Kate Middleton turned heads during her recent visit to Scotland—not just for her royal duties but for a subtle break from tradition.
As she and Prince William marked their 14th wedding anniversary with a two-day tour of the Isles of Mull and Iona, the Princess of Wales was seen wearing sunglasses on multiple occasions, a rare move during official engagements.
Wearing her stylish Finlay Vivian sunglasses, Kate sported the look while exploring a local market in Tobermory and again the next day while boarding a ferry.
Though sunglasses aren’t technically banned in royal protocol, they’re usually worn sparingly. Royals tend to avoid them during official appearances to maintain direct eye contact, a sign of respect and open communication.
Etiquette expert Myka Meier explained that royals typically reserve sunglasses for sporting events or particularly sunny climates.
They are expected to remove them when indoors, during formal greetings, or while engaging in serious conversations. The aim is to foster connection and avoid barriers in communication.
Still, Kate’s choice isn’t without precedent. King Charles, Queen Camilla, and the late Queen Elizabeth have also donned shades at outdoor events.
The formality of each occasion often guides these choices. For instance, Prince William opted not to wear sunglasses during Pope Francis’ funeral in Vatican City, though many dignitaries did.
Kate’s fashionable yet respectful approach highlights how modern royals balance tradition with practicality—making quiet statements without breaking the rules.
