During President Donald Trump’s September 2025 state visit to the United Kingdom, First Lady Melania Trump caught worldwide attention by greeting royal family members with a handshake instead of a traditional curtsy.
For centuries, women visiting the British monarch would perform a slight curtsy to bend one’s knee to show a mark of respect, while men would nod or bow. This ritual began in the 17th century and was designed to show loyalty and honor to sovereigns.
On the manicured lawns of Windsor Castle, as Melania stepped off Marine One, she confidently shook hands with King Charles III, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Princess Kate. Her friendly handshake, rather than the formal curtsy, quickly became a talking point, leading to debate about royal etiquette in a changing world.
Some in the British press and social media speculated about a possible breach of tradition, while others praised her for representing a modern, equal approach to diplomacy and cultural exchange.
2. Handshakes, Not Obligations
Despite the flurry of public debate, palace officials and royal historians quickly clarified that Melania Trump’s greeting was not a breach of royal protocol.
As royal historian Marlene Koenig explained, there are no strict rules, especially for state guests and Americans. “There are no obligatory codes of behaviour when meeting a member of the Royal Family,” says the Royal Household’s official website.
While many British citizens and visitors choose to bow or curtsy, a traditional handshake is accepted for those who prefer a more familiar gesture.
Koenig further pointed out that Americans have always been exempt from such formalities due to the United States’ founding principles of equality and independence.
Since the American Revolution, the United States has rejected symbols of deference to monarchy, like bows or curtsies, as a reflection of national identity.
The palace reaffirmed this to the press, stating that a handshake was acceptable.
In fact, previous first families sometimes opted for handshakes or other warm greetings over bows or curtsies, showing that personalized, respectful interactions matter more than ritual.
3. A Historic Visit Blending Customs and Symbolism
Melania’s greeting didn’t overshadow the historical and diplomatic importance of the Trumps’ UK visit, which was full of old traditions and new moments.
This was President Trump’s second official state visit to Britain, an honor rarely extended to any U.S. president.
The elaborate itinerary included traditional pageantry: a ceremonial carriage through Windsor, a grand white-tie banquet in the palace, and a solemn wreath-laying at Queen Elizabeth II’s tomb.
Melania also joined Princess Kate for a special public engagement, showing transatlantic solidarity and friendship.
The visit drew global attention, with millions watching and analyzing not just official meetings, but every gesture, fashion choice, and personal connection.
Melania’s handshake, done with grace and confidence, symbolized how American and British traditions can respectfully merge, honoring equality and royal custom.
Ultimately, the palace’s response and public reaction demonstrated that in modern diplomacy, gestures are meaningful, but thoughtful, sincere interaction always stands above ceremony.