Dear Margar-etiquette,
Should men take off their hats when they are inside? How about in virtual meetings?
Old-Schooler
Dear Old-Schooler,
Thank you for this great question! Hat etiquette is one of those traditions that has made slight changes over time but still carries some foundational principles of respect and courtesy. While hats are less common today in the United States, beyond baseball caps, the rules for donning and doffing them remain a useful guide in social and cultural settings.
Traditional Hat Etiquette:
- Remove hats during the National Anthem.
- Take off hats when entering private spaces (homes, businesses, churches, theaters, restaurants).
- Remove hats as a sign of respect, such as when greeting someone or expressing thanks.
- Never place hats on dining tables; use a hat rack or coat check when available.
Modern Hat Etiquette:
- Hats may stay on in public spaces like outdoor areas, lobbies, bars, stores, or public transportation.
- Hats should be removed in private spaces, including:
- Dining areas at restaurants
- Private homes
- Cubicles, private offices, or virtual meetings
- Elevators or cars (when space permits)
- During the National Anthem
- When removed, hats can be stored on your lap, in an empty chair, or under your chair—never on a dining table.
- Tipping your hat as a gesture of greeting or thanks is still considered courteous.
Virtual Meetings:
Virtual settings should be treated as an in-person office or private meeting—removing a hat is generally respectful unless it’s worn for religious, medical, or cultural reasons.
Religious Spaces:
- In many Christian churches, it is customary for men to remove their hats as a sign of respect, while women traditionally keep their hats on, especially if they are wearing formal or decorative hats.
- In other religious spaces, such as synagogues or mosques, the expectations differ
- When visiting a religious space outside your own tradition, it’s always courteous to follow the practices of that community or ask for guidance if you’re unsure
For Women:
Traditionally, women are not expected to remove their hats in most situations. However, it’s always appropriate to adapt based on the principles of respect and the specific context.
Ultimately, these etiquette guidelines aim to promote inclusion and understanding of cultural norms, not exclusivity. Hats may seem like a small deal, but following these practices helps foster courtesy and respect in our interactions.
Warm regards,
Margar-etiquette