Culture & Traditions

The times, they are most certainly a changin'. With the rise of the Internet and smartphones, etiquette -- both personal and professional -- isn't quite what it once was.

By Karen Kirkpatrick

Sure, a banana-shaped hat shows off your humorous side, but should you wear it on a first date? Or even make it a profile pic on your online dating profile? In the world of dating, etiquette questions abound!

By Karen Kirkpatrick

We tend to think of etiquette rules as stuffy Victorian-era holdovers. Plenty of guidelines, however, not only help society run smoothly - they keep its members healthy!

By Clint Pumphrey

We've all seen that guy. You know, the one screaming out song requests, heckling the band and shoving his way through the crowd. He's the worst! Luckily, he can get his act together by following the 10 commandments of concertgoing.

By Oisin Curran

We've all had a boss who didn't act very boss-like. While you're busy hustling, he's busy breaking every etiquette rule in the book. Wouldn't it be nice if your boss got some office savoir faire? Here's a start.

By Stefanie Kleber

Every Star Wars fan has favorite things they love about the galaxy far, far away. We conducted an informal poll at Star Wars Celebration Anaheim to find out what planets, tech and characters from the Star Wars universe are the most popular.

Etiquette experts agree: Kids should refer to grown-ups as Mr., Mrs. or the like. But shouldn't it matter what the grown-up thinks?

By Kate Kershner

Can't stomach the idea of turning up at a birthday bash empty-handed? If you've been asked to skip the present, kindly consider everyone's feelings.

By Kate Kershner

It depends on your standards - how do you feel about sidewalk spitting? But a few nations have earned high marks for ease of getting along.

By Kate Kershner

The queen's marriage got a revealing start - perhaps signaling worse to come. What caused the diamond-studded wardrobe malfunction on the dauphine's big day?

By Kate Kershner

It used to be considered tacky to wear white for your second wedding or to throw your own birthday party. While these things are now thankfully OK, other customs - like promptly RSVPing and not bragging about money - need to be revived.

By Alia Hoyt

Perhaps you've heard it's unlucky to light three cigarettes with one match. It might not seem unlucky - in fact, it seems downright practical. So why is it considered a bad omen?

By Debra Ronca

Unfortunately, other people's ballots are none of your business. And in some situations, asking about them is not only tacky - it's illegal.

By Kate Kershner

Many people believe that a handshake from a chimney sweep brings good luck, even though the history of the chimney sweep is actually quite dark (or sooty, if you will). How did the chimney sweep become a good luck charm?

By Debra Ronca

In an era of strict social rules, dance cards let gentlemen "claim" ladies for their turn on the floor. A full dance card was a sign of popularity.

By Kate Kershner

Have you ever watched a baseball no-hitter in progress and wondered why nobody would talk about it? Blame superstition, and this is a big one - it holds that talking about a no-hitter is bad luck.

By Debra Ronca

Tempted to try to avoid a big talk about your feelings? Breaking up with someone in public is inconsiderate - and could lead to a messier scene than you ever imagined. But is it rude?

By Kate Kershner

If you spill some salt while you're cooking, you might fear a wave of oncoming bad luck. Why is toppling over some salt an omen of misfortune?

By Debra Ronca

Giving flowers is a thoughtful and appreciated gesture in all cultures. But if you're looking to brighten someone's day, you might want to avoid giving an even number of flowers.

By Debra Ronca

Much like wishing upon a star, tugging on a wishbone or other wish-related rituals, a loose eyelash could be a direct route to your deepest desire -- if you believe, that is.

By Laurie L. Dove

Sláinte! Prost! Bottoms up! These are just a few of the toasts given worldwide with a glass of alcohol in hand. What brilliant mind came up with the tradition in the first place? And why?

By Laurie L. Dove

In many cultures, it's considered vital that your feet face away from the bedroom door as you sleep. And it's not because they're sweaty or stinky, or because you need to be prepared for a quick exit.

By Laurie L. Dove

A baby shower means an infant is soon to arrive -- and, usually, that the parents-to-be are ready to welcome gifts from friends and family. In Jewish culture, prepping for baby's arrival is done a little differently.

By Laurie L. Dove

In Beijing, it's not possible to get a vehicle license plate that has the number 4 on it. Some cultures take their numbers phobia very seriously. What's the deal with 4?

By Laurie L. Dove

Legend has it that mermaids bring bad luck to sailors, luring boats off course with their feminine wiles. So why is it considered good luck to have a mermaid figurehead on the prow of a ship?

By Debra Ronca