Highlights from GQ's 125 Rules for the Modern Gentleman

1/ Personal etiquette matters:

• Take out your AirPods when talking to someone.

• Don't play videos/music through your phone's speakers.

• Ask before vaping indoors. If it's not appropriate to smoke/vape, then it isn't appropriate to put in a Zyn.

• Send thoughtful, handwritten thank-you notes. Have a set of your own stationery and a nice pen to write with.

2/ Dating in 2025:

• Be clear when asking someone out.

• Always pay on the first date—without expectations.

• Don't pick the same spot for every first date. But have 3-4 that you're familiar with.

• If your date isn't drinking, neither should you.

• Communicate, confirm consent, and maintain a respectful tone.

3/ At the gym:

• Don’t use your phone or film others in the locker room.

• Don't be the guy who films their entire workout.

• Wipe down machines and re-rack weights.

• Approach gym crushes with respect—once.

4/ In the office:

• Set boundaries and show respect for privacy.

• Dress up (even remotely) to signal “work mode.”

• Never comment on someone’s appearance or why they are taking time off.

5/ Dining & restaurants:

• Carry some cash for tips.

• Stand to greet friends, kiss on the left cheek. (I used to always fumble this)

• Don’t order for your date, but you can offer for the table.

• Pick a restaurant close by and get to know the bartender.

• Learn how to taste wine. Just don't swoosh too much.

6/ Digital manners:

• Don’t say, “I’ve already seen this” when sent a meme.

• Pick up the phone for friends.

• Assume all emails are forwardable, compose accordingly.

• Cut your screentime in half.

• Unless for work, keep your Instagram private.

7/ Social events:

• Mix up your dinner party seating—curate, don’t isolate.

• Bring something when invited. Find a signature gift you can give to almost anyone for almost any occasion. Mid-shelf Olive Oil over wine every time.

• Never ask why someone isn’t drinking.

• Know how to mix a few drinks for house guests. Add your own custom flair. (Old Fashions with homemade simple syrup and charred orange peel).

8/ Planes, trains & automobiles:

• Offer your seat when needed.

• Help get luggage into the overhead bins.

• Don’t bring hot food onto airplanes. Definitely avoid bringing food with an odor (such as tuna salad!).

9/ Style & closet wisdom:

• Select one brand of socks and discard the rest.

• Buy a nice belt, watch, and handkerchiefs.

• Thank people for outfit compliments.

• It’s better to be overdressed than underdressed.

• Keep your wallet and keys out of visible pockets; invest in a bag. (Not a backpack).

10/ At home:

• Be proactive with chores—don’t wait to be asked.

• Change into loungewear & slippers when home.

  • Don't wear your outdoor shoes indoors.

• Learn to cook one dish really well.

• Know which spices pair well with which dishes.

11/ Timeless advice:

• Throat clearing or a polite “I beg your pardon” solves bad cell phone etiquette.

• Cut your dry-cleaning bill with a hand steamer.

• Throw out ugly old stuff—don’t let laziness rule your space.

Etiquette is about respect, kindness, and subtlety. Being a modern gentleman means caring for others, being self-aware, and making the world better—one rule at a time.