Total inappropriateness, whether spoken or done, makes me want to crawl under a table. I just don’t handle train-wrecks very well. Unfortunately too many people do. The shocking truth is that as time passes the idea of basic etiquette floats farther and farther out the window–this goes for everything from table manners to addressing elders respectfully. Sadly, too many of us either don’t get it or never learned it.
So here’s lesson number one, fashion etiquette. I’m not talking about the right outfit for the right setting, that’s a whole other beast that I’ll address another time. I’m talking about way too common questions that should never be uttered to a fashionista:

Where did you get that? Okay so I admit, this is a tough one. The odds of these words spilling off your tongue are high, it’s almost like a natural reflex–but use all restraint necessary and don’t ask. Most of the time people will volunteer the info without you having to, if they don’t, then they probably don’t want to share. First off, if you love it just looking at it, imagine how much that person loved it when they first saw it and decided to buy it. Give them the satisfaction of having it to enjoy for themselves, no one wants to see a copycat with the same pair of shoes. Secondly, are you really going to go out and buy the exact item that you saw on someone else? Probably not, so just pay the compliment and keep it moving.

How much was it? Ladies seriously, this is like asking a woman her age. Plain and simple it’s rude and it’s her business.

Is that real? Oh gosh, I cringe just thinking about it. Unless she’s your “sista from another motha” and ya’ll just have an understanding about these types of questions, never ever ask. Plus, chances are if you have to ask, it probably is.

Can I try it on? There is just an awkwardness about watching someone else slide their foot into your shoe or slide on your favorite ring. Admiration from a distance is the safest bet for all parties involved.

What are your fashion etiquette do’s and don’t?