How to divorce with decorum

Divorce. It doesn't have to be dirty. Photo / Thinkstock

Who says British etiquette experts Debrett's don't move with the times?

The chroniclers of the cream of British society since the late 1700s have put together a book on how to behave during a divorce.

The idea is to assist emotionally distraught couples in maintaining decorum in the midst of their battles over custody and cash.

Debrett's has teamed up with divorce lawyers Mishcon de Reya, who represented the late Princess Diana, for the publication.

The Debrett's Guide to Civilised Separation provides tips on how to break the news to friends and colleagues and information on the process of divorce.

"Throwing your husband's vintage wine collection down the loo or cutting his suits to shreds might seem like a therapeutic gesture when you're in the throes of rage and despair, but it can rebound on you and undermine your case," the book advises.

It also warns about becoming a "divorce bore" as you risk being "struck off the dinner-party guest list".

In keeping with its focus on good manners, the guide says that being "relentlessly polite and civilised" will "defuse any fall-out" from the split.

The £12.99 book advises "friendly Christmas cards" to the in-laws and estranged friends and urges people to take a "minder" to events attended by the ex.

The minder is to monitor their "behaviour, alcohol intake and emotions".

-AAP