Life as a royal may seem like a fairy tale, but as Princess Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, has recently revealed, her reality is far more regimented than glamorous. Beneath the grand ceremonies and dazzling public appearances lies a complex web of traditions, rules, and expectations that guide every aspect of royal life. From her interactions with fans to her family life, Catherine navigates a range of rules—some practical, others deeply rooted in history. Here’s a closer look at the strict protocols that define life for the beloved princess.
1. No Selfies Allowed
The modern era is filled with selfies, but for the royal family, posing for photos with the public is strictly discouraged. Tradition mandates that members of the royal family engage with the public through handshakes and polite greetings, not personal snapshots. However, Princess Catherine has gently bent this rule on several occasions, most recently at Fox Club Nursery, where she paused to snap a selfie with fans. Her actions suggest that perhaps it’s time for the palace to re-evaluate this rule.
2. No Autographs Permitted
When a seven-year-old asked Catherine for her autograph during the 2023 Chelsea Flower Show, she had to explain that giving signatures is against royal policy. This rule prevents the possibility of royal autographs being forged. To soften the child’s disappointment, Catherine quickly sketched a small flower for her. This charming gesture, a creative workaround, brought joy to the young royal fan and highlighted Catherine’s ability to make personal connections within her royal limits.
3. Observing Royal Bedtime Etiquette
In the royal household, even bedtime follows protocol. Family members traditionally do not retire for the night before the reigning monarch does. While this rule seems antiquated, it remains an unspoken standard of respect and unity within the family. Similarly, royal etiquette dictates that dining ceases as soon as the monarch finishes their meal—a regulation that requires Catherine and other family members to adjust their pace during meals.
4. Restrained Makeup and Nail Colors
Royal women are expected to maintain a natural and subtle appearance, particularly when it comes to makeup and nail color. For years, Catherine adhered to a simple nude palette, but she made headlines recently by wearing bright red nail polish for the first Easter service following Queen Elizabeth II’s passing. This minor departure from tradition captivated royal watchers and perhaps signaled a subtle shift toward a more modern royal image.
5. Modest and Conservative Dress Code
In public, royal attire must be both conservative and modest, with muted tones preferred over bright colors. Additionally, Catherine and other royals are discouraged from wearing fur and are encouraged to dress in ways that reflect an environmentally conscious image. Short skirts, plunging necklines, and shedding outerwear in public are all frowned upon—encouraging royals to choose elegant, modest styles that convey dignity and propriety.
6. Shopping with Security
Though she enjoys occasional outings to local boutiques and grocery stores, Catherine is prohibited from venturing out alone. For safety reasons, every public outing requires the presence of security personnel. While many would imagine royal shopping trips to be more glamorous, Catherine’s trips are anything but ordinary, accompanied by a discreet security team.
7. Monopoly is Off-Limits
In a somewhat amusing twist, the late Queen Elizabeth II reportedly banned the royal family from playing Monopoly at home due to the competitive, and sometimes heated, nature of the game. Prince Andrew once admitted that playing Monopoly within the royal family could get “too vicious,” adding a surprising quirk to royal family life that is often governed by diplomacy and restraint.
8. Limited Public Displays of Affection (PDA)
Royal etiquette encourages royals to keep displays of affection minimal in public. As representatives of the monarchy, they are expected to maintain a professional demeanor, opting for decorum over visible affection. This explains why Catherine and Prince William are rarely seen holding hands or engaging in other forms of PDA during official engagements.
9. Restrictions on Gift Acceptance
As global icons, royals receive hundreds of gifts each year, but there are strict regulations on what they can accept. While flowers, food, and small tokens are generally allowed, larger or more valuable gifts require approval and must align with specific guidelines. The goal is to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure that no gift compromises the royal family’s integrity.
10. Heirs Avoid Flying Together
Although not an official rule, heirs to the throne are advised not to fly together, to safeguard the line of succession in case of an accident. While Catherine and her family occasionally travel together, each journey requires the King’s permission, underscoring the gravity with which the monarchy protects its lineage.
A Life Governed by Tradition
While Princess Catherine’s life may appear dazzling, her role is carefully crafted within a complex framework of royal tradition. The concessions and compromises she makes highlight her dedication to both her family and her duty. Through her warmth and modern approach, she is slowly reshaping what it means to be royal in the 21st century, balancing personal authenticity with the weight of tradition.