Buckingham Palace is adopting a new rule imposed by King Charles III starting today: everyone may dress as they wish. To understand this rule, we have to go back to the reign of George V, who imposed wearing white on the palace's private tennis court. The dress code stated that every player, including royal guests and palace employees, had to wear a full white uniform, following sports traditions rooted in Wimbledon.
Now, King Charles III has decided to remove that centuries-old rule that required mandatory white attire on the private tennis court at Buckingham Palace. From this moment on, the rule states that, although white remains "preferable," it is not "essential." Therefore, everyone may choose their desired clothing.
King Charles III changes the rules of Buckingham Palace
King Charles III has given a new twist to all of Buckingham Palace. The palace is abuzz with the step the sovereign has taken, which completely changes the entire operation.
Starting today, there is a new rule promoted by Charles III at Buckingham Palace's facilities: people may dress as they wish. This rule refers to the private tennis court at the palace, which, until now, could only be accessed dressed in white. It was in 1919 when King George V required players, guests, and Buckingham employees to wear a white uniform on the exclusive court.
A tradition that was both aesthetic and hygienic, as it better concealed sweat during intense physical exercise. Now that rule is no longer essential and becomes simply "preferable," offering freedom to choose other stylistic options without breaking protocol. The change may seem small, but in the context of a monarchy where every detail matters, it represents a clear will to modernize.
Although King Charles III is not a great tennis enthusiast, he wants his relatives and guests to enjoy greater comfort and personalization in their attire. The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, does play tennis regularly and serves as Wimbledon patron, instilling this passion in her children. Even Roger Federer has given private lessons to Prince George on that court, showing the closeness of the new royal generation to this sport.
Modernization comes to Buckingham Palace thanks to King Charles III
This is not the only change King Charles III has made at Buckingham Palace. He also ordered the palace pool temperature to be lowered to save energy and modernize facilities. In addition, repairs are being carried out on the tennis court, which had irregularities and bumps, making it less safe for players.
With the removal of the white requirement, players will no longer have to worry about dirtying immaculate uniforms when tripping or falling to the ground. From now on, everything will be much more natural and far from the rigidity of the institution.
With this decision, the king shows a desire to adapt royalty to more relaxed, accessible times that are aware of personal well-being and comfort. Now any member of the royal family, guest, or employee may appear on the court in colored clothing, neutral tones, or modern sportswear.
Charles III makes it clear that rules can evolve without undermining historical essence or sports traditions, seeking a balance between respect and modernity. Thus, in the heart of Buckingham, where protocol reigns, a small window of freedom opens, allowing people to express style without losing elegance or respect.
Although the king has abolished a centuries-old rule, he is opening the door to a monarchy more in tune with the new times. A legacy that his heir, Prince William, will continue with the intention of showing the crown's more approachable side.