Being a member of the royal family is no easy task. From navigating the realms of fashion and dining to adhering to social etiquette and managing the upbringing of children and pets, there exists a myriad of rules and protocols that royalty is obliged to follow. In this context, we explore some of the most surprising expectations, traditions, regulations, and customs upheld by the royal family, which extend even to non-royals entering through marriage.
When the Queen Stands
Standing is mandatory in the presence of the Queen. Anyone in the Queen’s vicinity must stand when she is standing or when she enters or leaves a room.
Curtsies and bows are required
When greeting the Queen, men are anticipated to bow their heads, while women are expected to curtsy. It’s important to note that curtsies involve a demure and subtle dip down with one leg positioned behind the other, as opposed to the grand gestures often depicted in old films or fairy tales featuring Disney royalty.
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Wikimedia Commons
Heirs travel apart
To maintain the continuity of the royal succession, it is prohibited for two heirs to travel together.
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Wikimedia Commons
The Queen’s purse isn’t just an accessory
The Queen, known for her tactful demeanor, employs her purse as a means of conveying subtle social cues. Placing her clutch on the table during dinner signifies the need to conclude proceedings, prompting individuals to consider their next actions carefully. Similarly, the act of shifting her purse from the left hand to the right serves as an indication that she wishes to conclude the ongoing conversation.
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Wikimedia Commons
Skip the PDA
Public displays of affection are discouraged within the Royal Family, particularly during travel. Members of the royalty are expected to avoid making individuals from more conservative cultures feel uneasy by refraining from public signs of affection. A notable example is the restrained demeanor exhibited by William and Catherine during their visit to the Taj Mahal in 2016, where they maintained stoic poses.
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Wikimedia Commons
Marriage proposals require permission
In accordance with the Royal Marriages Act of 1772, individuals who are royal descendants are required to obtain the monarch’s approval before formalizing a marriage proposal. The Queen has consistently granted approval for the unions of her children and grandchildren, including those of Prince Andrew and Fergie, Prince Charles’s proposals to Diana and Camilla Parker Bowles, William’s proposal to Kate Middleton, and Harry’s request for Meghan Markle’s hand.
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Wikimedia Commons
Bridal parties are comprised of children
Royal weddings typically involve bridesmaids and page boys, specifically little girls and boys tasked with responsibilities such as scattering petals, rather than adults being part of the bridal party.
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Wikimedia Commons
Bridal bouquets must include myrtle
In a royal wedding tradition that traces its roots back to Princess Victoria, it is customary for royal brides to carry at least one sprig of myrtle in their bouquets. Myrtle is a symbol of hope and love, and every royal bride, including The Duchess of Cambridge, has embraced this tradition by incorporating it into their floral arrangements.
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Wikimedia Commons
Royals were not allowed to marry a Roman Catholic–until 2011
According to the 1701 Act of Settlement, royals were prohibited from marrying a Roman Catholic. However, in contemporary times, members of the royal family are permitted to marry individuals of any faith, as long as the Queen provides her approval
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Wikimedia Commons
No nicknames allowed
Royalty is traditionally addressed by their full given names rather than by nicknames given within their families. An example is when Kate, upon marrying William, began being referred to as Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge.
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Wikimedia Commons
No nicknames but some have broken the rule
Some royals have deviated from the formalities of their given names. For instance, Prince Harry’s given name is Henry, and his full title is HRH Prince Henry Charles Albert David of Windsor, reflecting a departure from the more casual use of his nickname.
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Wikimedia Commons
Hats on, hats off
Royal women adhere to the tradition of wearing hats to formal daytime appearances, a practice shared by socialites and members of the aristocracy. However, after 6 p.m., the focus shifts to tiaras. Each royal possesses tiaras in her personal wardrobe, sometimes on loan from the crown jewels. In the evening, it is customary for only married female royals to wear these regal headpieces, and wearing a hat during this time is not expected.
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Wikimedia Commons
Brights are the new black
It’s highly unlikely to witness the Queen adorned in neutral or dark hues. Her preference for bright colors is not just a personal choice but also aligns with royal protocol. The vibrant tones she chooses make it easier to spot her in a crowd, adding a practical dimension to her wardrobe choices.
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Wikimedia Commons
Brights really are the new black now
Royals typically reserve black ensembles for funerals and evening gowns. However, the Queen has implemented a rule stating that all members of the Royal Family must pack a black outfit whenever they travel. This precaution is in place in case of a sudden death occurring while they are away, necessitating the availability of mourning attire.
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Wikimedia Commons
Wedding dresses require the Queen’s approval
While royal brides may have some flexibility in choosing the style and silhouette of their wedding gowns, it is reported that the Queen has the ultimate say on the gown’s design and aesthetic. The Duchess of Cambridge, for example, consulted her grandmother-in-law during the design process and even showcased her custom gown by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen in the weeks leading up to her wedding to Prince William when the dress was finalized.
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Wikimedia Commons
Even Meghan Markle asked for approval
Meghan Markle is said to have followed the same tradition, and reports suggest that she intended to privately show her Ralph & Russo wedding gown to the Queen during the week leading up to her wedding to Prince Harry. This reflects the ongoing practice of seeking the Queen’s input and approval in the final stages of designing and preparing the royal wedding gown.
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Wikimedia Commons
Modesty is key
Members of the royal family are expected to adhere to modest dress standards, avoiding outfits that are too revealing or provocative. Cleavage is considered unacceptable, and Princess Diana, in particular, was well-known for using her evening bag strategically to shield her chest from the paparazzi when getting out of her car, maintaining a sense of modesty and discretion.
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Wikimedia Commons
Clutches aren’t just for cleavage
Royal women often opt for clutch bags not just for the sake of covering up but for a more profound reason. Holding a clutch, especially with both hands, provides a convenient excuse for the royal to politely avoid shaking hands with commoners, maintaining a degree of formality and personal space.
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Wikimedia Commons
Prince George wears shorts only
The choice of shorts for Prince George in photographs is not a coincidence. Traditionally, trousers are reserved for young adults and grown men, and boys in the Royal Family, including Prince George and, expectedly, Prince Louis as he transitions into a young toddler, are typically dressed in shorts exclusively until the age of 8. This adherence to tradition is a notable aspect of the royal children’s attire.
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Wikimedia Commons
Royals have styling tips and tricks to avoid malfunctions
To prevent wardrobe malfunctions and mishaps, such as the incident when Kate’s skirt lifted during a royal Airforce visit in 2011, the Queen has a clever solution. According to designer Stewart Parvin, who has created garments for the Queen, penny weights are sewn into the hemline of her skirts. This technique helps ensure that the Queen’s skirts stay in place and don’t catch the breeze, maintaining a sense of modesty.
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Wikimedia Commons
Report for duty
Royals are anticipated to serve their country in various capacities, and although enlisting in the military is not a mandatory requirement, it is often expected. Traditionally, those members of the royal family who choose to enlist and serve in the military also wear their uniforms on their wedding day, reflecting their commitment to national service.
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Wikimedia Commons
The royal diet
Shellfish is typically avoided at royal meals as a precautionary measure. It is considered a food item that could pose a higher risk of causing food poisoning and allergic reactions. As a result, shellfish is generally excluded from the menu during official royal dining events. This practice aligns with the need to prioritize the health and well-being of the royal family and their guests.
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pexels
That diet includes no garlic
It is a well-known fact that the Queen is not a fan of garlic. As a result, when the Queen is present at dinners, whether as a host or guest, preparations exclude the use of garlic. This culinary adjustment reflects the consideration of the Queen’s preferences and ensures that the meals align with her taste preferences.
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Wikimedia Commons
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
In a gesture of respect for her title, Prince Philip is traditionally required to walk two steps behind his wife, the Queen. This practice is a reflection of royal protocol and formalities observed within the context of their public appearances.
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Wikimedia Commons
There’s a specific way to drink tea
Royals often participate in afternoon teas, a more formal occasion than “high tea,” which is actually a more casual service. During these events, tea cups are held in a specific manner: the top of the handle is pinched with the thumb and index finger, while the middle finger supports the bottom of the handle. The handle of the cup should always be positioned at 3 o’clock. Additionally, royal women are advised to sip from the same spot on the cup to avoid leaving lipstick stains around the rim. These details contribute to the overall elegance and proper etiquette observed during royal tea ceremonies.
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pexels
Don’t mess with the dogs
The staff at Buckingham and Kensington Palace are not permitted to reprimand the Queen’s dogs, regardless of their behavior. The Queen prefers that her dogs be allowed to roam freely. She personally walks the dogs daily, and they are treated to gourmet meals prepared by one of the palace’s chefs and delivered by a footman. This level of attention and care reflects the Queen’s affection for her canine companions and her desire for them to have a comfortable and indulgent lifestyle.
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reddit
Dinner parties are heavily orchestrated–and involve tons of protocol
Seating arrangements at a royal dinner party are meticulously planned, and the Queen follows a subtle schedule for her conversations with guests. During the first course, she spends her time speaking to the person on her right, and for the second course, she engages in conversation with the guest on her left. This careful orchestration ensures that each guest has the opportunity to interact with the Queen during the course of the meal.
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Wikimedia Commons
Royal children have no last names–until now
Until the 20th century, royal babies typically did not have a last name; instead, they were referred to by the name of the house or dynasty to which they belonged. This practice persisted for some time. Additionally, because royal children were often homeschooled, there was less immediate necessity for a last name. It was only later in the 20th century, when Princess Diana sent William and Harry to a private school outside of the palace, that the question of a last name became more relevant for them.
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Wikimedia Commons
Chin placement is key
Royal women are often instructed to maintain a specific posture when standing and walking down stairs. They are advised to keep their chins parallel to the ground, exhibiting a poised and graceful appearance. Additionally, when descending stairs, royal women are expected to keep their hands at their sides, adhering to a certain level of formality and elegance in their movements
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Wikimedia Commons
There are also rules for shaking hands
Members of the royal family are expected to maintain strong eye contact during a handshake and limit the duration to two shakes at most. This practice is aimed at avoiding extended physical contact with commoners and preventing the appearance of giving preferential treatment by engaging in prolonged handshakes.
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Wikimedia Commons
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