It can be challenging to live up to the standards of in-laws. Meghan Markle, who married Prince Harry in 2018, likely knows this better than anyone.
Like any family, the royals welcomed Markle into their homes with open arms, some being more welcoming than others. After receiving the title of duchess, she was expected to adhere to the standards and protocols of the royal family.
Meghan Markle’s Tendency to Break Protocol
Being a member of the British royal family is undoubtedly a life-changing experience. Keeping up with the list of rules that accompany the title of duchess can be difficult.
As Markle has only been a part of the royal family for six years, it makes sense that she’s broken several royal rules as she adjusts to life as a duchess. Here are 10 times the Duchess of Sussex broke royal protocol.
Archie’s Birth Announced on Social Media
Traditionally, when a new child is born into the royal family, Buckingham Palace announces the newborn on a ceremonial easel outside the palace.
However, when Markle gave birth to Archie, she and Harry shared the news via Instagram, breaking royal protocol in the process (via ABC News).
Meghan Leaves Home without a Bra
The female members of the royal family are not permitted to attend any event without wearing a bra, according to an unwritten rule.
However, this is precisely what Markle did during her first appearance as a duchess in public. She later argued her beliefs as a feminist should be taken into consideration (via The Independent).
No Name Tag for the Duchess
The royal race in Ascot is an important day in any royal’s calendar. It also comes with a strict dress code, per Bright Side. All female visitors must arrive in a dress with closed shoulders and a skirt length that reaches down to at least the knees.
Royals are also supposed to wear a name tag. However, in 2018, Markle decided to walk around with the tag in her hand instead, breaking yet another royal rule.
Markle Shares Her Political Views
As it’s deemed unconstitutional for members of British royalty to vote in elections, they also refrain from speaking about politics.
However, Markle has openly spoken about her political preferences in several interviews and her stance on abortion, per Cosmopolitan.
Follow the Leader
Royal protocol insists those with lower status than their partner should walk behind them. An example is Prince Philip, who was always pictured two paces behind Queen Elizabeth II, according to The New York Times.
However, Meghan doesn’t seem to be that interested in following this rule. The duchess has been photographed numerous times walking in front of Prince Harry.
Not Permitted to Sign Autographs
One seldom-mentioned rule of the royal family prohibits them from signing autographs. It aims to ensure that someone with malicious intent cannot use their signature.
However, Meghan devised a clever way to get around this rule when a young child asked for her autograph. Instead, she simply wrote, “Hi Kaitlin,” without signing her own name.
Markle Closes Doors Herself
While not a serious violation of rules, female members of the royal family aren’t expected to close the doors of vehicles. However, Markle has been caught doing so several times over the years.
Speaking with the BBC, William Hanson, an etiquette expert, explains, “Usually, if you are a member of the royal family or a dignitary, you have a member of staff to open and close a car door for you.”
Markle Invited to Christmas at Sandringham
Spending Christmas at Sandringham is a right solely reserved for members of the British royal family. In 2010, Princess Catherine didn’t receive an invite even though she was engaged to Prince William.
However, in 2018, Harry forced his grandmother to make an exception for Markle so that she could join the royals for the holidays.
Not a Fan of Pantyhose
Pantyhose is a big thing for the royal family. Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Cathrine, and even Princess Diana were seldom seen in public without wearing them.
However, Meghan Markle isn’t fond of this tradition. During her and Prince Harry’s engagement photo shoot, she chose not to wear pantyhose, and followers of the royal British etiquette were shocked by her decision.
Catholic Background
Of all the rules broken by Markle, marrying Harry in the first place, having come from a Catholic background, was the one that upset traditionalists the most.
However, in 2013, the long-standing rule which prohibited British royals from marrying Catholics was removed. Yet, Meghan was still baptized into the Church of England before marrying Prince Harry.
