Fans have certainly seen countless photos of the late Queen Elizabeth II making public appearances in her beautifully colorful outfits, always carrying her signature black Launer handbag. But did you know that this bag wasn’t just an accessory or meant for carrying items?
In fact, this handbag was a crucial “secret messaging device” between the Queen and her royal bodyguards. Here are 5 secret gestures hidden behind this iconic handbag:
1. Switching from one hand to the other When the Queen was having a conversation with someone and suddenly switched her handbag from one arm to the other, it was a signal to her staff that she was tired or done talking. Immediately, a bodyguard or aide would politely intervene to escort her away from the conversation.
2. Placing the bag on the dinner table If you were dining with the Queen and suddenly saw her place her handbag on the table, that was the “5-minute warning.” This gesture signaled to event organizers that Her Majesty wanted the event to wrap up within five minutes. Everyone had to prepare to finish their meals and stand up.
3. Dropping the bag on the floor This was the ultimate distress signal! If the Queen dropped her handbag on the floor, it meant she was in a highly uncomfortable or awkward situation. This was an order for her staff or bodyguards to rescue her from the location “immediately,” without delay.
4. Always carrying it on the left arm Generally, the Queen always wore the strap of her bag over her left elbow. This wasn’t an emergency signal, but rather a practical habit to keep her right hand free. This made it easy for her to reach out and shake hands to greet guests, dignitaries, or diplomats.
5. What was actually inside the bag? According to royal biographers, although the bag functioned as a signaling device, she did carry a few personal items. Inside the bag, there was usually a lipstick, a small mirror, mints, her reading glasses, and a neatly folded £5 note to place as a donation when she attended church on Sundays.
In conclusion, every single gesture of the British Royal Family is meticulously planned and holds deeper meanings that we might never expect.
