Joining the Royal Family puts a magnifying glass on your every move and outfit. Meghan Markle knows this well, as did Princess Diana. Another figure who has navigated this intense scrutiny is Queen Camilla, who became a senior royal upon marrying King Charles III. Initially met with resistance for seemingly replacing Princess Diana, Camilla has gradually earned the acceptance of many in Britain.
LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 15: King Charles III and Queen Camilla walk down the steps of St Paul’s Cathedral as they depart a service of dedication for the Order of The British Empire at St Paul’s Cathedral on May 15, 2024 in London, England. King Charles III is the Sovereign of the Order of the British Empire and Queen Camilla is the Grand Master of the Order of the British Empire. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)
Recently, Queen Camilla and King Charles attended a prestigious ceremony in London, the Order of the British Empire, which honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation. As always, the royal couple donned their finest attire. However, it was Camilla’s ensemble under her ceremonial red robe that captured public attention and sparked controversy.
Beneath the robe, Camilla sported a floral dress, beige heels, charm bracelets, and diamond earrings. Social media critics were quick to label her dress as a “house dress,” unfavorably comparing it to the impeccable style of Queen Elizabeth II. The online commentary was unrelenting, with some remarks bordering on harsh.
One social media user questioned, “Why is Camilla wearing a house dress under that cape?” Another commented, “Does Camilla just throw a robe over her house dress?” The criticisms highlighted a perceived disparity in standards, with some suggesting that Camilla’s outfit paled in comparison to traditional royal attire. A critic from the US noted, “Queen Elizabeth always looked regal in traditional dress, but Charles and Camilla looked sloppy.” Another added, “These traditional events are bad enough, but wearing those old costumes is crazy. Why can’t they wear modern versions? They look like crazy people in those costumes. Diana would have modernized it.”
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM – MAY 15: (EMBARGOED FOR PUBLICATION IN UK NEWSPAPERS UNTIL 24 HOURS AFTER CREATE DATE AND TIME) King Charles III and Queen Camilla attend a service of dedication for the Order of The British Empire at St Paul’s Cathedral on May 15, 2024 in London, England. The Order of the British Empire was established by King George V in 1917 to reward outstanding contributions to the war effort, and now recognises the work of people from all walks of life with honours including MBEs, OBEs, CBEs, Knighthoods and Damehoods. King Charles III is the Sovereign of the Order of the British Empire, and Queen Camilla is the Grand Master of the Order of the British Empire. (Photo by Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images)
Adding to the pressure, Queen Camilla has assumed more responsibilities recently due to King Charles and Kate Middleton facing cancer diagnoses. Their health battles have necessitated a temporary retreat from royal duties, leaving other family members, including Camilla, to fill the void. Prince William has been balancing his official duties with supporting his wife, further increasing Camilla’s responsibilities.
What are your thoughts on Queen Camilla’s outfit? Share your opinions in the comments below. Often, our expectations of others are a reflection of what we would be willing to do for them.
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