Meghan Markle'S Rule-Breaking Moment: A Glimpse Into Royal Protocols

Meghan Markle's Departure from Royal Norms

When Meghan Markle and Prince Harry stepped back from their senior royal duties in 2020, it marked a significant shift, not only in their roles but also in how Meghan navigates public life. Free from the strict royal protocols, Meghan has embraced a more relaxed approach, focusing her energies on charitable causes. This new chapter allows her to engage with the public in ways that would have been deemed unconventional within the Firm.

A Polaroid Moment That Shocked

One such break from tradition was Meghan's willingness to pose for polaroid pictures and sign them. This simple act of autographing would have been unthinkable for past royals, such as the late Queen Mother, who passed away in 2002. A New York Post columnist suggested that such a display of casual interaction would have made the Queen Mother "roll over in her grave." Meghan's actions highlight a modernizing shift in royal engagements, one that resonates with a younger, more informal audience.

"You wouldn't have seen it back in the 40s and 50s but Princess Diana started these sorts of trends...Sometimes I think the public think the royals are stuffier than they are." – Meghan Markle

Princess Kate's Protocol Adherence

In contrast, during a visit to the Chelsea Flower Show in 2023, Princess Kate upheld royal tradition when asked for an autograph by a young student. Although she declined to write her name, she offered to draw a picture instead, demonstrating her commitment to royal protocols. This incident underscores the delicate balance current royals maintain between tradition and modernity.

Meghan's Warm Public Engagement

Meghan has not only embraced autograph signing but also other warm gestures. During a 2018 royal engagement in Cardiff, she was spotted holding hands with the crowd and even allowed one admirer to kiss her hand. These moments reflect her approachable nature and willingness to connect with people in a personal way, further distinguishing her style from traditional royal expectations.