01/06/2025

Basic rules of etiquette

Základné pravidlá etikety

Decency, politeness and empathy are qualities that no gentleman should lack. Today we often hear (and sometimes, unfortunately, we see) that the rules of social behavior are not followed. That is why we decided to bring you the rules of etiquette, which shape interpersonal relationships, behavior in society and culture even today. It is said that the first rule of behavior for the court nobility was established by the gardener of the French King Louis XIV, known as the Sun King. He is said to have forbidden unruly couples from walking on the manicured lawns of Versailles by sticking signs with the prohibition in them. The Sun King was considered almost a god by people, and elaborate rules defined, for example, his bedtime. Thanks to the complex ceremonies at his court, rules of procedure also emerged and the tie became a part of the men's wardrobe . British and French diplomacy also contributed to the formation of etiquette. After the decline of the nobility, the number of people from lower classes, such as the gentry and various merchants, increased, who began to move in society and adopt some of the aristocratic ways of life. In the 18th century, the term “gentleman” was adopted for members of this class. The differences between the classes gradually blurred, and today almost everyone goes “into society” (to the theater, to a company party, to a restaurant, etc.). That is why the rules of etiquette have adapted to the present and are less formal. In this article, we will show you several situations in which the rules of etiquette should still be followed by a modern gentleman.


Who are we introducing to whom?

Even though we are all equal according to the constitution, in “society” some people are more socially significant – namely women, elders and superiors (this also includes clients, business partners, guests, public officials, etc.). We show them respect, open doors, seat them in places of honor… Of the socially significant people, women are the most important. Although they have an equal position with any man, this does not relieve us of the obligation to treat them gallantly.

If we want to have a good time, it is ideal if we know each other. So who do we introduce to whom? The man introduces himself to the woman first, and then the woman introduces herself to the man. In the case of the host, he first introduces the woman to the man, and then the woman to the man. The socially more important person (the woman) shakes hands first. We introduce ourselves standing, men with their jackets buttoned.

Who suggests poking?

Yelling is rooted in our society as a remnant of the Austro-Hungarian monarchy. In many countries it is considered a taboo (America, Scandinavia), while in some places it only comes after a very long time (Germany).

A tickling is suggested by a socially more important person and theoretically cannot be refused. The only exception is the suggestion of tickling in the workplace – there it is only up to the boss to decide, even if he is younger and male. Only the superior determines what kind of relationship he will have with his subordinates, and tickling is one of the tools that shape relationships in the workplace. Of course, in the case of equally ranked colleagues, it is again the socially more important woman and the older colleague who can suggest tickling.


How to walk up stairs?

When short skirts came into fashion, the gentleman walked up the stairs exclusively in front of the lady, and she had priority going down the stairs. Today, we are more guided by the rules of safety and comfort of the more socially significant person. So the woman walks up the stairs first, and the man follows as support behind her. The man goes down the stairs first, to help her in case she stumbles.

How to dress for a social event?

Attending any social event, whether it's a cinema, theatre, concert, banquet, or opening, requires specific dress codes. If you receive a dress code on your invitation, you should follow it. Failure to comply with the dress code is disrespectful to the host. If terms like smart casual, black tie, cocktail, and the like are still unfamiliar to you, click on our guide to any dress code in the world and you'll definitely not get lost. In the DressCode section of our journal, you'll also find videos with recommendations on what to wear to individual events. If you're going to a classical music concert or the theatre, check out the article that will help you attend any social event with ease. We've also prepared a guide on how to prepare for a ball for you.


Who enters the building first?

When entering a building or room, there are also small rules. A man gives priority to older, respected people, superiors and, of course, women. He opens the door and holds it so that a woman can enter comfortably. However, there are exceptions when a man enters first - in cases where the premises are unfamiliar or unusual for a woman, and in this way he symbolically protects her. These include, for example, restaurants, sports stadiums, lines at the cinema or theatre. Inside the building, a woman is always the first to pass through the door. And everywhere else, the same applies - those leaving the building or room have priority, and only then those entering can enter.

How to choose a suitable bouquet?

Flowers in various forms are a suitable gift for many occasions. Sometimes they are the main gift, sometimes they complement another gift, but we really can't go wrong with them. Do you know how often to buy your partner flowers? What should you choose flowers for a bouquet based on? Or what can you express with flowers? In collaboration with the world-renowned florist Róbert Bartolen, we have prepared a simple manual for you on how to please a woman with flowers, whether she is your partner, mother or colleague .

01/06/2025