King Charles III is set to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa next month, where he could embrace a more relaxed dress code.
Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa has urged all delegates, including the King, to forgo formal suits in favour of more comfortable attire due to the island’s hot October weather.
“We’re not really keen for people to wear suits and be hot and uncomfortable,” Ms Mataafa stated, emphasising her desire for “more of an island vibe” during the event.
The Prime Minister’s request comes after her audience with the King at Buckingham Palace earlier this year, where she was frank about the expected conditions in Samoa.
King Charles III is set to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa next month, where he could embrace a more relaxed dress code.
PA
Ms Mataafa has been clear in her vision for this CHOGM, describing it as “an island CHOGM” that will be unlike any other.
In a video message, she reiterated her plea for casual attire: “Can I tell you it’s warm in October, so please don’t wear your suits in your packing… We look forward to welcoming you in true island style.”
The Prime Minister, who boasts Samoan royal lineage herself and is the island’s first female leader, aims to showcase a unique part of the world.
She expressed her desire for delegates to be comfortable, emphasising that the relaxed dress code doesn’t diminish the meeting’s importance.
King Charles III, known for his impeccable sartorial choices, typically favours suits and ties for official engagements in line with royal protocol.
PA
King Charles III, known for his impeccable sartorial choices, typically favours suits and ties for official engagements in line with royal protocol. However, he has shown flexibility in the past, particularly during foreign tours.
In his younger years, the King was photographed in a variety of colourful outfits, including safari suits, turbans, and tropical shirts.
Whilst it’s unlikely he’ll don a traditional Samoan lavalava – a wraparound skirt – he may opt for a subtle nod to local customs.
The King has occasionally been seen without a tie, suggesting he might be open to a more relaxed look for CHOGM.
Despite this, he once stated that showcasing British tailoring on royal tours abroad was part of his duty.
The King’s visit to Samoa may result in more than just a change in attire. Local mayor Tofaeono Atuaia Kitiona has revealed plans to bestow an honorary Samoan chiefly title upon the monarch.
“Given the King’s imminent arrival, it is only fitting that we confer upon him a chiefly title that befits his stature,” Mr Kitiona told the Samoan Observer.
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The King’s visit to Samoa may result in more than just a change in attire. Local mayor Tofaeono Atuaia Kitiona has revealed plans to bestow an honorary Samoan chiefly title upon the monarch.
PA
Two titles are under consideration: “Le Toaiga-o-Tumua” (The Near East) and “Asomua-o-le-malama” (Dawn of the Light).
The mayor emphasised the importance of the royal visit, stating, “We are meticulously preparing for this visit, understanding that our performance as the host will reflect on the entire nation.”
He added that ensuring a perfect stay for the King was crucial, as “failing in this duty would mean failing Samoa as a whole.”