Over the years, we've seen several royal family members break protocol. Princess Diana was notorious for breaking strict rules but it's rare to see a royal break the sunglasses protocol. Maybe that's because it's a simple rule to follow, or maybe it's due to the logic behind it. Speaking to People, etiquette expert Myka Meier offered some insight into why the sunglasses rule exists: "Sunglasses don't allow direct eye contact, which can be seen as a barrier when communicating." She elaborated, "By taking sunglasses off upon meeting, it is seen as a sign of courtesy and respect to the other person."
Meier also stressed that sunglasses are only permitted for outdoor events and should be stored away when moving indoors. In an Instagram video, she further shared that it's good etiquette to keep your shades in a case instead of holding them or attaching them to clothing. And while this isn't widely known royal protocol, The Firm seemingly always follows it. We've seen the royal family respect the sunglasses rule throughout history.
When the Prince and Princess of Wales attend Wimbledon, for instance, they're often spotted wearing some stylish shades throughout the match, but they're noticeably absent in pictures taken with players or staff. Even their young daughter, Princess Charlotte, appears to strictly follow this protocol. Although Queen Elizabeth II often avoided sunglasses, she sometimes wore a signature pair during outdoor visits, but never indoors.
