Royal Women Break Longstanding Nail Polish Rules

Royal women traditionally adhere to strict protocols regarding their appearance, including guidelines on nail polish colors. While Kate Middleton has typically favored Queen Elizabeth II's preferred pale shades, Meghan Markle stirred controversy at the 2018 British Fashion Awards with dark nail polish, which some viewed as a break from royal traditions, although no formal rules prohibited it. Following Queen Elizabeth's passing, Middleton also opted for a bold red manicure at a family Easter service, signaling a shift in royal beauty norms. Etiquette experts highlight a preference for nude or pale colors at official events, as bright shades were deemed 'vulgar' by the late queen. However, other royal family members have occasionally embraced colorful manicures, suggesting a gradual evolution of these unwritten rules. The evolving attitudes towards nail polish reflect broader changes in royal fashion and personal expression among royal women.