Princess Kate's Milan Visit: Bag Etiquette Stirs Debate

The Princess of Wales, 44, commenced her significant solo engagement in Italy with a warm reception. Arriving at Piazza Camillo Prampolini, she wore a striking blue power suit and waved to the gathered crowds. Her ability to converse "perfectly" in Italian impressed local children, but an accompanying action drew attention.

Princess Kate was observed placing her powder blue Asprey handbag, valued at over £3,000, on the floor outside the Reggio Emilia Town Hall. While likely a practical decision to free her hands for gesturing, etiquette experts suggest this could be considered a faux pas due to associations with bad luck or uncleanliness. Her bag was later managed by an assistant during subsequent activities.

This situation echoes a recent event involving Queen Camilla. Approximately two weeks prior to Princess Kate's engagement, on April 28, Queen Camilla also placed her bag on the floor while in the United States for a state visit with King Charles. This move generated online discussion, with an etiquette coach remarking it was a spontaneous decision for the Queen, potentially an oversight by royal staff.

Some social media users defended Queen Camilla's action, interpreting it as a humble gesture that avoided distracting from the King's important speech. The contrasting views highlight differing perspectives on royal deportment and the interpretation of seemingly minor actions.