Prince Louis paves his own path with tradition-breaking milestone

Prince Louis has once again captured attention by breaking a royal tradition during his latest public appearance, marking a significant milestone for the Wales family. 

Known for his charming and cheeky antics at royal events, the young prince continues to shine as a standout figure in the next generation of royals.

On December 6, Prince Louis made his official debut at Princess Kate's Together at Christmas carol concert, where he joined his siblings, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, along with other senior royals. 

However, it wasn't just his presence that turned heads—it was his attire. 

For the first time, the fourth in line to the throne donned a full black suit at a royal engagement, breaking the longstanding tradition of young male royals wearing shorts until a certain age.

Historically, royal boys are dressed in shorts for formal occasions, a custom considered age-appropriate and tied to upper-class British etiquette. 

Etiquette expert William Hanson explained to Hello! that young boys typically transition to trousers around the age of seven, a milestone Louis has reached earlier than his older brother, George, who first wore a suit at the Euro 2020 final in London.

This subtle but meaningful shift reflects a modern approach to royal traditions, as Prince William and Princess Kate strive to balance heritage with the realities of raising their children in the public eye. 

Etiquette expert William Hanson previously explained the reasoning behind this long-standing tradition, noting that "upper-class and upper-middle-class parents believe that little boys should look like little boys, and so try to keep their offspring looking as cute and innocent for as long as possible." 

He added, "It’s one of the many silent class indicators we have in Britain. Trousers on young boys are considered a tad suburban and lower market."

However, the young prince has been gradually breaking away from this tradition.