Strict fashion rules royals have to follow on Christmas Day – full list revealed

From travelling the world to living in palaces, it would be hard to argue that being a member of the royal family didn’t come without its perks. But alongside these benefits comes a long list of rules that members of the family must remember and comply with. In terms of fashion and beauty, there are ample style regulations put in place that must be followed at all times. This includes things from no bright nail varnish to female royals not being allowed to take their coats off while in public – no matter the temperature.

While some may appear outdated, and others plain bizarre, acknowledging these rules is just part and parcel of being a royal. But if you think you’d struggle remembering the everyday outfit rules, you’ll be shocked to know that the royal family also have another set of customs that apply just around Christmas day.

Curious as to what they are? Let’s find out…

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1. Royal woman have to wear a hat or a fascinator when out in public

Every year, the royal family head to Sandringham for a church service on Christmas day. Custom has it that royal women must wear some form of hat or fascinator whenever they attend a formal public event, such as this one.

Christmas day attire cannot be reminiscent of the elaborate headwear as seen at Royal Ascot, either. Rather, it must be more subtle, which is why in recent years, some of the royal women have been seen sporting chunky headbands or pillbox hats.

2. Coats have to be below the knee

If you’ve ever looked at Kate or Meghan’s Christmas outfits, you’ll have noticed that their coats have always been done up and below the knee. Alongside this strict royal protocol, the coats also have to be an appropriate fabric and design, too.

Over the years, Kate has sported a slew of elegant fits, including coats with fur collars and cuffs, and 1940s style shapes.

Elsewhere, the colour black is forbidden on Christmas day, as the colour can be associated with mourning.

Oh, and the no taking the coat off thing still applies here, too.

3. Women can’t wear trousers

Apparently, the late Queen wasn’t a fan of trousers on royal women, which is why Christmas day outfits consist of a skirt or a dress beneath their coat.

Granted, Kate Middleton is especially a fan of a pant suits these days, and is seen regularly wearing them to her official engagements. But if you’ve noticed, she’s always respected the Queen’s wishes on Christmas and refrained from wearing trousers.

Meanwhile, the royal women who wear dresses or skirts on Christmas have another tradition they must uphold – black or nude tights are a non negotiable.

However, this is reportedly a rule all year long.

4. They have a Christmas eve attire

It’s reported that the royal family take inspiration from their German ancestors on Christmas eve and open their presents in the evening. Traditionally, these are always joke gifts.

When it comes to the wardrobe rules though, the dress code is black tie. This means formal tuxedos for the men and floor length gowns for the gals. Plus, because this tradition usually takes place in the evening (likely post 6pm), the women are also allowed to wear diamonds. That’s definitely a rule we can get on board with!