Modern summer etiquette is shifting as traditional social boundaries relax, according to experts from The English Manner, Vogue, and various industry professionals. While warmer temperatures and vacation mindsets encourage casual behavior, etiquette trainers emphasize that professional standards, personal hygiene, and public consideration remain essential for maintaining social harmony. Navigating these norms requires balancing individual comfort with respect for shared public and professional spaces.
Professional Standards in High Temperatures
Workplace dress codes remain a point of tension as temperatures rise. Myka Meier, author of Modern Etiquette Made Easy, advises that shorts are generally inappropriate for business settings unless the company culture is explicitly casual. Similarly, Sara Jane Ho, host of Mind Your Manners, notes that bare shoulders can be seen as unprofessional in finance or law sectors, suggesting that employees remain mindful of total skin exposure even when working remotely.
Footwear also requires careful consideration. Laura Akano, founder of Polished Manners, states that sandals are unacceptable in most professional environments. If sandals are worn, they must be “smart,” and foot grooming is described as essential by Laura Akano. Zak Maoui, style director of Esquire, adds that if an employee chooses to wear open-toed shoes, their legs should remain covered to maintain a professional appearance.
Pro Tip: When joining virtual meetings, maintain the same level of professional intention as an in-person gathering. Mariah Humbert, an etiquette expert, warns against wearing swimwear or thin straps during video calls, regardless of your comfort at home.
Public Conduct and Shared Spaces
The transition from the beach to the city brings specific challenges regarding attire and noise. Jo Bryant of The English Manner asserts that towels and swimwear belong strictly at the beach or pool. Walking a short distance, say from your holiday apartment or campsite to the pool, is acceptable in a towel, but nowhere else in public. Similarly, Sara Jane Ho argues that flip-flops are “not very presentable” and best reserved for beachside locations, suggesting elegant alternatives for urban summer wear.
Public noise levels also dictate social standing. Bryant suggests that 9:00 PM is a reasonable cut-off for loud garden music, and lawn mowing should be delayed until at least 9:00 AM on weekends. Furthermore, the use of personal speakers in crowded parks or beaches is discouraged, as it often negatively impacts others in the vicinity.
Hygiene and Social Interactions
Hygiene remains a foundational element of summer etiquette. Mariah Humbert emphasizes that deodorant is “absolutely necessary” as a form of self-respect and consideration for others. If a peer has a noticeable odor, Elaine Swann, author of Elaine Swann’s Book of Modern Etiquette, suggests addressing it privately and kindly, ideally toward the end of the workday to minimize embarrassment.
Physical contact during heatwaves can also be adjusted. Swann notes that it is perfectly acceptable to decline a sweaty handshake or hug. Offering a high-five or using lighthearted humor to bypass physical contact is an effective way to keep others at ease without causing offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it acceptable to wear a hat indoors?
Grant Harrold, a former butler to King Charles, maintains that men should always remove hats indoors as a sign of respect. However, Zak Maoui views this as outdated, arguing that a cap can make formal attire feel more inviting.
Can I ask a stranger to apply sunscreen to my back?
Myka Meier advises against this, noting that applying lotion is an intimate act that should generally be reserved for people with whom you have an established relationship.
Is it rude to complain about the heat?
Grant Harrold suggests that complaining about the heat is generally considered boring, as it contradicts the typical year-round complaints about cold and wet weather.
Should I tell a stranger to move their dog out of the heat?
Harrold advises against accosting strangers, as their circumstances are unknown. However, if a dog appears to be suffering from serious overheating symptoms, such as appearing to be in a collapsed state, reporting the situation to the NSPCA is encouraged. If a dog has been left in a car, assess the dog’s condition and if they’re showing any signs of heatstroke, call 999.
How do you handle summer social dilemmas? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more guides on modern etiquette.
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