Why the Duchess of Cambridge carries a clutch bag in this particular way
The Duchess of Cambridge has a few key wardrobe items we see time and time again; court shoes, an L.K.Bennett dress, and one particular pair of earrings to name a few.
And an absolute classic of hers is the box clutch – we rarely (never) see her without one. So often in the same pose too with two hands in front of her.
It’s more than just a fashion preference, it turns out, as the founder of Beaumont Etiquette Myka Meier told Good Housekeeping that it’s all a tactful trick of manners.
“When the Duchess is at an event, she holds her bag in front of her in both hands when shaking hands might be awkward,” he explained.
We all appreciate a awkwardness-averting tactic, so we can only imagine how useful it would be as a member of the Royal Family.
Though Mail Online‘s expert on manners, William Hanson, said that there are plenty of other ways the Duchess could be averting outstretched hands.
“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,” he said.
And that preference isn’t personal, apparently, but due to royal protocol that you shouldn’t extend your hand to members of the royal family (by blood or marriage) unless they extend their hands first.
“With more experience, The Duchess of Cambridge will soon realise that she needn’t be too nice, extend and shake hands with everyone,” he continued.
“A courteous smile at those whom she does not have time to shake hands will suffice.”
Though if we were Kate, we’d probably opt for hiding behind a clutch, to be honest – it’s up to her to take charge in what’s most comfortable.
Do you think the Duchess is using her clutch to avoid handshakes? Tweet us at @YahooStyleUK.
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