Prince William and Kate Middleton have often ripped up the royal rule book, from key moments at the wedding to the fact that they don't follow traditional protocols when it comes to travelling as a family.
However, when it comes to public displays of affection, they follow in the footsteps of the late Queen and Prince Philip, as well as William's father, King Charles, who appear much more reserved in public.
And while the Prince and Princess of Wales' decision to keep their affection private could be influenced by royal tradition, one expert believes there's a little more to it than that.
Talking to Express.co.uk, body language expert Judi James said that the couple's decision not to hold hands in public is a 'conscious' one, adding that they have been photographed off-duty 'holding hands happily like any other couple'.
Instead, while they're at engagements or on official royal business, they tend to opt for more 'tactile PDAs' like back touches or gently putting their arms on each other's waists.
She says: "These gestures reflect high levels of affection and attraction, so there might be a practical reason to avoid the hand clasp.
"As senior royals at events, the hand clasp might be seen as a clumsy ritual when there are many hands to shake and so many people to greet one at a time."
James also adds that while hand holding is seen as affectionate, the couple don't want to alienate those they are with, stating: "At their level, hand-holding could make them seem exclusive rather than professionally sociable too."
FAQs
Body language expert Darren Stanton shed light on the sitch and told The Sun that it simply comes down to royal protocol, especially given William's position as next in line to the throne.
Why do Prince William and Princess Kate never hold hands in public? ›
"As they are next in line to the throne and are preparing to become King and Queen themselves one day, they use and follow the traditional royal protocols of the late Queen. The time when we may see them showing affection would be at a more lowkey event, which could be at a charity event or a film premiere."
Why do Kate and William not sleep together? ›
Sharing a bed can exacerbate allergy symptoms. Dust mites, pet dander and other allergens can accumulate in bedding and trigger allergic reactions. Princess Kate is said to suffer from hay fever, so her own bed could soothe her allergies.
Why do couples hold hands in public? ›
In Western cultures, spouses and romantic couples often hold hands as a sign of affection or to express feelings of closeness. In Arab countries, North Africa, in some parts of Asia, and in some Mediterranean and Southern European cultures, males hold hands for friendship or as a sign of respect.
How did Kate and William know each other? ›
Kate and William first laid eyes on each other while studying at St. Andrews University. According to Kate, it took some time for the two to get to know each other, in part due to her bashfulness.
Does Kate have to curtsy to Prince William? ›
Who does Kate Middleton have to curtsy to? She curtsies to King Charles and Queen Camilla. I believe she also curtsies to Anne the Princess Royal. Technically, she also curtsies to her husband, the Prince of Wales.
Do Kate and William really love each other? ›
A source spoke to Us Weekly about how Kate and William's relationship is going, saying “more than anything, they're proud of their marriage and beautiful family.” “William and Kate are more in sync than ever,” a palace insider told the outlet. “They cherish what they have with each other.
Do William and Kate have servants? ›
As busy working royals, it's no surprise that Prince William and Kate rely on helpers to ensure the smooth running of their home. Naturally, when it comes to hiring staff, they have extremely high standards.
What happens to Kate when William is King? ›
Kate will instead be a queen consort, the wife of a reigning king (William, of course). In the role, she will support her husband in his duties, attend engagements, and help with charitable organizations that resonate with her.
What does holding hands symbolize? ›
Holding hands is often an expression of romance between two people, especially if you're dating. Family or friends also hold hands to express affection. Holding hands with interlaced fingers often signifies the start of a strong relationship. A more relaxed grip might indicate a longer, more established bond.
A: Holding hands exerts striking effects on our emotional state, especially when it's with a romantic partner: It can help lower blood pressure, reduce pain and buffer stressful experiences.
Is it rude to hold hands in public? ›
Small, affectionate gestures like hugging and holding hands are generally acceptable in public, especially if you're greeting someone.
How much does Kate Middleton weigh? ›
Buckingham Palace has remained mum about how much Kate weighs or how tall she is, but rumors put her at 5-foot-10 and about 120 pounds. "At a weight of 120 for 5-foot-10, that puts her at 80 percent of ideal body weight, or definitely underweight," said Bonci.
Do William and Kate have a nanny? ›
Their Royal Highness's The Duke and duch*ess of Cambridge (William and Catherine) have 1 nanny called Maria Borrallo who joined them shortly after the birth of their first son HRH Prince George was born in 2013, and she has continued to serve the family since then.
What did Kate Middleton's mother do? ›
Are Kate and William affectionate? ›
Unlike the more publicly affectionate Duke and duch*ess of Sussex, William and Kate exhibit a subtler form of affection, characterized by shared laughter and occasional touch, underscoring a deep and comfortable bond.
Why does Kate Middleton hold her hands together? ›
At some points in the video, Kate could be seen clasping her hands together, which the body language expert noted "suggests willpower tinged with some anxiety."
Can royals kiss in public? ›
The royals very rarely kiss or hold hands in public. Some royal watchers might assume that etiquette or royal protocol prevents couples from indulging in PDA. But rather, some royals choose to remain professional when they are out and about because they are working representatives of the British monarchy.
Are the royal family allowed to show affection? ›
There is no official protocol for the royal family when it comes to kissing and hugging in public. However, there are some general guidelines that they tend to follow. Senior members of the royal family are generally more reserved when it comes to public displays of affection.
