Over60
Beauty & Style

Why the royals never change their shoes

Due to their influence and mass following, the members of the royal family have become fashion icons.

And although Duchess Kate and Duchess Meghan have extensive designer wardrobes, there is one accessory they always seem to play down: their shoes.

All the senior members of the royal family, both male and female, stick to the same style of footwear for every major engagement they attend.

The Queen, who is said to own more than 200 Launer handbags, is leading the trend, wearing the same style of shoes for the past 50 years.

Even fashionista Meghan is sticking to only a few key styles of shoes, rather than mixing it up to match her latest designer outfits.

The Duchess of Sussex has made Italian brand Aquazzura her go-to shoe choice, wearing either her Deneuve bow heels or the Matilde Crisscross style in both black and nude.

Fashion expert commentator Karine Laudort told Femail  the purpose of the shoe trend is all about practicality and giving a subtle hint of thriftiness.

“It is easier to stick to a style that is practical and neutral such as the nude court shoes which Kate always wears,” she said. 

“It is well known that the Royal Family observe strict fashion rules which no-one can bend especially when it comes to footwear.

“Only closed-toe shoes are permitted, and open-toe shoes considered as unformal wear and inappropriate for wedding occasions.”

In order to wear their shoes for all different types of occasions, it is important for the royal family to choose neutral colours, such as nude or black.

“It is always easier to match outfits with very neutral footwear, especially when several outfits are required during public functions, and that applies to men and women in the Royal Family, even the Queen.”

She said that it also allows the royals to avoid appearing too extravagant, rather than debuting a new pair of stylish shoes for every engagement they attend.

“In order to maintain a more humble public image, irrespective of whether Royals wear designer outfits at times, neutral footwear will always be the way to go,” she said. 

For the past 50 years, the Queen has worn her Anello & Davide of Kensington shoes, which are handmade for her from the finest calf leather.

Reportedly, she has 10 pairs at any one time and has made her way through hundreds of identical pairs over the years.

The Duchess of Cambridge has also become an ambassador for her nude court shoe trademark look.

It is believed she buys several Gianvito Rossi blush, light grey and nude courts for her engagements.

Did you know about the royals' shoe rule? Let us know in the comments below. 

Tags:
royal, shoe, rule