The privileged life of British royal family members has always been a coveted dream for royal watchers. However, after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle exited their royal titles in 2021, many people began to realize that being born a royal wasn't as easy as pie. In fact, with great powers come great responsibilities, and Royal Family members are no exception. Here are 20 rules they must strictly adhere to.
These rules must be followed by the Royal Family
Stand when Her Majesty stands
As the monarch of British, the Queen is above everyone else in the Royal Family. It's a compulsory protocol to stand whenever the Queen enters or exits a room, or when she is standing.
Cannot run for election
Being a Royal Family member means being unable to vote or stand for election. They cannot express political views in public, either.
All-black dressing when traveling abroad
When traveling overseas, either for personal purposes or royal duties, Royal members must pack a formal all-black outfit in case of any sudden death.
Heirs travel separately
Two heirs in line to the throne are not allowed to travel together so that the royal lineage is protected in case there is an unexpected accident.
Compulsory bowing and curtsying
Bowing is compulsory for men, while women are required to perform curtsying when greeting Her Majesty. However, if you're not British, you're not required to follow this rule, because The Queen is not your head of state.
Approval from The Monarch before proposal
The Monarch's approval is the prerequisite for any proposal from royal descendants. That's why Prince Harry had to introduce his wife, Meghan Markle, to The Queen just after months of dating.
Dinner protocols
At all royal events, seating is prepared meticulously to adhere to the order of royal precedence. When royals wish to leave the table temporarily before the meal finishes, they need to cross their utensils - a sign that they're not leaving for good.
Dress codes
Every royal outing requires sophisticated and formal dress codes for each royal member. They must not dress in casual clothing as well.
Wear hats in formal events
Hats are signs of the aristocratic, and Royal Family women are required to wear fancy hats in formal appearances. However, these hats will be replaced by tiaras after the clock turns 6 p.m.
Royals must learn multiple languages
Given their regular meeting with representatives from other countries, Royal members are required to master as many languages as possible. Prince George is now capable of doing simple maths in Spanish!
Don't turn your back against the Monarch
As mentioned before, the Monarch is above everyone else. As a result, even if a conversation has ended, you cannot turn your back against the King. Only when His Majesty has left can you do so.
Women must sit in a certain way
Her Majesty insists that Royal Family women must sit with their legs crossed at the knee or ankle
Pay attention to the Queen's purse
The purse not only serves the aesthetic purpose but also sends private signals to her staff. When she moves the purse from her left hand to her right hand, the Queen is signaling to end a conversation.
Wear military uniforms
Of course, these are required at formal events only. For example, Royal Family members are expected to dress formally in military uniform at a royal wedding or state visit.
The Queen can drive without any license
It makes sense because Her Majesty is above everyone else. She's the only person in the UK to be allowed to drive even in the absence of driving license or car plates.
Strict royal diets
No starchy food, no potatoes. The Queen is a creature of habit regarding her meals. She follows a healthy and balanced diet without starchy food such as pizza or pasta.
Diplomatic dressing
When traveling for state visits or other diplomatic reasons, royals must wear special outfits with touches from the local culture, as a gesture of respect.
Natural makeup is better
While women are not banned from using makeup in formal events, they are encouraged not to overuse it. Instead, a natural look with subtle makeup is the best option for royal women.
Pantyhose is a must for royal women
That sounds inconvenient, but Royal Family women are not allowed to appear in public with bare legs. They're expected to wear pantyhose to preserve royal dignity.
Report for duty
Generations of the British Royal family have followed the tradition of serving in the military. Prince Philip, Prince Charles, Prince William, and Prince Harry all used to serve their country one way or another.