In a move reminiscent of traditional royal practices, Prince William has recently appointed a new valet to manage his clothing and overall appearance, stepping into a role previously held by his father.
This decision marks a significant shift in the future king’s approach to his personal style and presentation.
The announcement of this new appointment was made public last month, signaling William’s intention to delegate the responsibility of his wardrobe to a dedicated servant.
According to reports from GB News, this strategic move will enable William to focus more on his royal duties and engagements, streamlining his daily routine.
However, the decision to hire a valet has raised eyebrows among some observers, as the role is often associated with outdated notions of aristocracy and historical dramas like Downton Abbey.
Traditionally, valets were tasked with assisting gentlemen in dressing, grooming, and maintaining their attire, serving as a male counterpart to maids in affluent households.
Contrary to popular expectations, William’s valet is not solely focused on sartorial matters but also serves as a personal aide, offering support in various aspects of the prince’s daily life.
While valets traditionally accompanied their employers on trips and social outings, William opted not to bring his new hire on a recent visit to New York.
Importantly, the cost of employing the valet will not be covered by taxpayers but will instead be funded through William’s Duchy of Cornwall finances.
The Duchy, which William inherited from his father upon becoming the Prince of Wales, generated nearly £6 million in revenue this year, supporting the official, charitable, and personal endeavors of the prince and his immediate family.
Historically, royal households have maintained a cadre of staff members, including butlers, chefs, and valets, to ensure the smooth running of operations and the upkeep of royal residences.
While the prevalence of dedicated valets has diminished over time, the royal family continues to uphold traditions by retaining a diverse team of skilled professionals.
Notably, Prince Charles, William’s father, was known to employ multiple servants, with one former royal butler disclosing details of their duties, such as attending to intricate tasks like applying toothpaste to the prince’s toothbrush and meticulously ironing his shoelaces and pajamas daily.