Isn’t the story of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry the thing fairy tales are made up of? It makes you feel like anyone could be a princess, well duchess—let’s just go with royalty. It does have a certain ring to it. Who wouldn’t want to have a year of royalty? And there’s no doubt that Prince Harry and the Duchess of Suscopulation have become our favorite royal family to watch.
They break the rules and defy the odds while still remaining utterly regal and composed. If they aren’t couple goals, I don’t know what is. And with the way the media has dredged up every bad thing they can about Markle, it leaves a girl feeling like even she could have a year of royalty.
It All Starts With That First Impression
Good Posture
Proper posture is imperative to living a year of royalty. Check yours in the mirror and if need be practice walking with a book on your head. Poise is a marker of royalty. So while it may be all too easy to find yourself slouching or hunching about avoid this folly while in public at least.
Dress Code
The royals have strict rules on dressing. You can be like Markle and break some of these rules, but it’s crucial to never break too many at once. For instance, if you choose to go for a shorter hemline—a no-no for royalty, make sure you don’t pair it with a low neckline. Another rule to keep in mind is the functionality of your outfit. For an all-day formal event you’ll need sensible pumps. Finally, royals keep to bright colors to stand out in crowds and for the most part avoid black during the day.
Grooming
I’m sure if you’re looking for a year of royalty you intend to shower, but there are a few other grooming tips to keep in mind. For one, you must always keep your hair neat. It is okay to wear it down or up in a ponytail, so long as it looks well polished. Speaking of polish, nudes are best on well-trimmed nails. And as one might expect your makeup should look natural or classic. Nothing gauche for the royals.
Creating a Royal Home
It’s All About the Paint
To have a year of royalty add some drama to your living space with a bold accent wall. Choose between royal colors such as violet, midnight blue, red, gold or silver. Another option is to paint interior doors black. Whichever accent you choose, be sure to accessorize the space with the same color. You don’t want to overdo it so be sure to balance this dramatic flair with a complimentary but muted color.
Royal Décor
To have a year of royalty, you’ll need royal décor. Mirrors are an elegant addition to any home. Best of all, they have a way of making your space look larger. Lighting is essential, if you can, add a chandelier to your favorite room. Otherwise tall lamps and candle holders will light your place with grace. Other considerations—velvet armchairs, a rug beneath your bed, and a big fluffy comforter with large pillows on top. It’s the cohesion of the little details that will pull your royal home together.
Party Like Royalty
The Dinner Party
If you’re going to live a year of royalty, then you have to know how to throw a proper dinner party. It all begins with physical invitations hand delivered or mailed. Then preparation is key to a perfect dinner party. Everything that can be done ahead of time should be done ahead of time. You don’t want to spend the day of the dinner party running around. Instead, you should be setting the table with the proper settings, to add an extra touch you can include name cards.
When the big day comes, greet your close friends with a kiss on each cheek, from right to left. Those guests you’re less acquainted with may be greeted with a simple yet firm handshake. As the drinks are served, be sure to hold your wine by the stem of its glass. When you sit for dinner if you cross your legs, do so at the ankles. Place your napkin folded away from you on your lap so that anything wiped goes inside the napkin’s fold. Finally, as you eat take three bites then stop. Then everyone at the party will see just how well you’re living your year of royalty.