King Charles broke long-standing royal tradition as he was crowned King yesterday
Topics: Royal Family, King Charles III
Katherine Sidnell
Featured Image Credit: Victoria Jones/Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire
Topics: Royal Family, King Charles III
It may have been a thousand-year-old ceremony, but King Charles III’s coronation was anything but old-fashioned.
The lavish ceremony was watched by millions across the world and included participants from every walk of life.
Despite being the service still being steeped in tradition, there was a subtle change that most viewers may have missed.
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In the lead up to yesterday’s event, many fashionistas had been wondering what King Charles III would wear – especially given that he’s had over 70 years to prepare for the event.
With the King serving in both the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, it had been assumed that he’d wear his military uniform on the day.
Others had assumed that he’d wear a more traditional outfit complete with silk stockings and breeches (yes, really) which have been worn by monarchs like King’s grandfather, King George VI.
However, the modern monarch decided to take a very different approach to his look during his crowning moment.
A royal insider revealed to The Sun, that the King was concerned about looking ‘too dated’ during the service and so opted for a more casual outfit during the Coronation.
Ditching the traditional breeches and stockings, he opted to wear a vintage Robe of State, a crimson Coronation Tunic and a cream silk overshirt.
In fact, his majesty even recycled parts of his outfit by wearing Royal Navy trousers – which he had previously worn as part of a ceremonial tailcoat.
The King even raided the family closet and wore his grandfather’s Robe of State for the occasion.
Whilst he may have been breaking several traditions, there was one traditional accessory that made the cut.
Those watching at home would have noticed the white glove he wore as he was officially crowned King.
Called the Coronation Gauntlet, the glove was worn on his right hand as the King held the Sovereign’s Sceptre and is meant to symbolise his commitment to the country.
The always eco-conscious King even had nature-themed motifs on the glove, which showed a Tudor rose, thistle, shamrock, oak leaves and an acorn – representing different parts of the UK.
Previously worn by his grandfather, the glove is nearly a century old and is usually kept at the Tower of London along with other ceremonial items from the Coronation.