King Charles III has tossed a century-old royal tennis dress code into the dustbin of history, signaling a shift toward a less stuffy monarchy. The strict "almost entirely white" rule for Buckingham Palace’s exclusive tennis court, set in 1919 under King George V, is no longer mandatory, according to the king's recent charge, as Fox News reports. This move raises eyebrows among traditionalists who cling to protocol like a life raft.

The king’s decision softens the dress code to make tennis whites "preferred" but not required for royals, staff, and guests.

This change, announced in July 2025, aims to make the court, nestled in the palace’s 40-acre garden, feel less like a Victorian relic. It’s a small but symbolic step in Charles’ mission to drag the monarchy into the present.

"King Charles is a very progressive-thinking man," said Shannon Felton Spence. Progressive? That’s a polite way of saying he’s itching to upend tradition for the sake of relevance.

Breaking royal customs

The tennis court, dubbed London’s most exclusive by the Royal Collection Trust, has long been a playground for rigid etiquette.

Forcing players to don all-white attire screamed elitism, a barrier Charles seems eager to lower. Yet, some see this as abandoning a hallmark of royal sporting culture.

"It has always been a hallmark of royal sporting etiquette," lamented Hilary Fordwich. Her nostalgia misses the point: traditions that alienate people don’t scream "modern monarchy." Charles’ tweak suggests practicality over pomp.

The king, rarely seen in casual jeans or sneakers, isn’t exactly a fashion rebel. His formal style makes this change more striking, a deliberate nod to accessibility. It’s less about him and more about making staff and guests feel unburdened by outdated rules.

Broader modernization efforts afoot

Charles’ reign, which began after Queen Elizabeth II’s death, has been marked by efforts to streamline the monarchy.

He has lowered the palace swimming pool’s temperature to cut energy costs, a move that shows his environmental streak. His beloved Aston Martin DB6, bought in 1970 and converted to run on biofuels from surplus wine and cheese whey, underscores this commitment.

"He’s got this beautiful Aston Martin that runs on biofuel, which is pretty incredible," said Chris Jackson. Incredible, sure, but it’s also a savvy way to signal green credentials without preaching. Charles walks a fine line between innovation and tradition.

The end of the Royal Train’s 156-year service, announced on July 3, 2025, further proves Charles’s willingness to cut costly relics. Citing high operational costs and needed upgrades, the move ditches a tradition dating back to Queen Victoria. It’s pragmatic, not woke, despite what critics might claim.

Symbolic steps forward

"The Royal Train is no longer," said Hilary Fordwich. She ties this to Charles’ other changes, like the pool temperature, but frames it as a loss. In reality, it’s about shedding dead weight to keep the monarchy relevant.

The tennis dress code shift isn’t just about fashion; it’s a statement. "It might seem like a minor change, but in royal circles, even a small dress code modification says a lot," said Amanda Matta. She’s right, but let’s not over-romanticize -- Charles isn’t staging a revolution, just a refresh.

Matta also noted, "The all-white rule dates back to Victorian ideas about formality and appearance." That’s the crux: clinging to Victorian ideals in 2025 feels like cosplaying the past. Charles’ subtle shifts signal a monarchy that’s less museum, more living institution.

Balancing tradition with progress

Charles’ public engagements, like kissing the hand of French first lady Brigitte Macron on July 9 at Windsor Castle, show his charm offensive. Princess Catherine's Christian Dior outfit during the French state visit on July 8 reinforced royal sartorial diplomacy. These moments blend tradition with modern flair, though some argue Charles’ political lobbying oversteps.

"His direct engagement in political lobbying has not been well received," said Fordwich. Fair point -- kings should steer clear of politics to avoid alienating subjects. Charles’s focus on symbolic changes, like the tennis court, is safer ground.

From visiting the Aston Martin factory in 2020 to raising cancer awareness in 2024, Charles has shown he’s not afraid to engage directly. His T-Rex tie, a playful nod to his "C. Rex" cipher, proves he’s got a sense of humor. As Robert Hardman said, “He’s a happy monarch,” and these changes reflect a king comfortable in his role, nudging the monarchy toward a future that respects its past without being shackled by it.