ArcaMax

DEAR MISS MANNERS: What degree of formality is proper for a musician at an afternoon concert?

As a performer of a certain age, I have seen everything from tailored dresses to gowns glittering with beads and spangles -- and for men, anything from the most casual outfits to formal wear. Length of skirt no longer seems to matter, as the skimpiest ...Read more

DEAR MISS MANNERS: Elevators have been in existence, I believe, for more than 150 years, but there does not seem to be a system of accepted manners related to them.

It is true that we no longer dance around in the elevator so as to allow all the women to get out before the men. There is, however, pandemonium on first floors, when people wishing...Read more

DEAR MISS MANNERS: Nearly three decades ago, my husband committed a serious crime. He faced the consequences, served his sentence, and has since built a quiet, responsible life. He has taken full accountability and has worked hard to be a devoted husband and Christian.

Yet even after all these years, whenever his past comes up -- whether ...Read more

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I am still not inured to the rampant trend of women tattooing their hands, feet, arms, backs and even faces. I don't believe at all that I am old-fashioned, but defacing one's body will never be attractive.

What am I to say to a woman -- "What a pretty tattoo. It really enhances your dainty feet"?

GENTLE READER: And what ...Read more

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I regret to tell you that, in the modern parlance, "You're welcome" isn't polite. It is currently more polite to say "No problem" or "No worries," which imply that whatever was done, the doer was happy to do it.

On the other hand, "You're welcome" is passive-aggressive and means to communicate that the recipient better be ...Read more