Elegant but not too feminine!
I do a lot of masculine layouts, and these flourishes are perfect for them. They are classy, but not "girly." That's what I love about a lot of the Tim Holtz products.
As for Sizzix dies, I enjoy using them because they cut cleanly -- a perfect cut every time. (And you never have to use a "spatula" to get the tiny part off the sticky mat!) Long live Sizzix!