The Commonwealth Day Service at Westminster Abbey is a significant event in the royal calendar, where members of the British Royal Family gather to celebrate the unity and diversity of the Commonwealth nations.
This year’s event, however, has sparked discussions about whether Princess Anne, the only daughter of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, broke royal protocol by not bowing to her sister-in-law, Queen Camilla, upon arrival.
Why did Princess Anne not bow to Queen Camilla?
The Commonwealth Day Service is a time-honored tradition that brings together the Royal Family, representatives from various Commonwealth countries, and distinguished guests.
As the senior royals arrived at Westminster Abbey, all eyes were on the interactions between them, particularly the greeting between Princess Anne and Queen Camilla.
According to reports, when Queen Camilla greeted the other members of the Royal Family, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, Prince Edward and Sophie, met her with a kiss on each cheek, followed by a bow and a curtsy, respectively.
However, Princess Anne’s actions deviated from the norm. While she did kiss Queen Camilla on the cheeks, she did not curtsy, an act that has long been considered a sign of respect towards the sovereign and their spouse.
Royal protocol dictates that individuals with the title of “HRH” (His/Her Royal Highness) should bow or curtsy to the monarch and their consort.
This rule applies not only to King Charles III but also to Queen Camilla, who assumed the title of Queen Consort upon her husband’s accession to the throne.
Princess Anne’s decision to forego this tradition has raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about whether she intentionally breached royal etiquette.
Nevertheless, it is worth noting that the Royal Family appears to have adopted a more relaxed approach under the reign of King Charles III.
Queen Camilla did not seem visibly perturbed by the interaction and promptly conversed with someone else after the slightly awkward moment.
The British Royal Family at the Commonwealth Day Service
Aside from the protocol scrutiny, the Commonwealth Day Service provided an opportunity to admire the fashion choices of the royals in attendance.
Queen Camilla led the way, resplendent in a Bruce Oldfield blue coat dress, complemented by a Philip Treacy hat, Russel & Bromley boots, a Bottega Veneta cassette bag, and an aquamarine brooch that once belonged to the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, exuded elegance in a Suzannah London coat and matching dress, accessorized with a Jane Taylor hat, a Sophie Habsburg clutch bag, and Stuart Weitzman shoes.
Princess Anne, ever the fashion icon, stunned in a vibrant red Shibumi Grace coat and scarf, which she has worn on several previous occasions, proving her penchant for timeless style.
Prince William, who attended the ceremony without his wife, Kate, the Princess of Wales, cut a dashing figure, showcasing the impeccable sartorial choices that have become synonymous with the Royal Family.
While debate continues over Princess Anne’s alleged breach of protocol, the Commonwealth Day ceremony brought the royal family together with other congregation members, including Commonwealth standard bearers, religious leaders, schoolchildren, and young people from across the UK.