Dames

A Dame is the female equivalent of a knight of an order of chivalry. As with knights, the title is always used in conjunction with the forename. The title is not hereditary.

In Speech

Dear Madam
Yours faithfully
Envelope: Dame Mary Smythe, DBE (or applicable Order)

In Writing - Formally

Dear Madam
Yours faithfully
Envelope: Dame Mary Smythe, DBE (or applicable Order)

In Writing - Socially

Dear Dame Mary
Yours sincerely
Envelope: Dame Mary Smythe, DBE (or applicable Order)

Spouse of a Dame

Husbands or wives of Dames do not derive any style or title from their wive.

Husbands of knights do not derive any title or style from their husband.

For In-Depth advice…

or matters that are not covered in our Forms of Address section, please feel free to