It will be no surprise to those who know me that I am quite seriously obsessed with Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries, the fabulous 1920s murder mystery show currently blessing us with its presence on Netflix. Based on the novels by Kerry Greenwood, the series follows Phryne, an aristocrat with a colourful past, as she establishes herself as a 'lady detective' in Melbourne, Australia. Way ahead of her time, Miss Fisher is often found dancing til dawn, driving too fast, wearing trousers, and even piloting a plane every now and then - and there's nothing she loves more than a good mystery to solve. In short, if you haven't seen it yet, what exactly are you doing with your life?
The show is known for its sumptuous costumes and the simmering UST between Phryne and Detective Inspector Robinson, but as I've watched it (and rewatched it...and rewatched it...) I've come to admire it for many other reasons. For a period drama it doesn't shy away from tough topics, from LGBT+ issues to communism, not least of all displaying some serious woman power. And with her trailblazing, independent, carpe diem approach to life, I firmly believe that Miss Fisher is a role model everybody needs in their life.
So without further ado, buckle up for some of the lessons we can learn from everyone's favourite lady detective...
1. If you aren't sure whether you're daring enough to wear a fabulous hat, just do it. Your outfit will thank you.
2. It's impossible to be sad when listening to 1920s jazz. It's so damned cheery! One world war over and the other (and the financial crash) not yet dreamt of, people were determined to have a good time. And oh, that crackle! I love it. This is one of my favourites.
3. Any man who gets upset when you 'step in front' - perhaps, earning more than he does or beating him at video games - isn't worth his salt. Just ask Jack Robinson.
4. Having hobbies that other people find odd makes you unique and trailblazing, not weird. Whether that's flying planes, burlesque dancing, or you know, Dungeons and Dragons.
5. Literally everyone deserves your respect, no matter their race, sexuality, gender expression, or social background. Except for slave traffickers and corrupt policemen.
6. Short hair can be every bit as sensual and feminine as long flowing locks.
7. Talented women who support each other are pretty much an unstoppable force. Every Phryne needs a Mac in her life.
8. Found family is just as important as biological family, sometimes more. Your 'household' is yours to choose, just like Miss Fisher's (I just wish I could choose Mr Butler and his famous cocktail-making skills).
9. Your sexual life is nobody's business but your own, and whether you're a wait-til-the-wedding girl like Dot or more adventurous like Phryne, that's AWESOME. You do you. Just make sure you've got your family planning sorted like Miss Fisher!
10. You should dress in clothes that make you feel comfortable and happy. The way clothes feel on your body matters as much as how they look. Also, wide leg trousers > jeans.
11. It's totally possible to be a badass without sacrificing your femininity or personality. Miss Fisher is proof that 'strong women' on TV don't have to wear masculine clothes, or roll their eyes at traditional women's interests - where would she be without Dot's mad household skills? As Phryne says, 'I'm a great believer in the power of the feminine to wield influence in the civilised world.'
12. Optimism, self-confidence, and a cheery hello will get you a long way if you're trying to succeed in a new career (though I don't recommend trying to barge onto actual crime scenes unless you're a legit detective).
13. Shakespeare is sexy. I mean, I knew that one already, but if you've ever thought the Bard was boring you clearly haven't heard any romantic snippets read in the gravelly-yet-smooth tones of a certain Detective Inspector *swoons*
14. Red lipstick is ALWAYS a good idea.
15. There are so many more paint colours out there besides magnolia. You may think a turquoise and gold living room or seductive mauve boudoir too much, but Phryne makes it work. I've been dreaming of painting our living room teal for weeks, but in the short term I've made do with some Wardlow-inspired jewel tone cushions which feel very glamorous.
16. It's important to share what you have with others who have less, whether that's opening your kitchen to hungry friends, or gifting your favourite communist handymen with a new taxi cab. Noblesse oblige...
17. It's okay not to be okay. Putting on a sad song and having a big cry is absolutely allowed, and it's healthier than trying to bottle things up Victorian-style like Aunt Prudence. (Who is wonderful because Miriam Margolyes is always wonderful).
18. Rules are overrated. Whether it's getting suspended for slugging a horrible bully, or circumventing the commissioner's orders about not working with civilians, sometimes you have to follow your own compass rather than the rule of law.
19. Wearing a beret makes you instantly ten times cooler and stealthier. Fact.
20. You are your own saviour. Most of the time, when Jack comes rushing to Phryne's rescue, she has already got herself out of the scrape somehow. It's always nice to have friends as backup, but Phryne Fisher definitely doesn't need a hero other than herself.
21. Gratitude is important. We may not all have wealth or privilege, but the important thing about Miss Fisher is that she lived in poverty before inheriting her title, so she understands how precious every moment (and every penny) is. The main thing I've learned from Phryne is that happiness lies in appreciating the heck out of everything and everyone good in your life, no matter what it might throw at you.
I hope you are now feeling inspired to learn judo, invest in a new hat, or make yourself a cocktail...or perhaps simply (re)watch this fabulous show!
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