Lady Louise Mountbatten-Windsor is staying true to the quiet approach that has made her one of the more intriguing younger members of the Royal Family.
The daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh has largely kept out of the spotlight over the years, making occasional appearances at royal events.
Yet her growing confidence and self-assured manner have earned her an increasing number of admirers.
Read More:Â Duchess Sophie’s secret heartbreaking journey with Lady Louise laid bare
Her birthday comes at an interesting time in her life, following a major milestone this summer when she graduated from the University of St Andrews.
Lady Louise completed an undergraduate degree in English and International Relations, with her proud parents travelling to Scotland to celebrate the occasion.
She is now taking a gap year, during which she plans to combine work, volunteering and travel before deciding on her next steps.
It is a decision that has once again raised questions about the role she might eventually play within the monarchy.
Lady also recently reached another important milestone when she received her Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award from her father at the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Despite her royal connections, she has never been expected to take on a full-time role within the monarchy.
At birth, she was entitled to use the title of Her Royal Highness Princess Louise, as the granddaughter of the reigning monarch.
Her parents, Prince Edward and Sophie, chose to bring up their children using the courtesy titles traditionally given to an earl’s children.
Lady Louise has continued to use her title as the daughter of an earl into adulthood, while her younger brother, James, Earl of Wessex, has also been raised outside the ranks of working royals.
Some royal commentators believe the monarchy could benefit from having younger members of the family take on more public responsibilities.
Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams has spoken positively about Lady Louise’s prospects, describing her as having “enormous potential”.
He has pointed to her interest in military affairs, charitable work and carriage driving, a passion she shared with her late grandfather, Prince Philip.
Not everyone, however, believes a more prominent royal role is necessarily the right path for her.
Etiquette expert Laura Windsor said that her preference for a relatively ordinary life, including taking time out after university, reflects her family’s wish to protect her privacy.
She has also questioned whether there would be any need for Lady Louise to adopt her princess title if she intends to pursue a life outside the working Royal Family.
Read More: Duchess Sophie’s daughter ‘ready for spotlight’ as she marks 23rd birthday
