Prince Louis spotted breaking royal tradition at Sandringham Christmas Day service

Prince Louis seemed to subtly defy a long-standing Royal dress code during the customary Christmas Day walkabout at Sandringham this morning. The seven year old was seen donning smartly tailored trousers, a departure from the traditional shorts usually worn by young Royal boys at public events.

Accompanied by his mother, Princess Catherine, and older siblings Prince George, 12, and Princess Charlotte, 10, Prince Louis greeted the crowd outside St Mary Magdalene Church. Despite the brisk Norfolk weather, the children were all smiles, warmly waving to the public who had assembled to catch a glimpse of the Royal Family.

It's a time-honoured Royal tradition for boys to wear shorts to official engagements until they reach the age of eight - a practice steeped in aristocratic customs that spans generations.

Andrew's daughters Beatrice and Eugenie join King Charles for Christmas Day church service

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However, it seems that the Prince and Princess of Wales are maintaining a more laid-back stance on protocol, as evidenced by Prince Louis also sporting trousers during last year's Christmas event and recent Easter services.

This tradition traces back to early childhood attire when young boys were often dressed similarly to girls until deemed old enough to "graduate" into wearing trousers, reports the Express.

Etiquette expert William Hanson delved into the historical context of a well-established dress code in a chat with Harper's Bazaar. He explained, "Trousers are for older boys and men, whereas shorts on young boys is one of those silent class markers that we have in England."

He further elaborated, "Although times are (slowly) changing, a pair of trousers on a young boy is considered quite middle class - quite suburban. And no self-respecting aristo or royal would want to be considered suburban."

This year, Prince George and Prince Louis were seen sporting matching ties and suits, presenting an endearing image of brotherly solidarity.

While the monarchy continues to uphold its traditions, instances like these underscore how the younger generation is subtly reshaping Royal conventions for a contemporary era.

Senior members of the Royal Family convened at Sandringham House, King Charles's private country estate in Norfolk, for their annual Christmas celebration.

The King took possession of the estate following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022, and has since upheld her cherished Christmas customs, before making his way to Balmoral for the New Year.

The Christmas Day public appearance is one of the few occasions each year when the extended Royal Family gathers in public view, providing a rare insight into their private family festivities.

It is understood that the family exchanged presents on Christmas Eve, a practice believed to be a nod to their German lineage.

After the morning church service and walkabout, it is anticipated that the family will return to Sandringham for a formal black-tie dinner later in the day.