In a recent video, Hailey Bieber delighted her fans by sharing her dining experience with Vogue, where she ventured into the world of French cuisine. As an etiquette coach, I couldn't help but analyse the table manners displayed during the meal. Let's take a closer look at the set-up and Hailey's dining etiquette in this exciting episode.

1. Setting the Table

The table setup depicted in the video closely resembles what we see in traditional French dining. The fork is placed on the left-hand side, while the knife rests on the right. However, it's worth noting that the fork is positioned with the tines facing upwards, which is slightly different from the customary French style where the tines face downwards. Additionally, there is a napkin on the right-hand side and a salt cellar, interestingly without the accompanying pepper shaker. A glass for water and another for white wine complete the arrangement. Furthermore, a bread plate with a knife is positioned above the main plate.

1. Unfolding the Napkin

Hailey's dramatic unfolding of the napkin, while visually appealing for the video, deviates from proper formal dining etiquette. In a formal setting, it is best to unfold the napkin discreetly below the table. Simply remove the napkin from the table, fold it neatly beneath the table, and place it gently on your lap. This subtle gesture adds elegance to the dining experience.

1. The Correct Way to Serve

In the video, the chef serves Hailey's dish from her left-hand side, following the correct protocol. Whether it's the chef or a waiter, serving should always be done from the left while clearing away dishes should be done from the right. This ensures a seamless and efficient dining experience.

1. Proper Handling of Cutlery

While Hailey's enthusiasm for the food is evident, there are a few points to consider when it comes to cutlery etiquette. Holding the cutlery closer to the plate and avoiding lifting the elbows too high adds a touch of grace to the dining experience. Additionally, when using a fork, it is customary to hold it with the tines facing downwards, rather than upwards. This small adjustment enhances the visual appeal of the meal.

1. Maintaining Elegance while Speaking

During the meal, Hailey often gestures with her fork while talking, which can appear less refined. To maintain elegance, it is recommended to place the fork on the plate while pausing to speak and then continue eating. Furthermore, it is advisable to take smaller bites and avoid speaking with food in one's mouth, ensuring clear communication and maintaining a polished demeanour.

1. Eating Soup with Elegance

During the episode, Hailey was seen bringing the soup spoon towards her from the side, which differs from the traditional practice of moving the spoon away from oneself. Additionally, her posture while consuming the soup could be improved. Instead of bending down and bringing her elbow close to her body, a more graceful approach would involve keeping the elbow closer to the body and bringing the spoon closer to the mouth without excessive bending.

1. Proper Technique for Fish

When it comes to eating fish, Hailey correctly used only a fork, which is appropriate for softer fish. However, she made an interesting adjustment by flipping the fork with the tines facing up before putting it in her mouth. The preferred method involves cutting a small piece of fish with the fork and bringing it closer to the mouth with the tines facing downwards. This maintains a refined dining appearance.

1. Sipping Wine with Finesse

While taking a sip of wine, Hailey was seen holding the glass with some food still in her mouth. To ensure a polished approach, it is advisable to finish chewing and swallowing any food before taking a sip. Also, blotting the mouth with a napkin to prevent any stains on the glass adds an extra touch of elegance.

1. Proper Handling of Cutlery

Throughout the video, Hailey gestured with her cutlery in hand, which can appear less refined. A more elegant approach would involve placing the cutlery back on the plate when taking a break from eating or using hand gestures. This not only maintains a composed demeanour but also ensures that the cutlery remains in a safe position. It's important to avoid raising the knife towards the face and instead place it down on the plate.

1. Dessert Etiquette

During the dessert course, Hailey initially used both a fork and a knife, but then quickly switched to using a spoon. While it is common to have a fork and a spoon for dessert, using the spoon as a knife substitute is acceptable. To eat dessert gracefully, one can use the fork to stabilise the dessert while cutting a small piece with the spoon. The spoon is then used to bring the dessert to the mouth.

1. The Importance of Placing Used Cutlery

In one instance, Hailey placed her used fork and spoon back on the table after finishing her dessert. It's essential to remember that once cutlery has touched the food, it should not touch the table or napkin again. Instead, the used cutlery should remain on the plate until the meal is paused or completed.

Conclusion

Hailey Bieber's dining experience showcased her enthusiasm for food, but also provided an opportunity to examine and refine her table manners. By practising proper dining etiquette, one can elevate the dining experience and leave a lasting impression.

Remember to approach soup, fish, wine, cutlery, and desserts with elegance, maintaining a poised and polished demeanour throughout the meal. With these guidelines in mind, anyone can enhance their dining etiquette and create a more refined dining experience.

Thank you for joining us as we explored Hailey Bieber's dining etiquette. Stay tuned for more insights on the world of etiquette.