Apparently, the nation is deeply concerned about manners this week—at least according to Google Trends. Americans have been frantically typing “Is it rude to…” into the search bar like their lives (or friendships) depend on it.
So let’s settle these pressing social dilemmas, one eyebrow-raise at a time.
1. Is it rude to refuse a gift?
Technically, yes. But let’s be honest—sometimes a gift isn’t really a gift. It’s a problem in a box. Like when your coworker surprises you with a giant ceramic clown for your birthday. You smile, you say thank you, and then you immediately start plotting how to “accidentally” leave it in the office break room.
👉 Polite move: Accept gracefully, re-gift strategically.
2. Is it rude to wear sunglasses indoors?
Yes… unless you’re either:
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A celebrity avoiding paparazzi,
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Nursing a brutal hangover, or
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Channeling your inner rockstar.
Otherwise, you just look like someone who lost a fight with their own sense of style.
3. Is it rude to invite someone to the shower but not the wedding?
Oh, it’s shady. You’re basically saying, “Please buy me a gift, but don’t bother showing up for the fun part with the cake and champagne.” It’s the social equivalent of Netflix asking for your money but not giving you the password.
👉 If you do this, at least own it. “Look, my wedding venue only holds 50 people, and you didn’t make the cut. But I do love a registry gift. Thanks, bestie!”
4. Is it rude to stare at someone?
It’s rude unless you’re admiring their outfit, silently calculating if you can pull it off, or wondering how they got their hair to do that. But if you catch yourself doing the full-on, unblinking “murder movie” stare? Yep, that’s rude.
5. Is it rude to go into a restaurant an hour before closing?
Let’s be real—they hate you for it. The kitchen staff is already dreaming of going home, the server’s wiping down tables, and then you stroll in like, “I’ll have the tasting menu!” If you must do this, at least tip like you’re Oprah.
Bonus Round: America’s Other Etiquette Obsessions
Google also tells us we’re brushing up on:
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Email etiquette → Translation: Stop replying all. Please.
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Virtual meeting etiquette → Mute yourself. And for the love of Wi-Fi, wear pants.
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Flag etiquette → PSA: Don’t wear the American flag as a swimsuit. Just… don’t.
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Phone etiquette → Texting “k” is basically emotional warfare.
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Table etiquette → Yes, your napkin goes on your lap, not as a bib.
The StacyKnows Etiquette Survival Kit
If you want to avoid being that guest (or host), a few stylish essentials go a long way:
✨ Always have a hostess gift on hand
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A stylish wine opener & bottle stopper set
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A mini gourmet gift basket that screams “I’m thoughtful”
✨ Polished guest = invited back
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A sleek packable shawl for dinner parties that run cold ([LTK link])
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Pretty notecards to say thank you like a pro ([LTK link])
✨ And for yourself… because why not?
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A pair of classic indoor-friendly sunglasses (for the hungover days) ([LTK link])
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A discreet “I’m ready to leave” clutch bag that fits your phone & lipstick ([LTK link])
At the end of the day, etiquette is simple:
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Don’t be weird.
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Don’t be selfish.
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And if you’re not sure? Just ask yourself, “Would I want someone to do this to me?”
So yes, keep Googling your burning manners questions—but know that a little humor (and a decent tip) goes a long way.
