How To Have An Enjoyable Experience At A Formal Dinner by How To Have An Enjoyable Experience At A Formal DinnerAre you trying to keep from reliving another embarrassing moment in a social setting or simply trying to prevent one from ever happening? Here are some tips to help you when put in a fancy situation when you dont feel formal on the inside :) Look the part. Consider having your hair up, a less popular, but practical and pretty option. Although down-dos are more common, up-dos are simple, neat, and stylish. Up-dos will not only make your hair stand out amid combed out hairdos, but keep it clear of your face as you eat. Choose a suitable outfit. Dress codes can be difficult to navigate, so be sure you know what it is. For a restaurant, check their website. For a dinner party, look at the invitation. If you are still in the dark, ask your host or a friend who you know is going. Sit properly. Cross your legs at the heels or simply keep them closed, especially when wearing skirts and dresses. Some quick tips! Anything that is in your hands when you sit at the table, such as your gloves or little bag, should be put in your lap. To avoid the things in your lap from slipping off, put the napkin across your knees, folded diagonally from corner to corner, and tuck the two side corners under, pinning your things into place. Don't talk over somebody else; it can come across rude. Never apply makeup at the table. Once again, excuse yourself to the powder room. Be happy and smile all of the time without looking fake. Always show up on time. At dinner, there is no such thing as fashionably late. If you aren't there by five minutes past the time on the invitation, the food will begin to get cold and fellow guests hungry. Remember your table manners,don't talk when you still have food in your mouth. Never start eating until everyone is served. Don't sit silently at the table, ignoring your neighbours. You should participate in conversation. Manners are key! Keep the conversation flowing, but never interrupt anyone.When a dinner has been prepared by a chef who prides himself on being a decorative artist, you may have quite a problem to know which part of an intricate structure is to be eaten and which part is scenic effect. The main portion is generally clear enough. If there are six or more, the chances are that they are edible and that one or two of a kind are embellishments only. Rings around food are nearly always to be eaten, whereas platforms under food seldom are. Anything that looks like pastry is meant to be eaten. Again, take direction from the host.When walking in high heels the heel should hit the ground first, then the toe. It has been proven not to be necessary to pace yourself in formal footwear, but walking turtle slow will make you appear as if you're trying too hard to be impressive. It is impolite for more than one person to leave the table at a time, regardless of the number of people at the table. If at a fancy or formal restaurant, some will expect the inviter to pay the bill, not the invitee. However, in this day and age, it's not uncommon to split a bill.!!!!Do not use your cell phone at the table while you're eating. Turn your cell phone onto silent mode during the meal. If you must leave it on, excuse yourself if it rings to go outside or to a private area. Always keep the napkin or cloth on your lap when eating. When leaving, kindly excuse yourself from the table and place your napkin on the table. It is impolite to refuse dishes. Take at least a little on your plate and make a pretence of eating some of it, unless you are allergic to it or reasonably cannot. Follow the direction of the host/hostess. When getting out of a vehicle try your best to exit without showing your undergarments. If there is a male opening the door for you, remember to thank him for his kindness. Be courteous. Say "please" and "thank you". You may call elders or people with whom you are unfamiliar "sir" or "ma'am", although it is an uncommon courtesy that is definitely unnecessary when speaking to friends or peers.Hope you liked this list! As Monica from Friends has said "a little pretension never hurt anyone!" :)