Etiquette lessons at a royal wedding

In 2011, Queen Elizabeth issued no less than 22 pages of etiquette for the 1900 guests of the wedding of Prince William and his Kate. Because if you think you can just show up in a cute dress and high heels at a royal wedding, you are mistaken. In a few weeks, this will be no different. So if you happen to have received an invitation in the mailbox from Prince Harry and his stunning Meghan, then I have some tips for you. At least know that you are safe on May 19.

Skirt length
Conservative, so just below the knee. No open-toed shoes and the shoulders must also be covered.

No white
Definitely not very common at a wedding; you know it, I know it. But if you enter the church at a royal wedding in a white outfit, you are guaranteed to miss the mark.

Formality
For women: a formal dress, a dress with a jacket, or a pantsuit.

Not too high heels
A heel is allowed, but not too high. Victoria Beckham made the mistake of wearing sky-high stilettos in 2011. Aside from the fact that it is not customary, the church floor is not the safest floor.

 
No bare legs
Unfortunately, but true. Bare legs are not desired. A thin layer of tights then... Skin color, yes.

Headgear
A royal wedding is the moment to acquire a beautiful hat. I think that’s very nice. Just make sure you don’t go too high on the headgear, so that the guests behind you can still admire the bride and groom.

Men's code
For men, ‘morning dress’ is the formal dress code for daytime. This means: the so-called tailcoat, waistcoat, tie, and striped trousers.

Dress code
Always adhere to the dress code, which is obviously not given for nothing and is not a suggestion. For men, if they do not own a morning dress, a nice suit is also fine.

No prints
A dark blue or gray suit is okay, but make sure your husband leaves checked waistcoats, ties, or bow ties in the closet.

Avoid social media
No cameras will be welcome at Windsor Castle on May 19, and it’s better for all guests to leave their iPhones at home. No Insta Stories or Snapchat of the vows. If someone does reach for a phone, security will be on your back.

Let the queen come to you
If Her Majesty comes near you, let her extend her hand to you and certainly not the other way around.

Greeting
Men should nod correctly when greeting, women make a subtle curtsy.

Greetings from the royal couple
If you get the chance to greet the royal couple, do it briefly, so that the other six hundred guests also have the chance to curtsy for the newlyweds.

Gift
Do not bring a gift to the wedding itself. That is the last thing the couple has time for, you understand.

Farewell
And just like at any wedding: do not leave before the couple leaves the venue, no matter how much pain you have in your feet.