Beauty Rules That Royals Must Follow

By molly atherton 5 months ago
In the enchanting world of royalty, where tradition meets modernity, the regal allure of monarchs extends far beyond majestic palaces and glittering tiaras. For centuries, royal families around the globe have been the epitome of grace, poise, and sophistication, setting the stage for beauty standards that transcend time and borders. Behind the façade of crown jewels and ceremonial robes lies a meticulous code of conduct and beauty rules that members of royal households must adhere to.

1. Nails Need To Be Kept Short

A long talon of a nail just won't fly when you're part of the royal family. Nails need to be kept very short and neat. They're not allowed to wear long acrylic nails, because apparently these are seen to be quite 'vulgar' when you're a part of the royal family.Original content sourced from Femanin.comImage Source / Dukes AvenueThe aversion to long acrylic nails within royal circles is not merely a matter of aesthetics; it is deeply rooted in the nuanced world of regal etiquette. Royals are expected to embody grace and refinement in every aspect of their appearance, and the length of one's nails is no exception.

2. And They Need To be Clean, Of Course!

Beyond the length, the cleanliness of a royal's nails is a non-negotiable standard, emphasizing the importance of pristine grooming in the regal lexicon. The mandate for clean nails is not a mere formality; it is a reflection of the high standards of hygiene!Image Source / MDS AssociatesClean nails are a testament to a royal's attention to detail. The scrutiny under which members of royal families live means that every public appearance, handshake, or gesture is an opportunity to communicate their commitment to the highest standards of personal care.

3. And Nail Varnish Colour Shouldn't Be Bright (Ideally Pale Pink Specifically)

And, of course, nail varnish colour - no matter how short the nails are - shouldn't be ridiculously bright. We're talking bright neon pink or yellow. The Queen was the only one who could get away with wearing bright neon colours, for everyone else, its a simple pale pink that's the ideal nail colour.Image Source / RedditFor the majority, the regal nail wardrobe leans toward the classics, embracing the soothing palette of pale pinks and neutral hues – colors that don't just follow trends but redefine the very essence of eternal elegance, aligning with the grand philosophy of projecting an image that stands the test of time.

4. Hair Color Needs To Be Natural

Sorry royals, but now's not the time to start experimenting with rainbow shades on your hair, so put that box of Live XXL Color back on the shelf! If you're a royal, then your hair colour needs to be 'natural' - if you are dying, then it'll need to be natural shades like browns and soft blondes.Image Source / HairboristSo, for those tempted to venture into the vibrant world of unconventional hair hues, sorry to disappoint, but regality demands a more subdued approach. Royals, it seems, are destined to adorn their crowns not just with jewels but with the classic hues that have stood the test of time.

5. Speaking Of Hair - It Should Be Tamed

It might be a lot to ask, but hair needs to look 'effortlessly beautiful' in terms of the way it hangs and sways. You know, that dreamy hair look that most of us struggle to achieve with bed-head that just won't quit. For a royal, it needs to be silky smooth and just in good condition.Image Source / ElleSo, while the rest of us may wrestle with bed-head battles, the royals waltz through the day with hair that effortlessly captures the essence of regal charm. It's not just a look; it's a statement—a reminder that even in the pursuit of beauty, there's a certain regal grace that sets them apart.

6. And It Should Look Perfectly Neat At All Times

Royals always need to look perfect. It's as simple as that. And that includes their hair and makeup being utter perfection. Hair can easily get unruly - split ends, unbrushed, a piece of gum stuck in it - but if you're a royal, that's unacceptable. Your hair needs to look tidy, neat and well-put-together.

Image Source / GlamourFor royals, the mandate is clear: from the crown of the head to the tips of each strand, everything must exude an aura of utter perfection. This includes, of course, the regal trifecta of hair, makeup, and an unwavering commitment to flawless elegance.

7. Messy Buns Are A No-No

With most people trying to perfect (and failing) the messy bun, for the royals it's the complete opposite. The messy bun look is just a nope. You can't be sporting the high-top messy ballerina bun if you're a royal. It's probably for the best, anyway, based on the amount of hats they wear.Image Source / HairstyleCampThe quest for perfection extends beyond personal preferences; it's a commitment to presenting an image of unwavering composure and regal grace. So, for those yearning to emulate the messy bun trend, the royal decree is clear: leave the artful disarray to the realm of casual chic.

8. Eye Makeup Must Be Very Simple

There's a reason you've never seen a royal with a block-black smoky eye look with huge winged eyeliner (would look pretty badass, though). This also applies to bright and neon eyeshadow colours, too. The royals have to have simple eye makeup - mascara and a little eyeshadow.Image Source / Jane IredaleSorry, lovers of bold smoky eyes and neon hues, but for the regal elite, the decree is clear: simplicity reigns supreme. You won't catch a royal sporting a block-black smoky eye with massive winged eyeliner anytime soon, even if the allure of such a bold look might be undeniably badass.

9. But Lipstick Is Actually Encouraged

For a rule book that seems to have a lot to say on makeup, it may be surprising to learn they're actually encouraging royals to wear lipstick. Though - shock horror - it shouldn't be anything dramatic like black or bright pink. It should be a muted coloured, like nude.Image Source / Who What Wear UKThe regal invitation to wear lipstick becomes a dance between tradition and modernity, where even in the realm of makeup, the emphasis is instead on a timeless elegance that transcends the whims of passing trends and bright, very bold lipstick colors.

10. Face Makeup Should Be Flawless And Natural

The faces of royals should never look 'overdone', and that means not going to town on the latest contour trends, or making sure they don't get a shade of foundation that's a little too orange. Royals should stick to their natural shade with an understated look of simple foundation.Image Source / Refinery29This means steering clear of the latest contour trends and embracing the beauty of one's natural shade with an understated touch of foundation. The rejection of elaborate contouring and averse reactions to overly orange foundations are not arbitrary choices!

11. But Touching Up Your Makeup Is A Big NOPE (Unless You're The Queen)

While it's important to look flawless, it's also important to never let anyone see you topping up that flawlessness. Apparently royals aren't allowed to fix their makeup, powder their nose or apply a new coat of lipstick in public. They shouldn't even be snapped by paps applying their makeup in the back of a car.Image Source / Philadelphia MagazineBut the queen famously applied her lipstick in public sometimes - like a true queen can. It's not just about looking impeccable; it's about embodying a regal presence that remains untouched by the visible hand of cosmetic touch-ups — as though flawlessness is always natural!

12. Hairspray Is A Key Item

You may have been wondering how the royals were supposed to keep that tamed-hair look when out and about so much - and especially in windy weather - but guess what the secret is? Hairspray! Without hairspray, a royal might risk a flawless hairstyle before leaving the house but a messy bird's nest when the wind hits.Image Source / All Things HairThe secret weapon against the whims of wind and weather is none other than the humble yet mighty hairspray. Yes, the regal tamed-hair look owes its resilience not just to meticulous styling but to the invisible hold of hairspray that ensures every strand remains in its rightful place.

13. Cheeky Hair Nets Are A Secret Ingredient

If you're wondering how Kate Middleton's hair always looks flawless, then take another look at the photos and zoom in. Kate has been known to wear almost-invisible hairnets to keep those perfect up-dos in place - and who can blame her when there's so much pressure on looking flawless?Image Source / InsiderSo, the next time you marvel at Kate Middleton's effortlessly elegant hair, remember that behind the apparent ease lies a meticulous approach to maintaining regal perfection. The almost-invisible hairnet becomes a quiet guardian in maintaining her look.

14. Hairstyles Must Be Regularly Switched Up

Just to keep it interesting, you know? In the same way a celeb would be judged for wearing the same outfit to an event twice. Royals are allowed to express themselves with changing the way they would like to have their hair, and are allowed to not have to have the very same hair do all the time.Image Source / Vanity FairSo, whether it's an elegant up-do, flowing locks, or a chic bob, the changing hairstyles of royals serve as a visual celebration of their personal evolution and the ever-shifting landscape of contemporary fashion. In this sense, the regal beauty code is not a static script!

15. Taking Care Of Your Skin Is A Must For A Royal

Obviously, if you want to look flawless but aren't allowed to wear 10 layers of makeup at the same time, then the only solution is to actually take care of your skin and hopefully look good enough naturally! Faces should be kept clear and glowing, which is why regular facials are a must.Image Source / PinterestBy prioritizing skincare over heavy makeup, royals convey a message of authenticity and a commitment to natural beauty. The choice to rely on well-maintained skin as the primary canvas reinforces the timeless elegance that is associated with regal personas.

16. There's A Very Strict Dress Code (Unsurprisingly)

Members of the royal family must choose every outfit with the idea of 'modesty' behind it. At the same time, modest shouldn't mean 'casual', so royal outfits should be formal and pleasing to the eye, whilst also not being too... you know... revealing.Image Source / Business InsiderThe goal is to present a refined appearance that captivates the eye without veering into the territory of excess. While modesty may guide the selection process, it does not mandate a wardrobe of drab or unremarkable garments. Royals are expected to embrace formality and sophistication!

17. Royal Family Members Must Carry A Black Outfit With Them Everywhere

Because the royals do so much travelling about, they must always carry a formal black outfit with them in case the worse happens and they must attend a funeral without being able to nip home for a quick change. They must be ready for the eventuality.Image Source / The TelegraphCarrying a formal black outfit while traveling serves as a strategic preparedness measure. This ensures that, in the unfortunate event of a funeral or other somber occasion arising unexpectedly, royals can maintain the appropriate level of formality and respect.

18. Tiaras Can Only Be Worn By Married Female Royals

If you're a princess, you wanna wear a tiara, right? Thems just the rules. But this is only the case if you're a married princess, unfortunately. If you don't have a ring on your finger, then you can't have a tiara on your head, tiaras are often considered part of the bridal ensemble.Image Source / Marie Claire AustraliaIt is important to note that customs and rules regarding tiaras can vary among different royal families. Each monarchy may have its own set of protocols and traditions, and exceptions might exist based on specific circumstances or preferences within a particular royal household.

19. There's A Rule For Royal Wedding Bouquets

Okay, so this isn't really a beauty rule, but it's adorable so it's worth mentioning. Royal wedding bouquets must contain myrtle, which is a plant that symbolises love and good luck - just what you need on your special day! It also represents marital fidelity.Image Source / Blooming HausThe tradition of incorporating myrtle can be traced back to Queen Victoria's wedding in 1840 when she included myrtle in her bridal bouquet. Since then, it has become a time-honored custom for royal brides to include a sprig of myrtle in their bouquets.

20. A Monarch's Accessories Cannot Be Touched

Queen Elizabeth II was legendary for her handbag that she never went anywhere without. She actually used it as a prop to send non-verbal signals to say she was ready to leave a conversation (she would move the handbag from one arm to the other).Image Source / Daily ExpressBut - and this probably goes without saying - no one was allowed to touch her handbag. Beyond its practical purpose of carrying personal items, it has acquired a symbolic significance, representing both the Queen's commitment to her duties and her unique style of communication.

21. Wedding Dress Designs Must Be Approved

For most people, your wedding dress is one of the most important choices you'll make in your life. So imagine actually having to wait to have your dream design approved - or, having your dream design told 'nope'. The queen had to say yes to any intended wedding dress when she was the monarch!Image Source / Vanity FairWhile this process might seem restrictive, it's essential to understand that royal wedding dresses carry immense symbolic weight. They are not just personal fashion statements but also significant elements of the public spectacle of a royal wedding.

22. Hats Must Be Worn At Every Formal Event

Imagine taking all that time on your hair to make it look flawless, as required, only to then be told to cover it with a hat! But yep, if you're a royal, you must wear a hat to every occasion which is deemed a 'formal' one (so surely that's every time a royal steps out of the house, right?).Image Source / House BeautifulIn the context of royalty, the tradition of wearing hats to formal events is a visual representation of regal decorum and tradition. It also adds an extra layer of formality and sophistication to the ensemble, emphasizing the gravity of the occasion.

23. There Was A Reason The Queen's Clothes Were So Bright

When we're talking about all these rules of remaining simple and nude-toned if you're a royal, you may be wondering why Queen Elizabeth was always dressed in bright colours with bright pink lipstick. Aside from the fact that she could probably do whatever she wanted.Image Source / The TelegraphThe reason for the bright outfits was actually because it was important for her to stand out in a crowd - quite literally. While adhering to certain royal traditions, she infused her wardrobe with a distinctive vibrancy that became a hallmark of her regal presence.

24. No Cleavage, Thanks

You may have noticed that every single time you've seen a female royal, even at more glamorous events, they have a high-necked outfit on, or at least one that adequately covers the chest. Princess Diana was also famous for covering her chest with her clutch back when stepping out of a car.Image Source / Good Housekeeping
While fashion trends may always evolve, the regal dress code remains rooted in tradition and continues to prioritize modesty and formality. The high-necked or covered-chest approach is a visual manifestation of these principles within the world of royalty.

25. Outfits Must Be Perfectly Coordinated

Every single element of a royal's outfit, down to the tiniest earrings, must be chosen with the entire outfit in mind. The whole thing must look cohesive, including the top, trousers or skirt and the shoes. No clashing colours or fabric patterns, thanks!Image Source / Vogue AustraliaThe choice of colors, patterns, and accessories often takes into account the nature of the event or engagement. Whether it's a formal ceremony, a diplomatic meeting, or a public appearance, the outfit should be appropriate and reflective of the occasion.

26. Clutch Purses Are A Must

Female royals are encouraged to always carry a clutch. Aside from the Princess Diana cleavage trick, it's also apparently to deter members of the general public from trying to shake the hand of a royal. Clutches are encouraged over large purses for the sole purpose that clutches have to be held in the hand.Image Source / Marie ClaireThe choice of accessories in royal fashion is often guided by tradition and established protocols. The use of clutches has become a customary element of regal fashion, and adhering to these practices helps maintain a sense of continuity and formality.

27. Pantyhose Must Be Worn

Another fashion rule you might think is pretty outdated: all female royal family members must wear pantyhose when out in public. The Queen was never seen without them. Kate Middleton wears them all the time. Pantyhose are often associated with a professional and polished look. It's just the done thing.Image Source / Etsy - HausOfGlamourWhile there may be shifts in fashion trends over time, the royal family often places a premium on continuity and adherence to established norms. The practice of wearing pantyhose by female members of the royal family is a manifestation of these enduring traditions.

28. Hide Any Grey Hairs

At least that's the case if you're not a very, very old royal. Apparently having your grey hair on show is a no-no if you're a royal on the younger side, like Kate Middleton. Grey hairs must be dyed over - and only using a 'natural' shade of hair dye, remember!Image Source / Red magazineThe public image of royals often aligns with a sense of youthfulness and vitality. While embracing natural signs of aging is a personal choice, the expectation for female royals to use natural shades of hair dye contributes to the perception of a polished and ageless appearance.

29. No Fabrics That Wrinkle Easily

This one does make sense seeing as they're hopping in and out of cars - and in and out of events - quite often. If they're wearing anything that wrinkles immediately then they're going to look less-than-perfect for the rest of the day! This is also why thicker fabrics like wool are more often seen on a royal than something like silk.Image Source / Textures.comFabrics that resist wrinkles contribute to the longevity of a polished look. Royals are often in the public eye, and the expectation is for them to maintain a flawless appearance throughout the duration of their engagements. Choosing fabrics that hold their shape contributes to this goal.

30. A Blowout Is The Must-Do Hair-Do

You may have noticed that Duchess Kate often has that ultimate blow-out do, and that's because it's highly encouraged as a royal. The hair down and blown out look is the optimal hair style for female royals (though, as mentioned, royal ladies are highly encouraged to switch things up, too).Image Source / PinterestThe smooth and well-styled nature of the blow-out hairstyle adds a touch of professionalism to a royal's appearance. It complements the overall regal image and is suitable for the many different formal events and official engagements that royals have to attend.

31. Purses Must Be Held In The Left Hand

Handbags are a must-have accessory for royals, but there's also a rule about which hand to hold your purse in. Purses must ideally be held in the left hand so that the right hand is free to wave at folk, shake hands or use for greeting members of the public.Image Source / CosmopolitanHolding the purse in the left hand might be a strategic choice for better presentation in photographs when royals are seen in public. When royals are photographed during public events, having the right hand free allows for more visible and engaging gestures.

32. Dresses And Skirts Are Preferable To Pants

It was the Queen in particular who preferred dresses or skirts over pants as a more traditional look for royal women, which is why you can also spot people like Kate Middleton wearing a dress or skirt (with the pantyhose and heel ensemble too, of course).Image Source / CosmopolitanDresses and skirts are often associated with a sense of femininity and elegance. The flowing lines and tailored silhouettes contribute to a polished and refined appearance, reinforcing the regal image of grace and sophistication that is always expected!

33. And Those Dresses And Skirts Should Always Be An Appropriate Length

In keeping with tradition (or the idea of what's traditionally 'appropriate' for a skirt length), royal women wearing these items of clothing should ensure that they are around knee-length, and also - very specifically - no short than a few inches above the knee.Image Source / CosmopolitanSkirts of an appropriate length contribute to the overall formality of royal fashion. This is particularly crucial for formal events, ceremonies, and official engagements where a polished and refined appearance is always expected of the female royals.

34. Jeans Are Allowed - But Only To Casual Events

It might be surprising to learn that jeans are actually allowed, but it must only be to the most casual events or public appearances. This includes if royals are going about their daily business, like taking the dogs for a walk or something where a skirt and heels wouldn't really be practical.Image Source / CosmopolitanPermitting jeans for specific occasions may also contribute to a more relatable and approachable public image for the royals. It showcases a down-to-earth aspect of their personalities, especially when engaging in activities that are relatable to the general public.

35. Bare Nails Are Also Allowed

There is a strict rule on nail colour, with no bright colours allowed and pale colours (like soft pink) being preferable, but there's also the option to not wear any nail colour at all. Bare nails are permitted, as long as they look nice and clean and at an acceptable length, of course!Image Source / Cosmopolitan
The allowance for bare nails, as long as they are clean and at an acceptable length, provides a practical option for those who prefer a more natural look. This option aligns with the idea that personal grooming should be maintained to a high standard!

36. Clutch Bags Can Be A Tool To Avoid Shaking Hands

More than just an accessory, clutch bags can also be a necessity if royals want to avoid shaking hands completely. Holding the clutch bag at the front of you with both hands signals that you don't have a hand free to greet. This was you can politely refrain from a handshake!Image Source / CosmopolitanIn high-profile public engagements where a royal may encounter a large crowd, the use of a strategically positioned clutch becomes a valuable tool in maintaining a level of control over the nature and extent of physical interactions, and maintaining personal space!

37. Wearing Hats Is Actually Part Of Old English Tradition

Like most things with the royal family, it's all about tradition! And that tradition is an old one which dictates that women should keep their hair covered up, which is why hats are a must-do. Until the 1950s, it apparently wasn't considered proper for a lady to show her hair in public so hats have always been a thing.Image Source / CosmopolitanHats have long been regarded as an essential component of formal attire. The historical association of hats with modesty reflects societal norms, where it was considered proper for women to cover their heads in public. This tradition was deeply ingrained in various cultures for centuries.

38. Which Is Why, When The Queen Wasn't Wearing A Hat, She Still Covered Her Head

With the many photos of the late Queen Elizabeth, you've surely seen one of her wearing a headscarf when she's out walking the dogs or not at official royal events. Or, if not a headscarf, then a crown during public appearances. This is so that she always had something on her head, no matter what!Image Source / Cosmopolitan
As a public figure, Queen Elizabeth II was acutely aware of the public perception and the significance of her image. Wearing headscarves and crowns during certain occasions helped convey a sense of dignity, even in more relaxed settings, and contributed to her iconic image.

39. The Rule About Packing Black Clothes Was Started Due To King George VI's Death

When King George VI - the late Queen Elizabeth's father - passed away, Elizabeth was away in Kenya and hadn't got any black clothing with her. She had to wait for black clothes to be delivered to her before she could go out and make her way to the funeral.Image Source / Cosmopolitan
After this, the rule became official that royals must pack black with them wherever they go. In the case of Queen Elizabeth II being in Kenya when her father passed away, there may have been logistical challenges in obtaining appropriate mourning attire promptly.

40. Young Princes Must Wear Only Shorts

Prince George and Prince Louis are always seeing wearing shorts, and there's a reason for that - it's a fashion rule and tradition that young princes (as well as some aristocracy) must be dressed in shorts instead of pants (which they're allowed to wear when they get older).Image Source / CosmopolitanShorts are often seen as a symbol of youth and innocence. The tradition of having young boys wear shorts reinforces the idea of childhood and distinguishes their clothing from that of older individuals who wear pants so that they retain their child-like look.

41. Wedge Shoes Are A No-No

At least they were if you were in the presence of Queen Elizabeth. The rule can be broken if you're not actually in the presence of the queen, as she apparently wasn't the biggest fan of wedges (which Kate is seen wearing here, away from the queen's eyes).Image Source / CosmopolitanClosed-toe shoes are generally considered more formal and traditional in royal circles. They convey a sense of elegance and formality that aligns with the expectations of royal attire during official engagements. The royal family often follows a dress code for formal events and occasions.

42. Queen Elizabeth Actually Had Someone To Break Her Shoes In

We all know that new shoes can rub and cause blisters before they're broken in, and when you're a monarch, you definitely need to avoid all that if you're on your feet all day for royal events. Well, Queen Elizabeth had someone to wear her shoes to break them in to make sure she could comfortably wear them.Image Source / CosmopolitanWearing new shoes for the first time can be uncomfortable, and the last thing Queen Elizabeth II needed during royal events was discomfort or the risk of developing blisters. Having someone else wear the shoes in advance helps soften the leather and mold it to the shape of the foot, ensuring a more comfortable fit for the Queen.

43. Gloves Are Definitely Encouraged

Gloves look great anyway if you're wearing them for a formal event, but there's actually a more practical reason for royals, too. The Queen used to wear gloves to engagements that saw her shaking hands with a lot of people, to protect herself from germs!Image Source / CosmopolitanThe use of gloves aligns with considerations for people's personal hygiene and health. Members of the royal family are public figures, and minimizing the risk of illness is essential, particularly during periods when the spread of infections is a concern.

44. Clothing Chosen On Royal Tours Should Be A Shout-Out To That Country

When royals are travelling overseas, it's a tradition for them to pay tribute to the country they're visiting by wearing clothes which symbolise something about that country, or an outfit which shows the country's national colours. For her visit to Canada, Kate Middleton wore a hat adorned with maple leaves.Image Source / CosmopolitanThis practice of diplomatic dressing is carefully considered, and members of the royal family often work with designers to create outfits that strike a balance between fashion and cultural sensitivity. It reflects the role of royals as cultural ambassadors and their efforts to engage meaningfully with the countries they visit.

45. Alternatively, They Can Wear Clothes By A Designer From That Country

If outfits aren't made from the colours of the country or made with something symbolising it, royals might also wear clothes which have been designed by a designer from the country they're visiting. That way, they can show off the style and creation of someone native to that country.Image Source / CosmopolitanBy choosing outfits from local designers, royals contribute to the economic growth of the fashion industry in the host country. It provides exposure and recognition to local talents on an international stage. It fosters cultural exchange by highlighting the creativity and craftsmanship of local designers.

46. And Sometimes This Rule Can Be Taken To The Max

An example of how royals can really embrace this rule and have fun with it is when Kate Middleton visited Ireland for St. Patrick's Day and wore an entire green outfit, a corsage of clovers and even had a clover pin. And, of course, a pint of Guinness to finish off the look!Image Source / Cosmopolitan
The addition of a corsage of clovers and a clover pin showcased attention to detail and a commitment to incorporating symbolic elements associated with Irish culture. This level of thoughtfulness is appreciated by the public and helps create a connection with the local traditions.

47. Royals Shouldn't Wear Fur

It was actually a rule declared back in the 14th Century by King Edward III, that nobody at all - not just the royal family - could wear fur. The modern day royal family does tone down on the fur, but it may still crop up in things like scarves occasionally.Image Source / Cosmopolitan
The royal family's approach to fur aligns with a larger movement within the fashion industry to promote cruelty-free and sustainable practices. Many designers and fashion houses have also embraced fur-free policies in response to changing public sentiment and ethical concerns.

48. But The Queen Did Wear Fur

Once again, the queen proved she could definitely be the exception to any rule - when she's the one that makes them - when she was seeing wearing a large fur coat to a visit to Russia in 1994. To be fair, this is a country that's very cold, after all!Image Source / CosmopolitanIn the instance you mentioned, during her visit to Russia in 1994, the Queen wore a large fur coat. In colder climates, particularly during visits to countries with harsh winters, practicality and warmth may take precedence, leading to the use of fur for its insulating properties.

49. Men Should Wear Military Gear for Special Events

Trooping the Colour, the official celebration of the Queen's birthday in the UK, is a prominent example of an event where members of the royal family wear military dress. The spectacle includes a military parade and the Trooping the Colour ceremony.Image Source / CosmopolitanOn Remembrance Day, which honors the members of the armed forces who lost their lives in the line of duty, members of the royal family often wear military attire as a sign of solidarity and remembrance. This includes the iconic red poppy flower, symbolizing those who died in conflict.

50. But The Military Garb Isn't Restricted To Men

Female royals can also wear military gear to state events and occasions - Princess Anne in particular is often seen in full military uniform at royal events. She's never actually served in the military, but she has honorary rank of admiral so she's allowed to wear it too.

Image Source / Cosmopolitan

The choice to wear military gear is not limited by gender, and female royals may don ceremonial military uniforms as a symbol of their honorary roles and support for the armed forces. Princess Anne, in particular, has been noted for her frequent appearances in full military uniform.