Etiquette and Paper Napkins

Paper napkins can be very decorative, but they can also can be flimsy. If you choose to use, or must use paper napkins, it is okay to use more than one.  Paper napkins are generally recommended only for the most casual of dining, or for very large parties which would normally require a large abundance of linen cocktail napkins, or when crudités and other types of small finger foods are being served.

Dear Mrs. Post: I have always disliked paper napkins; in fact, when given one in a restaurant I always feel inclined to walk out. But my dislike seems to have become a boomerang. I am giving a large cocktail party, inviting over a hundred people and it is impossible to provide linen napkins for so many people. Do you think paper ones on such an occasion would be permissible?

Answer: At a cocktail party napkins are not necessarily provided. And perhaps if you put your own in a pile on the table, they will be sufficient. In addition to these, you might get some paper ones, to have ready in case your supply runs out.

From Emily Post, “In Good Taste,” 1937

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