It’s been over a year since Meghan Markle and Prince Harry decided to step down as senior members of the royal family (we can’t believe it either). And while we are still getting used to the couple living their own, independent life, we imagine its even more of an adjustment for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
In addition to making their own professional choices, the couple is no longer bound by the constraints of strict royal protocol. Here, 12 royal rules the duo no longer have to follow.
Members of the royal family are expected to dress modestly and never overtly casual. Yikes. But both Meghan and Harry are free to wear whatever clothes they please and can be dressed casually for any occasion. We bet they love the world of sweatpants, as much as we do.
The royal family is nothing if not prepared. A respectable all-black outfit is always packed with them on their travels in case of a sudden death where they must attend a funeral. And while this is a pretty smart idea, the duke and duchess no longer need to pack accordingly.
No member of the royal fam is supposed to sign autographs or take a selfie with a fan (though several have been known to break this rule). However, now Harry and Meghan are free to go buy a selfie stick if they please. And they should probably start carrying a ballpoint pen around with them for all the John Hancock requests.
It’s recommended that royals avoid public displays of affection as much as possible, but Harry and Meghan have been known to break this rule on multiple occasions. We’ve already noticed way more PDA.
If a royal must use the restroom during a meal, they don’t announce it to the table. Instead, they apparently simply say “Excuse me” and slip away. But now, the Sussexes are able to shout it from the rooftop if they need to use the bathroom. We’re not sure why they would, but at least they don't have to be so discreet about things.
As with autographs and selfies, the royal couple was not supposed to hug and kiss their fans due to safety concerns (though clearly Meghan broke the rule on occasion). Hug to your heart's content, you two.
Perhaps one of the biggest changes (and a major reason for the couple stepping down in the first place), Prince Harry and his wife are now financially independent. They can earn their own income since they won’t be receiving funds from British taxpayers. A Suits reboot perhaps?
The couple lost their titles as "Your Royal Highness." Just simply Harry and Meghan will suffice.
Queen Elizabeth believes in keeping a stiff upper lip—but Harry and Meghan can now complain away (or at least be honest about their feelings)!
When the Duke of York was presented with the board game, he revealed that it’s forbidden in the royal household because “it gets too vicious.”
We’re not positive on this but we’ll bet both Harry, Meghan, Archie and the new baby can play all of the board games their hearts desire.
While the royal family has to accept every gift that they receive (even if it’s something super lame), it’s up to Queen Elizabeth to decide who gets to keep which gift. Well, for these two, not anymore.
Members of the royal family are not allowed to vote or even publicly express their opinion on political matters (not that Meghan stuck to this rule). Now, they can continue to open about their beliefs.