The Principality of Monaco was a picture of elegance and patriotic pride as its royal family, led by Princess Charlene and Prince Albert, marked the nation's National Day on November 19.
A Day of Tradition and Pageantry
The day's formal proceedings commenced with the royal couple attending a morning mass at the iconic Our Lady Immaculate Cathedral. The 47-year-old Princess Charlene, truly living up to her title of Her Serene Highness, captivated onlookers in a meticulously tailored ivory power suit, complete with a sophisticated fascinator featuring a netted veil.
Her husband, the 67-year-old Prince Albert, cut a distinguished figure beside her, dressed in full military regalia. The couple later returned to the Palace balcony, where they were joined by their ten-year-old twins, Crown Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, to wave enthusiastically to the crowds of well-wishers gathered below.
Royal Family Fashion and Tributes
The family's attire paid a stylish homage to Monaco's national colours. While Princess Charlene opted for sleek ivory, young Princess Gabriella provided a vibrant contrast in a pretty red frock. Crown Prince Jacques mirrored his father's formal demeanour in an outfit adorned with emblems and navy trousers featuring a signature red stripe down the side.
The celebrations are a cherished annual tradition for Monegasques, often beginning with a fireworks display the evening before the main event. It is also known as The Sovereign Prince's Day, a date selected by the reigning monarch. Notably, Prince Albert chose to continue celebrating on the same day as his father, rather than on the feast day of Saint Albert.
Extended Royal Family Joins the Festivities
The event was a full family affair, with several other prominent royals in attendance. Charlotte Casiraghi, the 38-year-old daughter of Princess Caroline, looked striking in a flattering yellow tweed blazer. She was accompanied by her seven-year-old son, Balthazar Rassam.
Her brother, Pierre Casiraghi, 38, and his wife, Beatrice Borromeo, 40, were also present. Beatrice, once crowned the 'most stylish European royal' by Tatler, chose a chic grey ensemble for the day. The couple, who welcomed their first daughter, Bianca Carolina Marta, earlier this month, appeared to have left the newborn at home for the celebrations.
The name of their new daughter holds deep family significance, with 'Carolina' being a tribute to Pierre's mother, Princess Caroline, and 'Marta' honouring Beatrice's maternal grandmother, the Italian fashion designer Marta Marzotto.
Princess Caroline of Hanover, 68, completed the illustrious gathering, looking chic in a plum overcoat and accessorising with a satin cherry red hairband that honoured the Monegasque flag, a medal pinned proudly to her lapel.
