5 things we love about Mary Poppins
With her glass-half-full outlook, problem-solving nous and strong moral compass, MARY POPPINS is just the hero we need right now. By GEORGIA SIMMONDS
She makes her own rules
Mary Poppins doesn’t let convention or the knowledge of what other people think rattle her. She travels by umbrella, jumps into chalk drawings and takes her little charges onto rooftops to dance with chimney sweeps. In the original 1964 film starring Julie Andrews, Poppins’ snappy retort to Mr Banks – “Let me make one thing quite clear: I never explain anything” – is a feminist pronouncement that reveals her rebel spirit.
Her style is impeccable
It turns out taking style cues from an Edwardian nanny is a very this season. In fact, YOOX has released an entire Mary Poppins Returns-inspired capsule collection. Her lace-up boots, carpetbag of wonders and immaculate tailoring are all there for the taking.
She’s an advocate for mindfulness
Before mindfulness became a buzzword, there was Mary Poppins; living in the moment and encouraging others to check their emotions and find joy in every situation. Her catchy mantra, “In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun”, is genius. Pile of admin to tackle? Ask yourself: What would Mary Poppins do? Answer: Put on her most motivating playlist, probably.
She’s firm but fair
Want to own every room you walk into? Be more Poppins. She watches and listens attentively, empathizes (and fosters this sensibility by example), inspires others with her positive mentality and gives clear direction as required. She is the perfect nanny, sure, but you also know she’s got the attitude to boss any situation she finds herself in.
She’s infinitely quotable
“A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down” remains a widely applicable philosophy on the power of sugar-coating anything unpleasant. See also: “Why do you always complicate things that are really quite simple?” and “Never judge things by their appearance, even carpetbags”. Mary Poppins is the life-coach we all need.
Mary Poppins Returns is out Dec 19 (US); Dec 21 (UK)
Be more Mary Poppins by adding YOOX’s special collaboration collection to your wardrobe – shop it here.
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