From regal to rebel: the story of tattooed royalty

April 24, 2023 - 2 years ago

Traditionally, the British Royal Family has long been associated with style, glamour, elegance, and poise. Over the years, however, many members of the modern royal family have challenged these notions—and getting tattooed is one of those ways. While tattoos were once frowned upon within aristocratic circles, they are now increasingly embraced, even by royalty.

A growing number of younger royals are using tattoos as part of their personal style. Let's explore some of the most famous examples and the meanings behind their ink.

Are the Royal Family Allowed to Have Tattoos?

The official stance of the royal family on tattoos remains unclear. While no public statements exist, it is generally thought they disapprove due to strict rules and protocols members must follow. Concerns about upholding public image may explain why few royals have sported body art historically. However, recent examples suggest tattoos are increasingly accepted as a form of personal expression.

Famous Examples of Tattooed Royals

The first known royal tattoo dates back to 1869 when Prince Alfred received a dragon tattoo in Tokyo. Since then, a few royals have embraced body art. Abroad, Prince Frederik of Denmark and Princess Sofia of Sweden have displayed impressive tattoos, but what about the British monarchy?

King George V

King George V, monarch of the United Kingdom from 1910 to 1936, received a tiger and blue and red dragon tattoos on his arm while visiting Japan with the Navy. Quite the adventurous display!

Princess Eugenie

Princess Eugenie is one of the only royals with visible tattoos. She showcased a small circle tattoo behind her left ear at the Queen's Platinum Jubilee in 2022. While the meaning hasn’t been confirmed, it’s speculated to be a tribute to her grandmother, symbolizing the Sovereign's Orb.

Lady Amelia Windsor

Lady Amelia Windsor, the Duke of Kent's granddaughter, has several tattoos. With fewer public obligations than higher-profile royals, she has more freedom to express herself through body art. Her collection includes a tiger on her shoulder blade, a delicate rib tattoo, and designs on her wrists and forearms.

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Temporarily Tattooed Royalty

Kate Middleton

Kate Middleton has experimented with temporary body art. In 2018, during a visit to Sunderland, she received a henna tattoo on her right hand—a simple floral design—while pregnant.

Meghan Markle

Meghan Markle also got a henna tattoo during her 2019 royal tour of Morocco. Her design was more elaborate, believed to bring good luck during her final trimester. Temporary henna lasts around two weeks, making it a safe way to enjoy body art within royal protocols.

Shop AloeTattoo Stencil Eraser to remove and reposition temporary tattoo stencils with ease.

Other Royals Who Almost Got Tattoos

Prince William

Prince William reportedly considered a large back tattoo inspired by David Beckham while in the Royal Navy, but Kate Middleton persuaded him otherwise.

Prince Harry

Prince Harry nearly got a tattoo of Botswana on the sole of his foot while in Las Vegas, but was stopped by his security team.

Impact of Royal Tattoos

Though visible tattoos among British royals are rare, their presence signals increasing acceptance of body art as personal expression, even in conservative circles. As societal attitudes continue to evolve, more royals may proudly display their ink in the future.

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