Always make an entrance.

 

Style File: Hello, Dolly! 1969

 

Know how to find your light.

 

Style File: Hello, Dolly! 1969

 

Don’t be afraid to get what you want.

Forget reading “Lean In,” Dolly Levi can teach you everything you need to know. Expect only the best–in food, in dress, & in men.

 

Style File: Hello, Dolly! 1969

 

Alone Time is OK

If your man decides he wants to go out & play with his friends, choose to find it adorable…

 

Style File: Hello, Dolly! 1969

 

And if, while he’s gone, you see a parade…

Then, jump right in the middle. (Dolly did it long before Ferris Bueller.) Remember, when one makes a habit of walking down crowded streets, one is never without a back-up ensemble.

Style File: Hello, Dolly! 1969

 

Finally, exercise your flair for the dramatic.

Sometimes it’s good to remind your man what he’d be missing if you weren’t by his side singing Barbra ballads every night.