It seems a directive circulated among European monarchial residences, as a host of the latest holiday greetings display remarkably alike photographs of families clinging to one another affectionately.
Touching, arm in arm, holding hands, hugging—these gestures collectively convey signals about the bond they are to each other.
It appears a monarchial adhesive is at work, connecting them in these Christmas portraits. We are in the time of the down-to-earth royals.
The Wales Family Pioneer the Trend
The Prince and Princess of Wales stand as setting the tone, with a seasonal message showing a casual, unceremonious family group snuggling with each other in the Norfolk countryside.
Similar to last year's card, they maintain a aesthetic that is distinctly different from a rigid, official picture, instead showing a parental unit enjoying themselves together on a springtime afternoon, brimming with fondness, dressed in denim and sweaters.
William has discussed shifting the approach in his handling of the Crown.
Such a portrait conveys an impression that they're similar to every domestic unit, with gazes not condescending to the viewer, truly earthy, resting on the grass.
A Different Era: The Stiffness of Bygone Eras
Contrast this with a 1969 seasonal card, which features the royals smiling, beaming and assembled near a boat. Presumably this was designed to appear relaxed and contemporary.
But they're quite stiffly dressed, they're all positioned separately and it seems they've just been awarded a trophy on a game show.
King Charles and Camilla: A Show of Unity
Returning to 2025 and King Charles and The Queen are side by side in their seasonal portrait—a symbol of solidarity in what's been a eventful year.
The photograph is a blend of the friendly and the formal, shot on the first day of the diplomatic tour to Italy, when the pair were celebrating their 20th wedding anniversary.
The Queen is adorned with a May lily brooch, a token of abiding love.
That trip was in April, which is the reason for the springtime setting for this Christmas card. The location is an ambassador's residence in Rome, the refined residence of the UK's envoy to Italy.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle: A Festive Picture
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are hand in hand in their Christmas card—or in fact, a "Happy Holidays" card.
In contrast to some they've captured the festive atmosphere right, with some festive snow shown in a picture from the Invictus Games in Canada in February.
They appear like a trendy couple, grinning optimistically from behind their sunglasses. It's got a feeling of motion.
Yet the wording of the message is less close: "From the team of Prince Harry and Meghan, the couple."
European Royals: An Assortment of Aesthetics
From the Low Countries to the Iberian nation and the microstate, various royal families have chosen varied styles for their seasonal greetings.
- The Belgian royal family presented a more ceremonial family group portrait, wearing elegant outfits amidst a bit of plants.
- The Spanish family combined approaches, projecting a casual, accessible domestic picture in a countryside location that champions traditional heritage.
- Monaco's greeting is much grander, featuring a large fire, classical art, formal clothes, and a small canine beside the Princess.
- The Grand Ducal family opted for a relaxed yet polished look, full of joyful moments, a decorated tree, and red accents for a authentically festive feel.
The Undisputed Champion
However there was little debate for the most memorable greeting. Juan Carlos, who relinquished the throne in 2014, sent an irresistible regal holiday greeting.
Several canine companions sit in front of an artificial tree, looking dignified in a quasi formal dynastic image. However, it's more playful than formality.
What's the message? The light glints on the dogs' collars. They gaze upward with adorably wrinkled faces. The holidays are here and that's a time for paws for thought.
This year's selection of regal holiday greetings collectively presents a image of today's royalty: leaning into closeness, accessibility, and household bonds above rigid ceremony.
