The eldest child of the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, Lady Louise is known for her modesty and her preference for keeping out of the spotlight. Rarely seen in the press, she is not often considered one of the most stylish royals. However, she is making strides in her studies at the University of St Andrews, where Prince William and Kate Middleton met, which could lead to significant developments reminiscent of Queen Elizabeth. Lady Louise has been spotted with Felix Da Silva Clamp at various events, sparking curiosity about the status of their relationship, although no official comment has been made.
Outside of her personal life, she has also attracted attention for her unexpected interest in joining the Army. Reports suggest that she has openly expressed her desire to serve her country. One source revealed that she is enthusiastic about a military career and has joined the Army Cadet Corps. During her preparation, Louise will take reserve officer courses alongside her studies, covering topics ranging from uniform standards to leadership skills. Unlike other royals who hold honorary military titles, if she pursues this path, she will be the first royal since Queen Elizabeth to serve on active duty.
Queen Elizabeth, who trained as a mechanic in the Auxiliary Territorial Service, has maintained a different lifestyle by returning home every night, unlike her contemporaries. Lady Louise, who has no official title and is not called “Prince” at her parents’ request, enjoys a more normal life while being seen as the worthy successor to her mother, the energetic Duchess of Edinburgh. Louise has a close relationship with King Charles. While no formal role has been planned for her, there may be opportunities to support the monarch in other ways.
Regular visits to her grandparents kept her close to Queen Elizabeth, and she was one of the grandchildren who saw the late monarch regularly. When she developed a hobby like carriage driving, she connected with her grandfather, Prince Philip. He was proud of her enthusiasm for the skill, which they practiced together. At 17, she competed successfully in a horse show, and at her grandmother's coronation in 2022, she paid tribute by driving Philip's old carriage, leaving the Queen in tears.
Nowadays, Louise often attends equestrian events and royal functions. Her recent appearance at Trooping the Colour parade showed off her style, as she wore a dress favoured by royal designer Susanna London. While studying at St Andrews, she was unlikely to have achieved much notoriety due to the university’s strict secrecy policy, which protects the identity of students, especially those of high status like her. However, after graduating in two years, she would become a prominent royal figure and a respected member of the Armed Forces.
Lady Louise is a prime example of the balance between tradition and modernity within the royal family. Her choice to pursue military service and dedication to prestigious academic programmes highlighted her ambition and commitment to serving her country, in keeping with her family’s heritage. Individuals like Louise could redefine the monarchy, combining respect for tradition with a strong social commitment, ensuring the monarchy thrives while honouring its history.
