The Royal Blue Controversy: Camilla's Color of Authority
Blue has been a color of contention within royal circles, with reports suggesting that Queen Camilla's preference for the shade is more than just a fashion statement. It is seen as a way for her to assert authority behind palace doors. The color blue has been a central part of Camilla's image transformation over the years, with her choice of a commanding royal blue being significant in shaping her public perception.
According to royal commentator Amanda Matta, the color blue has caused tension among royal wives, with Camilla allegedly claiming the color and telling other royals, including Kate Middleton, that they could not wear it. The color blue was reportedly a favorite of both Camilla and the Princess of Wales, leading to conflicts over who had the right to wear it. However, as the most senior woman in the royal family, Camilla had the first choice in wearing the beloved hue.
While there were initial restrictions on wearing blue simultaneously with the queen, the rules eventually relaxed to allow different shades of blue to be worn at the same time. This change may indicate Camilla's secure position as queen and a willingness to share sartorial territory. The enforcement of color choices within the royal family is based on informal understandings maintained by those closest to each royal member.
Meghan Markle, in her Netflix docuseries "Harry & Meghan," revealed some of the dressing protocols within the royal family, including the rule of not wearing the same color as Queen Elizabeth or other senior members of the family. The strict enforcement of outfit color choices, particularly regarding the color blue, by royal dressers like Jacqui Meakin, has been a point of contention within Buckingham Palace.
Despite the reported tensions over blue outfits, royal fashion hierarchy protocol has become more relaxed in recent years. While there is still an order of precedence that dressers follow, the rules around wearing blue have relaxed to allow royal women to wear different shades of the color. This change reflects a message of calm stability and unity within the royal family.
The choice of blue as a royal signature has deep significance, with Queen Elizabeth II favoring the color because it matched her eyes. Blue is associated with loyalty, stability, and trustworthiness, making it an ideal visual shorthand for the monarchy. The carefully coordinated outfits of the royal family convey a message of power and unity, with even a color choice signaling the hierarchy within royal circles.