Traditionally, when a woman marries into the royal family, she takes the female version of her husband’s title.
However, Camilla, who married Prince Charles in 2005, goes by the female version of Charles’ other title, the Duke of Cornwall.
So why is this?
The decision is reportedly out of respect to the late princess Diana, who carried the title Princess of Wales.
And although Diana was not the first Princess of Wales, the title became strongly associated with her.
Royal blogger Marlene Koenig says the decision was made to avoid stirring up negative public perception towards Camilla.
Ms Koenig said that when the couple married, “Camilla was not popular or well liked, though this has changed a lot since the marriage as Camilla has taken on a lot of patronages and Charles is a lot happier”.
She added: “Still, [there was] a lot of tension and anger among a certain element of the population – so it was decided that Camilla would be styled as the Duchess of Cornwall, even though, of course, she is the Princess of Wales.”
The Duchess of Cornwall has become much more popular and well liked in recent years, but the style change is here to stay.
What will Camilla’s title be when Charles takes the throne?
As Cornwall Live reports, when Charles and Camilla married, it was announced Camilla will take on the new title of Princess Consort when Charles is king.
In recent years, there has been some speculation this may not be the case and Camilla may actually be known as Queen Camilla.
However, in March 2020 a spokesperson for the couple rebuffed this speculation.
Clarence House confirmed Camilla will still be known as Princess Consort when Charles is king.
A spokesperson for the couple told The Times: "The intention is for the Duchess to be known as Princess Consort when the Prince accedes to the throne.
“This was announced at the time of the marriage and there has been absolutely no change at all.”
When Charles is king, he will no longer be the Duke of Cornwall and subsequently, Camilla will no longer use the title of Duchess of Cornwall.
