Harry to dress in military ‘clobber’
PRINCE Harry will wear military uniform next Saturday, according to royal experts who say there is almost zero chance of the prince turning up in a top hat and tails.
While most eyes will be on Meghan Markle’s dress, royal experts have also turned their minds to what Harry will wear, with the uniform of the Royal Marines tipped as the favourite.
Harry was appointed Captain General of the Royal Marines in December last year by the Queen. The position had previously been held by Harry’s grandfather Prince Philip.
Royal expert Victoria Howard said she would be shocked if Prince Harry didn’t wear a military uniform, given he served with the British Armed Forces for 10 years. She said Harry would be choosing between the Royal Marines uniform or the uniform known as the Blues and Royals Dismounted Review Order, which he wore when he was Prince William’s best man in 2011.
The Blues and Royals is the regiment Harry served in and their personnel will be among the 250 soldiers performing ceremonial roles at the wedding.
The uniform is a dark navy colour featuring red and gold trimmings. The Captain General Royal Marines uniform is similar and also features an aiguillette — a braided gold cord that runs across the chest.
Ms Howard said that uniform would be possibly a more significant choice as his position with them was his first big role as a royal within the Armed Forces, as opposed to an officer.
Harry is very proud of his Armed Forces history. It’s a significant part of his identity and he considers himself more of a soldier than a royal.
One of the few commentators who believed Harry will be in a traditional British morning suit is historical adviser Alastair Bruce. Mr Bruce, a royal herald at the College of Arms, has argued that Harry will want his wedding to be less formal and will therefore avoid the military pomp.
He told UK newspaper The Telegraph he would buy a marzipan hat and take of picture of himself eating it if Harry turned out in military “clobber”.