Here's How Meghan Markle Might Skip a 177-Year-Old Christening Tradition

Baby Archie is set to have his baptism and second public appearance this July, but it seems there may be something on his special day that will break a 177-year-old tradition.

Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor made his public debut last month in a non-traditional way at St. George’s Hall in Windsor Castle. Next month, he is scheduled to have another appearance which may also mark the end of an almost 200-year tradition.

Like his father, Prince Harry, baby Archie will be baptized in St. George’s Chapel, which is also the same venue his parents were married in 2018. Though the tradition of Christening the baby will be maintained, Meghan Markle may opt to skip the royal gown that has been used by all of the Queen’s great-grandchildren.

The Christening gown dates back to the mid-1800s and has been part of the tradition since. The current one is an imitation of Queen Victoria’s firstborns gown, Victoria Adelaide Mary Louisa.

Wearing the traditional gown is part of the rules royals must follow, including bringing the Lily Font to the church on the day, and using water from the River Jordan for the event. However, due to Markle’s unorthodox ways since their wedding, nothing can be sure.

During her wedding to Harry, Meghan ditched a few traditions, including not having a maid of honor, showing public displays of affection, and not getting a fruitcake flavored wedding cake.

Baby Archie’s birth was also different from the usual traditions such as his presentation to the world, with Harry holding him instead of his mother. In the past, royal moms, like Princess Diana and Kate Middleton, cradled their newborns.

Markle and Harry also chose not to give their child a royal title, and so he will be referred to as a “Master.” Some traditions, however, were still observed, such as putting an official notice of the birth on an easel outside Buckingham Palace.