Royal weddings are far more than personal celebrations; they are events of national and international importance. As such, adhering to established norms and protocol is crucial. Queen Elizabeth II, as the head of the British monarchy, shoulders the responsibility of upholding these traditions. By maintaining the tradition of white wedding attire, the Queen and the royal family reinforce the sense of continuity and heritage that the public associates with the monarchy
The history of the British royal family is steeped in political alliances and strategic marriages. Throughout history, royal unions were often negotiated for political gain, and the symbolism embedded in wedding attire was used to convey messages to other nations. The tradition of wearing white was not always prevalent; in fact, colored dresses were more common in historical royal weddings. Therefore, Queen Elizabeth II's decision to adhere to the tradition of white wedding attire speaks to her desire to honor the past while also acknowledging the modern era.
The marriage of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle marked a significant departure from historical norms. Meghan Markle, an American actress of mixed heritage, introduced an element of diversity and change to the royal family. In light of this, Queen Elizabeth II's decision to forgo the tradition of wearing white could be seen as an acknowledgment of the evolving nature of the royal family. It signified a willingness to adapt to contemporary dynamics while still paying homage to tradition.
In the tapestry of royal weddings, every thread holds a unique significance. Queen Elizabeth II's decision against Meghan Markle wearing white at the royal wedding was not made in isolation; it was woven from the threads of tradition, protocol, history, and the ever-evolving nature of the British monarchy.
