When you think about Princess Catherine, it’s easy to picture a life filled with glamour, elegance, and fairy-tale moments.
However, life within the royal family is anything but a storybook.
Beneath the surface of public appearances and celebrations lies a complex web of rules and protocols that dictate how royals conduct themselves.
Today, we’re peeling back the curtain to reveal some surprising restrictions that Princess Catherine has navigated throughout her time in the royal spotlight, along with instances where she has bent these ancient rules.
Let’s start with selfies.
Unlike many celebrities who happily snap pictures with fans, members of the royal family are traditionally discouraged from taking selfies.
Instead, they engage with the public through handshakes and polite greetings.
Yet, in a refreshing twist, Princess Catherine has begun to break this tradition.
During a visit to Foxcub’s nursery, she paused for a selfie, hinting that perhaps the no-selfie rule is due for an update.
Next up is the topic of autographs.
Royals steer clear of signing their names to avoid the risk of forgery.
At the 2023 Chelsea Flower Show, a young girl eagerly asked for Princess Catherine’s autograph, only to be met with a polite decline.
“I’m not allowed to write my signature,” she explained.
But rather than leaving the girl disappointed, Catherine creatively drew a flower for her, showcasing her artistic flair while still adhering to royal protocol.
Dining etiquette is another area where strict rules come into play.
When it comes to meals, no one is permitted to retire for the night before the monarch has finished eating.
This means that Princess Catherine must synchronize her dining schedule with King Charles, setting her fork down the moment he does—regardless of whether she’s finished her meal.
This age-old custom underscores the respect that is expected within royal circles.
Makeup and grooming also come with their own set of guidelines.
Royal women are encouraged to maintain a natural and understated appearance, which extends to their nail polish choices.
While Princess Catherine usually follows this rule, she recently made headlines by sporting bright red nails for the first time since her marriage to Prince William.
This subtle deviation from tradition certainly caught the eye of royal watchers.
Dress codes are strictly enforced as well.
Princess Catherine’s wardrobe must reflect modesty and conservatism, favoring muted colors and avoiding short skirts or revealing outfits.
Although not rigidly enforced, royal women are often advised to wear tights during formal occasions.
Moreover, the royal family’s stance against animal cruelty means that Catherine avoids fur, and she typically keeps her coat on in public settings, especially during colder months.
Shopping is another activity that requires careful navigation.
Despite her love for grocery shopping and boutique visits, Princess Catherine cannot venture out alone.
Security protocols dictate that she must always be accompanied by security personnel, ensuring her safety while adhering to royal expectations.
Interestingly enough, there’s even a royal ban on playing Monopoly.
Queen Elizabeth II once prohibited the game due to its tendency to ignite fierce competition among family members.
Prince Andrew admitted that Monopoly can become quite cutthroat during family game nights, leading to its exclusion from royal entertainment options.
Public displays of affection also require a delicate touch.
Royal family members, including Princess Catherine and Prince William, are expected to keep their romantic gestures private during official engagements.
While there’s no formal prohibition against PDA, the couple tends to maintain a professional demeanor when representing the monarchy.
When it comes to accepting gifts, the royal family must exercise caution.
While small tokens like flowers or books are acceptable, any gift valued over £150 must be politely declined.
This rule helps prevent potential conflicts of interest and ensures that the royal family remains above reproach.
Lastly, let’s discuss travel arrangements.
Although there’s no official rule preventing heirs to the throne from flying together, it’s generally advised against for safety reasons.
In instances where Prince William and Princess Catherine travel with their children, including second-in-line Prince George, they must seek permission from King Charles beforehand.
Ultimately, the king holds the final say, balancing the practicality of family travel with the weight of royal responsibilities.
Princess Catherine’s life may seem like a fairytale, but behind the scenes, it’s governed by a host of rules that shape her daily existence.
Whether she’s bending traditions or adhering to them, her journey as a member of the royal family is anything but ordinary.
