Charlene of Monaco is back in the international spotlight thanks to the Principality’s traditional Christmas Ball, one of the most important charity events on the Monegasque calendar. The gala, held yesterday, Friday, December 12, in the majestic Empire Room of the Hôtel de Paris, brought together many guests to celebrate the 20th edition of this philanthropic event, which once again had the princess as its main figure. Accompanied by Prince Albert, Charlene hosted an evening defined by elegance, generosity, and style choices that did not go unnoticed. She wore an ethereal white gown that many saw as a new nod to Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, and one of her most iconic silhouettes.
© Michaël Alesi / Palais princierThe brand-new white gown caught everyone's attention
At one of Monaco’s most important galas of the year, Charlene chose a white Jenny Packham gown from the spring/summer 2026 collection, which is not yet available for purchase. A This was a true premiere that highlights Charlene's affinity for major international fashion houses and her taste for staying ahead of trends.
© Michaël Alesi / Palais princierThe design stands out for its long, airy silhouette, highlighted by a delicate pleated cape that begins at the shoulders and flows with movement, giving the figure an almost ceremonial feel. The look is finished with a wide, gold-toned beaded belt that defines the waist and adds sophistication and drama. The chosen shade of white, which has very subtle pastel blue hints, creates a clean, luminous aesthetic that aligns with both the holiday spirit and the bridal-inspired style that Charlene has embraced in several of her recent public appearances.
The inevitable parallel with Kate Middleton
The most talked about part of the look was not only its elegance but also the inevitable comparison to Kate Middleton. Charlene’s gown shares an almost identical silhouette with the famous design the Princess of Wales wore to the 2021 premiere of James Bond: No Time To Die, also by Jenny Packham. That gold cape gown with a V neckline and fluid drape became one of Kate’s most iconic looks and marked a turning point in her most glamorous era.
© Getty ImagesThis time Charlene has reinterpreted that same structure with a more ethereal and minimalist approach, choosing white with a subtle pastel blue touch. The deep V neckline, the light cape over the shoulders, and the jeweled belt reinforce the sense that the Princess of Monaco is closely following the aesthetic codes of the Princess of Wales and adapting them to her own style. It is not an isolated case. Only a few weeks ago Charlene surprised with a green dress from a British label often seen in Kate’s wardrobe, confirming a shift toward a more classic timeless and distinctly royal style.
© Getty ImagesCharlene's hairstyle, makeup, and jewelry reflected classic movie star glamour
Charlene completed the look with a side-parted updo with soft waves, a hairstyle that recalls the legendary divas of classic cinema. Her makeup was more elaborate than usual, with intensely defined eyes, full lashes and natural-toned lips that reinforced the glamour of the night.
© Michaël Alesi / Palais princierFor jewelry, she chose elegant diamond climber earrings that add light to the face without taking attention away from the gown. Her manicure stayed understated and natural, in line with the clean color palette of the whole look.
The event is a charity ball that plays a significant institutional role
The Monaco Christmas Ball, held under the high patronage of Princess Charlene, is one of the Principality’s most emblematic charity events. In this twentieth edition, the gala once again raised funds for the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, focused on preventing drowning and promoting childhood education through sport.
© Michaël Alesi / Palais princierOne of the highlights of the evening was the charity auction organized by Sotheby’s, with all proceeds going directly to the foundation’s projects. Charlene also received the Monaco Star award, presented by Sandrine Knoell, in recognition of her commitment to children. An honor that further reinforces her role as an active and dedicated figure within the Principality.
The Grimaldi family and Christmas in Monaco
TThe Christmas season also produced other memorable images of the Grimaldi family. This week Princess Gabriella, daughter of Charlene and Albert, caught attention in a leopard print faux fur coat that showed how style is starting to make its mark even among the youngest in the Principality. Recently, the Monegasque royal household shared their traditional Christmas card, reinforcing the image of family unity that is synonymous with this special time of year.
