Royal family umbrellas – which brand is it and why
When it rains over Buckingham Palace and Queen Camilla or Princess Kate step in front of the cameras, they almost always hold the same accessory in their hands: a transparent, dome-shaped umbrella. This is no coincidence, nor a rotation of five brands. The answer to the question “what brand of umbrellas does the royal family use?” is surprisingly specific.
An umbrella in the hands of the British royal family is not just protection from the rain (which is plentiful in the UK). It’s a part of their image, a carefully considered detail that must fulfill several roles at once: not block photographers’ view of their faces, look elegant, and survive a season of official appearances. And here, one particular brand comes into play, having earned this unique status.
photo: foxweather.com
The company behind the “royal” umbrella, Fulton Umbrellas (A. Fulton Company Ltd.), produces about 4 million umbrellas a year (data from 2006). This scale shows we’re talking about a major player, not a niche artisan workshop.
In a moment, you’ll find out exactly which brand (and why this one in particular), which model Queen Camilla carries, where to buy such “royal” umbrellas, and what makes these dome-shaped “Birdcage” designs a synonym for British elegance.
photo: exquisite.sk
What brand of umbrellas does the royal family use?
The main brand used by the British royal family is Fulton Umbrellas ( A. Fulton Company Ltd.). They have been producing those distinctive, transparent domes we see in thousands of photos for decades. Fulton has received the Royal Warrant, the official certificate of a court supplier, twice: in 1993 from the Queen Mother and again in 2008 from Queen Elizabeth II. The tradition continues, as Queen Camilla also regularly chooses umbrellas from this brand.
photo: goodhousekeeping.com
Queen Elizabeth II reportedly had over 100 Birdcage umbrellas in her collection. Kate Middleton caught the media’s attention as early as 2012 by using the same model. Fun fact? In 2023, King Charles III received a unique umbrella from Mario Talarico, made from a single piece of bamboo, showing that the royal family also appreciates craftsmanship beyond the Isles.
Fox i Swaine, tradition in the background
Fulton is not the only brand in royal history. Fox Umbrellas (1868) and Swaine Adeney Brigg (1750) are older houses that have also had their connections to the court. Swaine Adeney Brigg specialized in luxury accessories for the aristocracy, although today Fulton umbrellas are much more visible in the media. Other royal families in Europe? They have their own preferences, but no one documents their choices as meticulously as the British.
| Brand | Year of establishment | Connection with royals |
|---|---|---|
| Fulton Umbrellas | 1956 | Royal Warrant 1993 and 2008, still in use today |
| Fox Umbrellas | 1868 | Historical ties to the British court |
| Swaine Adeney Brigg | 1750 | Traditional supplier of accessories for the aristocracy |
photo: wadiz.kr
Why these models and where to buy them
Visibility and resilience in practice
Birdcage is not a random choice. This transparent PVC dome protects against rain, but at the same time allows photographers to capture the royal’s face and outfit, which is exactly the point. Automatic opening (1967) made the model even more convenient, and wind resistance: up to 78 mph (≈ 125 km/h) means that even in British storms, the umbrella simply works.
A few features that make a difference:
- deep dome reaching the shoulders
- reinforced fiberglass construction
- lightweight handle, easy to hold for hours
- hoop and handle color-matched to the outfit
Yes, royals do actually match the rim and handle to the color of the dress or coat. Fulton sends samples to make sure everything is just right. And one more thing, royals hold umbrellas themselves to remain visible. It’s part of the etiquette, not a matter of convenience.
Prices and availability of royal models
photo: popsugar.com
Fulton Birdcage ranges from £20 to around £50, depending on the finish. Fox Umbrella or Brigg start at £100 and can go up to £500, although the more expensive ones often end up in collections rather than for everyday use.
| Brand/model | Price range | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|
| Fulton Birdcage | £20-50 | fultonumbrellas.com, Harrods |
| Fox / Swaine Adeney Brigg | £100-500 | boutiques London, online |
It’s worth mentioning the limited editions, such as Platinum Jubilee (2022) and the coronation of Charles III, which brought special series with engravings. These disappear quickly, but standard models are available all year round.
Elegance in the rain is more than just a logo
Fulton was not chosen by accident. This is a brand that has proven for decades that true luxury lies in discreet confidence, not in shouting about your worth. When an umbrella lasts for years and still looks flawless, when it opens smoothly with a single motion, without snapping or jamming, when it protects you equally well from London drizzle and downpour (and the UK knows a thing or two about rain), only then do you truly understand what real class is.
photo: townandcountrymag.com
The royal family could wear anything. The fact that they choose Fulton says everything about how value is recognized not by price, but by years of reliable service. And that the best style is the one that needs no explanation.
Martinna
lifestyle editorial team
Luxury Blog
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