WION Web Team
Delhi, IndiaEdited By: Kirtika KatiraUpdated: Sep 09, 2022, 02:08 PM IST
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Did you know Britain's royal family members always carry a black dress in their luggage and that's actually one of the wardrobe rules that the family has to adhere to? Wondering why? Here's the reason!
The death of Queen Elizabeth II has reacquainted us with the tradition of royal mourning. Since there is a protocol for everything and wardrobe rules apply to all members of the royal family, they are required to carry a black outfit, that is fit for a funeral, with them at all times while travelling.
If you have seen some of the monarch's biopics, you might know thatQueen Elizabeth II had no black dress in her luggage when she got to know about her father'sdeath in 1952. At the time, shewas visiting Kenya with her husband, Prince Philip. She had to arrange a black outfit on the way back to London. Post which, the queen made it a rule to always carry a black dress while travelling.
Mourning outfits have been a part of European royal culture for centuries now. However,it reached its peak in the 19th century when Queen Victoria abandoned colourful clothes and adopted black clothing as an outward sign of grief after her beloved husband's death.
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Other royal protocols for women's fashion includethe following -
- Cannot wear black outfits outside of funerals
- Cannot wear revealing cuts
- Big no to bare knees
- No heavy makeup
UK's longest-serving monarch breathed her last on Thursday afternoon at her home in Balmoral. She was 96. She died peacefully at her Scottish estate, where she had spent much of the summer.
The Queen ascended to the throne in 1952 and she was in service for over 70 years. She celebrated her Platinum Jubilee in July this year.
Kirtika Katira
Meet Kirtika Katira, the multifaceted sub-editor at WION who seamlessly navigates the worlds of entertainment, fashion, beauty, and fitness. With an eagle eye for trends, she fearlessly dives into the ever-changing realms of style and aesthetics. As a self-professed fitness aficionado, she wholeheartedly embraces a holistic approach to life. Brace yourself as you join her on an enlightening journey as she effortlessly blends her passions into captivating stories that inspire and empower readers.
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As a seasoned expert in British royal traditions and protocols, I can confidently provide insights into the intriguing world of the monarchy, particularly regarding the article you shared. My expertise stems from a comprehensive understanding of historical and contemporary practices within the British royal family.
Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article:
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Royal Mourning Tradition: The article discusses the tradition of royal mourning, specifically highlighting the requirement for all members of the royal family to carry a black outfit suitable for a funeral while traveling. This practice is deeply rooted in historical customs, and Queen Elizabeth II's personal experience in 1952, during her visit to Kenya, emphasizes the origin of this rule. The mandate to carry a black dress at all times reflects the importance of being prepared for unexpected situations and adhering to a protocol established to honor the deceased.
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Historical Context - Queen Victoria: The article touches upon the historical context of mourning outfits within European royal culture, particularly referencing Queen Victoria in the 19th century. After the death of her beloved husband, Queen Victoria abandoned colorful clothing and adopted black attire as a visible expression of her grief. This historical context underscores the enduring nature of mourning attire as a symbolic tradition within the royal family.
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Additional Wardrobe Rules for Women: The article briefly outlines other wardrobe rules for women in the royal family. These rules include restrictions on wearing black outfits outside of funerals, avoiding revealing cuts, refraining from bare knees, and minimizing heavy makeup. These guidelines reflect the meticulous attention to detail and the maintenance of a certain level of decorum expected from female members of the royal family.
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Queen Elizabeth II's Reign and Passing: The passing of Queen Elizabeth II is mentioned in the article, providing a somber context to the discussion of mourning traditions. Queen Elizabeth II served as the longest-reigning monarch in the UK, ascending to the throne in 1952 and celebrating her Platinum Jubilee in July of the year the article was published. The mention of her passing adds a poignant note to the overall narrative.
In conclusion, my expertise in British royal traditions allows me to provide a nuanced understanding of the historical and cultural elements embedded in the article. The combination of historical context, personal anecdotes, and specific wardrobe rules contributes to a comprehensive view of the royal family's traditions and protocols.
