9 Ridiculous Rules That The Royal Family Has To Follow At All Times
It should come as no surprise that the royal family of England has some bizarre protocols that they need to follow in public, and sometimes in private, at all times. Now dressing conservatively and having perfect hair all the time seems like no-brainers but there are some that will make you question: Why? Just why?
For instance, did you know, once the Queen stops eating, everyone on the table is also supposed to stop? What if they’re hungry, or particularly slow eaters? They’d just be going to bed on a half-full stomach, such are the risks you take when you dine with the royals.
So we decided to round up some of the most ridiculous and strict rules that all royals must follow so that you know what to do and what not to do in case you run into a royal the next time…
Monopoly
Monopoly is Banned from Game Nights
It’s hard to imagine the royal family gathering around a board game on Saturday nights for some family bonding time, but apparently, board games are big with the royals. So much so that the game Monopoly is banned from being played by the royal family as they tend to get extremely competitive and vicious.
Nicknames are a No-No
With titles that are as long as the end credits of a Marvel movie, it would have been fair to assume that the people around them resorted to nicknames while referring to the royals. As it turns out, you can’t get a nickname if you’re a royal. For instance, Kate Middleton is referred to as Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, at all times. However, Prince Harry’s real name is Henry but he is called Harry so maybe the rule is not ironclad.
Two Royal Heirs can’t Travel Together
As morbid as it may sound, two heirs to the throne can’t travel together to preserve the line of succession. The rule was relaxed when Prince William had children of his own but will, reportedly, be back in effect once Prince George turns 12. The third in line to the throne would then not be able to accompany his parents on their tours around the world.
One all-black Outfit has to be in your Travel Suitcases at all Times
Speaking of rules of travel, all royals are required to carry an all-black ensemble anytime they travel. This is so they’re prepared to attend funerals at any given point because not adhering to proper dress codes might bring the sky down.
Queen’s Handbag is a Social Indicator
The Queen uses her purse to give cues to her staff when out in public. While touching the bag is out of the question for anyone who is not Queen Elizabeth, keeping a close eye on it is a requirement. For instance, if the Queen shifts her bag to her right arm, that means she’s done with a conversation and wants to move on.
Chin needs to be Parallel to the Ground while Walking
If you ever want to know how to walk like a queen, try keeping your chin parallel to the ground while walking or descending down the stairs. That’s what the royals are taught to do.
PDA is not Allowed
The reason why Prince William and Kate Middleton look like awkward teenagers out on their first date in their official photographs is that PDA or even non-necessary physical contact in public is off-the-table for royals.
Wedges have no Place in the Royal Wardrobe
This is not officially a part of the royal protocol, but apparently, the Queen hates how wedge-heeled sandals look (can’t blame her, TBH). This is why all royals avoid wearing them in her presence. Kate Middleton, though, has been spotted in the footwear but only on occasions where the Queen is not present.
Manicure Must be Neutral and Basic
If you’re a lover of wild and innovative manicures, or even prone to wearing acrylic nails because they look so cute, you might have to give it all up if you want to marry a prince or princess. While not necessarily banned, bright colours and acrylic nails are frowned upon by the Queen and you will never spot any of the royals with anything but neutral coloured nails in public.
Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II Dies At 96
