There s an actress, a financier, a TV news reader and even a model. One or two did nothing at all. But today these royal wives are notable because none of them were aristocrats.
They are among the most recognisable women in Europe - and lend more than a touch of glamour to its Royal families. But not all of them were born in the lands they now help rule.
Queen Maxima of the Netherlands is one of the most popular royals Europe, applauded for intelligence, charisma, humanitarian work - and an impressive collection of hats!