Wait, You Have To See These Young King Charles Photos

50 years ago, the new monarch was serving some totally different looks

King Charles

by Charlotte Roberts |
Updated on

Okay, we know – King Charles III really is everywhere at the moment.

With his big day coming up fast, our new monarch is hitting headlines over everything from coronation costs to secret stationary meanings.

But whilst you might be used to seeing our new monarch’s face plastered on flags and mugs, you maybe haven’t seen him looking quite like this before. In fact, it's no surprise that Charles was branded a fashion icon in 2019.

How old is King Charles and when was he born?

King Charles was born in 14 November 1948, which makes him 74 years old, and a Scorpio, if he's into that sort of thing (we have a sneaking suspicion he might be).

This also means Charles turned 20 in 1968, which means his peak young-free-and-single era was spent perfecting quite the mood board of 70s sartorial swagger. Dare we say it, these old snaps show the King looking kind of, well, hot...

Gallery

Young Prince Charles

King Charles stares into distance 1 of 14
CREDIT: Getty

Baby blues

Ahh, a wistful stare into the distance. We don't know what's more mesmerising - those baby blue eyes or that fabulous t-shirt. Green is certainly the King's colour.

King Charles at a polo match2 of 14
CREDIT: Getty

Polo dates

Pictured at one of his many polo events, King Charles was known for being quite the sportsman. White trousers on a grassy field? Bold choice.

King Charles on beach3 of 14
CREDIT: Getty

Beach bod

Erm, is this Baywatch? The young King certainly seems to be having some fun whilst frolicking in the waves at Bondi Beach.

King Charles smiling 4 of 14
CREDIT: Getty

Happy Hermes

The woman in the background might not look so convinced with the outfit, but we beg to differ! If Charles can pull off yellow, then anyone can.

King Charles in his uniform 5 of 14
CREDIT: Getty

Suited up

Looking at a young Charles in his Army dress, it's understandable why so many people love a uniform...

Young Charles stood upon what appears to be a boat 6 of 14

Out at sea

Showing he's a man of many talents, Charles was looking pretty windswept as he stepped out on his wind surfing board. Whilst we're not so sure on the soggy shoes, we're willing to forgive.

King Charles on beach wearing tiny beach shorts7 of 14
CREDIT: Getty

Tiny trousers

Sports Illustrated is calling! Here's some very short shorts - need we say more?

Charles looking smart8 of 14
CREDIT: Getty

Looking Smart

Yet again with the polo outfits, the King's choice of sunglasses is giving us major Top Gun vibes.

And honestly, we're kind of obsessed with those boots.

Charles staring9 of 14
CREDIT: Getty

Blue Steel

Giving his best blue steel, we can't believe Charles kept his hair looking that good after a workout sesh.

King Charles by a tree10 of 14
CREDIT: Getty

Explorer chic

We don't quite know if the vibe was Indiana Jones or safari, but we're on board with it either way.

King Charles in his sunglasses and scarf11 of 14
CREDIT: Getty

High fashion

The statement sunnies? The classic neck scarf? A fashion icon, if ever we've seen one.

King Charles with horse in background topless 12 of 14
CREDIT: Getty

Quick change

You may think the King soaking up the sun on a beach, but you'd be mistaken. 10 points for spotting the horse in the background!

King Charles doing sports13 of 14
CREDIT: Getty

Checked out

Looks like a snazzy shirt and sports day go hand in hand when it comes to our new King.

King Charles wearing a trench coat under an umbrella 14 of 14
CREDIT: Getty

Old classic

Oh, to be the future monarch brooding under an umbrella in the pouring rain. With his staple trench coat, this snap looks straight from the screen of a classic film.

Anyone else wishing for a time machine?

Just so you know, we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website - read why you should trust us