I’m an elegance expert — here’s what a ‘classy’ lady should never do

 If being ladylike is an art, this “elegance expert” has the paint-by-numbers kit.

London-based Anna Bey has revealed the biggest mistakes women make that keep them from appearing “classy” in public, decoding what it is that sophisticated people do that sets them apart from the crowd — and it’s all in the details, she told her 1.34 million subscribers on YouTube.

Bey’s video, titled “10 Things Elegant People NEVER Do,” has drawn more than 240,000 viewers since Monday — many eager to hear more of her “refreshingly honest” takes on contemporary refinement at the dinner table and beyond.

“Mistakes can cost you opportunities and sabotage your future,” Bey added in the comments of her videos — and vowed to share “all the mistakes” she has made to help others avoid them.

The self-styled class act also offers a “private and by-invitation-only video” at no cost for those her register on her website, LevelUpSecret.com.

Or, read on for the quick and dirty version below.

Top 10 ‘Don’ts’ of Being Elegant

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Don’t be rude

According to Bey, an elegant person would never want to make anyone around them feel uncomfortable.

The expert critiqued Jennifer Lawrence’s appearance at the 2018 BAFTAs as an example. The “Hunger Games” actress was introduced as the “hottest actress on the planet,” to which she responded, “That was a bit much.”

Bey called the response “passive aggressive.” “Even if you feel like someone was inappropriate with you, there is no need for passive-aggressiveness because elegant people are never rude or snarky,” she said.

Don’t touch your empty plate

Dinnertime is one of the most consequential settings for the elegant set. While you may have your tiny forks and napkin in order, one little-known pitfall at the table comes at the end of the meal.

“When they have finished with their meal, they do not push the plate away from them,” said Bey. Instead, ask the host or hostess if they need help cleaning the table — but don’t insist.

“Be aware — if she says ‘no,’ it’s a no,” Bey warned. “You don’t need to intrude and force yourself into the kitchen.”

Don’t bring your coat to the table

Your host or hostess will thank you for not cluttering the mise en scène they worked so hard create at their dining table — so be sure to leave your jacket, or any added belongings, in the designated coat room.

Bey used Vogue’s Editor-in-Chief Anna Wintour as a real-life example. At London fashion week in 2018, sunglasses-sporting Wintour sat on top of her coat, while it dangled on the chair, next to Queen Elizabeth.

“Come on, Anna. You can do better,” she commented.

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Don’t leave the table mid-meal

If you need to use the restroom during the meal, hold it until the end — including dessert.

“In a perfect world, wait until after the meal is over,” Bey suggested, although she also acknowledged that emergencies can happen and should, of course, be heeded.

Bey also said elegant people don’t announce where they’re going when they leave the table — they simple say, “Excuse me.” She specifically instructed not to say, “I’m going to the toilet,” as it sounds vulgar and not classy.

Don’t speak loudly in public places

Bey said speaking loudly in public, especially while on the phone, is a personal pet peeve of hers — and even worse when it happens on public transportation.

She also cautioned against taking private calls loudly on speakerphone while in your car — a mistake she has made while talking to her therapist from behind the wheel. “You think that you’re sitting there protected in that bubble … I didn’t realize that people could actually hear me outside my car,” she recalled. “It was so awkward.”

Don’t gawk at others

While admitting her previous faux pas, Bey also called out those who stopped to stare through her car window during her private conversation.

And certainly don’t gawk with your mouth agape. “You can’t look more ridiculous than that,” she said.

When you simply can’t look away from an extraordinary situation, Bey suggested a discreet glance instead, with a tight lip.

Don’t chew gum in public

Just like grandma said — chewing gum in public is one thing “elegant people are never seen doing,” Bey declared.

She pointed out the time David Beckham was photographed chewing gum while walking to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding in 2018.

“What an elegance disaster, Mr. Beckham,” she quipped.

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Don’t get too comfortable

Resist the urge to put your feet up. People should never see the soles of your shoes while sitting down, according to Bey.

Her advice is usually tailored to women, but this one applies especially to men, particularly when they sit with their legs wide and crossed.

Don’t make excuses

When RSVP-ing “no” to an event, an elegant person would never tell the hostess why they can’t attend — because it sounds like a bunch of excuses, Bey explained.

Rather, she said, “Elegant behavior is, of course, responding to an invitation in a good time and manner.” That’s it. There is no need for a lengthy explanation.

Another tip she gave to show proper etiquette is to send a gift or flowers in your absence as a nice gesture.

Don’t carry a large bag

An elegant women arrives prepared for the night as is, so there’s no need to bring your catch-all tote with you.

Especially at night, women should always stick to something small, like a clutch or evening bag — at most, a medium-sized purse. But never a big bag or tote. That’s “for daytime or when you go to work.”