After an monochromatic outfit for the morning events for the National Day in Monaco, Princess Charlene shock us everyone with what could be a feminist outfit. This year, the Prince and Princess were joined by two sisters-in-law, Princess Caroline of Hanover (in Chanel Couture), and Mrs. Chantell Wittstock, wife of Princess Charlene’s borther Sean.
The Princess donned a tuxedo by Ralph Lauren Collection. The Chrystie tuxedo jacket is made of wool and features a double-breasted silhouette with satin-covered buttons and wide double-faced satin peak lapels.
This jacket is not to be mistaken with another Ralph Lauren tuxedo jacket that the Princess wore in New York last year for the Princess Grace Awards and in France for Armistice Day Dinner. The number chosen for the National Day gala has four buttons and two pockets while the Princess Grace Awards blazer has six buttons.
Princess Charlene repeated the same wingtip shirt that she’s worn in New York last week (buttoned up this time). This shirt features a hidden placket (the layer of fabric that hides the buttons). The Princess of Monaco chose a pair of black slimmer tuxedo pants with side faille stripes. To finish the look, HSH wore her Dior slingback pumps that she’s worn for the Monte-Carlo TV festival earlier this year.
Charlene sweetened the deal with gorgeous Graff diamond and ruby earrings and bracelet. The earrings are comprised of 20 carats of rubies and 11 carats of diamonds. The bracelet is made of 46.90 carats of rubies and 17.67 carats of diamonds.
I’ve gone back and forth several times on this outfit. On one hand the fit is impeccable, and the outfit is edgy and well thought out. Opinions were mixed over the placement of the order of St. Charles sash and medal on the tuxedo. It doesn’t bother me.
What does bother me a little is that usually when wearing a sash, men would wear a tailcoat, not a tuxedo. So I wish the Princess was more on theme and had worn a tailcoat. Actually, I wish she’d gone for something more dramatic like Yasmine Sabri’s (Egyptian actress) Antoine Kareh Couture creation.
Then again, perhaps the Princess wanted the look to be dramatic with its simplicity. After all, this look is very well thought of. Looking at the ensemble, you’d think the only thing missing from a regular tuxedo is the bowtie, but if you look again, the bowtie is actually Princess Charlene’s clutch (possibly Armani).
I’m positive that I love the makeup and hairstyle, which were done by the trusted Rubi Long & Stephane Madinier. And the jewelry is just divine.
The Fete Nationale week showed a shift in Princess Charlene’s style. From midi-skirts to the endless supply of v-necks, the princess seems to be switching things up. Whether this is a response to her newly-renovated office (which is minimalistic and neutral) or she now has someone advising on fashion choices, I’m there for it. Just shock us next year with your diamond foam tiara, PLEASE!!!
Photos: Zimbio, PalaisPrincier, Ralph Lauren
Princess Charlene looks noble and royal. An excellent outfit, with sash and jewelry. Perfect!