Gabriella of Monaco is starting 2026 much as she ended last year, offering subtle yet unmistakable clues that her image is evolving. The young princess, who recently turned eleven, has reappeared alongside her family at the Saint Devota celebrations wearing her hair noticeably longer, in a slightly darker shade, and with a presence that confirms she is gradually stepping into a new phase of life.
Like her mother, Princess Charlene, Gabriella seems to have chosen in recent months to let her hair grow. Over time, we’ve seen her experiment with straight-cut bangs, shoulder-length styles, braids, headbands, and small hair accessories. Now, all of those phases are beginning to coalesce into a more defined image.
Gabriella of Monaco's strawberry blonde hair:
Hair was the undeniable star of this appearance. Gabriella now wears it longer than at previous engagements, styled with a side part and soft side-swept bangs she has patiently been growing out. The result is natural, harmonious, and elegant.
Her blonde has also evolved into a strawberry blonde shade, a slightly deeper blonde with coppery, rosy undertones that shift subtly depending on the light.
Worn straight with a gentle wave at the ends, her hair looked exceptionally glossy with unmistakable shine.
Her previous hairstyles:
At the Pique-Nique Monégasque, the popular annual event that brings the princely family together with citizens in Princess Antoinette Park each September, Gabriella surprised observers with braided hair perfectly suited to the relaxed spirit of the gathering.
Beneath the trees and atop checkered tablecloths, the twins projected warmth and accessibility, far removed from rigid protocol. She also wore a braided floral headband during the celebrations marking the twentieth anniversary of Prince Albert’s reign, a historic day that saw the Grimaldis especially united.
On other occasions, Gabriella has opted for simple headbands in various colors or small, age-appropriate hairpieces.
The twins’ first major engagement of the year:
Gabriella and Jacques’s reappearance took place during the celebrations of Saint Devota, patron saint of the Principality and one of Monaco’s most deeply rooted traditions. It marked the first major institutional event of 2026, and the first time we’ve seen the twins this year.
The day began with a Mass in Monegasque at Saint Devota Church, a site rich in symbolism for the princely family. Charlene placed her bridal bouquet there after marrying Albert in 2011, following in the footsteps of Grace Kelly, who did the same in 1956. In the afternoon, the procession through the harbor and the ceremonial burning of the boat underscored the solemn nature of the occasion.
Although Jacques and Gabriella have attended these celebrations for years, their demeanor felt more attentive and engaged this time. Having just turned eleven, both children appear to be assuming their institutional roles with increasing ease and natural confidence.