Why does Prince Louis always wear shorts?

Why does Prince Louis always wear shorts?

Video transcript

- Why does Prince Louis always wear shorts? Prince Louis is often spotted wearing a pair of shorts and high socks, most recently when he attended the 2023 Easter service at St. George's Chapel and the 2022 Christmas service in Sandringham. In 2018, etiquette expert William Hanson told "Harper's Bazaar" the reason is very English.

He said "Trousers are for older boys and men, whereas shorts on young boys is one of those silent class markers that we have in England. 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."

Hanson went on to explain that most boys graduate to full-length trousers at about eight years old, which is why Prince George is now seen wearing long pants. According to the BBC, the tradition dates back to the times of breaching in the 16th century. Etiquette expert Grant Harrold told the publication, "This saw young boys wearing gowns or dresses until the age of eight, if not before. And in the late 19th century and early 20th century, this developed into shorts."