Inside the Monaco Red Cross Gala, Where Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene Danced Past 1 AM
On Saturday night in Monte-Carlo, His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco and Her Serene Highness Princess Charlene danced well past 1 AM at the annual Croix-Rouge Monégasque Gala—the Monaco Red Cross’s most glamorous event and a highlight of the principality’s summer social calendar. Joining them was Camille Gottlieb, daughter of Princess Stéphanie and granddaughter of Grace Kelly, who joined her uncle and aunt for the late-night revelry.
“The Monaco Red Cross Gala is an opportunity for us to come together around a cause that is dear to us—a cause that touches us deeply,” Gottlieb told Vogue exclusively in a written statement. “And of course, the evening is even better if we can add some family time.”
Other members of the royal family in attendance included Gottlieb’s brother Louis Ducruet and his wife, Marie Chevallier. Established in 1948 by Prince Louis II, the gala has long served as the flagship fundraising event for Monaco’s chapter of the international humanitarian agency. Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace presided over the event in decades past, and today, under the leadership of Prince Albert, the organization continues to fund local social welfare programs and international relief efforts. Over the years, the gala has grown into one of the world’s most prestigious charity events, drawing Hollywood royalty like Elizabeth Taylor, Gregory Peck, and Jackie Onassis.
This year’s 76th edition proved one for the history books. Princess Charlene, Vice-President of the Red Cross, arrived in an ethereal pleated silk-georgette gown by Elie Saab, accessorized with a dazzling diamond necklace. During the evening, she surprised guests by taking the stage to honor Prince Albert—not only for his 40 years of dedication to the Red Cross but to mark the 20th anniversary of his accession to the throne. (He officially became Monaco’s ruler on July 12, 2005, following the death of Prince Rainier III.)
