The Duke and Duchess of Rothesay , Prince William and Kate Middleton recently visited the Isle of Mull in Scotland to celebrate their 14th anniversary in a two-day trip on April 29th and 30th. The couple was seen enjoying the trip with various outdoor visits during all of which Kate was sporting a stylish pair of Finlay Vivian sunglasses. But did you know that wearing sunglasses is not appreciated in royal protocol?
Did Kate Middleton break royal protocol?
Wearing sunglasses is not against protocol for a royal. However, it's not a common practice for royals to wear them during official outings.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Myka Meier, an etiquette expert and author of the book 'Modern Etiquette Made Easy' shared more details about the protocol. '"Sunglasses — or 'sunnies,' as they are called socially in the U.K. — can be seen on royals during official engagements, but usually only during sporting events when there is an activity or event outside or when needed as eye protection for a sunny climate or environment they are in," she began. These include sporting events such as Wimbledon or tropical tours such as the royal tour in the Caribbean.
"They will remove sunglasses as soon as they walk inside, have a prolonged or serious conversation or upon any formal greeting," added Meier. She added how sunglasses prevent direct eye contact which can be seen as a barrier while communicating. Taking off the sunglasses upon meeting someone is considered to be a sign of courtesy and respect to the other person.
Naturally, sunglasses are worn outdoors by the royals. King Charles and Queen Camilla have adorned them during sunny events and even Queen Elizabeth sported them occasionally.
The degree of formality of an event might also be a contributing factor for using the accessory. While this was an anniversary trip, during Pope Francis' funeral which was held outdoors, Prince William did not wear sunglasses whereas other dignitaries did.
Did Kate Middleton break royal protocol?
Wearing sunglasses is not against protocol for a royal. However, it's not a common practice for royals to wear them during official outings.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Myka Meier, an etiquette expert and author of the book 'Modern Etiquette Made Easy' shared more details about the protocol. '"Sunglasses — or 'sunnies,' as they are called socially in the U.K. — can be seen on royals during official engagements, but usually only during sporting events when there is an activity or event outside or when needed as eye protection for a sunny climate or environment they are in," she began. These include sporting events such as Wimbledon or tropical tours such as the royal tour in the Caribbean.
"They will remove sunglasses as soon as they walk inside, have a prolonged or serious conversation or upon any formal greeting," added Meier. She added how sunglasses prevent direct eye contact which can be seen as a barrier while communicating. Taking off the sunglasses upon meeting someone is considered to be a sign of courtesy and respect to the other person.
Naturally, sunglasses are worn outdoors by the royals. King Charles and Queen Camilla have adorned them during sunny events and even Queen Elizabeth sported them occasionally.
The degree of formality of an event might also be a contributing factor for using the accessory. While this was an anniversary trip, during Pope Francis' funeral which was held outdoors, Prince William did not wear sunglasses whereas other dignitaries did.
You may also like
From 'Signalgate' to the UN: Why Mike Waltz was 'promoted', not fired, according to US Vice President JD Vance; watch
Three people rushed to hospital after helicopter crashes into the ocean near Point Lonsdale off Victoria coast
Older carers missing out on vital Pension Credit, charities warn
Mark Carney's Win In Canada: A Reset With India & A Reimagined Foreign Policy
'US stands strong with India, PM Modi has our full support': US on Pahalgam attack
