Butlers - not just for the wealthy!

‘Butler’ is from the Norman French word ‘bouteiller’ meaning ‘bottler’, the member of the royal household responsible for the bottles in the wine cellar. Believe it or (maybe) not, according to an old dictionary entry the term is apparently mentioned in the Bible. However, a brief ‘glance’ through Genesis has yet to reveal a reference to the Pharaoh’s cup being handled by his butler!

Famous Names

The most famous references must go to Jeeves, Hudson and Stevens; butlers who have all become household names. Their dedication to the cause of effective, unobtrusive service is commendable.
PG Wodehouse’s accounts of Jeeves are fascinating. But Beach was Bertie Wooster’s antecedent butler, a completely different kettle of fish and so must not be overlooked. If you have not yet read Wodehouse’ books, try them; they give an insight into an earlier world. You’ll realise that in today’s world Jeeves would rate as highly as any Concierge, able to fix any thing at any time.

(T)wit or Not?

Butlers are synonymous with single entendres. Some of Jeeves’ pronouncements are incredibly dry. And Niles, the famous butler from ‘The Nanny’ has obviously studied Wodehouse’ caustic comments (one doesn’t have to admit that one has watched it!). Quote... “Jeeves lugged my purple socks out of the drawer as if he were a vegetarian fishing a caterpillar out of his salad” (My Man Jeeves 1919).

Courteous Service

Is there any other kind? Today’s butler is master of many disciplines, an indispensable member of the household, and oft thought of as a wizard with the way things seem to happen magically. Today’s butler is just as comfortable waxing the Holden Ute, ironing sir’s new $400 dress shirt, as he is serving dinner to you or Her Majesty the Queen!

How to Guides

Periodically we’ll discuss tasks particular to men’s style. How to properly iron a shirt, launder a shirt, polish one's shoes, buy gifts, pack a suitcase for a short visit or a long stay, set a dinner table, polish silver, detail the automobile, knot a necktie, hand-knot a bowtie… the list of useful topics goes on, and many appear in the Butler’s View as How to Guides.

Your Questions & Answers

Of course, we look forward to receiving your questions so please Ask our Butler. If we don’t immediately know the answer, there are many reference resources at hand and guarantee that an answer will be found…as long as it’s not immoral or illegal!

So, there you have it...
the Style Butler

We enjoy our wonderful interaction with you in pursuit of sophisticated style, practical excellence in guest service and good fun ... always yours in stylish service.