The Royal FamilyGet to know the fascinating family headed by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and comprised of her four children, eight grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren—some of whom may someday become the King of England.
People love learning about the royals and all of their bizarre beauty rules. And now, Meghan Markle’s impending wedding to Prince Harry is causing a lot of buzz, especially when it comes to her outfits, hair styles, and makeup choices. There’s good reason for the gossip, though. Markle isn’t a fan of following the royal family beauty rules. The formal and informal rules range from practical (like what to pack in a suitcase for a royal excursion) to pretty ridiculous (they can't wear bright nail colors).
These royal beauty secrets keep England's first ladies looking crisp, clean, and in control at all times. Would you follow the royal fashion rules, or buck tradition like Markle?
Hats Are Required At Every Formal Event
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The BBC reported that for the royal family, hats are a must at any formal event. In fact, the Queen of England, Kate Middleton, and Meghan Markle all wore hats or decorative headpieces called fascinators to the queen's Christmas party last year. British etiquette expert Diana Mather explains:
Up until the 1950s ladies were very seldom seen without a hat as it was not considered 'the thing' for ladies to show their hair in public. But all that has changed and hats are now reserved for more formal occasions.
Crowns Can Only Be Worn At Very Specific Times
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Even though every woman in the royal family is in possession of a crown or tiara, they can't wear the ornate headpieces indiscriminately. Jewels and tiaras are reserved for married women, and are only to be worn at formal events, and even then only after 6 pm.
For married ladies it was a sign of status and would show you were taken and not looking for a husband. For the gentleman it was a clear sign not to make advances toward the lady in question.
Makeup Should Be Simple And Refined
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There are certain makeup rules all the royal women must follow. The Queen of England has kept her makeup routine simple for years, and Princess Diana was known for her natural-looking rosy cheeks (and sometimes, a swipe of blue eyeliner).
Kate Middleton stays within the lines as well; the most dramatic makeup look she rocks is a neutral smokey eye. While Meghan Markle somewhat adheres to the minimal makeup rule, she has been known to shake things up with a glossy lip.
Ever since Meghan Markle got married to Prince Harry, she's had to tone down her manicures. Apparently, pale pink or clear are the only polish shades allowed for royals. The queen is rumored to be a fan of Ballet Slippers, a pale pink shade from Essie.
Kate Middleton has been known to rock Allure, a similar shade from the same brand.
When Traveling, Royals Must Pack One All-Black Outfit
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When a member of the royal family travels abroad, his or her suitcase must contain one very specific type of fashion: an all-black outfit. The look also has to be appropriately conservative. They pack this way so that they will always be prepared for a funeral in case of a sudden death.
This might seem a bit on the morbid side, but the point is to be practical.
The Queen Typically Prefers Bright Clothing
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This rule isn't quite set in stone, but the Queen of England prefers brightly-hued garments. The reasoning behind this style choice is both self-aware and practical. Royal Collection Trust curator Caroline de Guitaut says: “The Queen has always been aware that she needs to stand out from the crowd.”
The crowds that gather to see Queen Elizabeth are usually incredibly large. Her outfits have to be attention-grabbing so that everyone who has come to pay their respects can actually see her.
