I've always thought the Duchess has glorious legs.
What's the protocol for Royals wearing gloves? I always think they look so very elegant. Her Majesty the Queen and Princess Anne always seem to favour gloves on engagements.
(Sorry if the questions off topic!)
Wearing gloves during official events was a must in past.
The etiquette has of course relaxed since then, however the Queen still wears gloves on all official engagements. As per the royal etiquette,
long gloves should be worn at a gala ball, court presentation, “White Tie” dinners, dinners in Honour of a dignitary, formal indoor occasions, receptions, on arrival at a luncheon or dinner party and in similar cases.
Short gloves are worn upon discretion, however it is highly recommended to wear them in church (or places of worship), at semi-official events, practically at all outdoor events or events where you are expected to be introduced to a large number of people.
There are general rules for both long and short gloves:
* No jewellery should be worn over gloves, with the exception of bracelets.
* They cannot be carried but should be part of the attire.
* If one is wearing gloves, they should be kept on at all times, including when being presented to someone or while dancing (at a formal party).
* When the drinks and hors d’oeuvres are passed, it is recommended to either remove one glove (the right one) or turn gloves back at the wrist.
* At the dining table, the etiquette dictates to either remove only the right glove, or remove both gloves.
* Gloves should be removed when eating, drinking, smoking, applying makeup or playing cards.
As for non-Royals who are presented to Royals, nowadays, it is not necessary to wear gloves during such ceremonies (unless otherwise warned beforehand): however if you do wear gloves, you should not remove them during the presentation.
I must say that the gloves-related rules have really relaxed: I’ve seen many Royals (especially Scandinavian ones), who remove at least one glove upon arrival to great people more ‘informally’. I suppose Sarah just followed the suit but I don't understand why she removed the
left glove.
