The make-up free royals challenging tradition: From Meghan Markle to Kate

While royals have long been expected to maintain a picture-perfect appearance, many modern princesses are showing that confidence isn’t defined by a full face of make-up.

In recent years, royal women have increasingly embraced a more natural look, whether by stepping out bare-faced or opting for minimal beauty routines.

This shift aligns with a broader cultural movement towards authenticity and self-acceptance.

By embracing their natural beauty, they challenge traditional expectations and inspire women around the world to do the same.

Meghan Markle joined the growing no make-up trend, appearing fresh-faced in a video where she showcased Billie Eilish merchandise she had secured for a victim of the Los Angeles wildfires.

According to celebrity make-up artist Oonagh Connor, the former Suits actress chose to go make-up-free ‘to convey empathy and be natural.’

‘Meghan definitely wants to have a softer approach and come across as real and approachable, especially after receiving a lot of negative press,’ she said, speaking exclusively to MailOnline.

‘She’s at home. It’s cool. It plays along with the narrative of the subject matter. Many of us at home will be our relaxed selves. The royals are no different in that sense.’

Meghan Markle joined the growing no make-up trend, appearing fresh-faced in a video where she showcased Billie Eilish merchandise she had secured for a victim of the Los Angeles wildfires

In recent years, other members of the Royal Family – including the Princess of Wales and Princess Beatrice – have also been seen in public or photos wearing little to no make-up.

This trend reflects the evolving role of royal women. No longer just symbols of glamour and formality, they are increasingly seen as relatable figures who balance royal duties with everyday life.

‘It’s refreshing to see royal women move away from the heavily contoured look we often see on the red carpet,’ Oonagh said.

‘I think this type of image really does show our younger generation it’s ok to be relaxed and bare-skinned without the pressure of wearing make-up.

‘The royals know they can glam up for other events but they surely love their downtime – just like any of us would!’

However, Oonagh, who has worked with Lindsay Lohan and Sophie Ellis-Bextor, believes make-up is still important for official royal engagements: ‘I don’t think royals should go make-up free when on duty. Just like in the workplace, people should make a little effort.

‘I think they would agree that they should be seen as polished – it doesn’t have to be on the Kardashian scale – but as they are going to be photographed I do think they would want to be wearing make-up and have their hair styled.

According to celebrity make-up artist Oonagh Connor, the former Suits actress chose to go make-up-free ‘to convey empathy and be natural

‘It shows a certain respect for their positions and it’s nice to keep up a certain standard which many people could take note of.

‘After all, you never saw Queen Elizabeth in public without her pink lipstick!’

Even Sarah Ferguson, Queen Letizia of Spain and Princess Charlene of Monaco have embraced an au naturel look, emphasising a more relaxed approach to regal style.

As these women continue to redefine their public image, they show that elegance and confidence don’t always require a full face of cosmetics.

Instead, their evolving approach balances tradition with authenticity.

Let’s take a closer look below…

Princess Beatrice sported a natural look as she and husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi announced her second pregnancy in October

Catherine, Princess of Wales, appeared radiant and fresh-faced upon sharing her relief at completing a course of preventative chemotherapy in September

Kate took on a more natural look as she spent time with her family in Norfolk last year

She’s known for her fashion prowess, yet even Queen Letizia of Spain enjoys days of low-key make-up. She is pictured here dropping off her children at school in 2018

In 2023, Eugenie celebrated Beatrice’s 35th birthday with a heartfelt message, sharing a photo of the two sisters looking fresh-faced

Eugenie posted this make-up free picture in November 2020 to celebrate ten years of being together with her husband Jack Brookshank

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, sported a natural make-up look during a visit to central Africa in October 2024

Zara Tindall is pictured competing in the Cornbury House Horse Trials in 2021. She usually avoids a full face of make-up when horse riding

Queen Maxima of the Netherlands ditched her usual high-glamour in favour of comfort as she stepped off the plane in Tanzania in 2022

Queen Mary of Denmark hit Sydney’s Palm Beach on her festive family break in 2017. She appeared to go make-up free while enjoying a refreshing dip in the sea