Welcome to Burdet-tiquette, where Lisa Burdette, founder of The Dallas School of Etiquette and a mother of six with global expertise, answers your questions on the art of courtesy.
Reader Question: Mark, 36 – The Balding Bachelor and Hats
I’m a 36-year-old single man in Plano who’s starting to go bald. I don’t think I have the discipline for Rogaine, and I don’t want to spend money on hair plugs, but I do want to do something. I’m considering wearing hats, but I don’t know the etiquette: when is it appropriate to wear them, when should I tip or remove them, and are there rules for different occasions? Also, when dating, should I bring up balding early on or let it be?
Lisa’s Response
My heart feels for you with balding at a younger age. I must remind you that many women love a bald head. If you are not going to invest in hair implants or Rogaine, be yourself. God made you special inside and out, and anyone you would want to pursue a serious relationship with would accept and adore you for your bald head. Besides, a receding hairline is a sign of intelligence.
The etiquette for hats dictates that men should not wear hats indoors. When you meet a lady, you should tip your hat and take it off inside a building. Outdoor hats are acceptable and fun to wear. Wear your favorite team hat or a hat with the school logo from your alma mater. As a Texan, I would encourage you to invest in the best-looking cowboy hat available.
When dating, don’t hide your baldness. That way, it will never be an issue. Make sure all the ladies you are pursuing see your bald head from the start. Never bring up your baldness as if it were a handicap to you. Move ahead with a positive outlook. Remember, those who only see your bald head are women you do not want to pursue.
About Lisa
Lisa Burdette
Lisa Burdette is the founder of The Dallas School of Etiquette, where she trains everyone from executives to cadets in the timeless art of courtesy. A mother of six and a graduate of Auburn University, she has studied etiquette in London, Paris, Washington, and beyond. She believes true etiquette isn’t about being fancy — it’s about how you make people feel.
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