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The Royal Rulebook: What Meghan Markle had to follow
Find out which set of protocols Meghan Markle had to obey as a Duchess of Sussex
Being a member of the British family comes with strict rules that one must abide by. From what to wear to what to eat to how to greet, everything is dictated by a set of protocols.
With Meghan Markle marrying Prince Harry in 2018, she was also expected to follow rules that were new to her.
Here are the rules the Duchess of Sussex had to follow:
Royal wardrobe rules
Members of the royal family are expected to wear nude stockings paired with skirts and dresses.
In her first official photocall with Prince Harry announcing their engagement, Meghan wore strappy heels and opted to ditch stockings.
No social media
After becoming a member of the royal family, you’re expected to delete all your personal social media platforms.
Christmas Rules at Sandringham
It is a rule in the British royal family that fiancées of the members aren’t usually invited to the Queen’s festivities, but Prince Harry reportedly asked for an exception to be made for Meghan.
Only spouses of royals can attend it at the Queen’s private estate in Norfolk.
In 2010, Kate Middleton wasn’t allowed to spend Christmas with the royal family, as she was engaged to Prince William but not yet married.
Apolitical stance
Once you step into the royal family, you must set aside your political views, as a royal is expected to be seen as neutral.
They are not even allowed to exercise their right to vote.
Love vs. Protocol
Though there is no official rule that restricts PDA, royals like Prince William and Kate Middleton usually refrain from even holding hands or wrapping their arms around each other in public settings.
That being said, the same was also expected from Meghan, but she couldn’t help keeping her hands off Prince Harry.
No signatures allowed
Royals aren’t allowed to sign autographs for security reasons, to prevent their signatures from being forged.
On her trip to Cardiff with Prince Harry, despite knowing the rule, she signed a 10-year-old girl’s autograph book with a heart and smiley face.