A Facebook reader (you are following Etiquetteer’s Facebook page, aren’t you?) has asked for advice on “etiquette for very hot weather.” We have certainly had our share this year, haven’t we? Etiquetteer offered a few tips for Perfect Propriety in the summer back in Volume 15. Here are a few more.
First, for heaven’s sake, slow down. Give yourself extra time to get where you’re going and do what you’re doing. Haste makes heat. Moderate your walking pace. And if you can, stay indoors during the hottest part of the day (typically the afternoon). The Spanish custom of siesta truly bears copying, and it’s surprisingly easy to keep going until midnight if you adopt it.
Perhaps the most underrated accessory is the plain white linen handkerchief, especially in summertime. This useful bit of fabric will help you mop your sweating brow and neck more effectively than just your hand, and certainly looks better than using your sleeve or (good heavens!) your shirttail. A severely plain hankie is best, perhaps with one’s monogram embroidered, or another favorite motif.
It’s also high time for the fan to make a comeback to the American summertime wardrobe. A wide folding fan is such a Spanish stereotype, along with the mantilla. But Spanish ladies (and a few gentlemen) actually do wield them for everyday use, and quite elegantly and effectively, too. Obviously they serve two purposes, to create a cooling breeze and to shield one from the sun. American men will find the palm leaf fan suits them better. Useful and elegant.
Hygiene takes on added importance at times of increased perspiration. Besides regular use of deodorants, scent, and soap and water, some may wish to combat moisture with body powder. This used to be generically referred to as “talcum powder,” but there was such a kerfuffle a year or so ago about talcum causing cancer . . . read here for what the American Cancer Society has to say about it, and then choose something that works for you.
Hydration is even more important during the hottest times of day, and there’s Nothing Improper about carrying about your thermos or water bottle. Reservoir backpacks, like the Camelbak, have their place for athletics and fitness, and quite possibly for stadium events, but aren’t Perfectly Proper for town wear.
Finally, your baseball cap will serve you better if you wear the brim in front as intended and not backwards. Want coverage for both your face and neck? Ditch the cap and wear a full-brimmed hat like a panama.
Etiquetteer wishes you cool breezes, cool drinks, and cool companions.