Some things don’t stand the test of time—social norms included. From classy etiquette to fashion trends, what was once considered vintage can quickly become cringeworthy. Indeed, these 15 practices prove that chasing after outdated social mania is fruitless in this dynamic, ever-changing world.
Monocles
Back then, sporting monocles meant being sophisticated and educated. People would not easily approach a monocled man because he seemed intimidating. This may be true in modern times, but it’s not for the same reason. A modern civilian wearing a monocle will either be isolated for being weird or will be asked, “Where’s the play at?”
Corsets
Corsets in the modern day are considered a fashion choice reserved for special occasions instead of being a piece of female uniform as they were in the past. It’s not totally obsolete, but wearing a corset on a normal Tuesday can easily turn heads. Comfort and body positivity have forged this change, with women no longer chasing an ideal silhouette like in the past.
Top Hats
The past society was famously divided between the high society and the lower class, with top hats serving as a staple of the former. But now, the only people who wear top hats are Mad Hatters in an Alice in Wonderland play or birthday magicians. If you’re wearing one in the 20th century, people will more likely think you’re hiding a rabbit on your head than assume you’re rich.
Elaborate Hatpins
Hatpins once doubled as both a fashion accessory and a self-defense tool. People reached for them in stores because they were beautifully designed despite being long and sharp, and they were a part of the norm. But in the modern day, they’re nothing but a hazard. Since hats are no longer a hot fashion item, 20th-century society has little use for these.
Landlines
Home phones were a necessity in the past because, without one, there was no way to be connected to other people. But now, they seem limited and restrictive compared to mobile phones that can reach people from all over the globe. Owning one is definitely fruitless when you can just install an app or simply make calls.
Formal Gloves
Gloves, much like monocles, were a symbol of status in the past. People who wore a pair exuded elegance and decorum in social settings. But now, if you’re going to wear gloves in public, people will just assume you’re cold or eccentric. Either way, 20th-century civilians will cringe and look at you funny.
Snuff
Using snuff or powdered tobacco leaves was a pastime for refined gentlemen back in the 1800s. It was smokeless and inhaled through the nose, believed to be a relief from common colds and a remedy for snoring. This practice has been discarded at present because of its carcinogenic and addictive nature.
Wax-Sealed Letters
Why would someone go through the trouble of writing a letter on paper and then sealing it with wax when they can just open Instagram and send a series of one-liners? People in the past used this as a formal practice of etiquette, but at present, it’s just excessive and unnecessary.
Dance Cards
Formerly used in formal balls, dance cards listed the gentlemen a noble woman intended to dance with. At present, formal balls have turned into city clubs where everybody dances with everyone else. Dance cards are infinitely futile when compared to sharing Instagram handles.
Spats or Spatterdashes
Worn over shoes for protection, spats or spatterdashes were the ultimate fashion statement. Although their purpose still seems reasonable in modern society, wearing one today will unlock a series of judgmental looks and awkward chuckles. Indeed, sporting spats now seems like an eccentric costume choice rather than a conscious fashion outfit.
Elaborately Designed Mustache
A mustache still seems reasonable in the modern age, albeit to an extent. What it symbolizes—masculinity and style—remains the same today as it did in the past. However, the designs of then and now are exponentially different, with the former being more elaborate and grand and the latter being plain and simple. Indeed, in contrast to the fun mustache styles of the past, an intricately designed one today is either going to be cringeworthy or funny.
Pocket Watch
Pocket watches, sometimes containing a picture of a gentleman’s beloved, were once the norm among men. They used to hang from their pants as an accessory with a purpose. But in the fast-paced modern world, a pocket watch is nothing more than a pocket-sized burden compared to wristwatches and smartphones with digital clocks on their lockscreens.
Meal Helpers
Having slaves was the norm before. Homeowners seldom pick up the broom or open the oven, so understandably, they weren’t expected to prepare and serve their own dinners. At present, where society thrives on being independent, having someone else put a plate of food on the table feels awkward and over-the-top—even for those who have a helper.
Introductions with Titles
It was customary in the past to address individuals using their titles and surnames even in casual settings. But now, a simple “Hi!” or “Hello!” followed by the person’s first name will suffice. Indeed, calling someone by their title at work—for instance, during small talk—will result in a very stiff and awkward lunch break.
Smoking Cigarettes in Public
In the past, having a cigarette in hand instantly put one in a highly regarded position. Smoking in public, be it with snuff or a cigarette, was once seen as a sophisticated practice. But now, it’s nothing but a health hazard. In fact, some countries have even banned public smoking! If smoking in public made you seem cool back then, today you’ll just look like a degenerate.
