Amy Vanderbilt’s Complete Book of Etiquette

work by Vanderbilt

Also known as: “Amy Vanderbilt’s Etiquette”

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June 18, 2026

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Amy Vanderbilt's Complete Book of Etiquette, published in 1952, is a comprehensive guide to social behavior and manners. Written by Amy Vanderbilt, an acknowledged authority on etiquette, the book was researched over five years and became a bestseller, selling millions of copies. It was later retitled Amy Vanderbilt's Etiquette.

Vanderbilt was considered the successor to Emily Post, another prominent figure in etiquette. Her work aimed to provide guidance for "gracious living" and covered various aspects of social and professional conduct. The book has been periodically revised to reflect changing societal norms.12

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Amy Vanderbilt
In 1952 she published Amy Vanderbilt’s Complete Book of Etiquette, a book that has been called a “guide to gracious living.” Vanderbilt took five years to research and write the book, which underwent periodic revisions and sold millions of copies. The book was later retitled Amy Vanderbilt’s Etiquette.
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In 1952 she published Amy Vanderbilt’s Complete Book of Etiquette, a book that has been called a “guide to gracious living.” Vanderbilt took five years to research and write the book, which underwent periodic revisions and sold millions of copies. The book was later retitled Amy Vanderbilt’s Etiquette.
Read More