Did Meghan Markle's bag break royal protocol?
Meghan Markle may have broken royal etiquette today (again) by carrying a handbag rather than a clutch as is customary.
This week on a trip to Edinburgh, Meghan turned to her fave bag brand, Strathberry, opting for something completely hands-free in the shape of a crossbody, green mini bag. CUTE.
East/West mini bag, £395, Strathberry BUY NOW
The bag was handy because it allowed Meg to hold hands with Harry, shake hands with the crowds, accept gifts like really cute teddy bears AND slap Hazza on the back when he made a particularly funny joke.
And let's not forget a certain pony that needed petting...
This seemingly small styling choice has more significance than you might think. The Queen and the Duchess of Cambridge are often seen with clutches or bags with a small handle - which they will then often grasp with two hands - to avoid shaking hands with people with whom it might be awkward.
For her first official engagement with Prince Harry in Nottingham last year, Meghan made headlines for once again ignoring this bag rule. Then, she wore a burgundy tote bag, also by Scottish label Strathberry, which featured both a handle and shoulder strap, and proceeded to happily shake hands with the waiting crowds. Needless to say, the style quickly sold out online, proving the "Meghan effect" is in full force.
Midi tote, £550, Strathberry BUY NOW
"The Duchess of Cambridge may well prefer not to shake hands with certain people - but there are other ways to achieve this, as used by The Queen and other members of the royal family, than opting for a clutch over a bag with a strap," etiquette expert William Hanson told the Mail back in January.
"It is protocol that you do not extend your hand to any member of the royal family (blood royal or those who have married in to the family) unless their hand extends first."
Hanson added that older male members of the royal family have also found alternatives to shaking people's hands.
"Male royalty, such as The Duke of Edinburgh, often walk down line-ups with their hands clasped behind their backs, which although technically not correct, they can get away with due to their elevated position," he said. "Another good way to avoid unwanted hands."
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