The cloth handkerchief may not be a common sight here in Dallas, but it should be, since the handkerchief has a rich history and lasting significance in modern social etiquette. By examining the handkerchief’s symbolic significance and practical uses, my blog post highlights how etiquette classes for adults in Dallas are revitalizing traditional social graces, emphasizing their relevance in today’s sophisticated social settings.
The Why and History of the Handkerchief
Did you know that the word “handkerchief” has French origins? Essentially, handkerchief is derived from “hand” plus the French words “couvrir”, which means to cover, and “chef”, which means head.1 The handkerchief came from China during the Chou Dynasty (circa 1000 BC) and was used to shield a person’s face from the hot sun.
As time passed, fashion and personal preferences changed. During the 1980s, men stopped carrying handkerchiefs. Then, during COVID, it was believed that the handkerchief carried germs.
Now, the handkerchief has had a comeback, especially in the professional world. While a paper tissue is essential, a clean handkerchief in a gentleman’s pocket makes a great impression at business meetings. In fact, if you visit the United Kingdom, Africa or the Middle East, you will find that all men have a handkerchief. They may use it to remove sweat from their brow, but they will always have a handkerchief.
The purpose of a clean handkerchief is as follows:
- It shows you are prepared when you sneeze in a business meeting, social event or church service.
- It looks nice and helps reduce the amount of paper, water and energy we waste as a society each year.
- It is proper to use a handkerchief in the presence of others if you say “excuse me” prior to wiping your nose. In contrast, proper etiquette requires that you excuse yourself from the table if you use a paper tissue.
- It doesn’t cost a lot of money. You can keep a set of nice handkerchiefs on hand that you can have monogrammed at Mark and Graham. Amazon also has packs of 16 for $12.99.
- It is a sign of power to wear a handkerchief in your pocket.
- It indicates that you a a prepared person when you keep a pocket handkerchief on hand.
- It can come in handy at a wedding, funeral or church gathering.
- It can be used for someone in need who might not have a tissue.
In summary, a gentleman should always carry a handkerchief, demonstrating respect and hygiene — values unchanged over time. Etiquette classes emphasize these timeless practices for navigating modern social interactions with sophistication.
Looking for an Expert in Dallas for Etiquette Classes for Adults?
Lisa Burdette offers in-person training and coaching to businesses, organizations, children, teens and adults. Lisa’s group and private etiquette classes for adults have inspired confidence in her students to succeed wherever they work.
Ready to boost your career with training in etiquette and social graces? Click to Book Online or send a message via our Contact page to request your session with our etiquette expert today! Lisa offers training in all of the topics listed above as well as many other manners classes…just ask for details if you need a customized private etiquette session.
Sources: (1) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Handkerchief
