The royal family is synonymous with elegance, tradition, and an unwavering sense of propriety. Centuries-old customs govern every aspect of their lives, and their fashion choices are no exception. From the perfectly tailored outfits to the meticulously chosen accessories, their wardrobe rules reflect a blend of heritage and modern-day sophistication. These guidelines not only maintain their dignified image but also serve as a reminder of their unique position in society. Each piece of clothing and every accessory they wear carries a story, often symbolizing tradition, respect, and unity.
While some of these rules may seem rigid or even outdated to the modern observer, they hold a fascinating charm that keeps the world captivated. From why tiaras are reserved for married women to the reason Queen Elizabeth favored bright colors, the royal family’s fashion is a world of its own. This article explores 12 lesser-known royal fashion rules that reveal how deeply tradition is woven into their lives. Whether you’re a fan of royal style or simply curious about their wardrobe choices, these intriguing insights will give you a closer look at the sartorial secrets of royalty.
Tiaras Are Reserved for Brides and Married Women
Tiaras, iconic symbols of royal elegance, are steeped in tradition. Historically, they represented a transition from maidenhood to marriage, signifying the wearer’s new status as a wife. While this tradition has evolved over time, the rule remains intact: unmarried women do not wear tiaras. Meghan Markle famously debuted her first tiara on her wedding day, adhering to this timeless tradition. Brides are allowed to wear tiaras as a symbol of their union, but once the ceremony concludes, they are typically removed, reserved for only the most formal occasions.
Bright Nail Colors Are a No-Go
Royals keep their nails modest and understated. Queen Elizabeth II reportedly wore the same pale pink shade of nail polish, Essie’s Ballet Slippers, since 1989. This tradition emphasizes simplicity and elegance. Bold nail colors like red, purple, or black are considered inappropriate for royal engagements. Both Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle follow this unwritten rule, opting for either light neutral hues or no polish at all during public appearances.
Long Pants Are Off-Limits for Young Boys
In royal tradition, young boys are not permitted to wear long trousers until they reach a certain age. Instead, they wear shorts regardless of the weather. This custom dates back to the 16th century when young boys wore dresses until they were deemed old enough for more “grown-up” attire. Today, the rule has been modernized, and boys like Prince George don tailored shorts until approximately the age of eight when they transition to long pants.
No Wedges in Front of the Queen
Although wedges are a staple in many wardrobes, they are considered a fashion faux pas in the presence of Queen Elizabeth II. Reportedly, the Queen disliked this style of footwear. Royal women, including Kate Middleton, only wear wedges at events where the Queen is absent. Instead, they often rely on classic pumps and low heels to maintain a polished look.
Hemlines and Necklines Must Be Conservative
Royal women are required to keep their hemlines and necklines modest. Dresses and skirts are typically worn near the knee or slightly below, and plunging necklines are avoided altogether. Princess Diana famously held her clutch strategically while exiting cars to ensure photographers couldn’t capture any compromising angles. This clever trick became known as the “cleavage clutch.”
The Queen Must Stand Out with Bright Colors
Queen Elizabeth II’s wardrobe is renowned for its vibrant colors. This isn’t just a fashion statement—it’s a practical choice to ensure she stands out in a crowd. Sophie, Duchess of Wessex, once explained that the Queen’s bright outfits make it easier for people to spot her and confidently say, “I saw the Queen!”
Hats and Headpieces Are a Must Until 6 PM
Hats are an essential part of royal fashion at formal daytime events, reflecting a longstanding tradition of etiquette and modesty. After 6 PM, however, hats are replaced with tiaras or other elegant headpieces. This rule ensures a seamless transition from daytime to evening elegance. Unmarried women, however, are excluded from wearing tiaras at evening events.
Always Carry a Black Outfit for Emergencies
Royals must be prepared for every eventuality, including mourning. When traveling, members of the royal family pack a black ensemble to wear in case of a death in the family. This rule originated from Queen Elizabeth II’s experience in 1952 when her father passed away while she was in Kenya. Without a black outfit on hand, she had to wait on the plane until one was brought to her.
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Coats Should Not Be Removed in Public
Female royals are expected to keep their coats on during public engagements, no matter the temperature. Removing a coat in public is considered unladylike, as it may draw unnecessary attention to the act. This rule often leaves royal women braving chilly or overly warm weather while maintaining their polished appearance.
Fashion Should Reflect the Host Country
When traveling abroad, royals use their attire to honor their host country. They often incorporate local colors, symbols, or designs into their outfits as a sign of respect. For example, Kate Middleton has worn dresses by Indian designers during visits to India and donned Australian labels while touring Down Under. This thoughtful gesture often garners admiration from locals and boosts the visibility of regional designers.
Hair and Makeup Must Be Neat and Natural
Royal hair and makeup are expected to be understated yet flawless. Hair should appear effortlessly styled, whether in soft curls, a sleek ponytail, or Meghan Markle’s signature messy bun. Makeup should enhance natural beauty, focusing on light foundation, soft blush, and neutral eye shades. Bold makeup looks and eccentric hairstyles are avoided to maintain a timeless appearance.
Shoes Must Be Spotless and Well-Maintained
Royal footwear is held to the same high standards as the rest of their attire. Shoes must always be clean and in pristine condition. Prince Charles, for example, reportedly has his shoelaces ironed to keep them perfectly flat. Royal women often use non-slip tights, insoles, and shoes slightly more significant than their size to ensure comfort and avoid blisters during long events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do royal women wear tiaras only after marriage?
Tiaras are traditionally reserved for married women or brides on their wedding day as a symbol of transitioning from maidenhood to married life. This rule dates back centuries and is still observed in modern royal families.
Are royal family members allowed to wear bright nail colors?
No, bright nail colors are considered inappropriate for royals. Neutral, pale shades are preferred, with Queen Elizabeth famously wearing the same pale pink nail polish since 1989.
Why do young royal boys always wear shorts?
This tradition stems from 16th-century customs where young boys wore dresses until they were deemed mature enough for trousers. Today, royal boys are dressed in shorts until about age eight, signifying their young age and status.
Is there a rule against wedges in the royal family?
Yes, Queen Elizabeth reportedly dislikes wedge shoes. Royal women, such as Kate Middleton, avoid wearing them in her presence but may wear them to informal or Queen-less events.
Why does the Queen prefer bright-colored outfits?
Queen Elizabeth wears bright colors to ensure she stands out in a crowd. It allows people to easily spot her during public appearances, reinforcing her connection with the public.
Are royal women allowed to remove their coats in public?
No, removing a coat in public is considered unladylike in royal protocol. Once worn, the coat must remain on for the duration of the event, regardless of the temperature.
What is the significance of always carrying a black outfit?
Royal family members must carry a black outfit while traveling to be prepared for mourning in case of an unexpected death, ensuring they can appropriately attend to public duties during such times.
Why do royal women wear hats during formal daytime events?
Hats are a longstanding royal tradition symbolizing elegance and modesty. They are typically worn to formal events during the day, but after 6 PM, hats are replaced by tiaras for evening occasions.
Conclusion
The royal family’s fashion rules may seem overly meticulous, but they are deeply rooted in tradition and serve to uphold their image of grace, modesty, and respectability. From tiaras to shoes, every detail matters. While most of us don’t need to follow such strict guidelines, these rules offer a glimpse into the fascinating world of royal etiquette and style. If you’ve ever dreamed of dressing like a royal, understanding and appreciating these traditions is the first step toward regal elegance.
