The British royal family is famously secretive, with a carefully maintained system of protocols that preserve their unique way of life. As the future Queen Consort, Princess Catherine of Wales exemplifies style and grace, while also balancing the demands of being a mother of three and one of the world’s most recognizable women. The expectations placed upon her, like all royals, include rules and traditions that many outside the royal circle might find surprising. Here’s a look at some of these unique family rules.
One lesser-known rule is that royal women are not permitted to wear diamonds before 6 p.m. Royal etiquette expert M. Mayor explained this tradition, noting that before evening, royals stick to metals, gemstones, pearls, and sapphires to avoid an overly flashy appearance. Once evening arrives, diamonds are allowed. Additionally, for indoor events held after 6 p.m., women swap their hats for tiaras, which are reserved exclusively for married women.
The Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Catherine, are expected to shape a new vision of the monarchy. According to experts, "The Firm" has recognized the power and potential of the young, glamorous couple to refresh the monarchy’s image. While certain traditions remain, Catherine and William’s modern approach could influence future rules, especially those related to fashion and public image.
While some rules remain strict, other traditions have seen some bending. Both Princess Catherine and her sister-in-law have occasionally chosen not to follow the Queen's preference for wearing tights with dresses and skirts. Additionally, one of the strictest etiquette rules is that royal women are not to sit with their legs crossed at the knee; instead, they must keep their knees and legs together, though crossing at the ankle is acceptable.
Public decorum extends even to small gestures, such as how Princess Diana once used her clutch to cover her chest when exiting vehicles to avoid giving paparazzi a compromising shot. This practice continues for today’s princesses, as part of maintaining an appropriately modest appearance. At royal dinners, the Queen would traditionally begin speaking to the guest on her right during the first course and then switch to the guest on her left during the second course. Royals who need to leave a meal before it’s finished cross their utensils to signal to the staff not to clear their plate, while placing utensils at an angle signals that they are done with the meal.
Members of the royal family are expected to remain politically neutral, refraining from voting or engaging in political debates. As the King is both the head of state and head of the Church of England, it is vital that he and his family stay above politics to maintain a neutral public stance. Another unique custom restricts public displays of affection among senior royals, especially while traveling, to avoid potentially offending people from more conservative cultures. However, Prince Harry and Meghan, the former Duke and Duchess of Sussex, often chose not to adhere to this custom, frequently displaying affection in public.
Until 2011, royals were prohibited from marrying Roman Catholics. Royal weddings themselves are full of tradition, including the requirement that every bridal bouquet contains myrtle, a flower symbolizing hope and love, a tradition dating back to Queen Victoria’s era.
Historically, direct heirs were not allowed to travel together in the same plane to avoid the risk of losing multiple heirs in the event of an accident. This rule has seen some relaxation, with Prince William and Prince George often traveling together, though this may change when George turns 12 in July 2025, similar to when William stopped traveling with King Charles at that age.
One final, somber rule requires that every royal be prepared with a funeral-appropriate outfit whenever they travel, in case of an unexpected death. This ensures that, even in moments of grief, they adhere to the decorum expected of their position.
These traditions, rules, and protocols are integral to the royal identity, underscoring the balance of modernity and heritage that shapes today’s British monarchy.
