On the Margins of Etiquette

We have offered you, madam, in the past some of the laws of etiquette — or "the manners of society" — currently followed in the advanced countries. These talks met a welcome echo among readers, which has moved us to give more of this kind.

Below we have six questions and answers turning on the principles of your dress and the manner of your conduct.

Q — If you are tall of stature, which tailleur do you choose — is it well for you, for example, to pick a fabric with vertical stripes?

A: If you are tall, avoid as far as possible wearing the tailleur with vertical stripes, or the tailleur in a single color; these two tend to add to your height, whereas the tailleur of contrasting colors — that is, one whose skirt differs in color from its jacket — reduces height, so wear it often. By the same token, it behooves short women, or those of medium height, to shun it, and to wear always the tailleur with vertical stripes or the tailleur made in a single color.

Q — If you are short of stature, which kind of belt do you choose — the wide or the narrow?

A: The wide belt cuts your height into two halves; so if you are short of stature, always try to pick narrow belts instead of wide ones. Avoid these wide belts too if you are stout, especially around the waist, for wearing them only worsens the distortion of your appearance.

Q — If you are one of those with red or blonde hair, which colors do you wear — orange-pink or red?

A: You have perhaps heard that pink suits you, but it makes you look somewhat showy and glaring. The color to be preferred for you, therefore, and which you would do well to wear, is that very pale shade of pink, with silvery or golden shimmerings or accessories.

Q — When you sit down, so as to appear in a manner that befits you, do you sit without a care, or seek your comfort before all else, or sit with caution and good manners?

A: I advise you, madam, to sit with grace and propriety, letting the weight of your body fall upon your feet in front of the seat — that is, letting your lower legs rest upon the floor; for it is the beauty of your figure that you are guarding in the way you sit. And modesty must be observed, especially if you are in the presence of those older than yourself.

Q — When you step down from a car, a tram, or a bus, must you go before your companion or after him?

A: When you are about to leave a car, tram, or bus, you should step down after your companion if he is a man, so that it may be possible for him to help you down without stumbling. Wait a moment for him to offer his hand; you will thus be safe from any danger that might befall you as you alight.

Q — How do you make your way to the dance floor? Do you go ahead of your companion, or let him lead you, or do the two of you walk side by side?

A: When you rise to dance, do not wait for your companion to lead you; walk before him gracefully and unhurriedly, taking care not to stumble against the tables and chairs. And know finally, madam, that the greater part of your success in your social life hangs upon how far you know these simple laws and how far you apply them in a natural, unaffected way. For it is not enough to know how to behave; you must practice this knowledge, and your practice of it must be natural, without any strain.