How to Curtsy

A curtsy is a gesture of respect, made by a woman, when she bends her knees at the same time as bowing her head. Bowing is the male equivalent of curtsying. Follow these steps so you'll know what to do when a curtsy is required.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Lower your head. This makes you appear vulnerable. This initial position was the origin of the curtsy.

2. Place both your hands on the sides of your skirt and hold it out sideways. If your skirt is too narrow, then hold your hands out to the side, palms upward.

3. Extend one foot behind the other, bend both legs at the knee and bend your head and shoulders slightly forward.

4. Bend your knees outward, rather than forward, for a more formal curtsy.

5. Curtsy for those of a higher social status. Reserve a deep curtsy for when you meet royalty in European cultures. This is called a court curtsy and is more elaborate. The curtsy is deeper, and you can sink to the floor or go down on one knee.

6. Perform the "Texas Dip" at the International Debutante Ball. Bend your knees, cross your ankles and touch your forehead to the floor, holding the hand of your escort all the while!

Tips & Warnings

• Don't stick out your behind!