Dandyism (as a cultural movement)

Dandyism was a 19th-century cultural movement emphasizing refined personal style, elegance, and manners among men. Dandies sought to distinguish themselves through sophisticated clothing, grooming, and behavior, valuing aesthetic appearance and individual expression. Originating in Britain and France, it challenged traditional notions of masculinity by blending fashion with a sense of artistic flair and wit. Dandyism was as much about attitude and self-confidence as it was about appearance, reflecting a desire for social distinction and personal refinement during a period of rapid social change.