Debrett's: Your Guide to British Sophistication
We are delighted to be working with the incredible Debrett’s – a name synonymous with British high society, impeccable manners, and timeless elegance. Founded way back in 1769, over 250 years ago, Debrett’s started as a simple directory of the British aristocracy. Today, they are the go-to publisher for mastering rules, manners, and etiquette.
Have you ever attended a party and weren’t sure how to act? What are the rules? Am I wearing the right thing? Or maybe your friends are discussing British nobility, and you aren’t sure how to join the conversation. Don’t worry, Debrett’s has you covered!
With Debrett’s, you'll navigate these social scenarios with ease and confidence. Whether you’re curious about the traditions of the British elite or just want to add a touch of refinement to your daily life, Debrett’s offers the perfect blend of historical insights and contemporary advice. So, why not dive into their elegant world and discover the secrets to sophisticated living?
A Glimpse into History
In 1675, William Dugdale, Norroy King of Arms, published a book that would be the first printed record of the Peerage and Baronetage. This monumental work, the result of over two decades of research, was eventually released in a massive book of considerable weight, published by Abel Roper, John Martin, and Henry Herringman.
Abel Roper later formed a partnership with Arthur Collins. In 1709, Collins published the first edition of his "Peerage of England," based solely on Dugdale’s work. After Collins died in 1760, John Almon, a publisher and bookseller of Piccadilly, acquired Collins' work and set about updating and improving it. In 1769, Almon published "The New Peerage," a two-volume set, bound in leather and conveniently sized to fit into a gentleman's pocket.
Almon took on John Debrett as a clerk, tasking him with the ongoing updates and improvements to the Peerage. While Collins had been denied access to certain titleholders and their records, John Almon, being a well-respected man, faced no such obstacles. His protégé, Debrett, was able to leverage these connections to enhance the publication further.
Almon retired in 1781, leaving the business entirely in Debrett’s hands. Three years later, Debrett published the very first edition of the Peerage that bore his name.
Debrett’s "Peerage and Baronetage" traces its lineage directly back to the original peerage published in 1675, more than 350 years ago. For 250 years, Debrett’s has been compiled and printed in a traditional manner. Now, in the modern day, it will go digital and be available online for the first time, achieving a level of accessibility that previous editors could only dream of.
We believe that John Debrett would certainly approve!
Debrett’s in the Modern World
Debrett’s has worked hard over the years to continue to build and mold itself to fit into the modern world. In an age dominated by technology, maintaining a focus on classic styles of writing can be challenging.
So how have they kept on top of it all?
Debrett’s has released modern titles, such as the "A-Z of Modern Manners." This book delves into the bewildering world of contemporary conduct. It provides guidance on navigating digital dilemmas, such as hashtags, group messaging, and online dating. It also covers social minefields like dress codes, invitation writing, and seating plans. The book highlights serious social challenges such as bullying, while also addressing more whimsical issues like manspreading, multitasking, and oversharing.
But Debrett’s doesn’t stop there! They’ve embraced the digital age with an online blog that extends their reach even further. This blog brings their wealth of advice and information into the online realm, covering an array of topics that cater to diverse interests. From escalator etiquette to tips on being a great wedding guest.
By continuously adapting to the changing landscape, Debrett’s not only preserves its rich legacy but also ensures that the timeless principles of etiquette remain relevant in today’s fast-paced world. So, why not dive into their modern offerings and discover how to navigate contemporary social situations with confidence and grace?
Why We Love Debrett’s
What makes Debrett’s stand out from other publishers is the truly unique historical depth. For over 250 years they have been at the forefront of etiquette and social conduct, being one of the most trusted guides for navigating the world of manners.
With their incredible wealth of knowledge Debrett’s offers such a range of high-quality titles that cover tradition whilst keeping it applicable to modern day life. By addressing contemporary issues like social media etiquette and casual dress codes, Debrett’s remains relevant to younger generations.
They also tackle serious topics such as bullying and inclusivity with sensitivity, encouraging kindness in all interactions. The writing itself is often sprinkled with wit, making learning about etiquette enjoyable rather than intimidating.
In a world that sometimes feels chaotic and fast-paced, Debrett’s serves as a refreshing reminder of the importance of civility and poise. Their timeless teachings encourage us to be not only better individuals but also better members of our communities. So, whether you’re delving into their classic texts or exploring their modern blogs, you’re sure to find inspiration to enhance your social interactions with confidence and style.
Join the Elegance
In a world where etiquette can often be overlooked, Debrett's reminds us of the charm and importance of good manners. Let's bring a touch of sophistication back into our lives with a little help from the experts.
Check out their full collection here.