The Princess of Wales has a simple trick that helps her look elegant whenever she is drinking, according to etiquette expert Laura Windsor. Speaking on Channel 5's series Buckingham Palace: A Year in the Life, Windsor explained that looking into the cup or glass while drinking is the key to appearing sophisticated.
Windsor said: "When you're drinking tea, try and look inside the cup because it looks more elegant. There's nothing worse than sipping your tea with googly eyes."
How the Trick Works
She further explained: "So always look into the cup and Princess Catherine does this beautifully. She looks inside the cup, she knows exactly what she's doing and that is all about elegance."
The Princess of Wales is frequently photographed during public engagements, and this technique helps her maintain a polished appearance even mid-drink. It is not limited to tea; she has also been seen looking into wine and champagne glasses, as well as a smoothie glass during appearances.
Advice from Prince Philip
Catherine reportedly once received advice from the late Prince Philip that has supported her throughout her role. According to his biographer Gyles Brandreth, Philip told her: "If you believe the attention is for you personally, you're going to end up in trouble. The attention is for your role, what you do, what you're supporting."
He added: "It isn't for you as an individual. You are not a celebrity. You are representing the royal family. That's all. Don't look at the camera. The Queen never looks at the camera. Never. Look at who you're talking to."
While Catherine may not always use the discreet method, she has mastered looking sophisticated both in person and in pictures at every occasion.
