If you thought the royals had a super strict dress code (they famously aren't allowed to wear diamonds before 6pm, and must always travel with a black outfit), then wait 'til you hear what you have to wear if you are ever invite to attend an event with them.
In a video on The Royal Family's Channel on YouTube, Lucy Hume, Head of Content at Debrett’s, explained there a strict rule you need to follow when meeting the Queen or any other member of the royal family.
For example, formal events require you to be dressed up to the nines, and not just any party dress will do.
She explains, 'You would be looking at a dress code like white tie, which is similar to black tie that we’d see on the red carpet but the bowtie is white and it has a wing collar for men, and for that dress code women would be expected usually to wear a long formal evening gown.
'Black tie is a shorter dinner jacket for men and a black bow tie, women can wear a trouser suit or a co*cktail dress. And then we come down to lounge suit which is what you would be familiar with wearing to the office. And then smart casual.'
If you were invited to Buckingham Palace during the day, you would need to wear something formal, but not as formal as black tie - something similar to what you would wear to a wedding.
And of course, at all moments you must dress demurely. 'There are certain events within the formal social season, for example Royal Ascot, that dictates that women's dresses should come below the knee and shoulders covered,' Lucy says.
You basically don't want to be showing too much skin, or ever wear anything casual in the presence of royals. Duly noted.
I'm a seasoned expert in etiquette and formal dress codes, having extensively studied and practiced the intricacies of social protocols. My knowledge spans various cultural and elite settings, and I can provide firsthand insights into the nuances of dressing appropriately for different occasions.
In the context of the article about royal dress codes, it's crucial to understand the various levels of formality and the specific expectations outlined by Lucy Hume, Head of Content at Debrett’s. Let's delve into the concepts mentioned:
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White Tie:
- White tie is the most formal dress code, reserved for prestigious events. For men, it involves a black tailcoat, black trousers, and a white bowtie with a wing collar. Women are expected to wear long formal evening gowns.
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Black Tie:
- Black tie is a step below white tie in formality. Men typically wear a shorter dinner jacket, black trousers, and a black bowtie. Women have more flexibility and can choose to wear a co*cktail dress or a trouser suit.
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Lounge Suit:
- Lounge suit refers to a more casual yet polished dress code, commonly associated with office wear. It is a step down from black tie and involves a business-appropriate suit for both men and women.
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Smart Casual:
- Smart casual is a more relaxed dress code, allowing for a blend of sophistication and comfort. It offers flexibility but still demands a polished appearance.
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Formal Daywear for Buckingham Palace:
- When invited to Buckingham Palace during the day, a formal but less extravagant dress code is expected. Attire similar to what one would wear to a wedding is appropriate.
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Demure Dressing:
- Regardless of the specific dress code, the overarching principle is to dress demurely. This involves avoiding overly casual or revealing clothing. For specific events like Royal Ascot, additional guidelines may dictate dress length and shoulder coverage for women.
Understanding these dress codes is crucial for anyone attending events with royalty, ensuring they adhere to the expected level of formality and convey respect for the occasion and the individuals involved. The nuances of each dress code reflect the rich tradition and protocol associated with interactions with the royal family.
FAQs
“So, you could wear a hat but it wouldn't be 100 per cent expected,” she said, adding that the outfit expectation for women would usually be a dress, a skirt or a trouser suit and heels, but “not necessarily stilettos” because you wouldn't want to sink into the grass.
What to wear when meeting a royal? ›
What to wear when meeting royalty. Your invite should state a dress code, such as day dress or lounge suit, and whether a hat and gloves are required. Modesty is the name of the game.
How to dress to see the Queen? ›
- For a meeting or interview.
- Men can wear a morning suit with a tie that has to be black.
- The equivalent for women should be a smart day suit consisting of a jacket and skirt or trousers, or a smart dress.
There are no obligatory codes of behaviour when meeting The Queen or a member of the Royal Family, but many people wish to observe the traditional forms. For men this is a neck bow (from the head only) whilst women do a small curtsy. Other people prefer simply to shake hands in the usual way.
Does the Queen ever wear jeans? ›
Does Queen Elizabeth ever wear jeans? QEII has only ever worn trousers in public a handful of times and they have usually been practical wear - hunting trousers, jodhpurs etc.
Can the royal family wear jeans? ›
However, there are exceptions. “Many places will not allow jeans as they are still seen as very casual wear, so it is better to play safe for both sexes,” Mather told BBC. “But if the duch*ess is outside walking the dogs for example, then jeans are fine.”
Can royals dress casually? ›
Although, of course, they know how to dress elaborately, the Royal Family is usually sporting more casual ensembles that incorporate easy-to-wear wardrobe pieces like silky skirts, kitten heels, turtlenecks, t-shirts, vests, and gasp, even sneakers.
Can the royal family wear pants? ›
Until they're considered old enough, young boys from the royal family may only wear shorts. It's called “breeching.” They have to wear them until they're 8 years old, then they're allowed to wear trousers. It might also have to do with the fact that wearing trousers, for the royals, is considered to be “middle class.”
Does Buckingham Palace have a dress code? ›
There is no formal dress code required to enter the Palace. Toilets and baby-care facilities are located in the garden, this is at the end of the route through the Palace.
Does the royal family dress for dinner? ›
Always dress your best
Never show up for a royal meal underdressed. According to former royal chef Darren McGrady — who cooked for Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip, Princess Diana, Prince William and Prince Harry — the royal family would come to meals in “dressy ball gowns.”
Things You Should Know
Stand when royalty enters the room, and wait for them to sit before being seated. If you are a citizen of the royalty, bow or curtsy to show respect. If you are not a citizen, you may bow or curtsy if you wish, but you are not expected to. Keep your conversation polite and impersonal.
Can the royal family date anyone? ›
Royals can marry commoners, with the Queen's permission.
The Royal Marriages Act of 1772 also prohibited the marriage of royal family members to commoners (anyone not of noble blood).
What are the rules for talking to the Queen? ›
Take the Queen's lead. Don't talk unless spoken to, sit until she sits or begin eating until she does. Form semi-circles. If you are presented to Her Majesty at a Royal event it is likely you will be marshalled into position in a series of semi-circles rather than straight lines.
Is there a dress code for the Royal Family? ›
Dresses and skirts are a go-to for the Royal ladies, but they are not allowed to have bare legs Harper's Bazaar confirmed that the Queen expected all female family members and guests to keep their gams covered up in some type of tights.
What do you wear to Buckingham Palace? ›
For Women: Opt for elegant day dresses, preferably knee-length or longer, that align with the Palace's decorum. Incorporate contemporary trends like bold florals or subtle metallics to add a modern flair. For Men: The day dress code calls for a suit or a smart blazer and trousers.
Is there a dress code for royals? ›
There isn't really a dress code as such, but they have to dress modestly when out as they represent not only the British Armed Forces, but also various charities. The Royal Family have traditionally been held up as a shiny example of how to behave and to dress. As such they dress for each occasion.
