Manners; sometimes, it seems the basic rules of etiquette rules for men are often ignored. Below are five basic rules every man – especially a southern gentleman – should know and use—hats off to Southern Guide to Life for this list.

In generations past, etiquette was a complex and intricate code of behavior that held society together.  Today, as our culture becomes ever more public and our emphasis shifts to our “virtual” interaction, basic manners have begun to vanish.

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But no matter how technological our society becomes, some manners should never disappear.

5. Opening Doors

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In the age of feminism, opening a door has become a controversial act.  Some women have confused good manners with chauvinism and passed along this misconception to their menfolk.  Rest assured that a gentleman opening a door for a lady is never out of fashion, especially in the South.  Whether it be the office door for a stranger or a car door for your wife, it is considered good manners to open the door and allow her to go first. While we are on the subject of gentlemanly manners, guys should walk on the side nearest the street to protect ladies from wayward vehicles and splashing water. We as women do not surrender anything in the way of feminism by allowing gentlemen to be gentlemen.

4. Thank You Notes

If someone takes the time to send you a gift, the least you can do is show your gratitude with a thank you note.  To do otherwise is just considered bad manners.  Send the note within a week of receiving the gift.  It does not have to be lengthy. A few lines will do.  Mention what the gift was and add a touch of the personal. Example: “Thank you so much for the lovely gravy boat. It was so kind of you to think of us. We can’t wait to use it at Thanksgiving.”

3. Asking for Gifts

The “Bridal Registry” was first implemented by Marshall Fields in 1924. Since then, it has ballooned into a lucrative and seemingly acceptable enterprise. However, there is no difference between inviting your friends and family to your “gift registry” and simply asking people for gifts. It is terrible manners no matter what term you use or how you dress it up. Let your friends decide if they wish to purchase a gift. But, if you are going to participate, by all means, do not include anything over $100 on your registry.

2. When to Leave a Party

Unless there is an emergency, guests should always remain until the final course is served, usually dessert and coffee. After dinner conversation may last from 20 minutes to an hour. If you do need to leave early, inform your host privately and as early as possible. If the party has a guest of honor, you should stay until their departure and begin your preparations to depart. To leave before the guest of honor is considered extremely rude. If there is no guest of honor, your host will cue your departure by clearing the table or inquiring politely about each guest’s transportation home. Before leaving, thank your host for a lovely evening and follow up the following day with a phone call or a thank you note.

A southern gentleman always knows how to treat a lady.

1. Public Manners

In our increasingly technological age, we have lost the distinction between public and private. The grocery store, the mall, and the city street is not your private living room. Everything you say can and is overheard by others. This is not the time to discuss your marital problems or the results of your last OBGYN appointment. Whether you are on a cell phone or talking with friends of coffee, speak and act with discretion. If you must discuss something privately, do not use the actual names of the people involved. You never know who is sitting at the next table.