Royal family members, from elders to children, must adhere to strict protocols regarding travel and attire. However, Prince George, eldest son of Kate Middleton and Prince William, broke tradition by wearing a robe to meet heads of state, as reported by Hello Magazine.
Before discussing Prince George’s breach of protocol, let’s examine the royal dress code.
Three main dress codes were outlined by Debrett’s etiquette expert Lucy Hume in a video on YouTube’s The Royal Family Channel. White tie is required for state banquets or royal events, typically involving males wearing a black tie with a white tuxedo and females in long, formal evening gowns. Black tie events call for a shorter dinner jacket for men and a black bowtie, while women have more flexibility with options like a trouser suit or cocktail dress. Smart casual attire, such as a jumper and collared shirt, is permitted for certain occasions.
During President Barack Obama’s state visit to Buckingham Palace in 2016, Prince George, then a young child, met him while wearing a robe, gingham pyjamas, and airplane slippers. Despite being past his bedtime, George stayed up to greet the Obamas as the Prince and Princess of Wales hosted a dinner at Kensington Palace. While children of the royal family are not typically allowed to meet with state leaders, the Wales children have met with figures like Canada’s PM Justin Trudeau and former UK PM Boris Johnson.
Obama humorously remarked on Prince George’s attire, calling it a “slap in the face” and a breach of protocol during their meeting.
Born on July 22, 2013, George is the eldest grandchild of King Charles and second in line to the British throne after Prince William.